The F16HP class uses an effective sail area measurement of 13 sqm for the main. The equation assumes that a longer mast will be more efficient, so longer masts are limited to less actual sail area where as shorter luff lengths are allowed more sail area. Under the rule the Taipan with an 8.5 m mast is allowed to have approx. 1sqm larger main than say the Bim with a 9m mast. A boat with an 8m mast could have even more measured sail area. In theory the boats would all produce the same power. The formula is part of the Texel rating system.

This is why the whole argument about mast length is so ridiculous. As long as the effective sail area is less than 13 sqm the different sails should be producing the same thrust. Different manufactures can choose the mast length that best suites their design compromises and the boats can still race equally.

The Jav 16 with a 17.5 sqm spi looks to be optimized as a single handed F16 HP that could be occasionally raced with a crew. The sloop rig boats may be optimized for double handed sailing, but removing the jib can be sailed or raced single handed. Set your priorities, pick your boat, and go racing.

I say reject the rule change that limits the mast length to 8.5 m. With the rated sail area rule boats with different mast lengths can race equally and we can include more builders.

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