Wheel buyers guide for Forza Motorsport

[Starfirebird]

Just found this video on youtube about the new Madcatz FFB Wheel.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WL847_bre9o&feature=related

The only complaint he had was the gas not being sturdy enough.Mind you this is his first wheel,but he seemed to enjoy it.

The wheel is 270 degrees.He says wheel is smooth,had too strong of feedback so he had to turn it down in the Forza Menu.

 

[zr1chris]

He's also never had a wheel before. I thought the MS wheel was the best thing ever when I got it 4 years ago since that was also my first wheel.

 

[Starfirebird]

He's also never had a wheel before. I thought the MS wheel was the best thing ever when I got it 4 years ago since that was also my first wheel.

I've only owned a Driving Force GT Wheel and I enjoy that wheel quite a bit.Some have told me to get a G25/27 but for me this wheel is more than enough for my PS3.

Maybe the Madcatz wheel will be more than enough for me as well.I'll find out when i get it.

 

[zr1chris]

I've only owned a Driving Force GT Wheel and I enjoy that wheel quite a bit.Some have told me to get a G25/27 but for me this wheel is more than enough for my PS3.

Maybe the Madcatz wheel will be more than enough for me as well.I'll find out when i get it.

From what I have heard the only real difference between the DFGT and the G25/27 is having a shifter and better pedals which includes a clutch.

I hope the wheel is good and wish you the best of luck with it.

I think it will most likely be the equivalent of the DFGT and maybe moderately better. To me that would be a huge disapointment if it were me considering the DFGT is half the price.

I just don't see it being good enough to make it worth saving the $80 (price of the new standard CSR pedals) over buying a brand new Fanatec.

 

[Patrick]

From what I have heard the only real difference between the DFGT and the G25/27 is having a shifter and better pedals which includes a clutch.

I hope the wheel is good and wish you the best of luck with it.

I think it will most likely be the equivalent of the DFGT and maybe moderately better. To me that would be a huge disapointment if it were me considering the DFGT is half the price.

I just don't see it being good enough to make it worth saving the $80 (price of the new standard CSR pedals) over buying a brand new Fanatec.

For only $50 more since Fanatec is taking pre orders for the CSR value back which you get the CSR and CSR pedals for $300.

 

[zr1chris]

For only $50 more since Fanatec is taking pre orders for the CSR value back which you get the CSR and CSR pedals for $300.

I just noticed that. 👍

That's a REALLY good deal. I wish I waited and didn't get my Turbo S with these old standard pedals and shifter set (which I paid pretty much the same amount for).

 

[ShylockHolmes]

I just noticed that. 👍

That's a REALLY good deal. I wish I waited and didn't get my Turbo S with these old standard pedals and shifter set (which I paid pretty much the same amount for).

I was lucky to get my PWTS for $190, when the pre-orders first started the price for the PWTS was $150. Too bad there are no pre-order price breaks from Fanatec anymore.

 

[Starfirebird]

Update.

I should be getting my Wheel tomorrow.When i do i'll be comparing the Madcatz wheel to my Logitech Driving Force GT wheel.Those who have this Logitech wheel will know how good of a wheel it is so it will be interesting if the Madcatz wheel can hold a flame to the Logitech wheel.

 

[ShylockHolmes]

I ordered the CSR Elite wheel. Was pricey $567.95 including shipping. Now I wait!

 

[Starfirebird]

Just did a review of the Madcatz FFB wheel.

One thing to note if you are Hardcore or an enthusiast stay away from this wheel.

 

[Starfirebird]

I ordered the CSR Elite wheel. Was pricey $567.95 including shipping. Now I wait!

Did you mention earlier that Fanatec was doing a bundle deal for the CSR?Was it $299 for wheel and pedals?

The reason i ask is because the Madcatz was far from being any good.

Edit:I have been working a bit of overtime and i think i may be able to afford the Porsche 911 GT2 Wheel.What is your opinion on this wheel?

 

[MuchoJimbo]

@Starfirebird, seeing that fanatec has the deal- CSR and CSR pedals for $300, I'd surely take back your Madcatz wheel (if possible) and spend an extra $50 to get the wheel. I can't speak for the CSR pedals as I have the CSR Elite pedals, but I am sure the regular pedals will do just fine.

 

[Starfirebird]

@Starfirebird, seeing that fanatec has the deal- CSR and CSR pedals for $300, I'd surely take back your Madcatz wheel (if possible) and spend an extra $50 to get the wheel. I can't speak for the CSR pedals as I have the CSR Elite pedals, but I am sure the regular pedals will do just fine.

