Joysticks and Wheels: The Winter 2002 Collection

A Single-Purpose Wheel

When we tried it with our favorite Colin Mc Rae 2 and Grand Prix 4, the wheel behaved totally differently from one kind of driving to another. The position is not at all adapted to rally driving. It's hard to give strong turns to the wheel, and you keep hitting the gear shift by accident. So, I really can't recommend it for arcade games or rally simulation. In Formula 1, it's a whole different story, as you might expect from its radical design. As steering is straight and the wheel is not turned a lot, the ergonomics improve and you can drive with your fingertips. Its excellent precision allows you to set your course to within a millimeter and make good time. The force feedback is good too, both precise and powerful.

Low-Key Finish

Now, on to the impression made by the finish. The wheel is housed on a ball-bearing mechanism, which certainly contributes to its precision. But it's surprising to find that if you push it somewhat, it moves from its axis. This is something to judge over time. The play may be intentional and due to the materials. Likewise, the buttons, even though they are handsome and have a real F1 look, do not look as though they are very durable. That just leaves the gear and gas levers at the back to restore confidence. And the pedal set seems quite solidly built.