big heads and backstay whips

[Neil]

Hi,I need a new main for my Beneteau 235. I want to improve my light-air_flat-water performance, so I'm thinking about either maximizing the workable amount of roach, or doing 'the Melges 24 thing', and getting an over-sized head under a backstay whip.What are the pros and cons of these two approaches?Thanks,Neil

 

[Bill Colombo]

Mainsail Roach

Neil, Increasing sail area will definitely improve light air performance. If you primarily race the boat I would buy a main with the maximum roach allowed by whatever rule you sail under such as PHRF or One-Design. Anything larger than that will cost you in terms of your rating. A race roach will overlap the backstay a bit so you will have to get used to clearing it after tacks in light air. Backstay whips work well but make sure you have a cascading backstay system that you can ease enough so the whip can lift it clear of the sail. If this sounds too complicated and you don't race that often you can have your sailmaker design a mainsail that just barely clears the backstay but does not snag on it. All you need to do this are a couple extra measurements.Thanks,Bill ColomboDoyle Sailmakers