Laser topmasts

Generally speaking I do think that the one design ethos of the Laser has served the class very well over the years. And while I grew up as one of the "hang off the boom/pull in the kicker" generation of Laser sailors I support sensible modest cost RETRO FITTABLE developments where there is a clear consensus, as was the case with the control line upgrades. I suspect carbon top sections fit into this sort of development.

However,  as an issue for the class this really pails into insignificance compared to the turf wars beween designer/builders/the class association at the moment !

I understand that we cant use it entail after the olyimpics but when will they accatualy go on sale and will it be through laser performance?

That would stop them snapping, but not bending.

Originally posted by Emilio Castelli A well designed sleeve in the current top mast would have solved the problem

Surely that would change the bend characteristics. With a boom you don't care so much.

Originally posted by maxibuddah but if the intention is not alter the characteristics of the rig then a boom that doesn't bend as much will affect things as more vang can applied controlling the leach tension. If anyone cared about their performance then they would have to buy a new boom otherwise their boom would be bendy. I'm sure most got a new boom as it meant that it didn't break rather than improved leach tension, but the principle is the same.