Would spending $500 on new rudders really enhance the performance and how so? Any real world testamonials out there on the use of epo and kevlar? How can I tell if mine are lexan or fiberglass (what is lexan?)?
No, 500.00 bucks spend on EOP's will not make the thing twice as fast. But it will reduce flexing and the before described stalling issue (or it will cause the stalling at higher speeds when the load gets to high). Dumping $ in EPO’s makes only sense if you upgrade the rest of the Hobie (low profile mainsheet system, shorter shrouds / longer forestay for more mast rake, new jib, …)
At the same time $5 for some spray paint will not do anything for the performance. In case you decide to paint the blades black the lexan will show after a few sessions on the trailing edge just from the beaching.
Lexan vs. composite blade... If it looks like you have some sort of seam at leading and trailing edge you have a glass fiber blade. The way you are describing yours I think you have a lexan blade.
