The simulation racing gaming industry has come a long way since the start of COVID-19, with thousands of gamers equipping themselves with stunning simulation hardware and accessories for PC and consoles. In recent years, we’ve been blessed with an influx of high-quality products from established brands, such as Logitech, Thrustmaster, and Fanatec. However, in this post, we’re here to talk about Fanatec; more specifically, one of Fanatec’s most recent releases – the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox.
This Xbox-compatible inclusion into the brand’s mid-range product selection has made headlines across the sim racing industry since its launch.
It continues to attract beginners and intermediate sim racers looking to easy set up their Xbox One, Series X, and Series S consoles with a modular steering wheel controller system that allows for endless customization at every level.
Therefore, it’s only fitting that we share a detailed ClubSPort Universal Hub V2 for Xbox review for our readers, covering every aspect, from “What’s in the box?” to pros & cons and hardware/accessory upgrades.
So, keep reading to learn everything you need to determine whether or not this core peripheral makes a valuable addition to your rig.
About Fanatec and the ClubSport Range
Those new to simulation racing can consider Fanatec as the Apple of the industry. The German brand has established itself as the go-to brand for new and advanced sim racers looking for premium-quality equipment for every racing style and level, platform, and budget.
So, whether you’re looking for steering wheels, rims, pedals, wheelbases, pedals, or any other accessory, you can expect only the best from Fanatec, in terms of build quality and performance. Due to these standards, its products typically have a steeper price tag than most alternative brands.
Nonetheless, the company continues to spread its wings in the growing market by offering a solution for every budget. Hence, it has divided its product range into three categories – CSL, ClubSport, and Podium. The ClubSport range features the company’s mid-range products that are huge upgrades from their CSL counterparts but not as good as the Podium range in terms of quality and performance.
However, the ClubSport range performs much better than other popular brands’ mid-range alternatives. Now that you’re up to speed with the brand, let’s proceed to the business end of our post and talk about the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox.
ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox – A Brief Overview
If you’re new to sim racing or all-in-one modular steering wheel systems, you may not know what a wheel hub is. However, in the sim racing industry, it’s regarded as one of the core components of a rig by savvy racers.
This piece of hardware bridges the gap between your wheelbase and wheel rim, connecting every other piece of the puzzle, including the buttons, display, and paddle gearshift. A well-designed wheel hub is the central piece of a simulation rig and the key to unlocking a fluid, dynamic, and immersive racing experience.
This is precisely what the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox has been designed to achieve. With this incredibly versatile wheel hub, you can fit a steering wheel rim in the market with a 3×50 mm or 6×70 mm mounting pattern. However, we recommend contacting the rim manufacturer to ensure the rim is compatible with your wheelbase.
Pro Tip: We recommend opting for the ClubSport Wheel Rim GT, which you can buy separately or as part of the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 bundle. However, you don’t have to stick with this option. You can explore options in other shapes and sizes from other brands. We’ve also shared out top picks in the last section of this post.
Furthermore, although the hub has been specially designed to work with Xbox, some features might not be supported on the console. Many game developers haven’t implemented the Fanatec SDK on their sim racing titles for Xbox. Moreover, to operate this wheel, you’ll need a compatible Fanatic Wheel Base.
Fortunately, you have many choices in this department, as you’ll find out in the compatibility section.
Pros and Cons
Before we dive into the details, here’s an overview of the pros and cons of opting for this wheel hub:
| Pros | Cons |
| Compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC | Despite Xbox compatibility, it offers limited functionality compared to PC |
| Compatible with all Fanatec wheel rims and several third-party wheel rims | Among the most expensive options in the market (buying it stand-alone makes it more expensive) |
| It comes fully assembled and pre-configured, which saves time and effort | It can be tricky to install |
| Allows users to attach paddle shifters in two positions | It doesn’t have the best LED technology or products |
| Enhanced electronics compared to CSL Universal Hub and the older ClubSport Universal Hub | |
| Allows users to position button clusters wherever they want |
What’s Included
Although you’ll be buying one compact piece of hardware, the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 comes with several components and assembly essentials. This makes it one of the complete wheel hubs in the market. So, here’s what you’ll find along with the hub:
QR1 Wheel-Side (ClubSport Quick Release Adapter)
The first thing you’ll notice when you receive the Universal Hub V2 is two different packages. One will contain the hub and some accessories, whereas the other will contain the QRL Wheel-Side, previously known as the ClubSport Quick-Release Adapter. This component enables users to change steering wheels quickly and effortlessly, thanks to a solid ball lock mechanism.
ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module with Pre-Installed Aluminum Paddle Plates
Next, you should find Fanatec’s mid-range paddle module – the ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module. Fanatec has designed this module using carbon fiber and CNC-machined aluminum to mimic the shifting feel of real-world racecars. More importantly, it has upgraded the module with powerful magnets, enabling faster shifting.
Moreover, it offers more durability compared to the spring-based modules found in older or cheaper products.
1 x FunkySwitch™
Next, we have the 7-way FunkySwitch – one of Fanatec’s most beloved input devices. Using this switch, users can access the Tuning Menu from their wheel and adjust their settings with ease using the rotary encoder and push button on the D-pad.
4 x Button Clusters with Three Buttons Each
Once you remove the hub, you should see four button clusters – each of them with three integrated buttons. The best part about these clusters is that you can fit them anywhere on the wheel. All you need to do is unscrew and detach the front cover.
This will give you access to the circuit. Carefully remove the button connections. Once the clusters are free, you can unscrew them and change their positions on the panel according to your wheel rim’s shape and size preferences before reattaching them.
2 x Small Paddle Shifters and 2 x Paddle Shifters
If you’re looking to play both GT and F1-style racing games, you’d be pleased to learn that the Universal Hub V2 for Xbox includes two paddle shifter sets in different sizes. The larger ones are for GT games, whereas the smaller, more compact ones are for F1 titles. Regardless of which one you install, both enhance your shifting game.
LED Telemetry and Menu Display
Unlike CSL and other entry-level hubs from different brands, the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 doesn’t come with the traditional seven-segment display. Instead, you’d find a three-digit LED display unit in the package, which you can set horizontally or vertically at the hub’s center.
This device can display key Tuning Menu functions and telemetry data to help with calibration and adjust game-play settings.
Racing-style Button Caps and ‘F’ FunkySwitch™ Sticker
Next, you should come across the Fanatec button caps and sticker set to help you customize your button clusters with different background and cap color combinations. Suppose you like to place the button labels on yourself. In that case, you’ll love the stickers in the package, especially the FunkySwitch sticker, which you can use to personalize the most important multi-purpose input device on the wheel.
Assembly Components (Bolts, Nuts, Allen Key, etc.)
Once you’ve removed all the essential accessories and components, you’d be left with different bolts and spacers. Fanatec has also included a 3 mm Allen key to help with assembly.
Quick Guide
Finally, you should find the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 use to guide and manual in the package explaining every aspect of the assembly and setup process.
Compatibility
The following is a list of wheelbases compatible with the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 according to Fanatec:
CSL
- DD
- Elite Wheel Base
- Elite Wheel Base V1.1
- Elite Wheel Base +-
- Elite Racing Wheel
ClubSport
- Wheel Base V2
- Wheel Base V2.5
Podium
- Wheel Base DD1
- Wheel Base DD2 Racing Wheel F1 (PS4-Licensed)
Best Sim Racing Hardware and Accessories to Attach to ClubSport Universal Hub V2
As mentioned above, the key reason the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox has become so popular is its cross-compatibility with other Fanatec products. This enables sim racers at any level or with different budgets to personalize their modular steering wheel system according to their preference and capabilities.
Here are our top picks of the best hardware and accessories to attach with this powerful wheel hub:
Wheelbases
The ClubSport Universal Hub V2 is among the most versatile hubs in the market. This means you can connect it to a variety of Fanatec wheelbases using the QR1 Wheel-Side (ClubSport Quick-Release Adapter). All you have to do is attach it to the hub by removing the protective cap, sliding it in, and screwing the holes.
Once you’re done, you’re all set to attach the wheel to the wheelbase by gently pulling back on the quick release mechanism and sliding the hub in. So, here are three Xbox-compatible wheelbases you can use with the Universal Hub V2:
Fanatec CSL Elite V1.1
The Fanatec CSL Elite V1.1 is the brand’s cheapest wheelbase costing around $350. However, it is one of the best options for beginners in the market, considering the features and value on offer. For instance, it’s one of the few entry-level wheels that offer 1080° rotation. Moreover, it also generates 6 Nm of torque, which is among the highest for a belt-driven wheelbase.
