There has been a fair amount of speculation that some relevant news regarding the sorry state of affairs with ILCA, the builders and the equipment (upper spar and sails) would be forthcoming after the Olympics. But when?
I can't see why the Olympics has to be such a block to the rest of the class. I believe that the sail issue has been damaging the class for some time now. A few years ago when I moved and went to join a new club the Club Officers asked "What boat ?" Answer "Laser" Reply "they have awful sails ...".There has been a fair amount of speculation that some relevant news regarding the sorry state of affairs with ILCA, the builders and the equipment (upper spar and sails) would be forthcoming after the Olympics. But when?
There are some pictures of the new sail at http://ymlp.com/zLl0tK and http://claysails.com/node/392any idea what the new sail will look like?
It may not be a matter of "profit" but just getting some money from existing stock. A normal supplier will keep stock although they will try and reduce stock as a new product release approaches. But with things like Laser sails where they (probably) have to purchase in very large quantities from manufacturers, the ability to control stock levels whilst having stock for sail - difficult.Also interesting that "the current Dacron sail is expected to drop in price to $450 from its current $650 once the new sail is available". So just how much profit are those guys making if they can afford to cut 30% off and still make money?
Different distribution network.Radial cut Full rig is really confusing. I hope they find a new name.
Also interesting that "the current Dacron sail is expected to drop in price to $450 from its current $650 once the new sail is available". So just how much profit are those guys making if they can afford to cut 30% off and still make money?
I know most of the guys at hydes and I've asked them - as to mid 2013...fat chance they say!Some interesting tidbits in the class newsletter, but nothing concrete. Both Andy and Tracy say approval of the new sail is "close", waiting on the ISAF. New sails may be available mid-2013. The carbon upper mast may take a little longer.