When sim racers say “my rig flexes”, they often mean one specific area: the wheel mount. Even a very stiff aluminium cockpit can feel vague if the wheelbase is mounted on a plate that twists under load.

Sim-Lab (and most high-end profile-rig brands) offer multiple wheel mounting styles, usually some combination of wheel deck and front mount. Many ecosystems also support side mounting (especially some direct drive units).

This guide explains the differences in plain language and helps you pick the right mount for your wheelbase and driving style—without overbuying.

Three wheelbase mounting styles, explained

1) Wheel deck mounting

A wheel deck is a horizontal plate that the wheelbase bolts down onto (usually from above). It’s common on entry and mid-range cockpits because it’s straightforward.

• Pros: easy to assemble, compatible with a wide range of wheels, quick to adjust angle.
• Cons: the deck can become the “weak link” with very high torque, depending on plate thickness and how it’s braced.

2) Front mount (also called “podium mount” by some brands)

A front mount holds the wheelbase by its front face using a strong bracket/plate system. This ties the wheel directly into the uprights and often reduces leverage.

• Pros: typically the highest stiffness option, great for high torque direct drive.
• Cons: can require more careful alignment; not every wheelbase supports front mounting.

3) Side mount

Some wheelbases are designed to be bolted from the sides. This can be extremely rigid when the side plates and uprights are solid.

• Pros: very stiff; can allow clean height/tilt adjustment.
• Cons: requires correct side plate spacing and can be picky about alignment.

How to choose the right mount (the practical checklist)

Use this decision flow:

• Torque and usage: high torque + aggressive driving usually benefits from front/side mounting.
• Ergonomics: if you need the wheel high and far away, you want a mount that adjusts without getting weaker.
• Future upgrades: if you might switch ecosystems (Fanatec → Simucube → Asetek, etc.), a modular approach matters.

In general:

• Entry to mid DD: a good wheel deck can be perfect.
• High torque DD: front mount (or side mount if the wheelbase is designed for it) is the safer bet.

Related: Direct drive torque guide.

Mounting tips that actually reduce flex

Before you spend money on a different mount, check these build fundamentals:

• Square the cockpit: measure diagonals of the base; a twisted base makes every mount feel worse.
• Torque consistently: tighten bolts in a pattern, then re-check after a few sessions.
• Reduce leverage: keep the wheelbase as close as practical to the uprights.
• Add support where needed: a sturdy side arm can support button boxes, dashboards and shifter loads.

Related: Rig maintenance: re-torque and silence.

SIMGASM wheel mounting options (for profile-rig builders)

If you’re building a SIMGASM cockpit—or you own another profile rig and want compatible mounting parts—these are the building blocks:

• wheel mount base set as a modular foundation.
• front wheel mount when you want a front-mount style solution.
• bottom wheel mount when a bottom/wheel-deck style mount fits your wheelbase best.
• wheel mount side plate / large wheel mount side plate when you need side plates for side-mounting or stiff bracing.

Pair the mount approach with the right cockpit tier:

• SIMGASM Club simulator for a strong, universal 80x40 base.
• SIMGASM Sport simulator or SIMGASM Pro simulator if you want maximum adjustability and a clean cable-routing mindset.

FAQ

Is wheel deck mounting “bad” for direct drive?

No. Many people run direct drive wheels on wheel decks successfully. The question is whether your particular deck and upright connection stay rigid at your torque level and driving style.

How do I know if my mount is the limiting factor?

Do a simple test: hold the cockpit base with your feet, then push/pull on the wheel rim with strong force. If you see the wheelbase plate moving relative to the uprights, the mount is the weak point.

Continue reading: Choosing your first direct drive wheel and Rig setup for tall drivers.