Catalyst 2: Two Steps Forward, Two Steps Back?

Garmin announced the Catalyst 2 this week, a new all-in-one lap timer, "AI driver coach," and camera system. It wasn't highly anticipated, since they've been quiet about any successor to the polarizing Catalyst device originally launched in Fall 2020.

Complaints about the original Catalyst include a windshield-mounted camera with narrow FOV (hood-only view), inability to integrate CAN data, inability to easily export data to a PC, somewhat optimistic and unrealistic "optimal" lap videos, and dubious real-time voice coaching. Still, while the units are panned as useless by many, they are loved by some.

The new Catalyst 2 has some upgrades and, arguably, some downgrades. The biggest change is the form factor: it is basically an integrated camera with all the features displayed on the back screen. Put another way, the display is much smaller and must be mounted on your windshield.

Upgrades:

  • 25hz GPS (from 10hz)
  • 1440p camera (from 1080p)
  • Removable polarized lens filter
  • Improved on-screen layout

Downgrades:

  • Much smaller screen (3", down from 7")
  • Little flexibility on where the camera, and thus the screen, is mounted (on your windshield)
  • Price went up 20% to $1,200

The software and feature set look largely the same, so if you are already used to using a Catalyst, the most noticeable change will probably be more reliance on data review on your cell phone rather than removing the 7" tablet from your car and just using that.

One thing I've given Garmin props for is keeping their "opportunities for improvement" suggestion list to just 3 items. It's hard enough to work on one thing, and to be bombarded with a ton of suggestions is never helpful.

However, for you RE readers, you'd be better served by a GoPro and an AiM Solo 2, and then putting the extra $400 towards your next set of tires.

A formula 1 car races on a colorful track.
Photo by Charlie Schroeder

Whomp Whomp: We're Losing More Tracks

COTA Is Going Private

Formula 1 parking lot Beloved race track Circuit of the Americas is going private in January 2027. Along with many new tracks these days, it will become members-only, with the only outside participants being the likes of F1, NASCAR, MotoGP, etc.

Chuckwalla Goes Up For Sale

Chuckwalla Raceway in Southern California went up for sale in January for $26M. Of course, there is no way to know whether that is a reasonable price or whether it would remain a race track if it were sold (RIP PittRace).

The Downward Spiral is Accelerating

Between the EPA's fight against all things motorsport, the continuous closure of old race tracks, and private equity and large corporations (like NASCAR) buying up existing tracks, it's starting to look bleak for club racing and track-day enthusiasts with net worths south of 8 digits.

Among my friend groups, it has been known this was inevitable, but over the last couple of years, we've all been surprised by how quickly things have progressed.