Is it worth to use qs-bt1 without motion?
Here’s Why the QS-BT1 Stands Strong on Its Own!
Among those interested in increasing the immersion of their simracing rig by adding a belt tensioner to it, one question keeps coming up:
It’s a valid question – but that’s because belt tensioners like the QS-BT1 are still a relatively new and unique addition to sim setups. While many believe that belt tensioners only make sense when paired with motion rigs, the QS-BT1 was actually designed to work perfectly on its own. And when it’s installed on a static setup, the results can be surprisingly impressive.
So, What Does
a Belt Tensioner Actually Do?
The idea behind a belt tensioner is simple but powerful: it simulates g-forces by tightening and releasing the racing harness in response to what’s happening in-game.
This includes:
- Braking – belts pull tight when slowing down
- Acceleration – slight release as the car surges forward
- Cornering – tension varies depending on lateral load
- Gear changes and weight transfer – subtle but noticeable shifts
- And much more… you can find additional features on the QS-BT1 product page
Even though the rig itself isn’t moving, these physical sensations trick the brain into feeling like it is.
No Motion? No Problem.
QS-BT1 Works Just Fine
The QS-BT1 doesn’t need a motion system to shine. In simple terms, it connects to software, reads telemetry in real time, and delivers belt tension feedback that responds to how you’re driving.
It’s designed to mount directly to most aluminum profile rigs, doesn’t take up much space, and is incredibly easy to integrate – especially using QubicManager software, which supports most major sims right out of the box. This makes it a perfect upgrade for sim racers who want deeper immersion but aren’t ready to invest in a full motion platform.
Expand your knowledge!
Classical motion platforms have no choice and have to depend on Earth’s gravity when it comes to prolonged accelerations. Even having 20 deg pitch gives only about 3.3 m/s2* of perceptible sustained acceleration, which assuming 50 kg as human’s chest weigh, equals to only 165 N of force. Doing any trail-braking, which requires both pitch and roll to simulate it correctly, reduces mentioned forces drastically. When compared to QS-BT1, which generates 200 N per channel**, it is obvious that they belong to two different leagues. When both systems are combined, the motion platform does not need to emphasize that much on simulating prolonged accelerations anymore and can utilize the full extend of its capability on everything else.
* For simplicity, simplified physics formulas are used and different levels of human perception and tolerance to force simulations are omitted.
** Peak force generated by QS-BT1 per channel is 200 N (20.5kg/45lbs), combined is 400N (41kg/90lbs)
OPINION OF SIMRACING YOUTUBER – RACE BEYOND MATTER
Over the past four days, I’ve tested the QS-BT1 without any motion system and have come to appreciate it even more. Without motion, the smaller effects become more noticeable, they’re no longer masked by the movement. I’m not saying it’s better without motion, because motion still completes the experience. But for those used to static setups, this will feel like a massive leap forward.
You can find a full review of the QS-BT1 used without the motion platform in the video on the side.
Suitable for flight simulators
The QS-BT1 is not limited to sim racing. It is also successfully used in flight simulators, both for training purposes and for enthusiasts. The QS-BT1 belt tensioner simulates flight effects such as:
- positive g,
- negative g,
- lateral accelerations,
- deceleration / speed brake,
- centrifugal force during roll/bank,
- cannon fire/missile launch,
- flare/chaff dispose.
They provide physical sensations that improve spatial orientation and realism.
This shows that a motion platform is not required to create a convincing impression of the forces felt during flight – a properly tuned seatbelt tensioner system can perform this task exceptionally well.
What Makes the QS-BT1 So Effective Without Motion?
What Sim Racers Are Saying
It’s[QS-BT1] the single coolest/best thing I’ve ever added, and I would emphatically argue that it’s better for immersion AND performance than any low/mid grade motion system I’ve ever tried.
– Reddit user u/urpwnd
BT1 is AMAZING without motion. It adds so much immersion and fun.
– @saffaboy on Qubic System Discord Channel
Yes. It’s a great start. Even without motion. It adds realism to your sim.
– Kenny on Facebook
…I don’t find myself missing motion as much as my QSBT1. […] Because the QSBT1 is connected directly to you through the straps, the feedback cues are much more direct. It may not be a 1:1 translation to real life, but I dont think thats really the point. It’s that the feedback is CLEAR for you to make decisions and provides the next level of immersion.
– @Sweatyspaggy on YouTube
Im really digging the QS BT1. I think its more of a game changer than motion IMO. I can do without motion sometimes, but I really miss the belt tensioner when not using it.
– @SuperBaoser on Qubic System Discord Channel
Standalone Doesn’t Mean Limited
There’s a reason more sim enthusiasts are adding the QS-BT1 to their static rigs. It adds a layer of immersion that visuals and FFB wheels simply can’t replicate on their own. And while it works great as part of a full motion setup, it also stands completely on its own – giving drivers and pilots more feel, more immersion, and more connection to the car or plane.
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