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MAKE YOUR SIM MORE REALISTIC WITH A BENTLEY GT3 STEERING WHEEL

Published: 2024-10-31 13:39:28 Last Updated: 2024-10-31 14:42:50

Gear up, sim racers! Fanatec has just released a remarkable addition to the world of racing simulation – the Bentley GT3 Podium Steering Wheel. Originally crafted for Bentley's record-breaking Pikes Peak GT3 car, this steering wheel was developed alongside Bentley Motorsport’s team, fusing real-world racing prowess with the finesse of high-end simulation. First seen on Bentley’s Continental GT3 Pikes Peak car at the 99th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2021, this wheel wasn’t just built to survive – it was built to dominate the planet’s most punishing hill climb. Now, with refined features and rugged durability to withstand even the harshest sim racing conditions, Fanatec’s Bentley GT3 Podium Steering Wheel brings the power and performance of Pikes Peak into the hands of racing enthusiasts everywhere. With a 310 mm diameter, the wheel boasts a 3.4” circular self-levelling touchscreen, encased in a striking forged carbon bezel. This isn’t your standard sim wheel – the CNC-machined aluminium rotary controls carry Bentley’s signature knurling for that familiar touch of refinement. Constructed around a lightweight magnesium core, the wheel is outfitted with a 5 mm-thick carbon fibre front plate with a distinctive green weave, ensuring high performance with a nod to Bentley’s iconic colourway. Every detail, down to the QR2 Pro Wheel-Side quick-release, matches the specs of Fanatec’s real-world racing wheels. Adding to its dynamic display, this GT3 wheel integrates intuitive ergonomics with backlit button surrounds, two seven-way directional sticks, two large aluminium rotary inputs, and four rear magnetic paddles for gear shifts and additional functions. Rhys Millen, the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak driver himself, helped shape this design, even inspiring the optional ‘Pikes Peak Grip’ for enhanced control over the hill climb’s notorious hairpins.

When it’s time to retire from the track, this wheel does double duty as a captivating display piece. With an included desk or wall mount, the wheel transforms into a functional clock – inspired by Bentley’s road car timepieces – while also featuring preloaded telemetry and videos of iconic circuits. Racers can relive their favorite moments, with details like pedal and steering inputs, gear changes, a G-meter, and even a track map. Belma Nadarevic, CMO of Fanatec, sums it up: “Bringing real-world racing technology into the hands of sim racers is a unique challenge, and this product stands as a testament to the passion and perseverance of our team. Working closely with Bentley Motors has allowed us to create something truly extraordinary – a perfect blend of racing performance and luxury. It was worth the wait!”

The Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peaks that this sim wheel is based on is the most extreme Continental GT variant ever built - and the greenest. It’s powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 that pumps out 552 kW and a powerful 1,000 Nm of torque thanks to running on a healthy 2.2 bar boost. It features a thicker carbon fibre intake manifold, custom 3D-printed Inconel exhaust manifolds by Akrapovič, larger turbos and external wastegates. The transmission used is Bentley’s standard racing unit, but the rear driveshaft diameter has been increased for more durability. The chassis was set up specifically for Pikes Peaks so front and rear axles run significantly reduced camber compared to the standard Continental GT3 setup. The softest springs and anti-roll bars from Bentley’s range were fitted for more body movement and to maximise weight transfer for better braking. Aerodynamic mod resulted in a 30 % increase in overall downforce. It also wears the biggest rear wing ever fitted to a Bentley racecar, and it looks epic. A comprehensive front-end aerodynamic package comprises a two-plane front splitter flanked by separate dive planes to maintain the aerodynamic balance front-to-rear. It’s a great car to have your sim rig wheel based on. It’s available now at €1,999.95 ex VAT and shipping taxes, which is around R38,500.

Take a look at the YouTube video from the chaps at Fanatec as they showcase their officially-licenced SIM steering wheels that will be something all gamers would bite someone in the face for, nit just Bentley fans: Out now! The new Podium Steering Wheel Bentley GT3! | Fanatec

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