As passionate motorsport and racing gamers, we were thrilled to dive into the world of sim racing with the MOZA R3 PC Bundle. Designed as an entry-level direct drive racing wheel, the R3 promises to deliver a professional sim racing experience without breaking the bank. After spending considerable time with this setup, we’re excited to share our thoughts on whether it lives up to the hype.
First Impressions: Compact and Powerful
The MOZA R3 is the most compact direct drive wheelbase in MOZA’s lineup, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those with limited space. Despite its small size, it packs a surprising punch with 3.9 Nm of torque. While this may seem modest compared to higher-end models like the Fanatec CSL DD (8 Nm) or Simucube (17 Nm), it’s more than enough for most sim racing scenarios, especially for those transitioning from a controller or gear/belt-driven wheel.
The bundle includes the R3 wheelbase, SRP Lite pedals, and a sturdy desk mount, all for $299. This price point is incredibly competitive, especially when compared to alternatives like the Logitech G29 or Thrustmaster T300, which don’t offer direct drive technology.
Build Quality and Design
The R3 wheelbase is impressively well-built for its price. It features a solid quick-release system, identical to MOZA’s higher-end models, ensuring compatibility with their full range of steering wheels. The included 11-inch wheel has a flat-bottom design, which may not be everyone’s preference, but it feels durable with a soft-touch material that’s comfortable during long sessions. The brushed aluminum face and white center stripe add a premium touch, while the built-in LED RPM indicator enhances immersion during races.
The paddle shifters are responsive, though they lack the satisfying magnetic click found in more expensive setups. That said, they’re a significant upgrade over entry-level options like the Thrustmaster T300 or Logitech G29. The buttons are well-placed and feel similar to an Xbox controller, making them intuitive for beginners.
Pedals: Solid but Room for Improvement
The SRP Lite pedals included in the bundle are a mixed bag. They’re constructed from high-strength steel, which feels durable and should withstand years of use. The throttle pedal is smooth and easy to modulate, but the brake pedal relies on a torsion spring, which lacks the progressive resistance needed for precise braking. Fortunately, MOZA offers a $29 performance kit to upgrade the brake pedal, and we highly recommend investing in it right away for a more realistic feel.
The pedals are highly adjustable, with multiple mounting options, including the ability to invert them for a more authentic racing setup. They also feature rubber pads to prevent sliding on the floor, which is a nice touch for desk-mounted setups.
Performance on the Track
Where the MOZA R3 truly shines is in its performance. Despite its lower torque output, the direct drive system delivers incredibly accurate force feedback.
Whether we were rallying in Dirt Rally 2.0 or tackling tight corners in F1 23, the R3 provided a clear and immersive connection to the road. We could feel every bump, curb, and loss of traction, which is crucial for improving lap times and overall driving skills.
The 3.9 Nm of torque is more than sufficient for most racing scenarios, especially since real-world rally and street cars often use power steering. While higher torque wheelbases can add to the immersion, they’re not necessary for most sim racers, and the R3 strikes a perfect balance between performance and accessibility.
Software and Customization
MOZA’s Pit House software is a standout feature. It’s one of the most comprehensive tuning tools we’ve seen, allowing us to adjust everything from force feedback settings to pedal sensitivity and LED lighting. The app also supports Bluetooth connectivity, enabling on-the-fly adjustments via a smartphone—a feature we found incredibly useful during races.
The software includes presets for different racing styles, and we noticed a significant improvement in feel when switching between rally and F1 presets. This level of customization ensures the R3 can adapt to a wide range of sim racing titles and preferences.
Upgrade Path
One of the most appealing aspects of the MOZA R3 is its compatibility with MOZA’s full ecosystem. Whether you want to upgrade to a formula-style wheel, add a clutch pedal or even switch to a larger round wheel, the R3 provides a solid foundation for future upgrades. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners who want to grow their setup over time without needing to replace the entire system.
Final Thoughts
The MOZA R3 PC Bundle is an exceptional entry point into the world of direct drive sim racing. It offers a level of precision and immersion that far surpasses gear or belt-driven alternatives at the same price point. While the brake pedal could use an upgrade, the overall package is an incredible value for $299.
For anyone looking to transition from a controller or upgrade from an entry-level wheel, the MOZA R3 is our top recommendation. It’s compact, powerful, and backed by MOZA’s excellent software and upgrade ecosystem. Whether you’re a casual gamer or an aspiring sim racer, the R3 will help you take your racing skills to the next level.
