R Speculation

Now I'm not calling bullsh*t, but if you know much about windsurf masts, then it's the top section which usually has the most variety in stiffness- soft top, constant curve or hard top.  Sail makers then cut the luff curve to suit the bend style of their preferred mast profile- it get's very technical on slalom circuits, there's even the IMCS system to measure mast bend for windsurfing gear.   

That RS statement basically reads to me 'fed up with bent alloy radial rig masts... bin your Laser' rather than anything with significant R&D credibility around rig design.

AIUI- the reason for the top mast section varying it do with the twist off profile- gust response, then following that, leech tension.  And we use varying downhaul tension depending on the rider weight... light sailors and heavy sailors conventionally using a lot more than medium weight riders, but for two very different reasons - one to depower, one to gain stability and wind range from carry a bigger sail.

Calling Graeme- one thing's for sure, he knows not a lot about much in dinghydom, but on this topic (mast bend and luff tubes) he's one of the best researched windsurf race sailors in the country and his custom sails are something very special indeed....