🏎️ Next Level Racing F-GT Lite Review: The Foldable Solution for Formula and GT Racing
In the world of sim racing, immersion and rigidity are king. However, for many enthusiasts, space is a critical constraint. Not everyone has the luxury of a dedicated racing room for a massive aluminum profile rig. This is where the Next Level Racing F-GT Lite Formula and GT Foldable Simulator Cockpit (NLR-S015) steps in, aiming to bridge the gap between a portable wheel stand and a full-sized dedicated cockpit.
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| Next Level Racing F-GT Lite Review: The Foldable Solution for Formula and GT Racing |
This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the F-GT Lite, assessing whether it truly delivers a dual racing experience in a compact, foldable package.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
| Model | NLR-S015 |
| Supported Positions | Formula and GT Racing |
| Folding Feature | Yes (via Next Level Racing Hubs) |
| Supported Height | 120 – 200 cm (4ft – 6ft 6 inches) |
| Supported Max Weight | 130 kg (287lbs) / 150 kg (330 lb) (Varies slightly by source, but generally robust) |
| Compatibility | Pre-drilled for major brands (Logitech, Thrustmaster, Fanatec) |
| Material | Powder-coated Carbon Steel frame, Highly breathable fabric seat |
| Included Accessories | Gear Shifter Support (installable on left or right) |
| Folded Dimensions | $75 \times 40 \times 87 \text{ cm}$ ($29.5" \times 15.7" \times 34"$) |
The Dual Personality: Formula and GT Positions
The most significant selling point of the F-GT Lite is its ability to transform seamlessly between two distinct racing styles: the Formula position (reclined, feet-up) and the GT position (upright, traditional sports car feel).
This versatility is a massive advantage for sim racers who enjoy different disciplines, from open-wheelers like F1 to endurance sports cars. The transition is achieved using Next Level Racing's innovative Hubs. These quick-release mechanisms are the core of the F-GT Lite's design, allowing for swift and tool-less adjustment of the seat angle, wheel deck, and pedal plate.
In practice, the conversion takes a little getting used to, but once you understand the system, it's quite manageable. Both positions feel authentic and offer a notable step-up in immersion compared to racing from a desk chair.
Build Quality and Rigidity
Considering its foldable nature, the F-GT Lite is surprisingly sturdy. The frame is constructed from powder-coated carbon steel tubing. It's lighter and thinner than the metal used in high-end static rigs, which is a necessary compromise for portability, but it holds up well under typical loads.
The Hubs
The revolutionary adjustment hubs are crucial to the rigidity. When fully tightened, they lock the frame into a solid position. They are durable, but their effectiveness is directly tied to user setup. Proper tightening is essential to minimize flex.
Flex and Performance
For entry-level and mid-range wheels (like Logitech G series or Thrustmaster TX/T300), the F-GT Lite provides excellent rigidity. However, sim racers considering high-torque direct-drive (DD) wheels (e.g., Fanatec CSL DD at 5Nm or 8Nm) should manage their expectations. While some users have successfully mounted these higher-end wheels, there will be noticeable flex, primarily in the single vertical tube supporting the wheel deck. It is a workable solution for DD, but a dedicated aluminum rig will always offer superior performance in this regard.
For most users, the occasional minor wobble is often negligible during the heat of a race.
Comfort and Adjustability
The seat is made from a highly breathable fabric, often with Alcantara or similar side bolsters, designed for comfort during long sessions. Unlike bulky racing seats, the sling-style seat prioritizes airflow and the ability to fold. While some users find comfort diminishes after extremely long sessions (3+ hours), it is generally considered comfortable, even for larger individuals up to the supported weight capacity.
The adjustability is comprehensive, accommodating users from $120 \text{ cm}$ (4ft) to $200 \text{ cm}$ (6ft 6 inches) in height. The wheel, pedal, and shifter plates all offer multiple angles and positions, ensuring most drivers can dial in a comfortable and ergonomic setup.
Portability and Storage: The Defining Feature
The true masterpiece of the F-GT Lite is its ability to fold down to a compact size—$75 \times 40 \times 87 \text{ cm}$. This makes it a game-changer for apartment dwellers or anyone who needs their living space back after a racing session.
The process of folding is simpler than disassembling a static rig, though it can still be a little cumbersome to do repeatedly, especially with all your electronics hard-mounted. The key benefit is that you can fold it down without removing your wheel and pedals, making the setup and takedown process much faster than a standard wheel stand.
Compatibility and Included Extras
The NLR-S015 is pre-drilled and compatible with the mounting patterns of the most popular hardware: Logitech, Thrustmaster, and Fanatec. The included gear shifter mount is a valuable addition, as it often needs to be purchased separately for competing cockpits. It can be mounted on the left or right side, catering to global driving preferences.
Verdict: Who is the Next Level Racing F-GT Lite For?
The Next Level Racing F-GT Lite is an excellent product for a very specific segment of the sim racing community.
Pros
Dual Racing Positions (Formula & GT): Unbeatable versatility at this price point.
Foldable Design: The gold standard for space-constrained sim racers.
Next Level Racing Hubs: Allow for tool-less and relatively quick adjustments.
Strong Compatibility: Pre-drilled for all major wheel and pedal sets.
Included Shifter Mount: Adds value and flexibility.
Cons
Flex with High-End DD Wheels/Load Cell Pedals: Not as rigid as static rigs for high-torque or high-force setups.
Initial Learning Curve for Folding: Can be fiddly to collapse the first few times.
Comfort for Extremely Long Sessions: The sling-style seat might not suit everyone for 4+ hour stints.
The F-GT Lite is highly recommended for:
Apartment/Small Space Racers: If folding and storage are non-negotiable requirements.
Mid-Range Hardware Users: Perfect for users with mid-tier (belt-driven) wheels and standard spring/potentiometer pedals.
Versatile Racers: Those who frequently switch between Formula and GT racing styles.
For its price, versatility, and unique folding capability, the Next Level Racing F-GT Lite represents one of the best value propositions in the portable sim racing cockpit market. It allows drivers to experience the true immersion of a full cockpit setup without committing a permanent footprint to their home.