On Wed, 22 Oct 2003 21:27:35 -0400, Ryk
wrote:


I'm about to add a spin rig on my Hughes 35 (I=44ft, J=14.5ft). A
little googling yields a variety of opinions on the reasonable upper
size limit for an end-for-end gybe. I think the boat is too big to
manage it with single, loaded sheets, but that it should be manageable
with separate sheets and guys. I'm looking for other opinions and/or
suggestions on what works best for you.

As for thrills, a gybe in 20 or 30 knots of breeze can be pretty
exciting no matter how it's choreographed ;-)

We have a J36, (I==42.5, J=14.5) and must do end-for-end because there
are only two of us on the boat normally. We only do gybes in moderate
air, having once had an "interesting" experience with a J35 chute in
20-30 kts.

This year (after 14 seasons) we finally got an ATN sock as a geriatric
aid. When in doubt, we pull the sock down, gybe, and raise it again.

I do think dipping might be better if you always have enough trained
people to do it. But unless you are sure you will never need to
end-for-end, get a symmetrical pole anyway.



Rodney Myrvaagnes NYC J36 Gjo/a

"Religious wisdom is to wisdom as military music is to music."