It’s been a busy few months for the Asetek teams. The Danish brand has just announced a ton of new products, ranging from the evolution of existing models to a brand-new console-compatible range. In this article, I’d like to introduce you to the Forte and La Prima steering wheels, because beyond the aesthetics, there are some interesting options in store! Then we’ll take a look at their brand-new THORP 2 module, which will now be fitted to the Invicta pedalboard.
All other Asetek news announced
- Bases compatible with 360Hz iRacing
- Upgrade of Asetek La Prima bases to Forte
Promo code Asetek -5%
La Prima steering wheels get a “Black” facelift
Tastes and colors, you might say. Well, Asetek has finally come to terms with it! Some people don’t like the characteristic orange of the brand’s buttons? No problem, they’re now offering their La Prima ruffles with black and grey buttons. But that’s not the only new feature! Whereas in the past, Formula La Prima steering wheels were automatically sold with “formula” grips, this new version is sold without grips, so you can choose the ones you want directly on the brand’s website.
The price of La Prima steering wheels remains unchanged at €239.99 for the Hub GT and €259.99 for the Formula.
Another important evolution on La Prima steering wheels is the possibility of FINALLY adding additional analog and magnetic paddles . Those who have been waiting a long time to go from 2 to 6 paddles will soon be able to do so, thanks to a firmware update that will be rolled out in the coming days/weeks.
to be purchased separately
2 thumb rotary encoders.
3 12-position rotary encoders.
2 7-position “Kinky switches”.
2 magnetic paddles.
OPTIONAL:
2 clutch paddles.
2 additional magnetic paddles.
LED rings on the three encoders in the center of the steering wheel.
Rigidity ensured by a metal structure.
Front face finish in brushed aluminum.
Black and gray plastic buttons and encoders.
Internal metal structure.
to be purchased separately
Round Comfort 33cm,
D leather 33cm,
D orange leather 33cm,
U leather 33cm,
U Alcantara 33cm.
2 thumb rotary encoders.
3 12-position rotary encoders.
2 7-position “Kinky switches”.
2 magnetic paddles.
OPTIONAL:
2 clutch paddles.
2 additional magnetic paddles.
LED rings on the three encoders in the center of the steering wheel.
Rigidity ensured by a metal structure.
Carbon fiber front panel finish.
Black and gray plastic buttons and encoders.
Internal metal structure.
to be purchased separately
Formula XL,
Formula Sweden,
LMP.
From the end of February, the new Forte GT and Formula steering wheels will be available for purchase. For the occasion, we’re once again saying good-bye to orange buttons, even if we’re keeping two Kinky switches in this color because, well… No kidding! And if the organge really gets under your skin, don’t worry: black aluminum Switches also come as standard in the box. But above all, the buttons and knobs are metal instead of plastic. These are the same buttons found on the Formula Invicta steering wheel we tested a few weeks ago.
to be purchased separately
4 thumb rotary encoders.
3 12-position rotary encoders.
2 7-position “Kinky switches”.
2 magnetic paddles.
OPTIONAL:
2 clutch paddles.
2 additional magnetic paddles.
6 LEDs for flag display.
LED rings on the three encoders in the center of the steering wheel.
Buttons equipped with LEDs for function display.
Rigidity ensured by a metal structure.
Carbon fiber front panel finish.
Black and gray metal buttons and encoders.
Internal metal structure.
to be purchased separately
Round Comfort 33cm,
D leather 33cm,
D orange leather 33cm,
U leather 33cm,
U Alcantara 33cm.
6 thumb rotary encoders.
3 12-position rotary encoders.
2 7-position “Kinky switches”.
2 magnetic paddles.
OPTIONAL:
2 clutch paddles.
2 additional magnetic paddles.
6 LEDs for flag display.
LED rings on the three encoders in the center of the steering wheel.
Buttons equipped with LEDs for function display.
Rigidity ensured by a metal structure.
Carbon fiber front panel finish.
Black and gray metal buttons and encoders.
Internal metal structure.
to be purchased separately
Formula XL,
Formula Sweden,
LMP.
Useful info: Testing the GT La Prima and Forte hubs
A new round steering wheel hoop for Drift and Rally
New features also include a new round Suede steering wheel diameter. Instead of the current 33cm, this one will be 34cm , with a tulip that allows the steering wheel’s grip to be further forward than its buttons! Something to delight drift and Rally fans. This steering wheel will also be available in March at a price of €134.99 ex VAT.
The Asetek Invicta THORP 2 pedalset!
We all know that the Invicta pedalset has a short, hard brake ideal for replicating Formulas and LMPs. But in terms of versatility and speed of adjustment changes, it lacked in comparison with the Forte model! No problem, Asetek has revised its copy, and from the end of February Invicta pedalsets will be equipped with THORP 2 modules. The difference? A stroke that can be extended by up to 4cm of pedal travel, the ability to set the brake much more gently than on the initial THORP module, and greater ease of adjustment.
Asan added bonus, you no longer need to use the optional Long Brake kit to extend the brake travel, as the parts are supplied in the box. And the treads supplied with the pedalset mean you don’t need the optional tread kit either.
To find out more: Testing the Asetek Invicta pedalset
The pedalset will be sold in a “glued” 2-pedal version for €799.99 ex VAT, or in the S version, i.e. with the two pedals separated, for €849.99 ex VAT.
However, there’s no word yet on whether the THORP 2 module will be released independently, so that users of current La Prima, Forte or Invicta pedalboards can upgrade to the new model. But it would seem logical to assume that this module will replace the THORP 1, even for upgrades. The only question is price!
What’s next?
If you followed our interview with Asetek’s CEO at Simexpo 2024, you’ll know that there’s a lot more to come from the Danes! Console compatibility, 360Hz iRacing, new range, chassis and accessories… You can find out what’s new by clicking on the links below!