Mike:

I guess the question here is did the boat come form the factory with or without the wings. I too see this as an advantage over a boat with out them, that is giving the ability to draw more power form the main before tuning it down. I can't speak fluently about Hobie 18 as there are so many different variation you need a Phildalphia lawyer and New York accountant to keep it straight. Maybe Wickland can educate us on what is the right configuration for the Hobie 18, Hobie 18 Magnum, Hobie 18SX, Star and Stripes, Alter Limited Edition, etc.......

In this specific case if WH showed up to any of our event we would probably start with the standard H-18 rating of 71.4 and then start making the adjustment with each modification, that is the adjustment for the taller mast, larger sail and spinnaker, and if he added wings that too. That said in my eyes WH should be rated at 66.83 That is 71.40 X .960 (spin) X .980 (oversized main X .995 (taller mast). And if he chose the wings that day then 66.50. Again, this is my personal opinion and not gospel.

So this leads us to another question, what is the proper rating for Tom.