I'm considering ordering a new class main sail with a bolt rope luff (currently using slugs). Couple of questions.
Searching around different forums, the pros/cons are mostly performance vs ease-of-use. Is the performance gain on a J/109 worth the extra effort(s) for hoisting/flaking/wear-and-tear? I'm racing the boat almost exclusively. I understand any potential gain is in a few percent efficiency, but seeking others opinions here.
And, are there any discussions in j109.org (I've searched around with no hits yet) that describe the modifications needed to open the mast sail slot and relocating the gate? I see the class rules permit such a modification (section 4.4.5), and was hoping someone has posted some discussions and/or pictures. And do other people think that the sail slot modification is worthwhile when switching to a bolt rope main (compared to just using the existing slot and being super careful when hoisting)?
Any other thoughts/comments are appreciated! Thanks much.
Marc
Bolt rope luff
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Re: Bolt rope luff
Marc,
I use slugs in the existing mast track for my everyday sail and use it with PHRF racing. It has also been used for some OD racing. I have my race main with a bolt rope. They are exactly the same sails except for that. In my opinion, for everyday use the slugs are much easier with minimal performance impact. One bad tack will loose mare than the difference between two similar condition sails with rope vs slugs.
There is no need to install a separate mast track. Talk to your sailmaker about this.
I use slugs in the existing mast track for my everyday sail and use it with PHRF racing. It has also been used for some OD racing. I have my race main with a bolt rope. They are exactly the same sails except for that. In my opinion, for everyday use the slugs are much easier with minimal performance impact. One bad tack will loose mare than the difference between two similar condition sails with rope vs slugs.
There is no need to install a separate mast track. Talk to your sailmaker about this.
