The Sim-Lab P1X Pro is a common “end game” choice in sim racing: big aluminium profiles, serious wheel mounting options, and a modular accessory ecosystem. SIMGASM’s Pro cockpit targets the same segment—drivers who want a platform they can keep for years, even as they swap wheelbases, pedals, seating position and monitor layouts.
This guide is written for two kinds of readers:
- People deciding between a P1X Pro-class rig and another 160x40 cockpit.
- People who already own a profile rig and want to understand what’s worth upgrading next.
What “160x40” actually buys you
Profile dimensions matter, but not only for stiffness. In a premium cockpit, the biggest wins of a larger profile class are usually:
- More mounting surface for wheel uprights, dashboards and side accessories without stacking brackets.
- Better adjustability without running out of slot space.
- Cleaner builds because you can route cables along predictable paths and keep peripherals close to the structure.
- Motion readiness (not automatic, but easier), because the base can distribute loads and resist twisting.
In other words: a 160x40 rig isn’t just “stronger”. It’s easier to live with when your setup evolves.
Core specs and structure (why the numbers still matter)
Here’s a practical way to compare the P1X Pro class with SIMGASM Pro.
| Category | Sim-Lab P1X Pro | SIMGASM Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Primary profile class | 160x40 base elements with additional profile sizes supporting uprights and mounts | 160x40 flagship tier for maximum stiffness and adjustability |
| Footprint class | Large, cockpit-style footprint designed to handle serious hardware | Large footprint, designed to stay stable even with heavy pedals, strong wheelbases and accessories |
| Wheel mounting options | Commonly offered with wheel deck or front mount style options (depends on configuration) | Designed as a “forever rig” platform; Sport/Pro focus heavily on wheel mount strength and adjustability |
| Best use case | High-end direct drive, heavy pedals, multi-accessory builds | High-end direct drive, motion readiness, clean cable routing, and long-term upgrade paths |
If you’re coming from an entry-level rig, the difference you’ll notice first is not “flex”. It’s the lack of micro-movement when you brake hard, countersteer, or lean into the wheel on corner entry.
Wheel mounting: stiffness is a geometry problem
Two rigs can use the same profile size and still feel different at the wheel. The biggest factors:
- Upright angle and bracing: tall uprights need a strong connection to the base.
- Cantilever distance: the further the wheelbase sits forward, the more leverage it applies.
- Plate thickness and connection points: more contact points usually means less movement.
For high-torque wheelbases, you’re looking for a mount that stays rock-solid while still letting you adjust height and angle without hours of re-work.
Related: Direct drive torque (Nm) guide and Choosing your first direct drive wheel.
Pedal forces: the hidden reason high-end rigs feel “calmer”
Load cell and hydraulic-style braking can push peak forces high enough to expose weak pedal mounts. If your pedal tray flexes, your braking point becomes inconsistent—especially in longer sessions.
A good high-end cockpit should let you:
- Set pedal distance without moving the seat every time.
- Adjust pedal angle so your ankle stays relaxed.
- Create a stable heel reference (a simple upgrade is a dedicated heel plate).
Related: Load cell pedal setup guide.
Monitor mounting: keep the cockpit clean without creating new problems
The best-looking builds usually have a plan for monitors from day one. The two “correct” options are:
- Integrated: clean, compact, fewer stands in your room. Great when the rig stays in one place. For SIMGASM this is where the Apex integrated triple monitor stand shines.
- Freestanding: easier to keep aligned over time, and ideal if you plan motion later. See the Apex freestanding triple monitor stand.
Related: How many monitors do I need for sim racing? and Triple monitor alignment problems solved.
Where SIMGASM Sport and Pro stand out: cable routing that stays clean
Most profile rigs can look tidy on day one. The challenge is keeping them tidy after you add:
- a button box or dashboard display,
- extra USB hubs,
- bass shakers or tactile,
- or a different wheelbase ecosystem.
SIMGASM Sport and Pro are designed to stay clean as you evolve your setup, with a cable-management approach that focuses on routing paths through the cockpit rather than relying on clips everywhere. If you care about a minimal look (or you stream and want a “studio” background), this becomes a real quality-of-life upgrade.
Related: Planning colours, personalization and a clean setup.
Recommended SIMGASM picks for the P1X Pro audience
- SIMGASM Pro simulator if you want the flagship 160x40 experience and maximum adjustability.
- SIMGASM Sport simulator if you want much of the high-end feel with a slightly lighter footprint and strong built-in cable routing.
- Apex integrated triple monitor stand or Apex freestanding triple monitor stand to keep triple monitors stable and aligned.
- Atlas GT bucket seat for a supportive GT seating position (or Atlas Formula bucket seat for more reclined formula/hypercar style).
If you’re deciding between tiers, start on the https://simgasm.com/pages/guide-tour and work from the hardware you already own.
FAQ
Do I “need” a 160x40 rig?
Not always. 80x40 rigs are genuinely good for most people. A 160x40 cockpit makes sense when you value maximum adjustability, heavy accessory builds, motion readiness, or you simply want a platform you never have to replace.
I already own a Sim-Lab rig. Is it worth changing rigs?
If your rig is stable and you’re happy, often the best “upgrade” is improving ergonomics and monitor alignment. But if your setup goals changed (motion, cleaner routing, different seating style), a cockpit with the right structure can save you time and frustration.
Continue reading: Motion-ready sim rig guide and Rig maintenance: re-torque and silence.
