Rig (Cockpit)

A rig (also called a cockpit, sim rig, or racing cockpit) is a dedicated frame structure that holds your sim racing equipment. Unlike desk mounting or wheel stands, a rig provides an integrated platform for wheel, pedals, seat, and accessories in a driving position.

Why Use a Rig?

Rigidity: A proper rig eliminates flex, letting you feel what your wheelbase and pedals are actually doing rather than fighting wobbly mounts.

Driving position: Rigs position you like a real race car—proper pedal angle, wheel height, and seat recline. This matters for immersion and comfort.

Consistency: Equipment stays exactly where you set it. No re-adjusting between sessions.

Expansion: Rigs accommodate accessories: monitor mounts, shifters, handbrakes, button boxes, bass shakers.

Types of Rigs

Integrated Cockpits

Pre-designed units with included frame, seat, and mounting points.

Examples: Playseat Challenge, GT Omega ART, Next Level Racing F-GT

Pros:

• Designed appearance
• All-in-one purchase
• Compact options available

Cons:

• Limited adjustability
• May flex with high-torque bases
• Fixed upgrade paths

80/20 Aluminum Rigs

Modular construction from aluminum extrusion profiles.

Examples: Sim-Lab P1-X, Trak Racer TR160, Advanced SimRacing ASR

Pros:

• Maximum rigidity
• Infinite adjustability
• Handles any torque level

Cons:

• Higher starting cost
• Industrial appearance
• Assembly required

Seat-Based Rigs

A frame that incorporates an actual car seat or racing bucket seat.

Pros:

• Authentic feel
• Can use real or aftermarket seats
• Often very comfortable

Cons:

• Larger footprint
• Heavier
• May require more space

Folding/Portable Rigs

Rigs designed to collapse or fold for storage.

Examples: Playseat Challenge, Next Level Racing F-GT Lite

Pros:

• Apartment-friendly
• Stores in closet
• Setup/teardown possible

Cons:

• More flex than fixed rigs
• Limited torque handling
• Less comfortable long-term

Rig Price Ranges

Choosing a Rig

Consider:

• Wheelbase torque: High-torque DD needs rigid mounting
• Space: Measure your room; rigs are larger than they appear
• Portability: Need to move or store it?
• Expansion plans: Will you add triple monitors, motion, etc.?
• Budget: Include seat cost if not included

For entry/belt drive: Integrated cockpits work fine

For direct drive (8Nm+): Consider 80/20 or premium integrated

For high-torque DD (15Nm+): 80/20 strongly recommended

Rig vs Wheel Stand vs Desk

Related Terms

• 80/20 Aluminum: Modular extrusion system for building rigs
• Wheel Stand: Simpler, smaller mounting alternative
• Desk Clamp: Entry-level mounting method