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A lot of sim racing enthusiasts have asked gaming peripheral manufacturers if they can invert their existing pedal sets with an upgrade kit. As this is simply too complicated due to the existing components of the hardware, Fanatec decided to introduce an entirely new product instead. The ClubSport Pedals V3 by Fanatec was created to simulate realistic pivot points; arrangement, distances, as well as overall feeling like you’re driving in a real car when playing your favorite sim racing games.
At first glance, the CSP V3i looks exactly like the standard V3 by Fanatec but upside down. The design provides a very professional feel, and a lot of gamers will definitely appreciate the attention to detail Fanatec gave for this product. It has a lot of cutting-edge features like its predecessors and offers so much more. The wheel is attached to a sturdy frame made from CNC-machined aluminum and is 100% made of metal. The pedal is completely black with two heavy-duty side rails as well as three steel bars to create width while also holding the heavy-duty side plate. It doesn’t look like the standard pedal that is often bundled with steering wheels which makes it a nice addition to your racing rig. Fanatec didn’t just modify the original ClubSport Pedals V3 set; they completely redesigned it to feature the same ergonomics you find in an actual race car.
When compared to other pedals available in the market and even in Fanatec’s own line up, you’ll notice that the price for the CSP V3 inverted is higher than the rest. This is because the V3 inverter changes the way you play racing games as the pedals feel like an actual pedal in a vehicle rather than a gaming peripheral. The clutch and brake of the CSP V3 are inverted to the upper side of the pedals which is directly inspired by real race cars. The product is one of the first pedal systems that doesn’t mount on the floor and are instead hanging down for an authentic driving feel.
The pedals also come equipped with a resistance-adjustable ClubSport Damper Kit that is mounted and ready to use on the fly. The variety of arrangements that’s possible through its multiple extensions and swappable pedal plates allows gamers a lot of creativity to suit multiple styles. Once you’re set-up and racing with the pedal, it’s ready to simulate the hydraulic feeling of braking from an actual car to mimic the mechanical resistance you’ll often experience with its braking action. It’s often used in combination with the tool-less adjustment of the brake resistance. You can adjust the damping by increasing or decreasing its intensity for pure realism during sudden twists and turns.
To help you win your races, Fanatec also introduced a new vibration motor on the gas pedal of the CSP V3i to inform players if they lost grip and should let up on the gas. It’s compatible on almost all latest racing sim games so that you’re always aware of your car’s feedback especially during tight races. The second motor on the pedal automatically triggers if you brake too hard and lock the tires, or when the ABS kicks in. Fanatec allows you to adjust the sensitivity of the brakes through the Tuning Menu before or even during the game so that you can adjust as needed. It’s a neat feature to have especially when you’re setting it up the first time and as you go. The advanced technology used in these pedals sets it apart from the competition. It gives you a competitive advantage that makes you faster than anyone else which makes it a must-have for hardcore and pro gamers.
The custom-made 90KG adjustable load cell on the other hand is extremely durable and is much more precise than the previous generation. Gamers will be able to apply realistic pressure to accurately control the brake with muscle tension like you’re really driving a real car. It’s a great feature because the added realism sets it apart from traditional gaming pedals making the racing experience more authentic than anything else. Another change Fanatec did with the pedals is the completely revised contactless hall sensors with 12-bit resolution. The gas and clutch of this peripheral has 4x the resolution than the previous V2 pedals and each axis can be calibrated through the wheel or via the driver.
The ClubSport Pedals V3 inverted will work on any racing wheel if it’s connected to a Fanatec wheel base or racing wheel while playing on PC. It also works well with other brands like Logitech, Thrustmaster, or others. If the pedals are connected on the computer via USB, then there shouldn’t be a problem. You’ll have to keep in mind the game you’re playing though if it supports a second USB controller. Games like Project Cars series, GTR 2, iRacing, Assetto Corsa, Race 07, rFactor, Live for Speed, and many more have this feature so it’s fine to enjoy your pedal with these games. For console gamers, you’ll need a Fanatec wheel base or a console licensed wheel base as well as a racing wheel to fully enjoy its functionality. It doesn’t work on consoles that need a direct USB connection or a ClubSport USB Adapter so keep that in mind. Bottom line is, the ClubSport pedal is a recommended gaming peripheral for a lot of racers because it simulates the feeling of driving an actual car to take your gaming experience to the next level.
Buying this product has all the bells and whistles necessary for you to start racing right away. Along with the inverted pedals, you’ll have a pre-assembled damper kit, 2 assembled pedal extensions, as well as an accessory. There are an additional 3 D-shaped pedal plates that include mounting screws, 2 stabilizer feet with mounting screws, and 1 durable and strong spring throttle. Lastly, a 150cm RJ12 connection cable, 1 180cm USB connection, an Allen Key for damper, a lithium grease bottle, and a quick guide completes the set to kickstart your gameplay. Setup is easy and shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes.