I am leaning toward entering the F16 world. I don't think I will competitively race. But I want a newer "race ready" F16.

I asked in a different thread... "What are the F16 platforms available in North America? How do they stack up?"

Pete replied... "Basically, just the Viper and Falcon. If you can find a Taipan 4.9 it would be worth a look."

I thought it best to move this part of my education (thanks again to everyone here at catsailer) to this part of the forum.

As I am re entering the sailing hobby I want to keep the initial cost down. I was hoping to find a boat for around 5K but could spend 10K. I am willing to retrieve the boat from near anywhere in North America.

I can assure everyone I have done allot of reading this last week and wish I could be in Isalmoralda to see all the action and take a few boats for a sail.

From formula16.net "The F16 class was founded in 2001 and there are now a number of fully optimised designs in production"

viper, taipan, stealth, falcon, blade, aqua raptor... these are the boats available in the world (sorry if I missed any). I have done some looking and nothing used is coming up on any of my searches.

Will I be able to enter the F16 world for under 10K?

Please send me a PM if you know of any F16's that might be looking for a new home.

Gord,

You should be able to pick up a Blade or Taipan 4.9 for under $10K w/trailer, easily. Your biggest problem will be finding one for sale.

I believe there are two F16 for sale in the Chicago area - a older Blade and a newer Falcon. The Blade would definitely be less than $10K. I'll send a link of this post to the potential sellers. I believe the forum name of the Blade seller is MarkMT. You could PM him.

Also, check with Matt McDonald at Falcon Marine. I did and that is where I bought my reconditioned Blade. The boat was in great shape. At one point he had some used boats on the web site as well.

I have been talking to Matt. He is a phenomenal resource and a great communicator. Anyone in the market should start there. Good advice.