I've been assuming crew can supply 125lbs. For the 9:1 that comes stock on a new T, that's 1125lbs of traveller load, which is a pretty good match.

Wouter's recollection of measured T loads is reassuring.

The alternative a Harken 2736 or 2737, with 1250# SWL, and 2500# breaking strength, compared to 1100/3080 for the Ronstan.

--Glenn

Wouter,

Thanks for the off-center load carrying description. It makes sense.

My experience with Ronstan 19mm track has been in a self-tacking jib traveller. These cars will stick slightly under their own weight when used horizontally with no jib sheet load, such as when tacking in light air. Sometimes we have to hand-move the car to complete tacks in these conditions... but that might be a good thing, as a better rolling car might tend to roll to the track center under its own weight. :-)

Thanks for the description,
--Glenn

Hi All

The new prices for the Taipan 4.9 are now on the www.ahpc.com.au website. Looks pretty competitive to me.

Regards

Hi Matt,

so is this price for the ones they are getting made in Thailand? Price looks OK as you said. Sloop comes to $20,013. with spinnaker kit.

The latest Formula Catamaran Australia, Blade F16 pricing I have is $21,000. don't have all the details as Marcus was in a rush to get to the F16 Global Challenge, but it is not a bad price for a Aussie built boat with the latest shape Kevlar Hulls. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

Hi Gary

Yep, these are Thailand boats, I think some have landed, they're said to on time, on weight, and of a excellent finish.

One new owner is pretty excited anyway, but its not me unfortunatly.

Regards

Are you saying that the Taipans are being made in Thailand as well as the Vipers?

Yes that is correct. This was discussed earlier in the thread. The Taipan has never been 'unavailable' the moulds have moved from Australia to Thailand is all. Even when Jim closed Boyer Fibrecraft you could still get one built in Australia. The cost of production is the reason, most of these (AHPC boats) are made in overseas.

Regards

Ok thanks, I guess I must have forgotten. Still it adds to the curiosity about the thinking behind the weight of the Viper.

Hi Mark

Two different markets for two different boats, Taipan One Design, strong following in Australia, which as an option can fit under the F16 rules. The Viper, a purpose built F16, built specifically for that market.

As far as market competition between the two boats, I think it will basically come down to that, you will either want a boat to sail as one design, or without the kite I guess, you'll probably be attracted to the Taipan, but if you a purpose built F16 with kite, the Viper would be more attractive, thats my way of thinking anyway.

Regards