The Fanatec CSL Pedals LC is a formidable addition to any sim racing setup, offering a blend of durability, precision, and realism that will undoubtedly elevate your driving experience. This comprehensive review will delve into the key features, build quality, performance, and compatibility of this pedal set.
Build Quality and Durability
One of the standout features of the CSL Pedals LC is their heavy steel construction. The all-metal design exudes robustness, ensuring that these pedals are built to last through countless hours of intense racing. The pedals themselves are crafted from heavy steel, which not only adds to their durability but also prevents unwanted sliding on the floor, especially if they are not hard-mounted to a rig. This stability is crucial for maintaining control during high-intensity races.
Precision Sensing Technology
The CSL Pedals LC incorporate magnetic sensors for both the throttle and clutch axes. These precision Hall-effect sensors provide contactless tracking of pedal position through the use of magnets. This not only ensures long-lasting performance by reducing sensor wear but also guarantees consistent and accurate input, allowing you to fine-tune your driving skills with utmost precision.
Load Cell Brake System
The CSL Pedals LC truly shine when it comes to the braking experience. The Load Cell Brake Kit revolutionizes the way you interact with your virtual car. Instead of measuring travel distance, it measures pressure, replicating the sensation of braking in a real car. This change in pedal feel is pivotal for muscle memory training, enabling you to brake with consistency and confidence, ultimately leading to improved lap times.
Realistic Resistance
The elastomer stack placed on top of the load cell sensor adds a layer of resistance that closely mimics the feeling of braking in a high-performance vehicle. The 65 Shore hardness ensures that the resistance is strong and realistic under compression, contributing to the overall immersion.
Ultimate Pedal Upgrade
The CSL Pedals LC bundle not only offers an immersive brake experience but also enhances the clutch pedal. The Load Cell Kit completely replaces the brake pedal and upgrades the electronics, allowing the standard brake pedal to be repurposed as a clutch pedal. This dual upgrade adds another layer of immersion, precision, and consistency to your sim racing setup.
Adjustability and Customization
These pedals are highly adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune them to your specific preferences. The Fanatec Tuning Menu (or Fanatec Control Panel on PC) provides easy access to adjust the amount of braking force required, making it adaptable to your driving style. Furthermore, manual calibration of all three pedal axes is possible, enabling you to personalize the pedals to your liking.
Compatibility
The CSL Pedals LC offer broad compatibility, making them a versatile addition to various racing setups. They are compatible with a range of Fanatec wheel bases, including CSL Elite, CSL DD, Gran Turismo DD Pro, ClubSport, and Podium Wheel Bases. For PC users, the pedals can connect directly to a compatible Fanatec Wheel Base or function as a standalone input device via USB. Console gamers can also use these pedals through a Fanatec Wheel Base or Racing Wheel, making them adaptable to a wide range of platforms.
Special Notes
When connected via RJ12 directly to the wheel base, brake sensitivity is adjusted using the BRF setting in the Tuning Menu, accessible through supported Fanatec steering wheels. PC users can also adjust brake sensitivity in the Fanatec Control Panel. However, when connected to a PC via USB, brake sensitivity is exclusively adjustable in the Fanatec Control Panel.
What’s Included
The package includes the CSL Pedals with throttle and brake pedal units, heel rest, a wheel base connection cable, a Torx key, mounting bolts, hard-mounting spacers, replacement rubber feet for floor protection, and a Quick Guide. Additionally, the CSL Pedals Load Cell Kit comes with a pre-assembled Load Cell Brake Pedal, USB and RJ12 cables, a Torx key, M4x12 Mounting bolts, and a Quick Guide.
In conclusion, the Fanatec CSL Pedals LC are a remarkable addition to any sim racing enthusiast’s arsenal. Their heavy-duty construction, precision sensors, load cell brake system, and compatibility options make them a solid choice for both newcomers and experienced sim racers looking to take their virtual driving experience to the next level. These pedals offer a blend of realism and adjustability that will undoubtedly enhance your immersion and performance on the track. So, if you’re ready to put the pedal to the metal, the CSL Pedals LC are an excellent choice.