Thanks everyone for getting involved! This was the whole point of my posting on the subject. Be sure you make your feeling known to the IHCA at www.hobieclass.com as that is where it is all happening.

I have been informed by Hobie Cat France that the mast rotation proposal has been withdrawn due to geometry differences in the mast pivot point height that would make the old and new step systems too different. It is deemed unacceptable that the new system would change the geometry of the rig.

We seem to be coming to the conclusion of the following as being generally accepted:

Mast rotation arm / limiter (does not require a rotation system change. May require a maximum rotation stop angle)

Increased downhaul and cleat change.

Increased outhaul (this is already approved I am told)

Jib Halyard cam cleat system

Refinements are still required on how to do these.

We must keep in mind that the changes should be for "ease of use" and not speed enhancements. They should be easily upgradable at low cost. An older, non-upgraded boat should not be at a speed disadvantage therefore discouraging sailors who do not wish to do the upgrades.

There is a general rule in the Class rules that fits this issue perfectly:

2. INTENT AND OBJECTIVE
Hobie Catamarans are designed to be easy to sail with the least amount of trouble to owners. Boat and component changes, which have no direct bearing upon boat speed, are the only changes allowed. The intent and objective of the INTERNATIONAL HOBIE CLASS ASSOCIATION (IHCA) RULES are:

a) To keep each boat as equal, simple and cost free as possible by rigidly maintaining, without deviation, the one-design features of the Hobie Cat for class racing.

b) To increase boat speed only through the use of racing tactics and sailing skills.