The force feedback is exceptionally smooth for its price range. Most beginners would think they’re handling a real racecar steering wheel due to the high-quality build materials, customizable buttons, and presets, including force feedback (vibration) and steering angles.
Overall, this wheelbase is a great choice to attach to the ClubSport Universal Hub for Xbox if you’re not ready to take on the power of direct drive options.
Fanatec ClubSport Wheel Base V2.5
If you’re in the market for the best belt-driven wheelbase to improve your skills, you can’t go wrong with Fanatec ClubSport Wheel Base V2.5. Costing around $550, this wheelbase is an ideal upgrade to a beginner or intermediate setup, especially if you compliment it with the Universal Hub V2. The only downside is that it offers 900° rotation, which is sufficient for most sim racing titles.
The good news, however, is that it offers the most powerful force feedback in its price range, producing around 8 Nm of torque. This makes the driving experience more realistic compared to CSL wheelbases. Many fairly advanced racers with modest budgets also opt for this wheelbase and improve other less expensive aspects of their system, such as their wheel rims, paddle shifter modules, and button clusters.
Podium Wheel Base DD2
If you’re ready to upgrade to a powerful direct drive wheelbase with unlimited rotation and a whopping max torque rating of 25 NM, look no further than Fanatec Podium Wheel Base DD2. Costing around $1,500, this stunning piece of machinery is the go-to choice for professional and advanced sim racers.
Thanks to its unlimited rotation range, racers that play several titles, such as Project Cars 2, Dirt Rally 2, and Forza Motorsport, can customize their settings accordingly. Moreover, this wheelbase includes its own OLED display for wheelbase metrics, including force feedback strength, internal temperature, torque, etc.
Note: The Podium Wheel Base DD2 comes with a locking nut that enhances stability. Thus, when connecting the ClubSport Universal Hub V2, you need to be careful not to compress the rubber gasket while pushing it into the locking mechanism. Once you lock it in, you can turn the locking ring counter-clockwise and tighten it.
Wheel Rims
The following are our top picks of the best cheap, mid-range, and high-end wheel rims in the market. Of course, you don’t have to stick with our picks. There are hundreds of options available in the market from popular brands, such as Sparco, Momo, and OMP Racing.
Almost any wheel with 6×70 mm or 3×50 mm mounting holes can fit on this powerful hub. However, the larger the wheel rim you install, the more difficult it will become to reach the buttons and paddle shifters.
ClubSport Wheel Rim GT
The ClubSport Wheel Rim GT is one of Fanatec’s best-selling wheel rims. Costing around $130, this wheel rim offers great value for money. However, if you haven’t purchased the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox yet, we highly recommend opting for ClubSport Steering Wheel GT for Xbox.
This way, you can save some money and get every essential component in a single purchase, including the Wheel Rim GT, the Universal Hub V2, button clusters, and magnetic shifter paddles. The wheel itself is visually stunning and will make you feel as if you’re driving a real GT Series supercar. Made from high-quality anodized aluminum and authentic suede leather, it offers an excellent grip and feel.
Plus, it’s a massive upgrade from CSL Steering Wheel P1, which is Fanatec’s cheapest option in the market, targeted mostly towards beginners and those with a modest budget.
Sparc GT
If you’re in the market for a premium-quality CNC-machined billet steering wheel to connect with your ClubSport Universal Hub V2, it doesn’t get any more premium than Sparc Industries’ GT Model. Costing around $640, this wheel rim features an external bolt-on column adapter designed to compliment and follow the hub shape.
Moreover, it has a diameter of 355 mm (14”) and utilizes a 6×70 mm mounting hole pattern. Thus, it should fit perfectly into your ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox. One of the best features of this product is that it offers two grip styles – one with a smooth D and the other with humps. You can also choose from a machine (metal) or black leather finish.
Momo Montecarlo
The Momo Montecarlo is among the most popular Mid-range pre-drilled steering wheel rims in the market, costing around $240. Drawing its name from the historical region in Monaco where the Formula 1 Grand Prix Races take place, the Montecarlo is one stunning steering wheel.
