When people book a racing simulator for an event, one of the first questions is whether to go full-motion or non-motion. Both use the same professional wheel, pedals and software. The difference is whether the seat moves with the car. Here is how they compare and how to choose for your event.
What is a full-motion racing simulator?
A full-motion simulator sits on a motion platform that moves the cockpit as the car brakes, accelerates, corners and hits kerbs. Drivers feel the car shift under them, which makes the experience more physical and more dramatic to watch.
Our full-motion rig is built on a RES-Tech X1S cockpit mounted on a Qubic System traction platform (QS-220), with a GSI Hyper P1 wheel on a Simucube Pro 2 wheelbase, Simucube Active Pedal Pro pedals, an Alienware R16 gaming PC and 77-inch Samsung screens, running iRacing.
What is a non-motion racing simulator?
A non-motion (static) simulator has the same driving controls, but the cockpit stays still. Force feedback through the wheel and pedals still tells drivers what the car is doing. It is the setup most sim racers use at home.
Our non-motion rigs use the same RES-Tech X1S cockpit, GSI Hyper P1 wheel, Simucube Pro 2 wheelbase, Simucube Active Pedal Pro pedals, Alienware R16 PC and iRacing, with a 57-inch Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 curved monitor.
Side-by-side comparison
| Full-motion | Non-motion | |
|---|---|---|
| Cockpit | RES-Tech X1S on a Qubic System motion platform | RES-Tech X1S, static |
| Wheel and pedals | GSI Hyper P1, Simucube Pro 2, Simucube Active Pedal Pro | Same |
| Display | Triple 77-inch Samsung screens | 57-inch Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 |
| Software | iRacing | iRacing |
| Feel | The seat moves with braking, cornering and bumps | Force feedback through the wheel and pedals |
| Best at | Headline attraction, wow factor, content for social media | Steady guest flow, first-time drivers, competitions |
When to choose full-motion
- You want a showpiece. At a launch, trade show or brand activation, a moving cockpit draws people over from across the room.
- Your guests will film it. Motion looks great on video, which helps when the goal is social content.
- The experience is the reward. For VIP guests, client appreciation or a prize draw, the extra realism makes the session feel special.
When to choose non-motion
- You need to keep the line moving. Guests get in and drive without getting used to the motion, which suits busy events.
- Most of your guests have never driven a sim. A static cockpit feels less intimidating for a first lap.
- You are running a competition. For a Fastest Lap Challenge or a team bracket, identical non-motion rigs keep the racing fair.
- Space is tight. A static rig is the simpler option for a smaller room or booth.
Or have both
You do not have to choose. The Mobile Race Studio has one full-motion and two non-motion simulators inside one RV, so guests can try both and race each other. For indoor events, two simulators give you head-to-head racing, and a single simulator works well for a booth or a smaller party. You can read the full equipment list on our race components page.
Common questions
Is full-motion harder to drive?
No. The wheel and pedals are the same on both. The motion adds feel, not difficulty.
Can guests try both?
Yes, if your setup includes both types. The Mobile Race Studio is built for exactly that.
What if someone does not enjoy the motion?
Anyone who prefers a calmer drive can use a non-motion rig. Having both on site gives every guest an option.
Get a recommendation for your event
Tell us about your venue, guest count and goals through the rental request form, or message Robert on WhatsApp at 416-452-8880. We will recommend the mix of full-motion and non-motion simulators that fits your event in Toronto or anywhere in the GTA.
