How Much Space Do Fanatec Desk Mount Setups Need?

Embarking on a sim racing journey can be an exciting experience, but one of the most important considerations is the space needed to set up your rig comfortably and safely. Fanatec offers a range of products from simple desk mounts to full cockpit setups. Understanding the space, weight, and measurements involved can help you create the perfect racing environment.

Desk mounts like the ClubSport DD Table Clamp are ideal for beginners or those with limited space. This allows for the temporary mounting of a direct drive base (and wheel) such as the CSL DD or ClubSport DD to a desk or table. (The ClubSport DD Table Clamp is not compatible with the Podium DD1 or DD2. These bases are compatible with the ClubSport Table Clamp V2.)

• Table Clamps have a very small footprint, similar to the Base itself, but allow for additional clearance for easy mounting, and space to connect the power and data cables to the back of the Base.
• Ideally, your screen would be positioned on the table as well, as close as possible to the back of your Base to improve immersion. Consider the table space needed for a monitor.
• Space for pedals on the floor, typically requiring about 50-60 cm (20-24 inches) in width and 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) in depth. It can be helpful to brace the pedals against a solid surface to prevent them from sliding away during heavy braking.

• Fanatec’s CSL DD or Podium Wheel Bases weigh between 4-8 kg (9-18 lbs).
• The desk mount itself is lightweight, usually under 2 kg (4.4 lbs), making it easy to move or reposition.

• Space-saving: They require less room and are ideal for smaller rooms or if you want flexibility.
• Easy to install and remove: Quick and straightforward installation. Once you’ve bolted the base to the clamp, the clamping part is easily done by hand. The base can be added and removed from your desk in a matter of seconds.
• More affordable: Clamp setups generally have a lower cost than full cockpits.

• Stability: During intense turns or heavy steering, the setup might move or wobble – this is largely dependent on the strength of your desk.
• Limited adjustability: There are fewer options to customize the position for comfort. The ClubSport DD Table Clamp has angle adjustment, but the overall height of the wheel is determined by the height of the table.
• Pedals need to be stabilized, either by strapping them to your chair or bracing them against a stable object.
• Office chairs are commonly used, and these can slide backwards during braking – you may need to stabilize the chair with locking castors or some other form of bracing.
• Less realistic: The experience is usually less immersive compared to a dedicated cockpit, as it is difficult to achieve a realistic driving position.