In sim racing, cogging torque and holding torque play critical roles in how a direct drive (DD) wheel base feels and performs. These factors directly affect force feedback (FFB) quality, realism, precision, and control — all crucial for competitive or immersive sim racing experiences.
Cogging torque explained
Cogging torque is especially relevant in direct drive systems, which use a motor directly connected to the steering wheel shaft without any gear or belt reductions. In this setup, any irregularities in the motor's internal magnetic fields — specifically, the interaction between the stator teeth and permanent magnets on the rotor — are felt more directly by the driver.
A wheel base with high cogging torque may feel notchy or rough, particularly at low speeds or during subtle steering inputs. This can be distracting and can reduce the sense of realism. For example, during precise corrections in a Formula car or drifting scenario, this unnatural resistance may break immersion and hinder fine control.
To counter this, high-end sim racing manufacturers use motors with:
- More poles and finer stator designs to reduce magnetic "catches."
- Sine wave drive control or field-oriented control (FOC) to smooth out the torque delivery.
- High-resolution encoders to detect rotor position with extreme accuracy, further reducing perceived cogging.
The goal is to create a smooth, uninterrupted torque response that mimics real steering feedback from a race car — not the mechanical imperfections of an electric motor.
Holding torque explained
Holding torque defines how much force the motor can resist when it is powered but not moving — essentially, the motor’s ability to maintain a static steering position under load. This is crucial in sim racing because when you're holding the wheel at a fixed angle (e.g., mid-corner in a high-speed turn), the system must resist external forces from the simulation physics engine.
High holding torque is essential for:
- Maintaining accuracy during prolonged cornering.
- Ensuring the wheel doesn’t move unintentionally due to force feedback inputs.
- Supporting strong and consistent FFB for muscle memory and realistic feel.
In a racing sim, where tire slip, road texture, curb impact, and G-force simulation are delivered through FFB, the wheel base must not yield or "slip" under pressure. If the holding torque is too low, the wheel may wobble, lag, or misrepresent the simulated forces — breaking the link between what the game engine outputs and what the driver feels.
The ClubSport DD and ClubSport DD+ are examples for bases that have no peak torque. They use holding torque and are able to sustain the full torque output over a long period of time.
Torque ultimately defines performance
Personal gameplay preferences should always define your torque output settings. Both cogging torque and holding torque are central to the performance of sim racing wheel bases. Minimizing cogging torque enhances smoothness and realism, especially in slow-speed maneuvers, while maximizing holding torque ensures stability, precision, and fidelity during dynamic, high-load driving. Together, they define the quality and effectiveness of force feedback — the heart of sim racing immersion and performance.