I am thinking about buying a Hobie Tiger. I am not sure if I should buy a new or used one. Are there any aftermarket upgrades to the stock boats that I should know about?

To sail the boat as a Tiger or as F18 ?

To sail the boat as a Tiger.

The boats come pretty complete these days including self tacker jibs and spinnaker gear (snuffers are an option). Used Tigers might not have the self tackers or snuffer systems.

I've been putting the changes I make online at my site. I bought an 05 boat this fall. It's pretty complete and ready to go. There is also the option to tweak also. I tend to like to play with stuff so have made several changes.

Hi,
The Tiger changed it's mast spreader sometime around 2003(?). The new one seems much more aerodynamic and lighter. Does anyone know if you can convert an old-style spreader to the new one? I'd like to do this for my FX-1 (Mostly the same parts and pieces as the Tiger).
Thanks!
Steve
Hobie FX-1, Sail # 211

P.S. The latest Tiger Assembly manual
http://www.hobiecat.com/support/pdfs/tigerassy.pdf
shows the new spreader on page 10

I don't have the p/n's handy, but you'll have to change the spreader attachment plates on the mast. They aren't compatible between the two styles. Drop me a note offline if you need them.

-Mike