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
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