Quick answer
Choose a GT-style rim like the GSI GT-MAX32 for open-wheel cars, drifting, and rally where you need more steering rotation and a wider grip. Pick a Formula-style rim like the GSI X-29 for closed-cockpit race cars and high-downforce driving where you keep your hands at 9 and 3. Your driving discipline determines the better shape.
GT vs Formula: What the Shape Means for Your Driving
The primary difference between GT and Formula wheel rims is the diameter and grip position. GT rims are larger (typically 300-330mm) and round or nearly round, allowing your hands to move through a wider rotation range. This makes them ideal for cars that require more steering lock, such as GT3, touring cars, drift cars, and rally machines. Formula rims are smaller (270-300mm) and have a flat top or D-shape, designed for hands-at-9-and-3 driving in low-clearance, high-downforce single-seaters. The smaller diameter means less hand movement for quick corrections, which suits the fast steering ratios of Formula and LMP cars.
Your wheelbase also plays a role. A larger GT rim gives you more leverage, which can feel heavier with a direct-drive base, while a smaller Formula rim feels snappier and more responsive. Both work with high-end bases like Simucube 2 Pro, but the feel changes noticeably.
Simucube 2
GSI GT-MAX32: The GT Rim for Versatility
The GSI GT-MAX32 is a true GT-style wheel. Its continuous molded carbon fiber construction creates a single-piece face and outer rim, with silicone-overmolded handles for grip and durability. The 320mm diameter gives you plenty of leverage for cars that need more steering angle, and the round shape lets you slide your hands naturally during drifts or catch oversteer. The GT-MAX32 is built for drivers who switch between GT3, hypercars, and even rally or drift sims, where a fixed 9-and-3 grip would limit control.
Because it uses a single carbon fiber unit, the GT-MAX32 is both stiff and lightweight. That stiffness translates to precise force feedback from your wheelbase, with less flex than a bolted-together rim. The tradeoff is that the fixed round shape is less ideal for Formula-style driving, where a flat-top rim lets you see the screen better and keeps your hands locked in position.
GSI X-29: The Formula Rim for Precision
The GSI X-29 is GSI's entry-level Formula-style wheel, but entry-level here means exceptional price-to-performance, not a compromise in quality. It uses a smaller, flat-top shape that mimics the steering wheels found in F1, IndyCar, and LMP cars. The compact diameter (around 290mm) reduces the distance your hands travel between turns, making it easier to catch slides and hit apexes in high-downforce cars. The flat top also improves screen visibility, since the rim doesn't block the top of your display.
The X-29 is packed with intuitive controls and precision construction, making it a strong choice for drivers focused on Formula or prototype racing. The tradeoff is that the smaller, flat shape is less comfortable for extended drifting or rally stages where you need to cross your arms or use more than 180 degrees of rotation. If your primary sim discipline is open-wheel, the X-29 gives you a more authentic feel at a lower price point.
Tradeoffs to consider
- GT-MAX32: Larger diameter, round shape: Better for GT3, hypercars, drifting, and rally where you need more steering rotation and hand movement. The round shape lets you slide your hands naturally. Choose the GT-MAX32 if you drive multiple disciplines or prioritize a versatile, authentic GT feel.
- X-29: Smaller diameter, flat-top shape: Better for Formula, IndyCar, and LMP driving where hands stay at 9 and 3. The compact size improves response time and screen visibility. Choose the X-29 if you primarily race open-wheel cars and want a dedicated Formula rim at a lower price.
- Weight and stiffness tradeoff: The GT-MAX32's single-piece carbon construction is stiffer and lighter than a bolted rim, giving you cleaner force feedback. The X-29 is also precision-built but uses a more traditional assembly, which keeps the cost down. If absolute stiffness matters most, the GT-MAX32 has the edge. If budget is a concern, the X-29 still delivers excellent feel.
Product facts at a glance
- GT-MAX32 (Rev B): The GT-MAX32 takes everything we’ve learned and elevates to a new level of technology including features, construction and assembly. A first for sim racing steering wheels, the GT-MAX32 is made from a continuous molded carbon footprint. The face and the outer circular rim are a single carbon fiber unit with handles over-molded in silicone for maximum grip and strength all while reducing weight. The one-piece carbon construction makes the GT-MAX32 extremely stiff and lightweight, delivering precise force feedback with less flex. The silicone over-molded handles provide secure grip during long stints without gloves.
- X-29: The GSI X-29 is our entry-level sim racing wheel that offers exceptional price to performance and is packed with features to take your sim racing experience to the next level. Its combination of quality materials, intuitive controls, and precision construction make it the ultimate accessory for anyone who takes their sim racing seriously. The X-29 delivers Formula-style ergonomics and quality construction at a more accessible price, making it a smart entry point for drivers who want a dedicated open-wheel rim without the flagship cost.
Which rim fits your rig?
Best for
- Drivers who race a mix of GT, hypercar, drift, and rally disciplines and want one versatile rim
- Drivers who prefer a larger diameter for more leverage and a round shape for hand movement
Not ideal for
- Drivers who primarily race Formula or LMP cars and want a dedicated open-wheel rim with a flat top and smaller diameter
