This conclusion is actually based on a faulty reading of the Texel ratings listing.

You compare the sloop rigged F17 that is singlehanded with a cat-rigged Taipan 4.9 that is also sailed 1-up. The texel listing does not however list the rating for the truly comparable Taipan 4.9 sloop being sailing solo. If the rating rating is calculated using the Texel calculator feature for custom boats then the Taipan 4.9 sloop is rated faster then the F17 sloop.

We have got to compare apples to apples.

The F17 does indeed provide better pre-pitchpole control then the classic Taipan 4.9 however, that is true. The evolution of the Taipan design was halted by its One-Design rules and due to its early establishment back in 1987, it could not gain from the 90's era experience in hull design, sails or production methods. The F17 obviously could. A better comparison is to be made with the new designs of the F16 class as these are at their core a restarted evolution of the basic Taipan 4.9 setup.

Alle are excellent designs though.

Regards,

Wouter