GARMIN Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer - First Impressions
We picked up a Garmin Catalyst at Wine Country Motorsports recently and wanted to share our experience with it. At first glance, the Catalyst seems like it is a competitor to established data loggers like the AIM system, but that is not the focus. In fact, the focus of the Catalyst is to truly coach you on the fly. Here are some of our initial impressions:
What we like about the Garmin Catalyst:
Laptimer accuracy is spot-on with competitors
Audio instructions provide real-time feedback and guidance
Bluetooth audio for use on in-car stereo or headphones
Large, clear display with color indication for improvement or deterioration
Excellent camera quality for its price point
Overall, initial impressions about the Catalyst are positive. The release of the system couldn’t have been better timed due to COVID-19 essentially eliminating ride-alongs at the track, causing drivers to miss out on opportunities for one-on-one coaching. However, while the system has some interesting and useful capabilities, it’s difficult to replace an experienced coach. We’ll be taking the Catalyst out and really getting in-depth with it, so keep your eyes peeled for that!
Garmin Catalyst is available at Wine Country Motorsports if you’d like to give it a try for yourself!
-Joe McGuigan // Speed SF
Federal Tires - A Review from Joe "McQuicken" McGuigan
"The Federal RS-RR is without a doubt, one the best "bang-for-the-buck" track tires. With grip consistency throughout a 20-min. session of hot-lapping, these tires will help beginners and experienced drivers alike by allowing experimentation throughout the session without grip loss.”
Many of you know Joe McGuigan as the gentleman who announces at all of our SpeedSF events and even as a driver coach. He's also a newly-minted USTCC driver who did very well during his first race at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca!
He took time out of his day to give us a review about the tires on the track and a little about on the street. Here's what he had to say:
“The Federal RS-RR is without a doubt, one the best “bang-for-the-buck” track tires. With grip consistency throughout a 20-min. session of hot-lapping, these tires will help beginners and experienced drivers alike by allowing experimentation throughout the session without grip loss.
They communicate well before you enter the point of traction loss and provide decent feedback. The wear has been exceptionally even throughout the various sets I have used. Even down to the wear bar, they have proven stable. The only fault in the tires would be the noise produced while street driving due to tread design and build.”
Thanks for the review, Joe! We appreciate the honest feedback!
As you all may know, Federal Tires sponsors our track events and the SpeedSF Challenge. With the tire contingency program and the tire discount program, it's easy for you to get your hands on a set of Federal Tires!
Hope to see you at our next track day!