Just starting to look into Merlin’s and I have a question… |
Quote from the link below: http://www.merlinrocket.co.uk/technical/beginners.htm |
Basically Ian more recent boats built since the tread above just about all boats have been built with deck steped rigs, it was fairly quickly followed by carbon rigs & kevlar sails. So basically it's a case of if you want to compete well at open meeting level you'll need a resonably up to date boat, they all are of course deck stepped / kevlar clad. Now it gets more fun at Club level were as in most classes it's a well tweaked & sailed older boat that can often (alais not always) out perform a badly sailed newer boat. There are many old sages that will tell you to buy the best most up to date boat you can afford and be happy with it. Check out the Clubs were Merlins are sailed & the design guide to avoid the odd mongrel. Also the now non fashionable builders built some gems now appearing very resonably on the Web'Boats For Sale' list the Niane (tales derivative) looks a snip at £1500. Again if it's an older boat thats dictated by your bugget don't be put off the class have a list of RYA endorsed PY no's which give older boats a chance at club handicap fleet level. Hope you find & enjoy one Regards Barry. |
Deck stepping allows a thinner=softer mast to be used, so it will bend readily in stronger wind depowering the rig automatically. Coupled with raking the rig back which opens the slot and moves the centre of effort aft this vastly improves ease of handling in strong wind. If you are mainly sailing inland on restricted water particularly rivers this is of less importance. Very much depends on your budget. If you can afford £2000 then Skimbleshanks 3474 has just appeared on the list, an early Canterbury Tales with a good record, though reading between the lines the sails are past their best. If you are budgeting below £1000 then don't get too hung up on deck-stepped rigs as many will have been converted with greater or lesser success and competance - look for condition above all as this can really cost you time and money to sort out. |
Thanks for the well informed and detailed replies guys. |
Ian, |
Ian - visit Whitstable whenever you like, give me a ring first 01795 534129 or 07973 149037 and I will make sure someone is there to look after you. Incidentally there are two deck stepped Merlins for sale at the club! |