Sim racing · head‑to‑head
The Asetek Racing Bundle II (EU) offers a complete, ready-to-race cockpit and direct drive ecosystem, while the VNM Simulation Stick Shift Bundle focuses strictly on premium, standalone pedals and a dual-mode shifter. Your choice depends on whether you need an entire entry-level rig setup or high-end, metal input peripherals to add to an existing setup.
The VNM shifter requires a tedious process with an Allen key to switch modes, and some users report H-pattern sensor issues requiring DIY fixes. Additionally, the VNM pedals lack a heel plate out of the box, while Asetek's composite pedals can feel cheap and suffer from occasional RaceHub software bugs.
The Asetek bundle is highly modular, allowing you to upgrade to an official 8 Nm wheelbase and official load-cell or hydraulic pedals within their ecosystem. However, the wheelbase is strictly locked to the Initium steering wheel at launch.
If you are starting from scratch and want a complete, modular rig with an easy upgrade path, the Asetek Racing Bundle II (EU) is the logical choice. However, if you already have a wheelbase and want premium, metal pedals with a load cell and a dedicated shifter, the VNM Simulation bundle offers far superior build quality at its current $892.05 price point.
| Racing Bundle II (EU) | VNM Simulation Stick Shift Bundle – 3-Pedal Set & Dual-Mode Shifter | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Asetek | VNM |
| Ecosystem | Asetek | Universal |
| Starting Price | $1.05Best | $892.05 |
| Price trend | — | Unchanged over 30 days |
| Includes | Initium 2-in-1 Cockpit, Initium Compact Race Seat, Initium Steering Wheel (PC), Initium Direct Drive Wheelbase (EU), and Initium Pedal Set (Brake & Throttle) | VNM 3-Pedal Set and VNM Dual-Mode Shifter (H-Pattern & Sequential) |
| Base Torque | 5.5 Nm | — |
| Pedals | 2 | 3Best |
| Load Cell Brake | No | YesBest |