On the sim-racing crankset market, there are two main families: models equipped with a Load Cell system, and those based on a hydraulic system. I’m talking here about the majority of products sought after by simracers, although there are also single-spring cranksets aimed more at beginners.

At the other extreme are solutions such as the Active Pedal, which uses an electric motor for feedback, but is still very expensive.

Today, most manufacturers offer at least Load Cell cranksets in their range. Some brands go further, offering both technologies, such as Simagic with its P series. Like Simagic in its early days, Conspit is still a newcomer to the sim-racing industry. Nevertheless, the brand offers a complete range of peripherals, designed to meet the expectations of a wide panel of virtual pilots.

In this article, we take a look at the CPP Evo 3, Conspit’s top-of-the-range hydraulic crankset. The aim: to analyze its features and see how it stacks up against the competition.

Main features and technical specifications of the crankset

• Entire structure in aluminum alloy machined by CNC machines
• Hydraulic brake system, max. 200 bar
• PC compatible only
• Available in 2- and 3-pedal versions, with clutch sold separately as an add-on
• Compatible with SimHub and Conspit Link
• Integrated vibration system on each pedal
• Multi-adjustable pedals for resistance, axle, inclination, etc.
• Non-linear clutch pedal thanks to a tilting system
• Black anodized paint on the entire device, with gold accents on some product elements
• Hall sensors on gas pedal and clutch

Crankset design

The CPP Evo 3 follows the Conspit style code, with a black dress covering the entire pedalboard, and a touch of gold here and there. It’s not really flashy, and I think the marriage of the two colors suits the CPP Evo 3 very well.

In terms of design, the pedals are virtually identical to each other, with the pedal plates differing. The resistance mechanisms are prominently featured on the rear of the pedals, with gold accents on a few elements. It’s truly beautiful, discreet and, above all, visually very premium.

Customized assembly

Each pedal on the CPP Evo 3 is independent, and the device comes with a mounting plate. So, you can use this plate to attach the pedals, or you can mount them directly on your cockpit. It’s up to you, depending on your setup and preferences.

Conspit has packed the CPP Evo 3 with everything you need to mount the crankset, from screws to wrenches. Even if you don’t have any tools and DIY isn’t really your cup of tea, you’ll be able to mount and fix the CPP Evo 3 without too much trouble.

Manufacturing and finishing

Unlike the CPP Lite, the CPP Evo 3 uses only aluminum for the structure of the device. It’s a 6061-T6 aluminum alloy that combines strength, low weight and a very high level of quality.

As for manufacturing, all CPP Evo 3 parts are CNC-machined, which guarantees quality cuts and precision. As for the finish, I didn’t notice any defects or anything on the CPP Evo 3.

This is a premium pedalboard, aimed at Simagic and Fanatec peripherals without hiding it. It’s aligned not only on build quality and finish, but also on the sensations it delivers.

Bottom bracket adjustment

When it comes to setting up the CPP Evo 3, you obviously have the pedal position, which can be adapted to suit your riding preferences. We’re talking here about lateral and horizontal movements on the three pedals, because yes, the CPP Evo 3 is available with or without a clutch.

Speaking of pedals and their adjustment, you can alter the position and inclination of the pedal plate, the inclination of the pedals, which impacts their feedback, and also the resistance of the mechanisms at the rear.

Absolutely everything is adjustable on the CPP Evo 3, whether in hardware directly on the crankset, or in software for curves, dead zones, vibrators and so on. It’s a device that offers complete, advanced pedal adjustments.

Sensations during play

We now turn to the feel of the Conspit CPP EVO 3 crankset. First of all, the throttle is a linear racing pedal, and you’ll have no trouble with it. Pedal position is adjustable, as is the resistance of the mechanism. The throttle is smooth, and digs in quickly when you put your foot to the floor.

As for the clutch, it’s a successful pedal, as is the gas pedal. There’s no linear movement this time, as there’s a tilting system at the end of the stroke. You have the 65-70% of the initial stroke, i.e., the first phase of the stroke, which is super-smooth, providing a good level of feedback, and as soon as you tip the system in question, the pedal goes down with a bang. What’s more, thanks to the vibrator integrated into the pedal structure, you get additional feedback on the skid point, for example. The same principle applies to the gas pedal and brake, and you can feel Traction Control interventions, ABS interventions or loss of grip, for example.

Let’s move on to the brakes. Depending on settings and elastomers, the Conspit CPP EVO 3 can be both soft and hard, making it suitable for GT and Formula racing, for example. The first part of the race can be long, but as soon as you reach the end of the race, the pedal becomes very hard under your foot. And unlike LC cranksets which only use elastomers to interpret braking pressure, the hydraulic system shows all its advantages with a natural feel, and above all a very realistic return to the initial position. There’s no spring effect where the pedal is ejected upwards. It’s more linear under your foot, and will help you achieve better lap times on the track.

CPP Evo 3 compatibility

The Conspit CPP EVO 3 can only be used with PCs running Windows, via a USB cable. Unfortunately, consoles are not compatible with this pedalboard, which is quite common for this type of high-end product.

As for software, you have Conspit Link, which supports the CPP Evo 3 and lets you adjust deadzones, curves, vibrations and more. This pedalboard is also compatible with SimHub.

Value for money

The Conspit CPP EVO 3 is offered here in its 3-pedal version at around €900. Clearly positioned at the top end of the market, it competes with pedalboards that are already well established.

At this price level, the crankset’s hydraulic system, build quality and numerous adjustment options will appeal to simracers looking for realistic sensations and premium equipment.

My verdict on Conspit’s CPP Evo 3 crankset

Conspit’s peripherals proved to be of the highest quality, showcasing excellent sim-racing engineering and know-how. You can see, and above all feel, that the brand is driven by racing enthusiasts, just as Simagic is.

If you want to give Conspit a try, then the CPP Evo 3 is the crankset to consider, especially if you’re looking for a product with hydraulics. It’s handsome, well-made and very premium. As far as I’m concerned, I approve of this device.