What’s a race wheel?

Print anything with Printful



A racing wheel is a specialized steering wheel used in racing vehicles, typically made of aluminum or carbon fiber with a larger diameter for better grip. It may have special features like studs for added grip and a solid center to prevent broken thumbs. It also serves as a hub for communication and controls, but can be a liability in severe crashes, so it is attached to a quick release hub for easy removal.

A racing wheel is a steering wheel found in a racing vehicle. Typically made of aluminum or carbon fiber, the racing wheel commonly has a rim diameter that is larger than a typical street wheel, making it easier to grip in competitive situations. Occasionally embellished with studs molded into the reverse side of the rim for added grip, the racing wheel is designed to be comfortable and easy for the driver to grip while wearing fireproof racing gloves. Most wheel designs used in racing applications are very similar to a street version of the wheel; however, a special solid center model of the racing wheel is designed to prevent broken thumbs commonly associated with racing contact involving the front tires of the racing vehicle. Some special-use steering wheels are nothing like a traditional steering wheel.

One of the most important functions of any racing car is control. The racing wheel allows the driver to maintain this control through a special, comfortable component, specially designed to provide the best in driver control. In drag racing, the two most powerful racing vehicles in the world are the best fuel shooters and fun cars. These vehicles use what is known as a butterfly racing wheel. This design uses two grips large enough to fit in the driver’s hands and is attached to the steering hub in slender, outstretched arms that closely resemble the wings of a butterfly.

Many racing vehicles use the steering wheel for much more than just driving the vehicle. In most racing classes, the steering wheel also houses the push-to-talk radio button, which allows the driver to communicate with the pit crew. On Indy-type cars, the steering wheel contains controls for shifting, fuel control, and weight adjustment, as well as the radio button. These very expensive racing flywheel designs also provide engine information in the form of engine rpm, temperature, and oil pressure. The Indy car steering wheel alone often costs more than the complete vehicle used in many other forms of racing.

The common racing wheel provides the driver with a way to steer the vehicle and avoid accidents; however, the racing wheel can also become a liability in a severe crash and can entrap a driver in a vehicle. The typical steering wheel inside any racing car is attached to a quick release hub. This hub allows the steering wheel to be removed from the steering axle at the push of a button, giving the driver additional room to exit or enter the vehicle.




Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN


Skip to content