When sim racers upgrade, they usually chase a new wheelbase first — but performance often comes from the pedal platform.
If you’re looking at Advanced SimRacing pedal trays (often with an integrated heel rest) and comparing that idea to the SIMGASM ecosystem, this guide will help you set up pedals the way real drivers think about them: repeatable pressure, repeatable ankle angle, repeatable braking.
Why the pedal platform matters more than most people think
With a stiff pedal set, the forces can be high. If your pedal mounting flexes or shifts:
- your brake pressure becomes inconsistent,
- your ankle angle changes mid-corner,
- your muscle memory never “locks in”.
The ASR approach: tray + heel rest
On many Advanced SimRacing rigs, the pedal area is built around a tray system with a dedicated heel rest plate. The big benefit is having a stable reference surface for your feet while still allowing height/angle adjustments.
The SIMGASM approach: modular deck + comfort surfaces
SIMGASM tends to treat the pedal area as part of a modular ecosystem:
- Universal peripheral deck as a strong, adaptable platform for pedals and add-ons.
- Heelrest or heel plate to stabilise foot position and improve consistency.
Setup process: get your pedal geometry right in 20 minutes
- Fix the seat first. Your pedal position depends on posture. Start by locking your seat choice: Core Recline for comfort, or Atlas GT / Atlas Formula for a more fixed performance posture.
- Set pedal distance so you don’t lock your knee. On full brake, your knee should still have a slight bend.
- Set pedal angle for ankle repeatability. Too steep = ankle fatigue; too flat = you push with your whole leg and lose fine control.
- Add a heel rest surface. This is the secret weapon. A heel rest gives your foot a consistent pivot point, which makes trail braking far easier to repeat.
- Then tune pedal feel. Elastomers and travel matter — but only after the platform is rigid and comfortable.
Beginner tip: don’t copy “pro” brake force if your ergonomics aren’t right
It’s tempting to set a super-stiff brake because it feels “race car”. But if your seat and pedal angles are wrong, stiffness just hides the issue and makes you slower.
Start with this reading sequence:
Recommended SIMGASM gear
- Universal peripheral deck for mounting pedals, bass shakers and extra hardware
- Accessory holder for easy add-ons
- PC tray to move weight off the floor and clean up cabling
- Keyboard swivel mount and mouse tray for usability
- Heelrest and heel plate for comfort and consistent pedal work
More Advanced SimRacing guides
- Flat face profile cable management: Advanced SimRacing vs SIMGASM Sport and Pro clean build tactics
- Advanced SimRacing caster wheels and rig mobility: move the cockpit without sacrificing driving stability
- Advanced SimRacing rig footprint planning: 50x22 base size, monitor distance and room layout tips
- Advanced SimRacing motion ready planning: ASR Pro vs SIMGASM Sport and Pro for actuators and haptics
