Yep Robi,

And then you have to add lead corrector weights to get back up to min weight again.

You have just discovered one of the smart F16 class rules dependencies that limit the attractiveness of expensive parts.

By making alu boats close to min weight we take away much if not all of the benefites of things like carbon beams or masts.

Thus a builder and home builder end up with the situation where they can spend a few 1000's U$ more and still end up with pretty much the same boat. What do you think they will do ?

It is the best answer against an arms race without limiting personal freedom to modify and change a design. Make the gains far too small for the additional costs.

Besides I like nothing better then to see a 100.000 US$ boat getting beat by a 10 years old Timber/Epoxy boat of 10.000 Us$ sailed by a crew that spend his money on holliday time to practice (and enjoying) racing !

Wouter