Despite the fact that this racing wheel is still on 'pre-order' at the time of writing the review, I have already received it. I was also looking for this specific handlebar following a news article from Tweakers, so I ordered it immediately when I saw it. After I received it, it was also listed as 'temporarily sold out' and now on 'pre-order'.
What I found a pity was that the packaging had already been opened (torn open) and not very neat. So it was clear to see that this steering wheel had already been viewed. I may have been given the one used for the product photos, but in that case it could have been opened up a bit more neatly in my opinion. However, the steering wheel itself works fine, all buttons work and I couldn't find any signs of use such as scratches or greasy fingers, so I don't make it too much of a problem.
I bought this wheel in conjunction with Dirt Rally for Xbox One and plan to order Forza motorsport 6 or Project Cars soon as well. I had no experience with racing wheels until now, so I can't make comparisons with other handlebars and Force Feedback systems. I can say that I wouldn't want a steering wheel without Force Feedback. That gives a lot more information about what the car is doing and I also like that the steering wheel suddenly tries to go one way when you drive over a pothole in-game or something like that. That also makes it more realistic, but also a lot more intensive. Before Dirt Rally, it took me a while to find the settings I like and I'm guessing this is true for every game, so give that a bit of time.
The platform with the pedals is actually just a bit too light. This will sometimes shift or tilt when braking, because the brake pedal is a bit stiffer than the accelerator pedal. With me it stands on a fairly smooth surface, but on carpet I think it will tilt more often than shift. There is some anti-slip on the bottom, but the platform is just not heavy enough to fully use it itself. Ultimately, this is not super bad and it is possible to work around it, for example by keeping both feet on the platform. In addition, this platform is a bit plastic-like anyway, but it works fine and for this price you can't complain there, I think.
The steering wheel itself does feel solid. Also here you see a lot of pieces of plastic, but when racing you should have your hands on the rubber part which gives a lot of grip and feels pleasant in my opinion. The buttons click nicely, so you know when you have pressed them. The paddle shifters are made of metal and you really don't bend or break that in a heavy game session. They also have a satisfying click. I also read somewhere that you can't change the steering wheel unlike other Thrustmaster steering wheels, but I wasn't looking for that at all and I don't need that either. However, if you are looking for this to, for example, put a Formula 1 steering wheel on it, you should pay attention to this.
The only caveat is that attaching it to a desk with the clamp was a bit difficult. I really had to make sure I tightened it properly, then wiggle it a few times and then tighten it even harder. In the end it is easy to get hold of, but at the end it is not so easy anymore.
All in all I am very happy with this steering wheel and the added value it offers when gaming. It is a lot more intensive than with the controller, but gives much more feedback. The price is also very good. I didn't want to spend more than €200 for a steering wheel and wanted a steering wheel with Force Feedback. This is an excellent choice for the Xbox One.
By the way, don't expect that if you can drive well, that you will suddenly be good at racing games with this steering wheel. It's not that realistic either.
