Fanatec Podium Pedals introduces a powerful new tuning option: adjustable pedal curves. A standard pedal output is linear: 25% input produces a 25% signal, 50% input produces a 50% signal, and so on. Pedal curves allow that relationship to be reshaped, creating a different response.
Combined with the extensive mechanical adjustment options available on Podium Pedals, drivers can use pedal curves to refine vehicle control, replicate the characteristics of specific cars, or simply create a pedal response that feels more natural to them.
Why "linear" isn't always linear
A 'linear throttle response' is often stated as a desirable characteristic of a performance car. But in reality, what drivers are looking for is a predictable relationship between pedal input and vehicle response.
Cars are rarely linear by nature. Engineers have spent decades refining throttle systems to create a response that feels intuitive and controllable.
Pedal curves allow sim racers to pursue the same objective based on how the throttle is being simulated for a particular car.
A progressive curve can provide finer control around small inputs, while a degressive curve can make a pedal feel more responsive earlier in its travel. Neither approach is inherently better. The ideal setting depends on the car and the driver's preference.
Matching the throttle to the car
Different cars often reward different approaches. A historic Formula car, a modern GT racer, or a drift car can all benefit from different throttle characteristics.
A progressive throttle curve can make it easier to modulate power when driving high performance cars with sharp throttle response. This can help improve confidence on corner exit and reduce unwanted wheelspin.
On the other hand, some drivers may prefer a more aggressive throttle response. A degressive curve can deliver more output earlier in the pedal travel, which may suit drifting, rally driving, or simply a personal driving style.
Software and hardware working together
Pedal curves determine how the simulator interprets your inputs. Mechanical adjustments determine how those inputs feel under your foot.
The Compression Control System on the Podium Pedals brake allows mechanical adjustment of the elastomer/spring stack, creating anything from linear to a much more progressive resistance curve.
These mechanical settings can then be combined with software pedal curves.
For example, a driver might prefer a highly progressive brake feel with increasing resistance near maximum braking force, while maintaining a relatively linear brake output in the simulator. Another driver might choose progressive behavior in both the hardware and software to maximize precision near the braking limit.
Fine-tuning the clutch
The clutch pedal can also benefit from curve adjustment.
The Podium Pedals clutch features an adjustable bite point mechanism, allowing the position of the resistance peak to be moved within the pedal travel. This changes the physical feel of the pedal and can help replicate the characteristics of different vehicles.
Being able to create your own curve in the Fanatec App means you can also match the physical bite point position and create anything from a forgiving clutch that is easy to use during standing starts to a more abrupt engagement that is potentially faster but demands greater precision.
Take your settings anywhere
Custom pedal curves are created using the Fanatec App on PC. Once configured, the curves are stored directly in the memory of the Podium Pedals.
Preset and custom curves can be selected directly from the Fanatec Tuning Menu. Meaning they are available regardless of platform, including any console game that supports analog pedal input.
Finding what works for you
There is no universal pedal curve that works for every driver or every car.
The best setup is the one that creates a predictable and repeatable relationship between your foot and the vehicle's response.
Podium Pedals provide adjustment options in both hardware and software, allowing drivers to shape pedal feel and pedal response independently. That flexibility opens up a wide range of possibilities, from replicating the behavior of a specific vehicle to developing a setup that improves consistency and lap times.
We recommend trying the presets first before experimenting with custom curves.