General discussion about the new squaretop mainsail

[matt]

Hi there, having looked at the rule I endorse the change to the sail plan form and the move to the new class rules relating to the mainsail measurement. Thanks to Blair, Grim and Graham for the development work. Cheers, Matt

[jim156]

After looking at the proposed rule changes I support the proposal to change the sail plan and adopt the new class rules (as per the current draft in circulation).  Jim

[paddyc]

I am happy with the proposed draft changes though may take some time to "grandfather"my current beloved main. Paddy

[robj159]

Hi,
I haven't been in the country for the last year so a bit out of touch with new main sail proposal.
I understand there was a prototype sail made. Are there any results from tests with this sail? In comparison to existing main I have a few questions -
1) What are performance gains, wind directions and strength?
2) Is the sail easier to depower?
3) Is there any advantage to particular weight crews? Is there a larger or small weight range for competitive crews?
4) Is there any issue with standard mast and boom set ups? I am concerned with stiffness at top of mast to control the square top.
5) What is cost of new main? Has cost comparison been done of alternative fabrics?
6) Any behavior changes of boat with square top? Pushing bow down, Rolling to windward etc.

Cheers Rob.J159.

[robj159]

Is there an overlay drawing of new verse existing main sail?
Rob J159.

[Forum Administrator]

Rob, here's a picture.

Testing was inconclusive at FBYC ... no faster, no slower in the w/e we used it. Cunningham eye was set too low to allow heavy air testing (I believe this has been fixed, but we've not had another go with the sail). That said, I think the planform is a step forwards, it *should* fit a wider range of crew weights and allow more ability to de-power.

Cheers, Matt

[j79]

Hi i'm also interested in hearing from anyone who has actually tried the test sail in a range of conditions. As requested by Rob is there a few price examples available ? Many thanks Grant

[gappy]

Guys

Hi

Thanks for the discussion

Cost wise the main is the same price as current mains to make thats prices i have had due to staying with the same clothes we have not put a cost point on them.

There was a large discussion at the Nationals AGM on pros and cons of different clothes but the Committee was quite clear we didn't want to put up costs but also keep the look of cloth sails rather than a laminate and its extra cost perception.

The sail has the same Foot and Luff length as the current sail and exactly the same area.

Power wise its will be good for a wide range of weights from what we have seen its posdibly a click quicker up wind is quicker downwind and reaching but very controlled also.

With regards to masts some may need to play with setup but been untappered they are quite stiff up high anyway and on my mast the head and leach were really controllable probably better than the current sail. You can sail with a straighter leach rather than it very open to depower.

Its going to require people to develop what works for them and their masts and type of sailing but it also gives a challenge.

We need to remember why the Committee wanted to go this way it was to modernise the look of the class at minimum cost and alot of boats currently were looking to get new mains so its very timely.

Any questions happy to answer if anyone wants to borrow the trial sail for a weekend get in touch.

Thanks
Blair

[robj159]

Thanks Matt and Blair for you feed back regarding test sail etc. All sounds a positive move forward for the class.
Cheers Rob.