Most sim racers buy one seat and use the same shape for every type of racing. This works well until you start switching between different cars. Race GT cars on Saturday and formula cars on Sunday, and one of those positions may not feel quite right. A modular sim racing seat solves this problem.
A modular seat uses different parts instead of one fixed shell. You keep the same base and change the part that shapes your driving position. This sounds simple, but it gives you much more freedom when setting up your rig.
What is a modular sim racing seat?
A traditional bucket seat uses one fixed shell. Its shape and basic seating position stay the same. A modular seat works differently. It uses one shared base with interchangeable upper sections and matching cushions. Each upper section creates a different driving position.
The SIMGASM Atlas uses this modular design. It combines one shared lower base with interchangeable upper sections and matching cushion systems. The base stays in your rig while you change the upper part of the seat.
GT and formula on one base
The Atlas GT gives you the more upright seating position used in GT, touring and endurance cars. The Atlas Formula creates a lower and more reclined position, similar to an open-wheel car. It uses a carbon composite shell. Both versions use the same lower base.
When you add another upper section, you also get the matching cushion set. This means you can create two different seating positions with one base. Not sure which position suits you best? Read our guide on which sim racing seat suits GT and formula.
Â
SIMGASM | Sim Racing Seat Atlas Gran Turismo - Black
Â
Why does a modular seat matter for your rig?
A second complete seat costs money and takes up extra storage space. A modular system gives you another option. You only need an extra upper section instead of a complete second seat. The base also stays attached to your rig, so you can keep using the same mounting points.
You should still check your seating position after every swap. A formula position usually sits lower and more reclined than a GT position. Check your seat height and angle before you start racing. Our guide on the right sim racing seat height explains how to find the right position.
Adjust your comfort with different parts
The modular design also gives you more options for comfort. The Atlas cushion sets use washable memory foam. They are available in black, red, white, blue and orange. You can also add the Lumbar Support Cushion if you want more support for your lower back. You can use it together with the standard cushions.
Â
SIMGASM | Atlas Sim Racing Seat Formula - Black
Â
This can make a big difference during long racing sessions. Extra support in the right place can help you stay comfortable for longer. We explain this in more detail in our guide on how to avoid back pain in a sim racing seat.
Ready for accessories and haptics
The Atlas shell has a predefined mounting pattern for a bass shaker. It also has an extra mounting point for accessories such as a cup holder or headset holder. This makes it easier to keep your rig clean and organised as you add more equipment.
Want to add more feedback to your seat? Read our guide on whether a haptic seat insert is worth it.
Is a modular seat right for you?
If you only race one type of car, a fixed seat can work very well. But a modular seat becomes more useful when you switch between GT and formula racing. It also gives you more flexibility if your racing preferences change later.
Our team in Wijk bij Duurstede develops and improves its seats and cockpits through prototypes and real sim racing use. The Atlas system is designed with this kind of long-term flexibility in mind.
Â
SIMGASM | Lumbar Support Cushion for Atlas Sim Racing Seat
Â
Compare the different options in our sim racing seat range and choose the setup that fits the way you race.
Modular or fixed: how do you choose?
Start with three simple questions. Which cars do you race most often today? Which cars would you like to race in the future? And does anyone else use your rig? Your answers can help you decide whether one fixed seating position is enough.
If you only race GT endurance events, you may not need a second upper section. If you regularly switch between GT and formula racing, the modular system becomes much more useful. A shared rig can also benefit from removable cushions, because you can change parts of the seat without replacing the complete setup.
What changes in the driving position?
Changing the upper section affects more than just the angle of your back. In a formula position, your heels usually sit higher and your body sits further back. Your eye position also changes. This means you may need to adjust your pedals and monitor after the swap.
Take some time to fine-tune your setup after changing the seat position. Check your pedals, steering wheel and monitor. Once everything is in the right place, both positions can feel natural and comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I turn an Atlas GT into a formula seat?
Yes. You can add the Atlas Formula upper section. It comes with the matching cushion set.
Do I need new brackets after a swap?
No. The lower base stays on the same brackets. You should still check the seat height and angle after changing the upper section.
Are the Atlas cushions washable?
Yes. The Atlas cushion sets are removable and washable.
Is a modular seat less stiff than a fixed shell?
Not necessarily. Stiffness depends on the design of the seat and how you mount it. The Atlas base, upper section and cushions are designed to work together as one complete seat.
Want to learn more? The SIMGASM experts are happy to help.
