Fanatec Pedals Showdown: CSL LC vs. V3
Comparing the Fanatec Clubsport V3 to the CSL Loadcell. Find out if the higher price tag means better performance in our quick breakdown.
Aesthetics and Build
- V3 Pedals: The age of the V3s does not undermine their aesthetic value. The polished metal highlights and sleek design give them a modern yet classic appearance. Their build suggests durability and precision, factors that serious racers and sim enthusiasts will appreciate.
- CSL LC Pedals: The industrial and rough finish on the CSL LC pedals gives them a more raw and gritty appeal. This might resonate with racers who prefer a no-nonsense and utilitarian look. The build, though not as refined as the V3s, might appeal to those who prioritize function over form.
Specifications
- V3 Pedals: With a 90 kg load cell sensor, the V3s ensure a consistent and predictable braking response. This feature is particularly useful for racers who want to ensure that their braking is as accurate as possible each time. However, some might argue that the 90 kg limit could be restrictive for individuals who exert more force on their pedals.
- CSL LC Pedals: The CSL LC pedals come with an interesting specification. A minimum 10kg load cell is quite standard.
Price
- V3 Pedals: The V3’s price tag of 399 Euros might be a tad steep for casual users. However, the additional upgrade options, like damper kits and the inverted version, justify the price for enthusiasts seeking a customizable experience. For those who look for extensive customization and adjustability, the V3s offer value despite their higher initial cost.
- CSL LC Pedals: At 199 Euros, the CSL LC pedals provide a more affordable entry into the world of load cell pedals. It’s a competitive price for those who want a good load cell experience without breaking the bank. This makes them a favorite among beginners and mid-level sim racers.
Adjustable Architecture
Pedal Repositioning: This feature is crucial for sim racers as it enables them to find the most comfortable and ergonomic position, replicating the layout of various real-world cars. Whether you drive a compact hatchback in the virtual world or a racing prototype, you can adjust the pedal positions to match the car’s interior.
Removable Clutch Pedal: A unique feature that can cater to those who mostly race vehicles without the need for a clutch. This not only makes the setup more space-efficient for those drivers but can also reduce any potential distraction.
Fanatec V3 Pedals
Revised Pedal Face: A redesigned pedal face can offer better grip and a more realistic feel. It can also provide better feedback to the driver, ensuring precision in throttle and brake inputs.
Angle Adjustment Tool: This allows users to change the angle of the pedals. Different angles can offer a more natural foot position based on seating and driving style. For racers who drive long stints, even a minor change in angle can reduce fatigue.
Diverse Springs for Throttle and Clutch: Having the ability to adjust the resistance on the throttle and clutch provides a more tailored driving experience. Some drivers might prefer a heavier clutch to mimic certain real-world cars, while others might want a lighter throttle for quick response.
Fanatec CSL LC
Pedal Repositioning: This feature is crucial for sim racers as it enables them to find the most comfortable and ergonomic position, replicating the layout of various real-world cars. Whether you drive a compact hatchback in the virtual world or a racing prototype, you can adjust the pedal positions to match the car’s interior.
Removable Clutch Pedal: A unique feature that can cater to those who mostly race vehicles without the need for a clutch. This not only makes the setup more space-efficient for those drivers but can also reduce any potential distraction.
Using the CSL LC or the V3s on a sim-rig or a wheel stand is highly advised. Rigs are designed to stabilize the equipment, ensuring a rigid and firm setup. This rigidity is vital for sim-racing as it replicates the fixed position of pedals in actual cars, allowing for consistent performance.
However, when used on a floor without any dedicated mounting, there is a significant risk:
Top-heavy Design: Due to their build, these pedals can be prone to tipping over when a substantial force is applied, especially during intense racing moments. This can break the immersion and potentially harm the equipment.
Sensitivity Adjustments: If racers still choose to use them on the floor, it’s important to tweak the sensitivity settings. This helps in reducing the amount of force needed to actuate the pedals, thus decreasing the chances of them tipping over. However, this can compromise the realism and feedback from the pedals, making it a less than ideal solution.
On-Track Performance of Fanatec’s CSL LC and V3 Pedals
Trail braking, a technique where drivers maintain brake pressure into a turn to control the car’s balance, is a nuanced art that requires precise equipment feedback. Here, the CSL LC pedals clearly excel. Their intuitive design and structured input levels (25%, 50%, and 75%) allow racers to modulate their braking more effectively. This translates to smoother entries into corners and better car control.
The V3s, in comparison, present a slightly steeper learning curve in this respect. Without the performance kit, drivers might find themselves overshooting or undershooting their desired brake pressures. The result? Less predictable cornering and potentially slower lap times.
The real test of any racing equipment is how it performs in real race scenarios. The Deep Forest track, with its intricate turns and challenging sections, is an excellent arena to pit the CSL LC against the V3s.
Lap Time Analysis: CSL LC vs. Fanatec V3 Pedals
A total of 10 laps were run using each pedal set. The first lap from each set was excluded to ensure consistency and to account for any warm-up discrepancies.
| Metric | CSL LC Pedals | Fanatec V3 Pedals |
|---|---|---|
| Best Lap Time | 1:24.691 | 1:24.536 |
| Average Lap Time (All Laps) | 1:24.859 | 1:24.745 |
| Median Lap Time (All Laps) | 1:24.857 | 1:24.779 |
| Standard Deviation (All Laps) | 0.1255 | 0.1293 |
When comparing the best lap times, the V3 pedals edged out by a mere 0.155 seconds. Additionally, across all 10 laps, the V3 was, on average, 0.1143 seconds faster than the CSL LC.
For the Top 5 Laps (Excluding Mistakes)
| Metric | CSL LC Pedals | Fanatec V3 Pedals |
|---|---|---|
| Average Lap Time | 1:24.769 | 1:24.653 |
| Median Lap Time | 1:24.732 | 1:24.681 |
| Standard Deviation | 0.0760 | 0.0943 |
Again, the V3 pedals came out slightly ahead in terms of raw speed, being faster by approximately 0.1 – 0.15 seconds per lap. It’s interesting to note, however, that the CSL LC laps were more consistent, as indicated by a lower standard deviation.
V3s: On raw speed metrics, the V3s exhibit a clear edge. With a margin of 0.1 – 0.15 seconds faster per lap, the V3s enable drivers to push their limits, especially in straight-line sections. The superior throttle control, owing to its diverse spring options and adjustability, aids in extracting those vital fractions of seconds on each lap.
CSL LC: While the V3s might have the edge in outright speed, the CSL LC pedals champion consistency. This is a significant factor in racing, especially during longer stints or races. Consistent laps ensure drivers can maintain a rhythm, manage tire wear, and even strategize better. The predictable trail braking feedback from the CSL LC plays a pivotal role in this. Racers can confidently approach each corner, knowing exactly how their equipment will respond.
The Final Verdict
While the V3s provide a more comprehensive and adjustable experience, it comes at a higher cost. If adjustability and personalized settings are your priority, the V3s, with their expansive upgrade options, are an excellent choice.
However, the CSL LC pedals punch above their weight. For just 200 Euros, they offer an exceptional balance between performance and value. Their adjustability is impressive, especially given the price.
In the end, the choice boils down to what you prioritize: the personalized touch of the V3s or the exceptional value of the CSL LC. Both are stellar products, and you can’t go wrong with either.
