Hello Solowildman, and all

You are correct, there is nothing like getting out and sailing by yourself.

I say, try and sail as many different solo unit you can,..pick the one you like. After all, it is going to be you, you and you sailing the boat. Only you know what 'turns you on'.

Can't miss on Wouter point of view though, he knows his stuff. I can testify to this. So, consider his input.

I have a 2000 I-17 Euro version ( aluminum mast), sail # 50, and sail in the Caribbean. My neck of the woods have big winds and big waves all the time. I believe that the hull shape of the I(F)-17 series has saved me many times from glorious 'wipe-outs' due to blasting thru waves at full throttle. To me, this is the extreme value of the I-17 series.

If you are not racing coastal or open ocean, then the I-17 hull shape advantage is minimized, in fact, that additional weight will hurt you in 'open class'.

To give you an idea, the first thing one install is foot straps for upwind legs. If you are not connected to the platform, the combination of speed and wave motion effectively separates you from your boat!

As for sail area, I have reduced my main to 150 sf, and I am a svelt 230 pounds dry , and with this configuration ( and about a 1 year tuning guide developement from Wouter and others), the 17 is approaching maximum upwind performance.

So, get what you like,..go sailing,..they are all excellant choices.

regards,

Bruce
St. Croix