Big Sails

[Sailboards]

What will happen if i stick a 12.5 VMG on my 2002 Starboard Carve 123. If i get the biggest fin i can will i get more height?

If i get a big sail and a mast that is 1 size too small with a mast extention. for a 12.5 what will happen?

U Guys Make Fantastic Sails

Rhys

[John I]

On a Carve that size, I wouldn't put anything much larger than a 9.8. Also, fin-wise if you measure from the back of the board about 30.5 cm up towards the nose, you then measure the width of the tail right there. That dimension should give yo the optimal fin length. There is some leeway on that figure, but don't vary too far longer. If you have a mate that already owns an 11, try that on your board. I'm guessing diminishing returns even with that. But, heck try it and see.

Thanks for the enthusiasm for Aerotech.

[Steve]

Hi Rhys:

I would not recommend going much over a 9.0 on a Carve 123. A 12.5 would feel very awkward on a board of that size. Sails in the 9.8 to 11.0 will maximize light wind planing but they require a bigger or wider board. A 12.5 will plane slightly earlier but most people would be happier with an 11.0 as maximum size sail. A maximum sized fin for a Carve 123 would be about 50 cm. Any bigger then that would be too lifty and difficult to control.

Best Regards:
Steve

[Sailboards]

Would i be able to piont higher than i would with a 7.0 and a 34cm fin if i put a 50cm in?

[John I]

Hi Sailboards,

Pointing upwind depends on three variables:

1. Technique. Load the fin too early-wash the fin out. Or, too much pressure when lit up and going fast- spin out. The trick-knowing how much and when to use back foot pressure. Time on the water and freeracing or racing the best way to acquire the skills. Getting the most power from your sail helps too- sheet in as much as you can.

2. Wind. Lots of wind makes it way easier.

3. Equipment. Even a wave specific board goes upwind okay provided #1 +2 are there. But, the kit does provide lots of help to make it easier. In the case of using a 50cm fin, you may give up some looseness on your board. Seen people do it and don't discourage it; however, there's the balance issue again. What benefit do you gain vs. cost?

In a bumper sticker, big fin= more upwind. On a SB 123, okay.