Sorry Doug to digress from the thread topic...

But I must say I am rather stunned by sticker shock on the new A-cats. I almost wish you could buy a new but older-technology A-class from a reputable builder (like Nacra or Hobie or AHPC, Marstom, etc) for less money for us less-competitive types who just want to sail a light, fast boat. But then it wouldn't be a devleopmental class - that sounds more like one-design. I actually thought of looking for an older wooden A-class with an aluminum mast and cross-bars just for pleasure sailing (Not to imply that racing is unpleasurable...)
Oh well, I guess you can't have your cake and eat it too. That is why I bought an FX-1 ("I guess I fall into the group called "the rest of us" as Wouter said). $19.5K US is too rich for my blood.

Doug, I hope you do buy an A-class and wish you the best of luck. I can say that after owning 4 Nacra's, (all bought new), they are pretty tough boats. I have no experience with Bimare.

Steve Bellavia
Hobie FX-1
Sail # 211