The steering wheel is the most touched part of your vehicle. It determines not only how your vehicle feels, but also how quickly and accurately you react off-road. A standard steering wheel is designed for comfort on the road, but for off-road use, racing application or a personalised build, there are better options.
A custom steering wheel offers a different diameter, material and grip than the original. In this article, we explain the advantages of a different steering wheel, what to look out for when choosing and what options Lensen Products offers.
Why a different steering wheel from the original?
The standard steering wheel of most 4×4s and off-road vehicles is designed for everyday road use. It is large, light and comfortable, but these are not always the features you want off-road or in a sporty driving position.
A smaller steering wheel gives more direct steering. With a smaller diameter, you need to turn less for the same steering stroke, which increases response and makes driving in technical terrain and on the racetrack more intuitive. This is why racing and rally vehicles almost always have a smaller steering wheel than standard street vehicles.
In addition, the driving position plays a role. In a modified 4×4 with a raised seating position, a cage or modified seats, the driver often sits differently than in the factory configuration. A different steering wheel adapts the ergonomics to the new driving position.
Finally, aesthetics is a consideration. A custom steering wheel instantly personalises the inside of your vehicle and matches the style of the rest of the build, whether it is functionally off-road focused or more custom and show-oriented.
What do you pay attention to when choosing a custom steering wheel?
Diameter
The diameter of a steering wheel is expressed in millimetres and, for aftermarket steering wheels, usually ranges from 280 mm to 380 mm. A standard steering wheel is often 370 to 400 mm. A smaller steering wheel of 320 or 340 mm gives more direct steering and a sportier driving position. For off-road use, where you need to steer a lot and quickly, 340 to 360 mm is a common choice that offers balance between control and comfort.
Material and grip
Custom steering wheels are available in a variety of rim materials: leather, alcantara, suede, rubber and carbon fibre are the most common options. Leather is durable, easy to clean and gives a classic feel. Alcantara and suede offer better grip for sporty and off-road use, but are more susceptible to wear and dirt.
For off-road use, a steering wheel with good grip in wet or muddy hands is important. A perforated leather rim or a suede version with deep stitching offers the best combination of grip and durability in most conditions.
Hub adapter and compatibility
A custom steering wheel is not mounted directly on the steering column. You always need a hub adapter specific to your vehicle make and model. The hub adapter forms the connection between the steering wheel and the steering column and ensures that the steering wheel is placed at the correct height and angle.
When buying a custom steering wheel, it is important to order the right hub adapter at the same time. Also note the presence of an airbag in the original steering wheel. If the vehicle is equipped with an airbag in the steering wheel, removing and replacing the steering wheel will affect the safety system. In this case, it is wise to consult a specialist for the installation.
Quick release
For use in cage or competition vehicles, a quick release is a valuable addition. This is a coupling system between the hub adapter and the steering wheel that allows you to remove and replace the steering wheel in one movement. This facilitates entry and exit in a closely built cage and is mandatory in many motorsport regulations.
Quick release systems are available in different versions, from simple push-pull systems to locked versions for extra security. They can be combined with any hub adapter and steering wheel designed for aftermarket use.
Custom steering wheels for off-road and 4×4 use
There are different requirements for off-road use than for a track or street vehicle. A 4×4 that regularly travels technical terrain requires a steering wheel that feels good in the hand even when wearing gloves, that is resistant to dirt, water and UV radiation, and that feels comfortable and safe when subjected to heavy vibrations on rough terrain.
A steering wheel with a thick rim gives more grip for the steering efforts that off-road driving demands. Combine this with a suede or perforated leather finish for the best grip in all weather conditions. A smaller diameter of 340 to 360 mm gives more steering and directness, contributing to control on rough terrain where quick corrections are needed.
View our full range custom steering wheels for an overview of all available models, materials and sizes.
Installation: what's involved?
Installing a custom steering wheel involves three steps: removing the original steering wheel, fitting the hub adapter and fitting the new steering wheel. For vehicles without an airbag in the steering wheel, this is a relatively simple job that can be done with basic tools.
For vehicles with an airbag, extra caution is required. The airbag must be deactivated before removing the steering wheel, and the airbag system must be correctly connected or deactivated after installation. It is best to have this work done by a specialist workshop to avoid unintended airbag activation.
After installation, it is important to adjust the steering column to the correct steering centre point so that the steering wheel is straight when the vehicle is driving straight. This prevents a skewed position that quickly feels tiring when driving for long periods of time.
Do you have questions about the installation or compatibility of a steering wheel with your vehicle? Contact our specialists. We will be happy to advise you on the right hub adapter and the most suitable model.
Combine your custom steering wheel with other upgrades
A custom steering wheel is part of a wider cockpit upgrade. Combine it with custom seats, a reinforced cage or sports belts for a complete driving environment that suits the use of the vehicle.
Want to upgrade the exterior of your 4×4 too? Then read our blogs on the air locker for maximum traction, the coilover for your suspension and the beadlock rims for maximum off-road grip.
View our range of custom steering wheels
At Lensen Products, custom steering wheels are available in a wide range of models, diameters and materials. From compact 280 mm steering wheels for caged vehicles to 360 mm off-road versions with thick grip and suede finish. See our full range of custom steering wheels and find the model that suits your vehicle and use.
In doubt about the right size, material or hub adapter needed? Contact us for personal advice. We are happy to help.
