Reiza allows deep customization via the Documents/Automobilista 2/trucksim/ folder (Note: This folder exists even for non-truck content for physics override).

Create or edit a file called custom_handbrake.ini with the following:

[HANDBRAKE]
MaxPressure = 120.0 // Overrides the default 100% hydraulic pressure. Lets you "over-brake" the rear.
RampRate = 0.05 // How quickly pressure builds (0.01 is instant, 0.1 is slow).
ThermalIncrease = 0.8 // How much the handbrake heats the rear brakes. Lower to prevent fade during long drifts.

Warning: Setting MaxPressure above 130% will cause rear wheel lockup at any speed, which is great for drifting but terrible for tire wear.

Most competitive drifters in AMS2 use 110% MaxPressure with a 0.02 RampRate. This makes the Automobilista 2 handbrake better than any default configuration out of the box.

The handbrake interacts violently with the differential.

Pro Tuning Recipe for a "Better Handbrake":

This diff setup ensures that when you pull the handbrake, the rear end steps out in a smooth, predictable arc rather than a chaotic tank-slapper.

Given AMS2’s relatively low handbrake API latency compared to iRacing but higher reliance on progressive input than Assetto Corsa, the optimal choice is:

Mid-range: Moza HBP Handbrake or Fanatec ClubSport Handbrake V1.5 – hall sensor, 90kg load cell option, direct USB. Budget analog: Generic “eBay” USB handbrake (ensure it has a hall sensor, not a potentiometer) – ~$70 USD, requires manual axis recalibration every 2 weeks.

Avoid: Any handbrake marketed as “on/off switch” (e.g., thrustmaster TSS Handbrake Sparco Mod in digital mode).

Using an analog handbrake, follow these in-game settings (Options > Controls > Calibrate Handbrake):

| Setting | Recommended Value | Reason | |---------|------------------|--------| | Deadzone | 0% | Use physical slack if needed, not digital deadzone | | Saturation | 95% | Prevents need to pull to absolute 100% force | | Sensitivity | 50 (Linear) | AMS2’s nonlinear scaling degrades fine control |

Important: Do not combine handbrake with clutch or throttle axes in AMS2. Use separate USB device binding.

This report evaluates the effectiveness and preferred methods of handbrake usage in Automobilista 2 (AMS2). After analyzing force feedback (FFB) physics, input lag, and hardware compatibility, it is determined that a dedicated analog (load cell or hall sensor) USB handbrake is the superior choice over makeshift solutions (e.g., button box, joystick) or low-quality digital handbrakes. AMS2’s tire model and rallycross/classic car physics specifically reward progressive analog input.