RS 800 Mainsail

 

Performance wise, it's a small improvement with a tad more low end power (which is needed) without compromising overall usability at the top end. The intention was to remove a couple of the issues on the old sail, like assymetrical batten popping in the light, and improving the bolt rope area so the sail goes back up the mast when the cunno is taken off.

 

But I think the biggest benefit is keeping the class current, and up to date. I think that there is a legitimate arguement that athetics/desirability matters, particularly if the next step for the class is to move into a new (European) market. There's obvioulsly short term pain for those of us in the class, but other classes have done similar things, so it's nothing new...

 

There are some people in the class who don't want it, and think it will be damaging. Personally, as I see sails as consumables*, I think on balance it's the right thing to do, for the longer term health of the class, if nothing else. I guess we'll find out, if it gets voted in!

 

(*anyone arguing that a new sail is equal to an old one of the same "original shape" is on tricky ground. They will certainly be a different size, as old sails shrink, and probably be a different shape. To me, this means the argument that people with older sails will be put off from attending events as they won't be competitive falls away somewhat.)