Yeah i just seen that deal.

The CSR does look good,but i'm pretty stuck on getting the Porsche 911 GT2 wheel with CSR Pedals.I love the way it looks and i've heard it's still just as good as the new CSR Wheel.

 

[ShylockHolmes]

Yeah i just seen that deal.

The CSR does look good,but i'm pretty stuck on getting the Porsche 911 GT2 wheel with CSR Pedals.I love the way it looks and i've heard it's still just as good as the new CSR Wheel.

The CSR is improved over the GT2. It wasn't me that mentioned the $299 bundle, but I believe it is still on Fanatecs site. Fanatecs are so easy to re-sell I already have people trying to buy my PWTS from me now that I've ordered the CSR Elite. I even have my old MS pedals to throw in with the PWTS. My Clubsports aren't going anywhere!

Good move on going with Fanatec both the CSR and GT2 are huge steps up from Madcatz and you won't be disappointed 👍

 

[Starfirebird]

The CSR is improved over the GT2. It wasn't me that mentioned the $299 bundle, but I believe it is still on Fanatecs site. Fanatecs are so easy to re-sell I already have people trying to buy my PWTS from me now that I've ordered the CSR Elite. I even have my old MS pedals to throw in with the PWTS. My Clubsports aren't going anywhere!

Good move on going with Fanatec both the CSR and GT2 are huge steps up from Madcatz and you won't be disappointed 👍

Nice man.Yeah i heard they improved the FFB Motors in the CSR.

I'm for sure getting a Fanatec Wheel now.I know it's going to be a bit more than what i wanted to pay,but i've been working a heck of a lot of overtime here lately.That will pay for it right there.

One more thing.I should have listened to you before,but i wanted to give Madcatz a chance.If i would have went ahead and went with the Porsche GT2 wheel(like you said) i might be using it right now.You can only learn from your mistakes.

 

[Darkmiss]

A few price changes and links added...
StarFirebird's Madcatz forcefeedback wheel review added.

 

[ShylockHolmes]

Nice man.Yeah i heard they improved the FFB Motors in the CSR.

I'm for sure getting a Fanatec Wheel now.I know it's going to be a bit more than what i wanted to pay,but i've been working a heck of a lot of overtime here lately.That will pay for it right there.

One more thing.I should have listened to you before,but i wanted to give Madcatz a chance.If i would have went ahead and went with the Porsche GT2 wheel(like you said) i might be using it right now.You can only learn from your mistakes.

At least now you know and don't have to think about it anymore. I just wish Madcatz would learn from their mistakes which are piling up!

Enjoy your new wheel when you get it!

 

[Starfirebird]

At least now you know and don't have to think about it anymore. I just wish Madcatz would learn from their mistakes which are piling up!

Enjoy your new wheel when you get it!

Thanks man. 👍

Hey man i have to ask you something.You just made a recent order correct?Could you help me understand something?

I made the order last night and I know that I only made one order,but it is showing 2 orders?

On one of the orders is has the order number and it says (Paid) beside of it.

On the other order, which has a different order number,it says (Processing) beside of it.

It's got me a bit confused since it has 2 different order numbers.Did it just charge me for two orders?Or is this just one order that has one order number for paid and one order number for processing?

Sorry to ask this as this is the first time I've come across something like this in all of my online ordering.


I sent an e-mail to Fanatec about this and i'm hoping for a quick reply.

 

[ShylockHolmes]

Thanks man. 👍

Hey man i have to ask you something.You just made a recent order correct?Could you help me understand something?

I made the order last night and I know that I only made one order,but it is showing 2 orders?

On one of the orders is has the order number and it says (Paid) beside of it.

On the other order, which has a different order number,it says (Processing) beside of it.

It's got me a bit confused since it has 2 different order numbers.Did it just charge me for two orders?Or is this just one order that has one order number for paid and one order number for processing?

Sorry to ask this as this is the first time I've come across something like this in all of my online ordering.


I sent an e-mail to Fanatec about this and i'm hoping for a quick reply.

The order that says PAID is the correct one. I just ordered the CSR Elite last week and mine changed from pending to paid. I'd have to see your order sheet to know exactly what you mean, but if it's for a duplicate product then just cancel the "processing" one . Just make sure you don't have two order numbers because you went with the package deal and the items ship separately. When Fanatec ship your item out of the warehouse yourt status will change to DELIVERED. I've ordered from them so many times, my aching wallet!

