We’ve been waiting for it, but now, at last, Ascher Racing has completed its line-up of McLaren Esports steering wheels.
Based upon the actual devices used in the real-world McLaren Artura race car, the tie-up with the British car manufacturer was first previewed at the 2022 ADAC SimRacing Expo.
From there, a four-model-strong range for sim racing was launched, with some models available starting from last year. Now, the two final missing pieces of the puzzle will be available soon.
This includes what the German peripheral manufacturer simply calls the Ascher Racing McLaren Artura GT4. This is identical to the real-world car’s steering wheel, except for the ability to use it for virtual racing.
That means a 300mm diameter wheel, authorised by McLaren, with two 12-position rotary switches, 10 automotive-grade illuminated push buttons (with interchangeable laser-etched caps) and on the rear, bespoke Gen 6 magnetic and silenced shift paddles.
The backlit colours can be tweaked using SimHub, and as this is connected via USB, it supports telemetric lighting. It will be available to purchase from €799 from 5th August 2024.
Also available that same day is the USB version of the McLaren Artura Sport wheel. This is based on the real-world GT4 wheel, but with some subtle changes.
Gone are the large rotary switches, in come two seven-way joysticks pushed out to the sides in a column of buttons. Speaking of which, these are once again illuminated and with laser-etched caps, but there are now 14 in total.
Previously, the Sport was only available with native support for Simucube’s wireless connection system, but this USB version expands the number of wheel bases it can be used with and adds (among other items) the ability to support telemetry-matching lighting and configurable button mapping via Ascher Racing Control Center. It also removes the rechargeable battery.
It also retails from €799 with shipping expected to begin the week commencing 12th August 2024. They join an existing range that includes Pro (which combines features from the base GT4 and the Sport wheels) and Ultimate (which adds a screen) models.
At a glance
- McLaren Artura GT4 sim racing wheel, identical to the real-world racing car design, available to order 5th August
- McLaren Artura Sport sim racing wheel, available as a USB variant (new) alongside Simucube wireless option 5th August
