RS500 (Again)

The problem with Y&Y boat tests are that they're packed with relative terms, like "fast", "stable", "points high", and "exciting", all of which beg the question "compared to what?". A Laser  in a F3 is fast and exciting compared to a Wayfarer, but compared to a Musto Skiff....?

I've written to Y&Y at length about this, and suggested that even if they don't do group tests like DSM, they could at least compare boats' qualities to those of boats we all know, like the Laser. But I guess they worry that too much objectivity might lose them big advertisers, though I doubt that would happen - the advertisers really need Y&Y and can't afford to boycott it. On the other hand, worthless tests don't exactly gain you readers (are you going to rush out to buy Y&Y with the RS500 test? Would you if it were more objective? I would for one)

I suppose to be fair, it does make a couple of comparisons "lighter than the L4000", "more comfortable than the Buzz".  I just got the impression that the review could have been written without actually sailing it. 

Also, I think the 500 looks quite ugly from most angles, but I suppose a racing boat shouldn't be judged on aesthetics.

Anyone know why a jib hanked on to the foretay (49er, Mirror and catamaran style) is better than the more common wire in the luff?

Easy - comparing it to another boat made by the same manufacturer, which isn't even in the same performance bracket, is easy and non-controvertial. Comparing it to a boat made by another manufacturer is more contentious and may possibly lead to complaints from that manufacturer, if their boat was shown in a poor light.