With the release of Assetto Corsa EVO, many users of wheels like the Logitech G923 have noticed something: the force feedback just doesn’t feel right. The steering feels flat, artificial—like the car is floating above the track instead of being glued to it.
And this isn’t just subjective. There are two very clear reasons behind this feeling:
- This simulator, the spiritual successor to Assetto Corsa, is still in active development. That means systems like the tyre model and force feedback (FFB) are constantly evolving. At the moment, there are still areas where the wheel fails to deliver consistent information—especially during long corners or flat grip zones.
- This is where hardware matters. The difference between a mid-range sim racing wheel like the G923 and a direct drive wheel such as the Moza R5 or Fanatec CSL DD 5Nm goes far beyond just power. What really sets them apart is how they transmit feedback from the car to the driver.
What makes a direct drive wheel different?
Wheels like the G923 operate using gears or belts, and technologies like TrueForce. While they promise an immersive driving feel, in practice the feedback is vague. Yes, it vibrates, it offers resistance… but it doesn’t really communicate what’s happening between the tyres and the tarmac.
A direct drive wheel like the Moza R5 or Fanatec CSL DD connects the rim directly to the motor shaft—no gears, no belts, no filters. This allows for a more precise, clean, and direct response, perfect for demanding simulators like Assetto Corsa EVO.
You’ll be able to tell the difference between gentle understeer and sudden traction loss. You’ll feel the texture of the asphalt, distinguish between aggressive and smooth kerbs—even sense chassis stiffness based on suspension behavior. It’s a whole new level of realism.
Why the Moza R5 or Fanatec CSL DD 5Nm?
These two models are widely considered the best options in the entry level sim racing wheel category. Both deliver 5Nm of torque, which may not sound like much, but what really matters is how that power is delivered: with consistency, detail, and zero delay. They’re ideal for anyone looking to upgrade their sim racing setup without breaking the bank.
The Moza R5 stands out for its build quality and its software, Moza Pit House, which lets you customize every FFB parameter to your preferences. Meanwhile, the Fanatec CSL DD offers upgrade potential up to 8Nm with a power supply swap—perfect for future expansion.
| Product | Torque | Includes Pedals | Expandability | Approx. Price | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moza R5 Bundle | 5Nm | Yes | No (fixed 5Nm) | €479 – €509 | Buy Moza R5 |
| Fanatec CSL DD (5Nm) | 5Nm | Depends on bundle | Upgradeable to 8Nm | €399 – €499 | Buy CSL DD 5Nm |
| Fanatec CSL DD (8Nm) | 8Nm | Depends on bundle | Max configuration | €499 – €599 | Buy CSL DD 8Nm |
Although Assetto Corsa EVO is still evolving, the experience changes drastically with a direct drive wheel. It’s true the game doesn’t yet transmit 100% of the data it should, but with a more precise wheel, even the smallest cues become noticeable.
Where the G923 fails to deliver those signals, the Moza or Fanatec still provide consistent feedback: the shift in car weight, tyre scrub, kerb texture, steering tension. This transforms immersion and even improves lap times through better control and confidence.
Thanks to models like the Moza R5 and Fanatec CSL DD, you no longer need to spend over €1,000 for a premium experience. For less than €500, you can build a solid sim racing setup that works great with titles like Assetto Corsa EVO, iRacing, AMS2, or ACC.
Even if the simulator isn’t finished, with the right hardware, your experience already can be.
Happy Racing!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
