Good articles, both - thanks for linking.
On the Cap test, I guess I read it slightly diff than the way you did, iMax. You're conclusion was that the Cap can't be pushed as hard as a Nacra or a Tiger off the wind (the article actually says Tiger), but the telling line for me is this;
"Past Force 4 a Formula 18 will continue to behave well or become an animal, depending on your level of experience. Problems for less experienced sailors are likely to include driving the bows down and pitch-poling on an offwind leg and bearing away..."
I guess with talk about pitching by F18s in general, it might leave one with the impression, since it was a review of the Cap specifically. I have not noted the "Achilles heel" the article indicated the Cap suffers on the start line - when I get up on the line, it holds position well and I haven't found myself in trouble yet... certainly not in any way related to the dagger boards as the reviewer states he has heard from sailors racing against the Cap. Where was the editor on that bit of "I heard someone say..."?
On the Nacra review, I was pleased to note many of the similarities in design between the Cap and the Infusion - gybing boards, cordage and fit out, mast, extra volume in the taller hulls, etc. I think these are the elements we'll continue to see developed in the forseeable.
VMG - on the Nacra review, what happened to the "Answer Back" section? Is this a draft, or is it published already?
Thanks again - good reading. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
