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PC Steering Wheel Roundup
Part 14: TSW2 Stock
 More of this Feature
• Part 1:Introduction
• Part 2:About The Tests
• Part 3:About Me
• Part 4:Categories
• Part 5:Thrustmaster NASCAR Charger
• Part 6:Thrustmaster NASCAR Charger 2
• Part 7:Logitech Wingman Formula GP
• Part 8:Act Labs RS
• Part 9:Thrustmaster Super Sport
• Part 10:Thrustmaster Formula T2
• Part 11:Microsoft Sidewinder Force Feedback Wheel
• Part 12:Act Labs Force RS
• Part 13:Logitech Wingman Formula Force
• Part 14:TSW2 Stock
• Part 15:TSW2 Cup 13
• Part 16:Hyper Stimulator
• Part 17:ECCI Trackstar 6000
• Part 18:Complete List By Overall Score
 
  Related Resources
• PC Simulations
 
 From Other Guides
• Computer Simulations
• Video Games
 
 Elsewhere on the Web
• Thrustmaster
• Act Labs
• Logitech
• Microsoft
• Thomas Enterprises
• Extreme Competition Controls
 
 

Website:http://www.thomas-superwheel.com
List Price:$225
Category:$100 - $250

I knew that the TSW2 Stock was not your average steering wheel before I even got it out of the box. This thing is heavy! Weighing in at over 25 pounds this wheel makes a statement before you even get it open.

The Looks

The TSW2 is not intended to be beautiful. In fact, the look of this wheel is better described as "industrial." Black PVC housing covers solid wood and steel components. The TSW2 is obviously built to last.

Convenience

The clamping system will accommodate any thickness desk. Put the wheel in place, slide the "L" shaped steel bracket into the bottom of the wheel and tighten the thumb screw. On my computer desk this proved to be the most convenient wheel to hook and unhook. Installation was a breeze as well (other than the hernia I received carrying the box :) ) No fancy software to install or proprietary configuration to deal with. You put the wheel in place, plug the pedals into the wheel and plug the wheel into the game port of your PC. Then go into Windows game controllers setup and add the wheel (step-by-step instructions are included but unnecessary for most folks).

The Feel

Based on the looks and weight of this controller I'm not quite sure what I was expecting behind the wheel, but I was truly shocked.

This is one of the most precise wheels I have ever had the pleasure of driving. Normally, getting a little loose off of the corner in Bristol is a scary situation. All you can do it hold your breath, snap the wheel back to the right to catch the car and hope that the controller understands what you intended to do. The TSW2 does exactly what you expect it to do every time.

The same held true for Texas and Talladega. Need to change lanes in a big pack of traffic with no room for error? No problem. Need to hold your line in a three-wide battle? No problem.

The extra heavy pedals stay put under the most enthusiastic braking. The heavy-duty springs in the pedals and in the wheel provide a realistic feel and a comfortable return.

Other Features

My favorite feature of this wheel (other than the amazing driving feel) is that the wheel can be upgraded to include any number of additional features as your needs (and budget) demand.

You can add buttons to the wheel or paddle shifters. Upgrade the entire wheel to a thirteen or fifteen inch version or even an authentic Momo racing wheel. Other upgrades include a clutch pedal, a number of different pedal pads and a ball bearing steering wheel assembly.

Overall

There is no doubt that the TSW2 is the finest wheel available in this class. The driving feel, precision, sturdiness, upgradability and obvious quality of the components make this wheel the undisputed king of the mid-priced category.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty wheel and pedals are built to last
  • Clamping system works for every desk
  • Driving feel is unmatched in this price range.

Cons

  • Won't win any beauty contest
  • Wheel unit takes up more desk space than most

Rating: 93/100

Next page > TSW2 Cup 13
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