Joybuy Insights

Choosing car and sim racing accessories: a practical buying guide for cars, motorbikes and gaming

If you’re looking for car and sim racing accessories, you’ll quickly be faced with a long list of phone holders, steering wheel covers, motorbike covers and racing hardware. The difference between a smart buy and a dud often isn’t in the product photo, but in a few checkable details: dimensions, compatibility, mounting and safety information.

This buying guide helps drivers, riders, scooter owners and sim racers weigh marketing claims against the actual product specifications.

Common pitfalls when buying accessories

1. A universal fit that still doesn’t fit

“Universal” doesn’t mean a product will suit every vehicle or device. A dashboard phone holder may only stay securely in place on a flat surface. A car steering wheel cover for 37 to 39 cm won’t automatically fit a smaller or larger wheel.

Always check:

  • the steering wheel diameter;
  • the dimensions of the dashboard or air vents;
  • your head size for a motorbike helmet;
  • the size of a motorbike cover;
  • the connection and platform compatibility of sim racing hardware.

2. A headline feature with no practical explanation

A magnetic phone holder sounds straightforward, but magnetic strength can drop if you use a thick metal case. With non‑MagSafe phones you may need a magnetic ring or plate. A suction cup also isn’t suitable for every dashboard texture.

It’s similar with sim racing. A direct drive wheelbase is often linked to realistic feedback, but the Nm figure doesn’t tell you whether your desk or cockpit can handle the force. A heavy base without a rigid frame can be impractical.

3. Skipping safety information

With a motorbike helmet, the right size and a stated safety standard matter more than the colour or the visor. With car seat covers, check whether the seams are suitable for seats with side airbags. With a hydraulic car jack, load capacity, minimum lift height and a stable surface are key.

A jack is not a substitute for axle stands. Only use it as directed in the manual, and never work under a car that’s supported by the jack alone.

Key specifications to check beforehand

Phone holders for cars

A car phone holder needs to suit your phone, case and mounting location. Note the differences between:

  • magnetic mounting: quick one‑handed placement, but dependent on a suitable magnet;
  • clamp mounting: grips the phone mechanically, but can block buttons or air vents;
  • suction cup or adhesive base: usable on glass, mirrors and some dashboards, but needs a clean, suitable surface.

The Oxerbog holder lists support for smartphones from 11.94 to 18 cm and operation through protective cases up to 0.03 cm thick. According to the product information, non‑MagSafe phones require a magnetic adapter. Degrease and remove dust from the mounting surface, and release the suction cup using the switch rather than pulling it off.

Car steering wheel cover

Measure your steering wheel before ordering a cover. According to the product specs, the Dunlop models fit a steering wheel diameter of 37 to 39 cm and are made of polyurethane. A snug fit prevents the cover from slipping while you steer.

Also check:

  • whether the cover fits tightly enough;
  • whether seams or embellishments get in the way;
  • whether the material feels comfortable in both hot and cold weather;
  • whether the cover won’t slide over existing damage.

Motorbike cover and helmet

With a waterproof motorbike cover, size is at least as important as material. The Oxerbog cover of 220 × 95 × 110 cm is intended for scooters, mopeds and motorbikes, among others. The 245 × 105 × 125 cm version provides more room. According to the product listing, the covers feature elastic straps, wind buckles, reflective strips and openings for a chain lock. A padlock is not included.

Let the bike cool down before covering it. Only store the cover once it’s dry to reduce moisture issues.

For an integral flip‑up motorbike helmet, measure your head circumference with a tape measure. The MY 935 is listed in size M for 57–58 cm and size XL for 61–62 cm. The product information mentions an ECE R 22.06 marking. On delivery, check that the marking and documentation are indeed present and follow the Dutch traffic regulations regarding helmet use.

Sim racing hardware

A gaming wheel for PC and Xbox isn’t automatically compatible with PlayStation. Check the exact platform, the connection and the supported games. The Thrustmaster T98-X Ferrari 296 GTB is listed for Xbox Series, Xbox One and PC, with a USB connection, a rotation angle of 240 degrees and a clamp for tables up to 4.5 cm thick.

