Test & review Ascher Racing F28-SC V2: the Formula steering wheel that makes no compromises

In the high-end Formula steering wheel segment for Direct Drive, the Ascher Racing F28-SC V2 clearly occupies the niche of "precision tool" rather than "RGB-packed gadget". It's a steering wheel designed for pure performance, without screens or gimmicks, for those who drive mainly on PCs with serious Direct Drive bases.

On paper, it promises single-seater-style ergonomics, virtually indestructible build quality and a very direct feel for the forces transmitted by the base. In practice, the idea is simple: no distractions, just the essentials to go fast and stay constant.

My approach to this test was to focus on three areas. Perceived quality in hand, ergonomics in real-life conditions (long stints, multitasking during races) and, above all, the level of information the steering wheel lets through, especially on powerful underpinnings.

Design & manufacturing: a block of metal built to last

In hand, the F28-SC V2 immediately gives the impression of holding a "real" piloting tool, not a toy. The body is machined from aluminum, with a feeling of total rigidity. No parasitic flex, no structural vibration, even on torquey Direct Drive bases. You can feel that the chassis has been designed to withstand high torque without flinching.

The grips are covered with rubber grips (or equivalent) that offer a firm, precise feel. It's not the "softest" grip on the market, but for intensive riding, it's very effective: the hand doesn't slip, even when the session drags on. The overall density of the steering wheel is reassuringly solid, without being overly heavy.

The magnetic shifters are crisp and clean, with a click reminiscent of modern racing wheels. They're neither too hard nor too soft, a good compromise for both GT and virtual single-seaters. As for the push-buttons, they exude industrial quality: nothing flutters or sounds hollow.

Where this may slightly disappoint, is for those who like designs loaded with color, screens and rotarys everywhere. The F28-SC V2 remains sober, very function-oriented: few buttons, but well placed. No integrated display, no RPM LEDs. It's a conscious decision, but one you should be aware of.

Compared to more "consumer" steering wheels in reinforced plastic, the Ascher clearly plays a division above in terms of rigidity and perceived seriousness. Compared to some premium competitors, it stands out for its minimalist approach and total absence of frills.

Settings, customization & compatibility

The F28-SC V2 is a "pure PC" USB steering wheel for the Direct Drive ecosystem. It doesn't seek to be universal in the console sense, but rather to integrate perfectly into a serious setup, with a compatible base and a sim racing-oriented PC.

Native compatibility is via USB, which simplifies connection but clearly requires PC use. The steering wheel is typically designed to mate with Simucube-type Direct Drive bases / advanced USB bases, with an adapted quick release. As long as the base accepts USB steering wheels, integration remains simple and clean.

When it comes to settings, it's all down to the base software and the games themselves. The F28-SC V2 offers no on-board menus, no screen, no integrated presets. It's a clear choice: keep the steering wheel as the physical interface and leave the software layer to the base and the sims. For the user, this means spending a little time in the FFB menus at first, but once everything's aligned, you hardly touch them anymore.

Real customization mainly concerns the assignment of buttons, encoders and paddles. Here, we're on to something very simple: each control is recognized as a separate input, allowing you to adapt the profile to each simulation (F1, GT3, prototypes, etc.). You can have a very simple "racing" profile and a more function-rich "endurance" profile, without ever getting lost.

The learning curve is actually quite short. It takes just a few minutes to ride, and then you can gradually fine-tune the control layout and FFB settings to suit your riding style.

On the ecosystem, the F28-SC V2 fits naturally into an already muscular setup: load cell or hydraulic crankset, sequential or gated shifter, rigid cockpit. It's a steering wheel that makes more sense on a high-end base than on a small belt-driven one.

In terms of upgradeability, this is a "long-term" purchase. As long as your setup remains PC + Direct Drive oriented, this steering wheel won't be a weak point.

In-game sensations: grip reading and surgical control

Where the F28-SC V2 really comes into its own is on the track, especially with an already well-tuned Direct Drive base. Its structural rigidity and lack of flex allow force feedback to pass through extremely cleanly. The steering wheel doesn't filter anything mechanically, and that's great news for grip reading.

You can feel exactly what the tires are doing.

