SimNet Hydro-Link Pro Review Roundup: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Source video: Serial Driver — Test SIMNET Hydro-link Pro kit - une upgrade utile ?.
Short answer
The Hydro-Link Pro is a meaningful feel and tuning upgrade for existing SimNet SP Pro brake or SHB-100 handbrake owners, but it does not replace the Load Cell or automatically improve lap time. Serial Driver found the hydraulic stage more progressive and configurable. At €169.90, its value depends on already owning compatible SimNet hardware and a rigid mounting.
Evidence and verification scope
This is an attributed analysis of Serial Driver’s French-language test, combined with the current SimNet and TFS product specifications. TFS does not claim a separate personal test. Price, compatible hardware and kit contents were checked on 30 July 2026.
Current kit at a glance
| Point | Verified current data |
|---|---|
| Price | €169.90 |
| Compatible hardware | SimNet SP Pro Load Cell pedal and SHB-100 handbrake |
| Included tuning | 32/54/78/116 kg springs; 70A/80A elastomers; five spacer profiles |
What the hydraulic kit actually changes
The SP Pro remains a Load Cell pedal: braking input is still measured by force. Hydro-Link replaces the mechanical resistance module with a master-cylinder and slave-cylinder hydraulic body plus a tunable two-stage stack. The gain is therefore in travel, progression and modulation feel rather than a new signal technology.
Serial Driver’s test focuses on the difference between the original stack and the hydraulic upgrade. His conclusion is positive for owners wanting more progression, while making clear that the pedal was already competitive before the conversion.
Springs, elastomers and preload
The kit includes 32, 54, 78 and 116 kg spring rates in 55 and 25 mm lengths, 70A and 80A elastomers and five spacer shapes. Possible stacks include one spring, two springs, spring plus elastomer or two elastomers. This range is the main reason to choose the Pro kit.
SimNet’s current instructions specify an upright hydraulic body and recommend setting the slave-cylinder cap to the maximum 5 mm preload position before first use or after changing the stack. A rigid pedal deck is essential: flex can be mistaken for hydraulic travel and makes settings less repeatable.
Installation and maintenance
Dedicated metal plates for the SP Pro pedal and SHB-100 handbrake are included, together with fasteners, spacers and tools. Keep the slave cylinder clean and inspect fasteners after the first sessions. Elastomers are wear parts and are excluded from warranty according to the current TFS description.
The sealed module avoids routine bleeding described for open motorsport systems, but users should still follow the official orientation and assembly order. Do not improvise a mount on an incompatible pedal.
Brake pedal or handbrake?
On the brake, the objective is a progressive two-stage curve: initial travel for approach, then firmer resistance near peak pressure. On the SHB-100, the same concept can make partial handbrake application easier to hold for rally and drift. The preferred stack will not necessarily be the same for both devices.
Who should buy it?
It is best suited to an existing SP Pro or SHB-100 owner who has already stabilised the cockpit and wants more mechanical tuning. It is less logical when the pedal deck flexes, the stock stack has not been explored or the budget would be better spent on a complete pedal set.
Strengths and compromises
Strengths
- Real hydraulic resistance stage
- Broad mechanical tuning range
- Pedal and handbrake mounting parts included
- Keeps existing SimNet electronics
Consider before buying
- Only for compatible SimNet hardware
- Rigid mounting required
- Elastomers remain wear parts
- No guaranteed lap-time gain
View Hydro-Link Pro at TFS
Check the current package and compatibility before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
Does Hydro-Link replace the Load Cell?
No. It changes the resistance system while the compatible SimNet device keeps its Load Cell measurement.
Is it compatible with every pedal?
No. The current kit is listed for the SimNet SP Pro pedal and SHB-100 handbrake.
Does it require bleeding?
The current kit uses a supplied sealed hydraulic module. Follow the official installation instructions rather than opening or bleeding it unnecessarily.