 

[ApexVGear]

Two orders listed from Fanatec: When I ordered my wheel in July, I experienced the same thing--two orders listed on my Fanatec account page. I emailed them about it, and one of the orders was changed to canceled. Other than UPS having some kind of problem with a train shipment, the order arrived in a timely fashion.

Fanatec GT2 vs CSR: I love my Fanatec GT2, but if you're buying a wheel now, order the CSR. It's the same price, or actually less with a bundle deal. In addition to some internal improvements, the CSR actually feels more like a race car wheel than the GT2. The CSR is lighter and "snappier" like a race car, while the GT2, with its' extra "bulk," feels like a street or sports car wheel. It's great when driving a Porsche or something similar, but feels slightly "off" when driving a lighter GT, prototype, or F1 car.

I have the Logitech G27, and it's more responsive and "race-car" feeling than the GT2. The GT2 works extremely well for F1 2011, but the G27 (only PS3 and PC, NO Xbox) feels more realistic--and, according to reliable sources, the CSR feels better than the G27 in this regard.

GT2 Buttons: The GT2 looks cool, and the "hidden" multi-mode buttons that light up behind the plastic are great (one mode for PS3/PC, another for Xbox), but I'd rather have buttons that are more functional and accessible--like on the CSR. It's great how the buttons on the GT2 are integrated into the Porsche wheel design, but I often find myself having to stretch my thumbs, or take a hand off the wheel (I don't have small hands) to press buttons. Also, sometimes I accidentally press the outer buttons while driving, and the "D-pad" on the center lower spoke can be a little hard to operate, or to get a good clean "click." I think the most notable thing, there's very little "tactile" feel to the buttons--you can't find them by feel. While driving, you usually have to take your eyes off the screen to look at the wheel to press the correct button. The CSR buttons are much more accessible, tactile, and functional.

 

[mikochu]

I'm thinking of picking up a new steering wheel setup soon. I'll be upgrading from a Gran Turismo-branded Logitech Driving Force Pro...which I've had since GT4 Prologue Japanese (December 2003!). I'm thinking about going with the most current bare minimum of the CSR Value Pack and a RennSport Wheel Stand V2....or should I go all out? Should I opt for the shifter set? CSR Elite Pedals (load cell brake!)? ClubSport Pedals (ABS vibration!)? What do you folks think?

Also, with the RennSport Wheel Stand V2, does anyone use an IKEA Poang chair with it?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[MuchoJimbo]

@mikochu, (disclaimer) I am new to the Fanatec product line. Coming from the MS wheel and DFGT, the CSR wheel itself is great but the CSR Elite pedals have blown me away. The quality and numerous adjustments that can be made with these pedals is insane, again, I am used to the plastic entry level pedals before this.

I can't speak for the standard CSR pedals but it seems you can adjust the resistance of the 3 pedals, which could give you a decent feel. On the other hand, the load cell and what it offers is pretty intense. The only thing I look at is the load cell is one of those things where it may malfunction and the need for a new one is always a worry. Other than that though, superb pedals.

If you are about to drop a $300-400 on a new wheel setup, what's a few hundred more, LOL. Go for it.

 

[hennessey86]

already got a gt2, I will be upgrading to a csr elite sometime next year

 

[Starfirebird]

The order that says PAID is the correct one. I just ordered the CSR Elite last week and mine changed from pending to paid. I'd have to see your order sheet to know exactly what you mean, but if it's for a duplicate product then just cancel the "processing" one . Just make sure you don't have two order numbers because you went with the package deal and the items ship separately. When Fanatec ship your item out of the warehouse yourt status will change to DELIVERED. I've ordered from them so many times, my aching wallet!

Well i haven't received a reply yet,but i checked my account at Fanatec and the one that said processing has been canceled.So i guess somehow it made two orders.Weird as i only clicked once on my information when checking out.

The good thing is it's fixed,so now i wait.Not sure if they will wait until the CSR pedals ship to ship everything i got or if they'll ship my GT2 Wheel first and then the pedals later.

It's cool though,i'm taking a break from FM4 and when i get all of my stuff, it's go time

Two orders listed from Fanatec: When I ordered my wheel in July, I experienced the same thing--two orders listed on my Fanatec account page. I emailed them about it, and one of the orders was changed to canceled. Other than UPS having some kind of problem with a train shipment, the order arrived in a timely fashion.

