Paddle Shift: Steering Wheel or Steering Column Mount?

DonGargon · 22nd December 2005, 12:01

Let me start by saying that I think BMW’s idea of mounting the paddles attached to the steering wheel is the better implementation.

I’d like to know what the members of the board felt about this issue and why.

A common comment made is that the paddles are not always in the same place from one shift to another??? Well I suppose that depending on your style of driving and how you hold the steering wheel this is either a help or hindrance.

I drive with my thumbs hooked through the depressions at 14:45 (quarter to 3!). in all but the tightest turns, I can make it without having to move my arms form this position so the paddles are always directly behind my fingers.

When negotiating tighter bends, if I find the amount of lock places the paddles at an inconvenient place, I just reach down and use the gear knob.

Anyway, do you think the Bentley, Ferrari, Aston Martin approach of paddles attached to the column and thus fixed in place is the better solution?

Also not sure but do they also have gear knobs as well?

Blunder · 22nd December 2005, 12:39

I believe it's better to have the paddles mounted to the column. When mounted this way, you can always release one hand whilst turning, and catch one paddle. On a track, you seldom turn the steering wheel more than 12:30 (if you're not powersliding). It's better to always know where the paddles are. Just my opinion of course.

Cheers

BD 997 · 22nd December 2005, 14:09

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blunder

I believe it's better to have the paddles mounted to the column. When mounted this way, you can always release one hand whilst turning, and catch one paddle. On a track, you seldom turn the steering wheel more than 12:30 (if you're not powersliding). It's better to always know where the paddles are. Just my opinion of course.

Cheers

I agree about when your on the track that its better mounted to the column....BUT the reality of it is that most M5's are driven on the street so this being said the way it is right now is perfect!!!

Jim Dolan · 22nd December 2005, 14:52

Better mounted on column but BMW claims the the joy stick is handy and it is. I've switched back and forth and it becomes instinctive.

rodman31 · 22nd December 2005, 14:55

Well, I guess I will be in the minority here, but I like them on the wheel. Having tracked the M3 w/performance package down at BMW performance center, they are in the perfect spot. I drive 9 & 3 and can always reach the paddles in this position, maybe longer fingers??

As stated, the shifter is always a quick option, nice to have options!!!

Happy Holidays Everyone!!!!

MRichmond · 22nd December 2005, 15:29

I like them where they are -- on the wheel. Most racing instructors will tell you that you should not be shifting while making a tight turn. Instead, the shifting and braking should be finished before you enter a turn. Therefore, the paddles are where they should be for track use. On roads, the only time that they are out of reach is when making a 90-degree turn from a stop and want to shift up to second during the turn. During these turns, it is easiest to use the lever. I like how the paddles are integrated with the wheel.

Gop-Dogg · 22nd December 2005, 15:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by MRichmond

I like them where they are -- on the wheel. Most racing instructors will tell you that you should not be shifting while making a tight turn. Instead, the shifting and braking should be finished before you enter a turn. Therefore, the paddles are where they should be for track use. On roads, the only time that they are out of reach is when making a 90-degree turn from a stop and want to shift up to second during the turn. During these turns, it is easiest to use the lever. I like how the paddles are integrated with the wheel.

Second that.

rayt · 22nd December 2005, 15:39

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gop-Dogg

Second that.

third it.. where it is is perfect.

LJM5 · 22nd December 2005, 15:44

I like 'em on the wheel, and I think that is also why BMW gave us the lever option as well. I find when I'm just driving around in town, I am probably 60/40 stick/paddle. On the freeway or on open cruising roads, mostly paddle.

Oh, and used D mode for the first time the other day, and it wasn't as bad as expected. Was able to hold a phone conversation and somewhat 'forget' about shifting.

So we have 3 options, cool!

MEnthusiast · 22nd December 2005, 16:39

Quote:

Originally Posted by MRichmond

I like them where they are -- on the wheel. Most racing instructors will tell you that you should not be shifting while making a tight turn. Instead, the shifting and braking should be finished before you enter a turn. Therefore, the paddles are where they should be for track use. On roads, the only time that they are out of reach is when making a 90-degree turn from a stop and want to shift up to second during the turn. During these turns, it is easiest to use the lever. I like how the paddles are integrated with the wheel.

I third this!