Top-Rated Best Turn Racing: Reviewing The R305 / R320 Sim Steering Rim With Bp2 Button Box

Introduction

The Turn Racing R305/R320 Sim Steering Rim, when paired with the BP2 Button Box, presents a sophisticated solution tailored for sim racers seeking a modular and high-quality steering experience. With two rim sizes—305 mm and 320 mm—these rims are designed to accommodate a variety of direct drive and belt-drive wheelbases, utilizing standard 70 mm or 6-hole PCD quick-release hubs. The BP2 Button Box enhances the user experience by providing a functional array of buttons, switches, and encoders directly on the rim, ensuring that sim racers have a clean and ergonomic control interface at their fingertips.

Unboxing & First Impressions

Upon unboxing the R305 and R320 rims, the first thing that strikes you is their lightweight yet robust construction. The aluminum build, paired with meticulous finishing, distinguishes them from entry-level alternatives that often feel flimsy or overly flexible. The integration of the BP2 Button Box is seamless, presenting an ergonomic layout that allows for quick access to controls without the need for additional external button boxes or keyboard shortcuts during races.

Design & Build Quality

Rim Construction

The R305 and R320 rims are crafted from high-grade anodized aluminum. This choice of material not only contributes to their durability but also provides a textured grip that feels comfortable during extended racing sessions. Here’s a closer look at the characteristics of each rim:

• R305: Features a smaller diameter for quicker steering feedback, making it ideal for formula, open-wheel, and precision driving.
• R320: Offers a slightly larger diameter that provides a balanced feel, perfect for GT racing and mixed-discipline simulations.

The open-top design enhances hand clearance and maintains a traditional sim racing aesthetic without becoming bulky. Both rims maintain rigidity once mounted, resisting unwanted twists under direct drive torque, while the textured grips offer confidence, even during intense racing scenarios.

BP2 Button Box – Controls & Interface

The BP2 Button Box attaches directly to the rim, bringing a comprehensive suite of controls that significantly enhances the racing experience:

• Push Buttons: Tactile and responsive, these buttons are perfect for essential race functions such as pit limiter activation and light controls.
• Rotary Encoders: Ideal for adjusting brake bias, traction control, or making quick selections in menus.
• Switches: Various switch types allow for quick toggling, ensuring clear feedback during use.

The ergonomics of the BP2 Button Box are particularly impressive, with controls positioned within easy reach of the thumbs and fingers. This thoughtful design minimizes the likelihood of losing steering precision during critical moments, such as fast lane changes or mid-race adjustments.

Ergonomics & Driving Experience

The design of the Turn Racing rims promotes smooth hand movement, allowing for comfortable driving experiences across different racing styles:

• R305: Delivers a snappy and direct feel, well-suited for open-wheel titles and quick flick turns.
• R320: Provides a slightly more anchored feel, perfect for high-speed GT or road racing scenarios where larger steering inputs are common.

The controls located on the BP2 Button Box are readily accessible, helping maintain focus on both the track and telemetry displays without the need to take eyes off the road or reach away from the wheel.

Compatibility & Installation

Installing the Turn Racing rims is a straightforward process, thanks to their compatibility with standard quick-release systems:

• Quick-Release Ready: Both rims utilize common quick-release patterns, making them compatible with most wheelbases available in the market.
• Button Box Mounting: The BP2 button box securely attaches to the rim without interfering with hand positions or the rim’s spokes.
• USB & Software: The button inputs function like typical HID devices, allowing for easy integration with sim racing software such as SimHub, enabling custom mapping.

This versatility ensures that sim racers can utilize the rims with a variety of wheelbases, from budget-friendly belt systems to powerful direct drive motors, without encountering significant compatibility issues.

Performance & In-Game Feel

On the track, both the R305 and R320 rims deliver a precise and predictable steering experience. The aluminum body, combined with the ergonomically designed grip shape, fosters consistent contact, enhancing feedback and control. The open-top design further aids in maintaining visual focus on essential telemetry displays.

The BP2 controls are responsive, allowing for quick adjustments without the need to divert attention away from the action. Whether racing in iRacing, Assetto Corsa Competizione, rFactor2, or other popular simulators, these rims provide a solid foundation for steering control, complemented by easily accessible button functions that minimize distractions.

Pros & Cons

To summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the Turn Racing R305/R320 and the BP2 Button Box:

Pros

• Two rim sizes (305 & 320 mm) offer tailored feel options for different racing styles.
• Premium aluminum construction with textured grips ensures durability and comfort for longer sessions.
• The BP2 Button Box adds significant functionality without cluttering the rim face.
• Standard quick-release compatibility allows use with a wide range of wheelbases.

Cons

• No integrated LCD display: Some racers may prefer onboard telemetry for a more comprehensive racing experience.
• The button box adds complexity: More wiring and controls may not appeal to those seeking a minimalist setup.

Conclusion

The Turn Racing R305/R320 Steering Rims, when combined with the BP2 Button Box, offer a high-quality, flexible, and ergonomic sim racing solution that caters to a variety of driving styles and wheelbase configurations. With their two rim diameters, durable textured aluminum construction, and an intuitive cluster of controls, this combination provides a well-balanced and customizable interface for serious racing enthusiasts. Whether you lean towards the nimbleness of open-wheel racing or the precision required for GT events, this setup delivers excellent value, performance, and comfort for your sim rig.