Fanatec Wheel Hub Review: A Genuine Solution for Third-Party Wheels

Introduction

Fanatec recently announced a wave of updates across its ecosystem, including firmware upgrades for the ClubSport DD and DD+ wheelbases that increase holding torque from 12 to 15 Nm and 15 to 18 Nm respectively. But the announcement that caught the most attention was the release of the Fanatec Wheel Hub, a compact adapter designed to let third-party steering wheels work with Fanatec wheelbases while retaining full force feedback.

This hub solves a long-standing limitation in the Fanatec ecosystem. Unlike most other wheelbase manufacturers, Fanatec locks out force feedback unless a genuine Fanatec wheel or hub is connected. For years, the only genuine solution was the Podium Hub, a modular component that costs $299.99 and adds nearly 50 mm of thickness between the wheel and the quick release. The new Fanatec Wheel Hub aims to fix both of those problems at a much lower price point.

What Is the Fanatec Wheel Hub?

The Fanatec Wheel Hub is a three-piece solution that connects a third-party steering wheel to a Fanatec wheelbase while enabling force feedback. It consists of a standard quick release, a shim that adapts the Fanatec bolt pattern to the common 50.8 mm or 70 mm stud patterns found on most steering wheels, and a small electronic module that acts as the “brains” of the operation.

The electronic module is the key component. It communicates with the wheelbase and makes it think a genuine Fanatec wheel is connected, which unlocks force feedback. Without this piece, a third-party wheel would simply spin freely with no resistance or feedback.

The entire hub is only 10 mm thick when assembled, a significant improvement over the Podium Hub’s nearly 50 mm of added depth. This means your wheel sits closer to the wheelbase, and you won’t need to adjust the position of your rig when switching between wheels.

Design and Build Quality

The Fanatec Wheel Hub is designed to be part of Fanatec’s modular system, but it strips away the unnecessary complexity. The quick release is a standard component that can be purchased on its own, and it can be swapped for the QR2 Pro if desired, though the upgrade offers no real-world benefit beyond cosmetics.

The shim is machined with precision. For the 50.8 mm pattern, all holes are M5 threaded. For the 70 mm pattern, there are both through holes and threaded holes, giving you flexibility depending on the wheel you want to mount. The back of the shim features small cutouts that allow you to bolt from either side, so you can attach the shim to your wheel first and then add the quick release, or vice versa.

Build quality is solid across all three components. There are no quality issues to report, and the hub does its job well. The compact design is a clear improvement over the bulky Podium Hub, and the reduced thickness makes it a more practical choice for everyday use.

How It Compares to Third-Party Options

The Fanatec Wheel Hub is not the only solution to this problem. Third-party brands like SRM and Simube have been selling adapters for years that achieve the same result, often at a lower price.

SRM’s adapter, for example, costs around $192.40 AUD compared to the Fanatec Wheel Hub’s $299.90 AUD. It offers the same functionality, including the electronic emulator that unlocks force feedback. Simube’s adapter is even cheaper, though it lacks the 50.8 mm bolt pattern, which is the only functional difference.

For riders who prefer genuine components, the Fanatec Wheel Hub is a compelling option. It costs only $10 more than buying a quick release on its own, and it’s half the price of the Podium Hub. But if you’re looking for the most affordable solution, the third-party options are worth considering.

Who Should Buy the Fanatec Wheel Hub?

The Fanatec Wheel Hub is best suited for sim racers who want to use third-party wheels on a Fanatec wheelbase without giving up force feedback. It’s a genuine, well-built solution that’s significantly cheaper than the Podium Hub and much more compact.

If you already own a QR2 quick release, you might find the hub less appealing, since you’d be paying for a component you already have. In that case, a third-party adapter that works with your existing quick release could be a better value.

That said, the Fanatec Wheel Hub is a solid choice for anyone who values genuine components and wants a hassle-free way to expand their wheel collection. It’s also a good option for those who are new to the Fanatec ecosystem and want a straightforward path to using third-party wheels.

Buying Advice

Before purchasing the Fanatec Wheel Hub, consider your existing setup. If you already have a QR2 quick release, you may want to explore third-party adapters that don’t require an additional quick release purchase. If you’re starting from scratch, the Fanatec Wheel Hub is a convenient all-in-one solution.

The hub’s 10 mm thickness is a major advantage over the Podium Hub, and its price point makes it an accessible entry point for third-party wheel compatibility. Just be aware that the same functionality is available from third-party brands at a lower cost, so weigh your preference for genuine components against potential savings.

Conclusion

The Fanatec Wheel Hub is a well-executed solution to a problem that Fanatec created for itself. It’s cheaper and more compact than the Podium Hub, and it works as intended with no quality issues. For sim racers who want to use third-party wheels on a Fanatec wheelbase, it’s a practical and reliable choice.

That said, the existence of cheaper third-party alternatives means it’s not the only option. If you’re comfortable with aftermarket components, you can save money without sacrificing functionality. But if you prefer genuine Fanatec gear, the Wheel Hub is a worthy addition to your setup.