The Real D-One Thread

Coupled with some further major considerations around the RS 'machine' support being strong enough to kick-start the programme- culminating in 43 boats at the first nationals (has either class matched this domestically in the UK to date???), for early adopters in the UK there was really only one sensible choice- even if it wasn't 'the better boat' in the longer term.  

Sure, what is now, 6 or 7 years after the initial discussions about prototypes hit this forum, it's easy to say 'on reflection we were wrong' for all manner of reasons.  The biggest one for me personally is what Tim identified from the outset- multiple rigs - it's failed big time and some have lost faith in the parent brand as a result.  The company who had built their reputation for bringing all sailors together, had indadvertedly launched a product which drives them apart....   I hope the RS Aero restores that to some level, maybe even challenging the multiple rig failing- although I wouldn't touch one with a barge pole until I saw where the 9 ends up with a more established position in the sailing scene.  

But at that time, in the UK at least, the D-One just looked a little wrong, was priced a little too high and was hampered by a domestic competitor with frankly far stronger positioning.  These things take time to break down organically, even if the D-One had the first-to-market advantage and would have been be a clear favourite on an impartial test sail.  

Any lessons for the future?  Sure, be carefully buying into an new class, or don't give a sh*t and go enjoy sailing whatever it is.... no news there then.