I have an '85 Hobie 16 that I bought new. I am 71 years old and sail solo much of the time. I have done no modifications to the boat other than replacing rudder cams and shrouds a couple of times. I passed on the upgrade to the comptip mast years ago. I am not interested in racing so class legal is not an issue.

You need a righting line. I just keep a heavy line tied to pylon. If you try to right the boat alone, there are a couple of tricks. One is to put the jib traveler all the way out on the down side and pull the jib sheet, ahead of the cam lock, to pull the jib down. With the mast not quite up into the wind, when you try to right it, the wind will fill the jib and help lift the mast. Another common assistance item is the bucket that fills with water and adds to your weight, though I have never used it myself. The tiller should be long enough to handle the boat even when you are out on the wire. The standard Hobie tiller will do it. I have only recently switched to a "Hot Stick" and though I like it, it isn't a necessity.

Enjoy the boat.

Howard