After using the same wheel base for a long time, I realized that changing the wheel rim can affect driving feel almost as much as upgrading the wheel base itself. I’ve spent a fair amount of time using both the Fanatec ClubSport Wheel Rim Flat 1 and the ClubSport Wheel Rim GT, both in Certified Refurbished condition, across different racing sims and car classes.
This comparison is written purely from my own experience — how each rim feels in my hands, how they behave during races, and which one I naturally gravitate toward depending on what I’m driving.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Flat 1 (Refurbished) | GT (Refurbished) |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Flat / formula-style | Round GT-style |
| Diameter | ~27.5 cm | ~33 cm |
| Grip Material | Suede leather | Suede leather |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Steering Feel | Fast and sharp | Smooth and natural |
| Best Use | Formula, open-wheel | GT, touring, endurance |
First Impressions When Mounting Them
The first time I mounted the Flat 1, the difference was immediate. It looks compact, aggressive, and very race-focused. The flat top makes it feel like something designed purely for competition, not comfort. The smaller diameter stood out right away — my hands were closer together, and the wheel felt very “tight” in a good way.
Switching to the GT rim, the feeling was completely different. It instantly felt familiar, almost like grabbing a real car steering wheel. The round shape and larger diameter gave me more hand spacing and a sense of weight and realism that the Flat 1 doesn’t really aim for.
Visually and physically, the GT rim felt more universal, while the Flat 1 felt specialized.
Driving With the Flat 1 – How It Actually Feels
When I drive with the Flat 1, everything feels faster. Steering inputs are short and direct, and the car reacts immediately. In formula cars or prototypes, this feels fantastic. I don’t need to move my hands much, and quick corrections come naturally.
Force feedback also feels slightly sharper with this rim. Because it’s lighter and smaller, details from the wheel base feel more “snappy.” However, during longer sessions, I start to notice some fatigue. The narrow grip spacing and constant tension make it less relaxing to drive for extended periods.
For sprint races or competitive formula sessions, I really enjoy it. For long stints, it’s not always what I reach for.
Driving With the GT Rim – Long Session Comfort
Using the GT rim feels calmer and more controlled. Steering is smoother, especially through long corners, and it’s easier to hold a steady angle without constantly correcting. This becomes very noticeable in GT3 cars, touring cars, or endurance racing.
Over long sessions, the GT rim is clearly more comfortable for me. My wrists feel less strained, and my hands naturally rest on the wheel without tension. It doesn’t feel as “aggressive” as the Flat 1, but it feels more natural and realistic.
I also find myself making fewer micro-corrections with the GT rim, which helps consistency over longer races.
Comfort Over Time
This is where my preference really splits depending on race length.
- Flat 1: Great for short to medium sessions. After about an hour, I start to feel my hands and wrists working more.
- GT: Much better for long races. I can drive for hours without thinking about my grip or posture.
Neither is uncomfortable — they’re just designed with different priorities.
Build Quality & Refurbished Condition
Both rims arrived in excellent condition. If I hadn’t known they were refurbished, I wouldn’t have guessed. The suede feels premium on both, stitching is clean, and there’s no flex or creaking once mounted.
In use, both feel solid and reliable. There’s no difference in build confidence between them — the main difference is purely design and ergonomics.
Which One Do I Actually Use More?
Personally, I use the GT rim more often simply because I spend more time in GT and endurance racing. It’s more versatile and easier to live with day-to-day.
That said, when I load into a formula car or want a more aggressive driving feel, I always switch back to the Flat 1. It instantly changes the character of the car and makes everything feel more intense.
Pros & Cons From My Experience
ClubSport Wheel Rim Flat 1 (Refurbished)
Pros
- Very fast and precise steering
- Excellent for formula and open-wheel racing
- Sharp, competitive feel
Cons
- Less comfortable for long sessions
- Smaller diameter limits realism in GT cars
ClubSport Wheel Rim GT (Refurbished)
Pros
- Natural, realistic steering feel
- Much better for long races
- Works well across many car types
Cons
- Slightly slower response
- Less exciting in formula-style driving
My Final Take
After using both extensively, I don’t see this as a question of “which is better,” but rather which suits your driving style. The Flat 1 makes the car feel aggressive and precise. The GT rim makes the experience feel closer to real-world driving and more comfortable over time.
If I could only keep one, I’d choose the GT rim for its versatility. But if you mainly race formula cars, the Flat 1 simply feels right.
SEO-Friendly Conclusion
The Fanatec ClubSport Wheel Rim Flat 1 and ClubSport Wheel Rim GT (Refurbished) deliver different driving experiences for sim racers. The Flat 1 offers fast, precise steering ideal for formula racing, while the GT rim provides a larger, more realistic and comfortable feel suited to GT and endurance racing. The best choice depends on driving style and session length.