It features the iconic chrome MOMO logo in the center and perfectly complements the sleek triangular spoke shape inspired by modern Gran Turismo cars. Moreover, it’s available in two diameters (320 mm and 350mm), so you can choose according to your preference. Furthermore, it features a thick leather grip that can improve your driving control.
Accessories
One of the coolest features of ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox is that it comes with all the essential accessories with the package, including the button clusters and levers. It also includes the ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module with pre-installed aluminum paddles. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade and add more powerful or visually intriguing accessories. Here are our top picks:
Podium Advance Paddle Module
The Podium Advanced Paddle Module is a massive upgrade over the ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module that comes pre-installed with Universal Hub V2. It features two gold anodized aluminum clutch plates, two small carbon shifter plates, and two large carbon shifter plates. This way, you can easily switch between GT and Formula 1 racing styles and wheel setups.
With this powerful module, you can try different steering modes – Clutch/Brake, Mappable Axis, F1 Clutch Bite-Point, and Brake/Throttle. Moreover, the automotive-grade build quality offers rapid shifting and more durability than its CSL and ClubSport counterparts.
Overall, this is a great accessory for intermediate racers transitioning into advanced racers with an incremental hardware upgrade approach. For instance, those who want to upgrade their components but can’t afford a new wheel base or rim can start with modules. With this minor change, they can unlock new performance levels and amplify their experience.
Pro Tip: To upgrade your module, you need to unscrew and open the hub’s cover using a 3 mm Allen key. Next, gently remove the connecting cables and pull them out. From there, you’re all set to detach the module from the hub and attach the Podium one using M5x12 bolts. Once you’re done, connect the cables to the sockets and reattach the cover.
Podium Button Module Endurance
The Podium Button Module Endurance is one of the most popular sim racing accessories in the market today, especially among advanced sim racers. It allows users to turn their steering wheel into a full-scale replica of the button module found in GT3-class supercars.
Featuring a solid carbon fiber plate equipped with strategically-placed buttons, this module has been designed to enhance the aesthetic feel of your steering wheel along with its function accessibility.
Simply put, by spending $200, you can equip your wheel with 10 buttons, two 2-way toggle switches, Fanatec’s trademark FunkySwitch with rotary encoders, a 2-way analog stick, and two 12-position switches. Key functions include Display, Wiper, Pit Speed, Alarm, and Reverse. You also get a 2.7” OLED display to show different performance and condition metrics in real-time.
Pro Tip: Equipping your wheel with the Module Endurance means you’ll be replacing the pre-installed button clusters that come with the Universal Hub V2. To do this, you’ll need to:
- Unscrew and open the cover and disconnect the wires.
- Remove the clusters and place the new module on the hub’s surface, aligning it with the mounting holes.
- Finally, align the wheel rim with the mounting holes and attach everything using the M5x125 mm bolts included in the package.
- Connect the module with the hub using the USB Type-C cable, and it should be good to go.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it – an in-depth ClubSport Universal Hub V2 review explaining every aspect of the hardware’s specs, compatibility, performance, and accessories. Overall, this powerful mid-range hub is a great option for beginners with a good budget and intermediate racers looking to upgrade from the CSL Universal Hub or the original ClubSport Universal Hub released in 2014 that is incompatible with Xbox.
Undoubtedly, for many people, the $370 price tag may not attract most sim racing audiences. However, Fanatec has always made it clear that it produces high-end racing simulation hardware. Hence, it’s targeted towards buyers looking not to spend too much but not restrict themselves to cheaper options from Thrustmaster or Logitech.
Furthermore, since the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox came out in 2021 (seven years after its predecessor), it’s safe to say that most users will get more out of the box compared to other mid-range alternatives. Plus, since the product is endlessly customizable, you can set up your rig with any wheelbase, rim, paddles, and buttons.
Since the pandemic’s start, most reputable sim racing brands are taking advantage of the industry’s growing popularity, especially among console users.
The ClubSport Universal Hub V2 may not be the best wheel hub on the market. Still, it’s a step in the right direction for the company, considering the attention they’ve given to improving every aspect of its design and performance from its predecessor and the CSL Universal Hub.
However, the Podium Hub or Steering Wheel bundle will offer a more realistic racing experience if you’re looking to go one step further and spend more money.
