One of the most confusing topics for new direct drive buyers is not torque. It’s mounting. You will see products like the Next Level Racing GTElite Wheel Plate Edition and the GTElite Front and Side Mount Edition, and you’ll wonder: Does this change performance or just convenience?
It changes performance when the mount flexes. And it changes ergonomics when the wheel sits too high, too far away, or too tilted. This guide explains when to choose wheel plate (wheel deck), front mount, or side mount.
The three mounting styles explained
1) Wheel plate (wheel deck)
A wheel plate is the classic approach: the wheelbase mounts to a flat plate. Pros:
- Usually easiest to install
- Compatible with many wheelbases
- Easy to adjust angle and height
Cons: if the plate is thin or poorly braced, you can feel vibration and flex with stronger direct drive.
2) Front mount
Front mount means the wheelbase mounts to a stiff front bracket. Pros:
- Very rigid when executed well
- Clean look, great adjustability
- Often preferred for higher torque systems
Cons: you need the correct bracket and hole pattern compatibility.
3) Side mount
Side mount is common for some direct drive ecosystems. Pros:
- Excellent rigidity
- Can place the wheel lower for certain seating positions
Cons: compatibility is more specific and setup can be more involved.
For a deeper deep dive, use Wheel deck vs front mount vs side mount.
How to choose the right mount style for your wheelbase
Use this method:
- Check the wheelbase ecosystem: some are designed around side mounting, others around bottom mounting.
- Match your torque plan: higher torque benefits from stiffer mount strategies.
- Plan your ergonomics: formula postures often want a lower wheel position than upright GT setups.
If you’re still choosing your first DD wheel, Choose your first direct drive wheel is a good starting point.
SIMGASM wheel mount options and when they make sense
SIMGASM offers multiple wheel mounting approaches so you can choose what fits your wheelbase and posture:
- Front wheelmount: great when you want a stiff, clean front-mount strategy
- Bottom wheelmount: simple and universal for many bottom-mount wheelbases
- Side wheel mount: useful when you prefer a side mount approach
- Wheelmount base set: the core building block to create a clean mounting system
Pairing advice: which SIMGASM cockpit tier suits direct drive mounting?
- Entry DD: SIMGASM Hobby simulator can work well when torque and brake forces remain moderate.
- Most DD setups: SIMGASM Club simulator is the universal “I want to upgrade forever” base.
- High-end and motion: SIMGASM Sport simulator or SIMGASM Pro simulator for maximum rigidity and adjustability.
FAQ
Will a better mount improve force feedback detail?
Yes, if your current mount flexes. Flex acts like a filter: it removes sharp details and adds vibration in the wrong places.
Should I mount my monitors to the cockpit?
It depends on vibration and future upgrades. If you plan motion or heavy tactile, a freestanding stand like Freestanding triple monitor stand is easier to keep stable.
Continue reading
- Direct drive torque explained
- Wheel deck vs front mount vs side mount
- VESA mounting and monitor stand guide
