The Moza R9 direct drive wheelbase hit the shelves in 2022 and sits below Moza’s R21 and R16. Moza Racing are increasing their market presence in the sim racing world and continue to build their ecosystem.
As one of the newest brands to enter the sim racing market, Moza are relatively still in their infancy. The brand are establishing themselves firmly as one of the top tier brands in the sim racing equipment world.
Many have crowned Fanatec as the market leaders of mid range sim racing equipment. Fanatec’s CSL DD is seen to be the direct competitor to the Moza R9 falling within a similar price range and power.
This review takes an in depth look at the Moza R9 and determine whether its the wheelbase for you.
Does the Moza R9 come in a bundle?
When first released the Moza R9 included a bundle package. This included the GS racing wheel however this seemingly is no longer available. This means the wheel has to be purchased separately from the DD wheel base. Moza offer a bundle with the R5 wheel base which includes the E5 wheel and SR-P lite pedals.
How much does the Moza R9 cost?
The Moza R9 retails at £409 in the UK. In comparison its closest competitor the Fanatec CSL DD which currently retails at £440. With the 1% increase in torque power of 9NW Moza R9 Just clips the CSL DD’s 8NW. When it comes to price the Moza R9 also trump’s Fanatecs offering,
A closer look at the Moza R9
The Moza R9 is a 9NW direct drive wheel base competes in the mid range market. As far as wheel bases go the Moza R9 is one of the smallest you will find. Neat and compact the design is sleek and simple. Built from aluminium alloy the Moza R9 is built for durability. Despite there being no internal fans for cooling the wheel base seems to have no issues with overheating. The absence of fans also means the wheelbase is positively silent in its operation.
The Quick release system is one of the best that you will find. The function is seamless providing an easy and quick operation when attaching and removing a wheel. With the wheel attached to the base it is firmly in place with minimal flex.
At present the Moza R9 is only compatible on PC. This is an area where Moza can seek to captilise a larger market share by catering to the console platforms.
Software – Pithouse
The Moza R9 direct drive can be configured via the Moza Pithouse app. Here users will find and Intuitive interface with many features. Users are able to save profiles and presets for different race car categories. Plus users are also able to make a number of tweaks for ideal settings.
Experienced racers may find that the software is a little limited to what they are used to. Beginners may find the interface is straightforward and easy to use.
Driving experience of the Moza R9
With 9NW of torque power the Moza R9 is definitely enough to keep most racers happy with the forced feedback. The detail experienced from the wheelbase is also pretty impressive. Bumps, curbs, and variations in track surfaces are very prevalent and add a great level of immersion to the racing.
Conclusion
The Moza R9 is a pleasurable experience and is the ideal step up for those who have not experienced a direct wheel drive. There is more than enough torque power through the force feedback to keep even the most seasoned sim race drivers satisfied. Moza have produced an excellent product and have definitely made a statement in their attempt to cement themselves as serious contenders in the sim racing scene.
Key Specs
- Platform – PC
- Driving Type – Direct Drive
- Communication Method – R9 V1: Wireless/ R9 V2: Wireless & Wired
- Housing Material – Aviation Grade Aluminum Alloy
- Color – Black
- Peak Torque – 9 Nm
- Peak Power – 180W
- Input Voltage – 110V~220V AC —> 36V DC
- USB Refresh Rate – 1000Hz
- App Functions – Supported
- Quick Release – Supported
- Connection Ports – Power, DC Input, E-stop, USB, Dash
- Accessories – User manual, Warranty card, Power supply, USB cable, Toolkit
- Mounting Method – Bottom mount
- Side Mount Option – With optional side mount bracket
- Desk Clamp – Optional
- Dimension (L x W x H)（mm）– 240*157*124
- Weight – 6.8kg