Since we’ve done a lot of software Throwback Thursdays, I’ve decided to mix it up and do one on a piece of hardware! What better piece to do our first hardware TBT than the first mass market wheel and pedal set, the Thrustmaster T1?
The Thrustmaster (Formula) T1 was released shortly after Papyrus’ first IndyCar title came out, and is one of the first wheel and pedal sets to be released to a wide market. The wheel featured a 270 degrees of rotation and a bungee cord centering system. 2 buttons were on the right side of the wheel, along with a small sequential shifter. A pedal set was also included, which came with a gas and brake. A third slot was also open for an optional clutch pedal. While the specs may seem low end now, back in the day, they were cutting edge, and formed the foundation for the hardware side of sim racing as we know it.
The T1 launched to wide success, as it was one of the first wheels to make it to market, and prompted a successor, the Formula T2. While the wheel featured very little changes to the core mechanics, the wheel featured some small improvements to make it a little more sturdy. However, the T2 had been known for having some spring failures in the pedals, which led to it being discontinued.
Did you ever use the Thrustmaster T1? Let us know!
Darin’s Note- This was my first sim racing wheel, and I was so excited to get it. I saw it advertised in a pamphlet inside IndyCar 1, so I ordered it. The wait seemed like forever. Looking back, it was a pretty crappy wheel, bungie system (no FFB back then), poor pedal springs. I raced the heck out of it though, and enjoyed it.
Will’s Note- Sorry for being a little late to this week’s Throwback Thursday! I’ll try to be more on time next week.
Also my first wheel and for that time it was the coolest thing , looking back though it was pretty crap ,i remember naging to my parents for it and finnaly got it for chrismass .
My first wheel too. Best thing since sliced bread…till the T2…then my Logitech Momo Red…then G25…then…nope, didn’t quite pull the trigger on the G27…but did get the T500 RS…WHEN WILL THE INSANITY STOP !!!!!!?
(Never I hope)
Geez the memories. I changed the bungee cord probably 5 times, replaced the pot from radio shack and both buttons. Went to a TSW after that and now a ECCI. Good throwback guys!!
My first wheel was the Formula T2. My wife bought it for me for Christmas of 1996, our first Christmas as a married couple. She had no idea what she was about to start. 18 years later I’m still sim racing every chance I get, and yes, we’re still married.