In medium and fast bends, the steering wheel remains remarkably stable. Small variations in load, the beginnings of slippage and the transition between grip and oversteer are clearly visible. The center of gravity is very clear, with no "soft" dead zone to blur the sensations. You put the car where you want it, and keep it there.

When braking hard, especially in a virtual single-seater, you can take full advantage of the precision. Micro-angle corrections are made naturally, without having to fight against the inertia of the steering wheel. For trail braking, this is a real plus: you can modulate the angle with very comfortable finesse, even under stress.

On vibrators, the steering wheel transmits textures well without becoming choppy. Dry impacts remain marked, but the structure doesn't resonate, which avoids the sensation of a "ringing" steering wheel. You can feel the shape of the vibrator and the frequency of asperities, without any mechanical noise. Track reading remains legible at all times.

The steering wheel remains clean and legible, even when under attack.

The Formula format of the F28-SC V2 comes into its own in fast corrections. The small diameter and good grip of the grips allow you to catch a slip with a short, precise movement. When the rear stalls, reaction time is shorter than with a large GT steering wheel. You can dare a little more when entering corners, precisely because you know you'll be able to catch up.

Over long sessions, consistency is the order of the day. Hand position is natural, important controls are easily accessible, and the grip doesn't overtax the forearms. It's not the most "relaxing" steering wheel out there, but for a Formula, comfort is well managed. You can string together stints without feeling like you're fighting against the material.

In terms of immersion, the absence of a screen or LEDs doesn't detract from the sensation of driving a virtual single-seater. On the contrary, it encourages you to concentrate more on the track and the information on the main screen. Immersion comes from the direct link with the car, rather than the visual accessory.

Compared with a less powerful base or a more basic steering wheel, the difference is felt above all in the finesse of the information. The steering wheel never "saturates", even when the base sends out high forces. You always have that feeling of room to maneuver, of control.

This is where the base and the steering wheel really change the experience: you don't just suffer the FFB, you exploit it.

Who's it for? What we like, what we don't like

The F28-SC V2 is clearly aimed at intermediate to advanced PC-oriented sim racers, most of whom race single-seaters, prototypes or modern GTs. A highly motivated beginner can of course benefit from it, but he'll really get the most out of the steering wheel if he already has a serious Direct Drive base and a rigid cockpit.

What we appreciate most is first and foremost the build quality. The feeling of solidity and seriousness, as soon as you pick it up, changes the relationship you have with the equipment. You're not afraid to go hard on the FFB. Then there's the above-average precision of feel, especially at the grip limit. Finally, the Formula-style ergonomics, with its well-calibrated magnetic shifters and compact grip, encourage aggressive but controlled riding.

The ratio of precision to comfort to versatility is clearly its strong point.

On the other hand, there are a few limitations to keep in mind. The absence of a screen, LEDs or advanced functions may frustrate those who like to centralize all info on the steering wheel. You'll have to agree to keep your eyes on the PC screen or a separate dash. Its strictly PC-oriented compatibility makes it less interesting for a mainly console user. Finally, its price positioning places it in the serious investment category: it's consistent with what it offers, but it's not a "spur-of-the-moment" purchase.

In terms of perceived value, if we consider the steering wheel as a central element of an evolving setup, the investment is justified. You're not buying a gadget to be replaced every year, but a tool that can accompany several generations of Direct Drive bases.

For my part, I see it less as a "general-purpose consumer" wheel and more as a working wheel for demanding sim racers. If that's your profile, his proposal makes a lot of sense.

Verdict: a Formula steering wheel made to push Direct Drive to the limit

Ascher Racing's F28-SC V2 doesn't change the game with flashy features, but by doing what it does best: transmitting the forces of your Direct Drive base with almost surgical precision. In a performance-oriented setup, it quickly becomes the natural control center around which everything else aligns.

On the market, it's clearly in the premium segment, but with a minimalist philosophy. No integrated screen, no LEDs, no compromise on rigidity or feel. This is a product that fully assumes its specialized nature.

I'd recommend it without hesitation to those who drive mainly on PC, with a muscular Direct Drive base, and who value precision, consistency and grip reading above all other considerations. For the occasional console gamer or someone looking for a single wheel to do it all (rally, truck, drift...), it's not the most logical choice.

If you're looking for a real Formula steering wheel that's solid, ultra-readable in FFB and designed for the long term, this F28-SC V2 can clearly make the difference in your setup.