Fanatec GT2 vs CSR: I love my Fanatec GT2, but if you're buying a wheel now, order the CSR. It's the same price, or actually less with a bundle deal. In addition to some internal improvements, the CSR actually feels more like a race car wheel than the GT2. The CSR is lighter and "snappier" like a race car, while the GT2, with its' extra "bulk," feels like a street or sports car wheel. It's great when driving a Porsche or something similar, but feels slightly "off" when driving a lighter GT, prototype, or F1 car.

I have the Logitech G27, and it's more responsive and "race-car" feeling than the GT2. The GT2 works extremely well for F1 2011, but the G27 (only PS3 and PC, NO Xbox) feels more realistic--and, according to reliable sources, the CSR feels better than the G27 in this regard.

GT2 Buttons: The GT2 looks cool, and the "hidden" multi-mode buttons that light up behind the plastic are great (one mode for PS3/PC, another for Xbox), but I'd rather have buttons that are more functional and accessible--like on the CSR. It's great how the buttons on the GT2 are integrated into the Porsche wheel design, but I often find myself having to stretch my thumbs, or take a hand off the wheel (I don't have small hands) to press buttons. Also, sometimes I accidentally press the outer buttons while driving, and the "D-pad" on the center lower spoke can be a little hard to operate, or to get a good clean "click." I think the most notable thing, there's very little "tactile" feel to the buttons--you can't find them by feel. While driving, you usually have to take your eyes off the screen to look at the wheel to press the correct button. The CSR buttons are much more accessible, tactile, and functional.

You know i was thinking about getting the CSR and i really would have liked to got one,but for the longest time i've been drooling over that Porsche 911 GT2 Wheel.

I'm more of a Street or Sports car racer so this wheel will be right up my alley.I still enjoy having a go with said race cars,but most of my time will be spent in the car types i mentioned.

I did a lot of research before getting the GT2 and i'm 100% confident i will be satisfied.

Kudos to you owning a CSR.Glad to hear it's great wheel as well. 👍

 

[ApexVGear]

Don't get me wrong about the GT2. You will love it regardless. A few things to keep in mind.

1. When online, only use a wireless headset. DON'T plug a third party headset or gaming headphones with a mic into the wheel. My GT2 freaked out when I tried it, and I think the firmware developed some slight problems (often the GT2 doesn't see the pedals correctly).

2. If the steering doesn't feel right in Forza 4, like it's overly responsive and you lose control too often... with the wheel connected, set the sensitivity (steering ratio) to 250. Turn the wheel off and back on, then re-connect (link) it to the Xbox 360. Then set the sensitivity back to your preference. You can use one of the presets to make this faster and easier.

3. Be a little careful with the PS/2 plugs. I don't know why they choose to use those. If you need a longer cable for your shifter, I bought a PS/2 switch box cable, after a regular PS/2 cable wouldn't work.

4. You usually need to turn the wheel off and back on when switching shifters.

 

[Starfirebird]

Don't get me wrong about the GT2. You will love it regardless. A few things to keep in mind.

1. When online, only use a wireless headset. DON'T plug a third party headset or gaming headphones with a mic into the wheel. My GT2 freaked out when I tried it, and I think the firmware developed some slight problems (often the GT2 doesn't see the pedals correctly).

2. If the steering doesn't feel right in Forza 4, like it's overly responsive and you lose control too often... with the wheel connected, set the sensitivity (steering ratio) to 250. Turn the wheel off and back on, then re-connect (link) it to the Xbox 360. Then set the sensitivity back to your preference. You can use one of the presets to make this faster and easier.

3. Be a little careful with the PS/2 plugs. I don't know why they choose to use those. If you need a longer cable for your shifter, I bought a PS/2 switch box cable, after a regular PS/2 cable wouldn't work.

4. You usually need to turn the wheel off and back on when switching shifters.

Thanks for the tips.

 

[ShylockHolmes]

mic works on the PWTS, but it`s a little staticky

 

[zr1chris]

mic works on the PWTS, but it`s a little staticky

Same here. I don't think mine has any static though.

 

[ShylockHolmes]

Same here. I don't think mine has any static though.

I know the sound is crisper when plugged into a gamepad for me anyways.

 

[slick1ru2]

I have the Mad Catz Wireless Racing Wheel (No force-feedback), and love it. 1000 better than the controller. I use the paddles for petals. It actually feels sturdy and is well built. For the more casual race, I don't think you can go wrong. I wish that a version was made for the PS3.