I'm a 20ft sailor, but don't think I have the bank to afford participating in an F20 class. I think the development class is great idea, though.

One design fleets have their drawbacks, but the money I save on equipment means more money available for travel to regattas.

What's the difference (besides sail area) of the european 20's? Why is the 18 so much more popular? Are Americans that overweight, or is the wind so much lighter here?