With the release of Assetto Corsa Evo on January 16, excitement is palpable among sim racing enthusiasts. The thrill of immersing oneself in a virtual racing world can be heightened by the gear one uses, and for many, the choice of racing wheel is crucial. I find myself revisiting the Moza R5 direct drive racing wheel and pedal bundle as my tool of choice, eagerly ready to reconnect with the sensations of high-speed driving. The anticipation of using this advanced yet affordably priced equipment adds to the excitement of the game release.
Astonishing Value in Sim Racing Gear
When I first reviewed the Moza R5 back in April, I was genuinely impressed by its performance relative to its price. At that time, the Moza R5 stood out as a leading contender in the budget direct drive racing wheel category—truly a gem among the sea of options available to consumers. The price was later adjusted, but even with an increase, it still maintained an admirable position in the market for those seeking performance without the extravagant price tag usually associated with professional racing wheels. Recently, I spotted it on sale during Moza’s Black Friday deals for $439, reigniting my passion for this impressive piece of technology.
The secret to the Moza R5’s remarkable performance lies in its direct drive mechanism. Unlike conventional gear-driven systems, a direct drive connects the steering wheel directly to the motor shaft. This setup delivers the precise, immediate feedback that professional sim racers crave, bridging the gap between reality and simulation. Many high-end racing wheels have adopted this technology, making the Moza R5’s pricing even more extraordinary. Boasting 5.5 Nm of torque, it delivers realistic feedback that lets you feel the nuances of every road element, a feature that is particularly compelling for anyone looking to enhance their gaming experience.
One of the first aspects you notice while using the Moza R5 is its exceptional build quality. The ergonomic design of the ES steering wheel, complemented by solid clamps for secure attachment to desks or sim rigs, ensures that the user experience remains uninterrupted and enjoyable. Everything from the stitching to the buttons is crafted with precision, exuding a premium feel that belies its price point. Furthermore, the magnetic shifters deliver a gratifying tactile response, adding to the overall immersive experience. You can genuinely feel the car’s dynamics in your hands, amplifying the thrill of racing.
It’s essential not to overlook the pedal set that comes with the Moza R5 bundle. At first glance, they may seem basic, but their durability speaks volumes. After countless racing sessions, they display no signs of wear or flex, a testament to their robust build. However, a notable caveat is the absence of a load cell in the brake pedal—an upgrade that would replicate the resistance and feel of a real car’s braking system. For an additional $29, the optional Performance Kit is well worth it for anyone seeking that authentic racing experience. While it may feel like a missed opportunity to include this feature with the primary bundle, the price still makes it an attractive proposition.
The Moza R5 direct drive racing wheel and pedal bundle emerge as a compelling choice for aspiring sim racers who prioritize value without compromising on quality. As I gear up for the launch of Assetto Corsa Evo, the R5’s ability to replicate an authentic driving experience intrigues me. With its blend of high-performance features and affordability, this racing wheel stands out as a worthy investment in the fast-paced world of competitive racing simulations. If you’re on the lookout for an exhilarating racing setup that won’t break the bank, the Moza R5 bundle should be at the top of your list.