Don



We have fitted curved self tacking tracks to both our Tornado cats here in NZ - it works great - so well you could sail a windward beat and tack several times without touching the jib sheet if necessary (including tacking) even when trimmed on hard.



I was amazed as I expected to have some problems but it was perfect first try. I have some e-photos somewhere if you're interested.



In racing it would be rare for a racing crew not to adjust the jibsheet constantly upwind, ourselves included, but it just goes to show that this system runs very well.



We run a chute off the bridle for the kite so don't have any snagging issue - but since it only sticks out 500mm each side of the mast, I think you would have few problems. In any case my earlier experience with a bag was that it was mostly steering technique as to whether you had problems with snagging the kite.



The one downside we have found has nothing to do with the chute, just some difficulty tacking when down on speed and also manouvring on the startline without being able to back the jib. Just takes practice and an adept crew!



It is possible you could have some difficulties with a bigger boat with higher loads but presumably it's just a question of allowing for those loads with purchases and hardware specs.



Without even trying a straight track, after a season of racing, I would not change from our system.



Cheers