Looking at getting into iRacing.

[Ash_Williams]

So I'm building a new PC that will have 3 screens and I've always been a racing simulator fan. Can't beat a good drive in my opinion.

What are the main things I will need to get me started? I know I'll have to shell out for a wheel and pedals at some point unless I get my dodgy Xbox 360 racing wheel setup =P

Basically I've got no idea at all so any help getting started would be awesome =D

[v4moose]

Are you using the PC you've got in your sig or setting up a new one?

Basically have a look at the recommended specs for Iracing and go off that plus a bit more. But usually any decent gaming rig built within the last couple of years will suffice.

If you're going 3 screen its cool to get them mounted with a play seat or something similar. Depends how extreme you want to go. Check out Pagnian Imports for a few cool options.

If you want to go more budget you could just slap the screens on your desk and buy a wheel stand pro, which holds your wheel at a good height.

As far as wheels go you've got a few options

Logitech Driving Force Pro - cheap but still good and get the job done
Logitech G27 - more expensive but better quality components, force feedback and a H pattern shifter with clutch.
Fanatec RS blah blah with clubsport pedals - the cream of the crop IMO for racing wheels.

I currently own a G27 and it's great. If I had expendable money though I'd definitely upgrade to a Fanatec as it's the only 1 of the 3 which also supports xbox 360. (though sounds like you've already got a 360 wheel)

If you want to be sociable while driving, its good to get a headset. It's quite tough to type while driving. If you do try to type, you'll usually end up typing sorry mate, as you slam into another car and take out half the field. There's some serious dudes on Iracing and they wont like you for it

If you sign up to Iracing there is a huge amount on info re: setups and specs on their forums. Just go searching about.

[Matty]

Basically all you need is a wheel and you are good to go. Though I have a friend that wants to get into it and all he has is his Xbox wheel, so if you getting working I'd be interested to know.

[Mearehear]

Best entry level wheel is the Logitech DFGT, often found for as little as $130 at your local Dick Smiths. This wheel is the little brother to the Logitech G25/27s, with full 900degree steering and forcefeedback.

Honestly, unless you are going for a G25 or G27, or one of the Fanatec wheels (or even higher market wheels) I wouldn't look at any other wheel, its really the only lower end wheel worth its weight, and $130 its very good value. (Lacks clutch and H-pattern shifter, but you won't find those on any entry level wheel)

http://dicksmith.com.au/product/YG2331/ ... e-gt-wheel

*Dick's are showing $189 at moment, but shop around and you will find it cheap, (mine was $130 from dicks)

[Ash_Williams]

I might get one of those Logitech DFGT's to start with just to see if its the type of thing I'll be playing all the time.

My current system is more than enough to run any game, my new one will be far too overkill for a mere racing simulator =P

In terms of the game what will I need? Obviously the game itself but is there any addons or things I'll need to buy?

[v4moose]

there a 3 month for the price of 1 trial offer at the moment. Will give you enough content to race in the rookie seasons.

Should keep you busy for a few weeks. Then start looking at purchasing different cars/track based on what takes your fancy series wise.

[Ash_Williams]

Hmm, I'll check it out tonight if I can't get my local EB to hand me over the copy of Forza 4 they have waiting for me..

[Denzil]

I've got 3 screens going, it's really awesome, would be very hard to go back. I just have them on my desk

[Ash_Williams]

Any tracks or cars I should invest in? Is DSE the best place to get one of those Logitech wheels?

[Denzil]

The lower open wheelers are very fun, the Skip Barber & Star Mazda. As for tracks, probably better to decide what car you want to run, check what tracks it'll be running in the future and get any you need in bulk to save some money

[BurntToast]

Sorry to post a little late to be of much help, but http://www.logitechshop.com.au had the DFGT wheel on for $109 with free delivery. I snapped one up late last week but unfortunately they seem to be all out of stock of it now. However, why I mentioned this is that they have the G27 on for $299 (free delivery), but apparently today is the last day they are selling it so cheap. Thought it might be worth mentioning.

I may also get into iRacing, once Ive had a decent bash at GT5.

[Ash_Williams]

Well just installed iRacing, think I'll need to go and get one of those Logitech wheels tomorrow so I'm not using my *shudder* 360 controller and its terribleness.

Hopefully I don't screw up too badly.

[Matty]

Well just installed iRacing, think I'll need to go and get one of those Logitech wheels tomorrow so I'm not using my *shudder* 360 controller and its terribleness.

Hopefully I don't screw up too badly.

Everyone screws up, it's just part of the experience so don't be too hard on yourself.

Also, if you accidentally crash and take someone out and they get all pissy, just ignore them. The rookie cars and series are there for a reason.

[Ash_Williams]

I'm not worried about screwing up, some people don't understand the concept of a game even when its a simulation. Even happens in reality to people shouldn't cry anyways.

I got the Driving Force GT yesterday so I'll set that up tonight and give it a shot if I'm not playing Forza 4 on my 130" screen >:D

[Denzil]

Don't just ignore them, say sorry and then ignore them It's hard to not get a bit pissed off if someone shunts you off (I don't say anything, just mutter to myself lol) but it all instantly goes away (for me) if they sorry.