A sim racing shifter is an add‑on and will not work on its own. The Thrustmaster TH8S has an H‑pattern with seven gears plus reverse. According to the product specs, it’s suitable for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S when used with compatible Thrustmaster wheels.

If you’re considering a direct drive wheelbase, don’t just look at torque. The MOZA R21 is listed with a torque output of 21 Nm and is a wheel base without a steering wheel. You’ll also need a compatible wheel, pedals and sturdy mounting. The stated compatibility focuses on the MOZA ecosystem and PC.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Oxerbog Universal Car Bracket magnetic phone holder

Oxerbog Universal Car Bracket

Why this suits the profile: This magnetic holder is practical for navigation, commuting and temporary use when travelling.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies compatible phone sizes, the required magnetic disc and suitable mounting surfaces.

Key benefit & highlights

360° adjustable, folds down to around 2 cm and supplied with two magnetic discs.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking top quality
Moza Racing R21 Direct Drive Wheel Base

Moza Racing R21 Direct Drive Wheel Base

Why this suits the profile: Aimed at sim racers expanding their PC setup and looking for a powerful, tunable wheel base.

How this product avoids the pitfall

It’s clearly listed as a wheel base without a steering wheel. So check in advance which MOZA parts you still need.

Key benefit & highlights

As per the product listing: 21 Nm direct drive, metal housing and configuration via MOZA Pit House.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Thrustmaster TH8S Shifter Racing shifter add-on

Thrustmaster TH8S Shifter Racing shifter add-on

Why this suits the profile: A fitting add‑on for players who want to drive rally, truck, GT or NASCAR games with an H‑pattern.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The compatibility list names specific Thrustmaster wheels and platforms, so you can check beforehand whether the add‑on fits.

Key benefit & highlights

H‑pattern with seven gears plus reverse, USB‑C connection and built‑in table clamp.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Oxerbog Motorcycle Cover 220x95x110cm

Oxerbog Motorcycle Cover 220x95x110cm

Why this suits the profile: Suitable for motorcyclists and scooter owners who want to cover their vehicle outdoors or indoors.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size is clearly stated. Elastic straps and wind buckles help keep a loose cover in check in windy conditions.

Key benefit & highlights

Water‑repellent coating according to the product description, reflective strips and openings for a chain lock.

Looking for more options?

We’ve compiled a complete, up‑to‑date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Compare other accessories carefully

For a broader vehicle selection, you can also look at the following product groups:

  • Car seat covers: check airbag‑compatible seams, removable headrests and whether split rear benches can still be used 40/60 or 50/50.
  • Hydraulic car jack: compare load capacity and lift range. The TCE 2.5‑ton jack lists a lift height of 85 to 380 mm and EN 1494 and CE marking in the product information.
  • Tesla wheel centre caps: check the exact wheel type, diameter and attachment. The product listing for Tesla‑specific matte black logo centre caps contains limited technical information; request those details before ordering.
  • Car steering wheel cover: choose based on the measured steering wheel diameter, not just vehicle make.
  • Gaming wheel for PC and Xbox: check whether both your console version and the game you use are supported.

Frequently asked questions about car and sim racing accessories

Which car phone holder is the most practical?

That depends on the mounting location and your phone case. A magnetic phone holder is quick to fit, while a clamp holder offers extra mechanical grip. For a dashboard model, check whether the surface is suitable and whether the holder blocks your view, buttons or ventilation.

How long will a motorbike cover last outdoors?

Lifespan depends on sun, wind, moisture, dirt and how you store it. Let the cover dry before folding, avoid contact with a hot exhaust and don’t overtighten the straps. Direct sunlight can age materials and coatings more quickly.

Do I need other sim racing accessories for a direct drive wheelbase?

In most cases, yes. A base such as the MOZA R21 is supplied without a steering wheel. So check whether you still need a compatible wheel, pedals, shifter and a sturdy frame. Also look at the supported software and the platform for your games.