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How much stiffer? Have you (or someone else) measured it?It is also a little stiffer
Why? Because it's stiffer?a detriment in light air
Do you know if anyone else is doing this?I'm actually going to take my old aluminum section with me to every regatta and if it's light, (under 10 knots) I'll sail with it instead.
How much stiffer? Have you (or someone else) measured it? It's widely discussed being stiffer- Discussed w/two current cycle olympic campaigner- one Radial and one full- One qualified for games, one didn't- I've had some coaching from both.
Why? Because it's stiffer? - Yes
Do you know if anyone else is doing this? - There are very few composite tops in our district - none on the inland lake clubs. I'm pretty sure I'll be the first one doing this, but I've lost some significant speed in the 2-6 knots breeze range and it's all been since I onboarded the composite top section. I'm actually lighter and in better physical condition than I was 3 yrs ago so I know it's not me. My tactics have been solid as well as good starts. My light air sail/vang settings and boat trim are proper as well. When folks start sailing away from you head to head something is wrong though and the top section is all I've done different outside of being in better physical condition. I discussed this with one of the olympic campaigners this past weekend and she said "Definitely- the carbon is slower in light air".
To keenbean: if you're buying a new topmast anyway, then it's probably smart to invest in a composite spar. But if you already have a perfectly good aluminium stick, then it makes little sense to spend the money. (This is what I am doing myself.)
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Rob,
In light air, would you recommend a little more vang to bend the composite top.