With the release of Assetto Corsa Evo on January 16, the racing community is buzzing with excitement. This eagerly awaited game promises to deliver an unparalleled racing experience, and many are gearing up to enhance that experience with high-quality racing peripherals. Among these, the Moza R5 direct drive racing wheel and pedal bundle stands out as an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned veterans alike. My previous encounter with the R5 left me thoroughly impressed, and now, with Black Friday deals dropping the price back to $439, it’s the perfect time to revisit this fantastic piece of racing hardware.
At the heart of the Moza R5’s appeal is its direct drive technology. This innovation directly connects the wheel to the motor shaft, allowing for unparalleled realism in force feedback. Unlike belt-driven systems, which can introduce a level of lag or artificial feel, direct drive systems provide instantaneous feedback that translates every subtlety of track conditions directly to the driver’s hands. This kind of technology is typically reserved for high-end rigs found in professional racing setups, yet Moza has crafted a version that is accessible and budget-friendly, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for effects that were once exclusive to elite racers.
When using the Moza R5, the sensation of driving becomes astonishingly immersive. The wheel conveys every nuance—from the slightest bump in the road to significant changes in surface grip. The 5.5 Nm of torque delivers an impressive palette of sensations, making you feel as if you’re pushing a real car to its limits. This vivid feedback creates a driving experience that elevates simulation gaming beyond the screen, bridging the gap between virtual and real-life racing. Such immersion not only enhances enjoyment but also serves as a valuable training tool for aspiring drivers aiming to hone their skills.
This racing bundle does not just excel in performance; it also impresses in build quality. The Moza R5’s steering wheel is a joy to handle, with meticulously sharp stitching, tactile buttons, and magnetic shifters that provide a satisfying click with each gear change. Using this wheel feels robust and intuitive, allowing drivers to focus purely on mastering the game rather than struggling with inadequate hardware. The pedal set, while appearing basic, is surprisingly durable and has withstand numerous hours of use without showing signs of wear. However, to fully realize the potential of the braking system, an optional Performance Kit that includes a load cell for the brake pedal is recommended. This small investment enables the pedal to simulate the pressure response of an actual brake, enhancing overall realism.
Despite the impressive features, it’s crucial to acknowledge that there are few compromises. One downside is Moza’s decision not to include the load cell brake pedal as standard equipment, a feature many enthusiasts consider essential for a complete experience. While the Performance Kit is affordably priced at $29, it does create a slight annoyance for users who expect all necessary components included in the original package. Furthermore, Moza’s previous price increase after my initial review added a hint of frustration. However, with current discounts making the R5 accessible again, it remains one of the best value options available for racing enthusiasts.
The Moza R5 direct drive racing wheel and pedal bundle delivers exceptional performance and realism at a price point that is hard to beat. As players anticipate the thrilling experience of Assetto Corsa Evo, having a reliable and immersive racing wheel like the R5 amplifies that excitement. For those in the market for a high-quality racing setup that provides both exceptional feedback and pleasant user experience without breaking the bank, the Moza R5 stands out as an ideal choice. Whether you’re a novice driver or an experienced racer, this bundle promises a thrilling ride that might just make your racing simulations feel like the real thing.
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