Braking that sets a new standard

On the Ultimate+, everything starts with the brake pedal, and it alone justifies this pedal set’s high-end status. The brake is based on a load cell supported by a two-way hydraulic damper and a stack of injection-molded thermoset elastomers. In practice, this results in progressive compression that builds in resistance just like in a real car, without the artificial “wall” you feel on more basic pedal sets. The available force reaches up to 136 kg—enough to replicate the forces of an F3, LMP, or Formula 1 single-seater when the settings are pushed to the maximum.

What impressed us the most was the precision of the control range. Between 50 and 90 percent braking, there’s a wealth of usable nuances that make all the difference when modulating the brakes. Braking hard and then gradually releasing the brake becomes a maneuver requiring almost surgical precision, and the two-way damper makes the pedal feedback just as responsive as the initial braking force. Nine stiffness settings are available, ranging from very soft to extremely firm, and Heusinkveld claims zero loss of performance in the elastomers even after one million cycles.

Accelerator and clutch made from the same material

The accelerator isn't just a simple spring. It features a single-channel hydraulic damper that slows the pedal's travel as it's pressed down, resulting in a full, well-balanced pedal with a crisp rebound. The weight transfer when opening the throttle feels very natural, and the adjustable travel allows you to shorten the pedal travel to suit your preferences. There is a slight amount of play in the joint and, as with the previous generation, the spring needs to be properly aligned or it will tilt slightly—but this is nothing that would be a deal-breaker.

The clutch—available as part of the three-pedal set or as a separate add-on—is one of the best we’ve ever had under our foot. Its rear cam mimics the behavior of a diaphragm spring, with resistance that varies throughout the stroke and an adjustable slip point, while the two-way damper adds that authentic mechanical feel. The load drops when you go all the way to the bottom, just like on a real clutch—a valuable detail for standing starts.

Industrial-scale manufacturing

The Ultimate+ makes no secret of its ambitions. The laser-cut steel plates are now 3 mm thick, the pivot points feature plain bearings for smoother operation and longer life, and the unit as a whole is significantly larger and heavier than the brand’s Sprint model. The new 12-bit USB controller is housed in an all-metal enclosure—a design choice that minimizes the electromagnetic interference to which a load cell is susceptible—and has passed EMC testing. This is a pedal system built to last for years rather than just a few seasons.

Endless Adjustment Options and SmartControl Software

This is probably the most customizable pedal set on the market. Each pedal can be adjusted along several axes: longitudinal position, height via the foot plates, angle (within about 15 degrees), resistance, and stop. You can tailor the entire setup to your cockpit, riding position, and type of virtual racing discipline without compromise. The big new feature in this version is the introduction of SmartControl, the in-house software already proven on the Sprint. It allows you to calibrate, plot nonlinear output curves, manage dead zones, and adjust braking force without recalibration, then save and share multiple profiles. The settings are stored directly in the pedal set.

Here's what it's like with the pedal to the metal

On the virtual track, the first sensation is one of confidence underfoot that few pedals offer. When entering a turn, you can apply the brakes with confidence because the increase in braking force is perfectly predictable and consistent from one rotation to the next. Trail braking becomes a real playground: you gradually ease off the brake while keeping weight on the front end, and the precise modulation lets you stay right at the limit of traction without locking up. During long rides, the brake system remains comfortable and consistent, with no drift in performance. A tip from our test: there’s no need to aim for the 136 kg right away; more moderate settings often offer better control and more natural trail braking for most riders.

Compatibility and Positioning

A crucial point to consider before making a purchase: the Ultimate+ works exclusively on PCs, via USB and the SmartControl software. It is not compatible with Xbox or PlayStation consoles, so it must be paired with a base unit and a PC setup. This product is clearly aimed at dedicated sim racers who are already invested in the hobby and willing to pay the price for the most advanced equipment available. Compared to the previous generation, the improvements lie primarily in SmartControl, reinforced construction, and durability, rather than a revolutionary change in feel. For beginners or casual players, the price is out of proportion, and the Sprint is more than sufficient. But for the discerning enthusiast who wants benchmark braking performance and a pedal set built to last, the Ultimate+ remains a safe bet.