A Simucube purchase is often the biggest single upgrade in a sim racing setup. The smartest way to buy it is to plan the rest of the system so you don’t rebuild your cockpit three times in the next year.
This guide shows an upgrade path that keeps your rig modular: what to upgrade first, which SIMGASM cockpit tier makes sense at each stage, and how to keep your setup clean as you add accessories.
Stage 0: the baseline you already have
Most drivers start with one of these:
- Desk clamp wheel + basic pedals
- Entry cockpit (folding / tubular) + load cell pedals
- Entry aluminium profile rig with limited adjustability
Stage 1: upgrade the foundation before the “flagship” wheel
If you’re going to Simucube, the best move is often to stabilise the cockpit first. It makes the Simucube feel better immediately and it saves you money in “fixes” later.
Recommended SIMGASM path
| Your current level | Next cockpit step | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Desk / entry rig | SIMGASM Hobby (C40) | Affordable entry with real profile adjustability |
| Entry profile or light tubular | SIMGASM Club (C80) | Strong 80×40 platform for almost all gear |
| High-end wheelbase planning | SIMGASM Sport (C120) | More footprint, routing, accessory flexibility |
| High torque + motion future | SIMGASM Pro (C160) | Maximum rigidity and adjustability |
Stage 2: Simucube wheelbase selection
Once the cockpit is stable, wheelbase choice becomes easier:
- Sport: premium feel for most drivers
- Pro: extra headroom and calmer detail
- Ultimate: maximum reserve and system planning
Stage 3: visuals and workflow
After you can steer and brake consistently, visuals and workflow become lap-time upgrades:
- Triples or ultrawide for awareness
- Keyboard/mouse access for pit strategy
- Cable routing that stays serviceable
- Triples foundation: freestanding triple monitor stand + VESA bracket set
- Rig workflow: PC tray
Stage 4: seats and comfort (the hidden performance upgrade)
If you race more than an hour, comfort becomes consistency. A good seat reduces fatigue and makes braking repeatable.
- Core Recline seat for comfort-focused builds
- Atlas GT seat for a locked-in posture
Common upgrade traps (and how to avoid them)
| Trap | Why it happens | Better move |
|---|---|---|
| Buying the flagship wheelbase first | Excitement, marketing, “endgame” thinking | Stabilise cockpit and pedals first, then upgrade wheel |
| Underestimating monitor stability | Triples look easy until alignment wobbles | Choose stand quality first, then tune alignment |
| Building a non-serviceable rig | Cables and hubs added randomly over time | Plan a hub zone and use service loops |
| Changing seat and pedals constantly | Trying to “feel faster” | Lock ergonomics and train technique |
Budget allocation rule of thumb
If you have to choose between a stronger wheelbase and a better cockpit foundation, the cockpit often wins. A rigid rig improves every component you already own.
Compatibility planning checklist
- Confirm wheelbase mount style and bolt patterns early (front vs bottom).
- Confirm monitor VESA patterns and stand capacity before buying screens.
- Leave profile space for accessories (button boxes, shifter/handbrake, dash).
A realistic timeline helps you buy smarter
Instead of doing everything at once, plan a 3–6 month upgrade arc. Each step should deliver a clear improvement and stay compatible with the next step.
Accessory strategy: add without clutter
- Shifter/handbrake: mount once and keep it aligned. SIMGASM shifter and handbrake mount
- Button boxes/dashes: use a dedicated mounting surface. Universal peripheral deck
- Keep the floor clean: SIMGASM floor mat helps with grip and tidiness around the rig.
Document your setup once
Take photos of your pedal position, seat position and wheel position. If you ever move the rig or change a component, you can return to your baseline in minutes.
