QR2 Lite: Torque Limit Lifted for Select Fanatec Wheels

In a significant update for sim racers, Fanatec has lifted the torque limitation for several steering wheels when paired with the QR2 Lite Wheel-Side. The change, introduced with the release of Driver 467, reflects Fanatec’s confidence in the strength and durability of the QR2 Lite design – opening the door to higher performance for many users without requiring a full upgrade to a metal quick release.

Fanatec’s high-performance wheel bases such as the ClubSport DD, ClubSport DD+, Podium DD1, and Podium DD2 feature a built-in Low Torque Mode (limited to 8 Nm). This safety feature is activated when wheels identified as incompatible with high torque are attached – often determined by the type of quick release used.

Previously, sim racers using popular wheels like the CSL Elite McLaren GT3 V2 or the ClubSport F1® Esports V2 were restricted to Low Torque Mode if they were using the QR2 Lite Wheel-Side. To unlock full torque – up to a whopping 25 Nm on the Podium DD2 – they needed to upgrade to a metal QR2.

But with the latest firmware, that’s changing.

Fanatec has now certified the QR2 Lite Wheel-Side for high-torque use. As a result, the following wheels and hubs are now fully unlocked for High Torque Mode, even when used with a QR2 Lite Wheel-Side:

• CSL Elite Steering Wheel McLaren GT3
• CSL Elite Steering Wheel McLaren GT3 V2
• ClubSport Steering Wheel F1® Esports V2
• CSL Universal Hub
• CSL Universal Hub V2

These updates allow sim racers to enjoy the full force feedback potential of their Direct Drive bases without needing to immediately invest in a more expensive quick release.

Some steering wheels remain locked to Low Torque Mode. These include:

• CSL Elite Steering Wheel WRC
• CSL Steering Wheel P1 V2
• CSL Steering Wheel BMW
• Steering Wheel for Gran Turismo® DD Pro

These wheels are not designed to withstand high torque and will continue to operate with the 8 Nm limit.

Importantly, these improvements do not apply to the QR1 Lite Wheel-Side. It remains incompatible with the Podium DD series. Attaching any wheel with a QR1 Lite Wheel-Side to a Podium DD base is not recommended and could cause damage, to the wheel or quick release, and could also damage the base shaft, even when operating in Low Torque Mode.

While the QR2 Lite Wheel-Side now delivers high torque performance, Fanatec continues to recommend the metal QR2 Wheel-Side or QR2 Pro Wheel-Side for the best experience. These versions, made from diecast or CNC-machined aluminum, offer improved strength, a more compact design, and a refined feel when swapping wheels – making them the top-tier choice for demanding racers.