Not really, but helps to fuel the debate!!!

Could the Merlin Rocket Class Implode?

Why don't we get some moulds and bang some boats out in the far east.

Is that a business proposition?

Is it just the Winder boats that people want, have the EZ rollers not proved a fast alternative? Perhaps a call to Linton might allow those desperate to get a new boat to get in there earlier.
If he wants to compete with Winder he will have to price competitively,and he now has the mould for a plastic 'Let it ride'.

Just a thought from a very content Winder Mk4 boat owner.

The vintage circuit looks even more appealing now...

There is of course that quaint, old fashioned stuff called wood. Surely Laurie or Kevin would be able to produce a state of the art boat somewhat quicker? Pat Blake's Make It So Mark II was made from foam sandwich-didn't that reduce the building time and costs?
Don't give up on wood-plenty of people are still going fast in wooden boats and they last.

yes Grump and it would appear considerably longer than some of the plastic jobbies! Do the Plastic boats get replaced regularly by some because they need an update or because they are raced hard and fall apart!? 

Building in wood is definately not a backward step and in fact when I was editor of the MR magazine I foolowed very closely the build process of Pat Blake's old boat (very new boat) 3640 and it was amazing how quickly Laurie put that particular boat together without comprimising build quality by using hi-tech foam cell ply, quick planking methods and carbon. If it's all about 'keeping up with the Jonses'i.e. one string racking rig arrangements, don't under estimate Laurie's engineering skills as these systems i'm sure can be incorporated however you so desire.

One thing you can be sure of wood boats will be around for alot longer than their plastic counterparts.

Maybe someone should talk to Jacko, he used to produced a wood sandwich, a boat made from marine ply but painted, very cheep and very quick to build.

Sheep you see ,BAAAAAHHHHH, Baaaahhhh

The wood boats are just as good as the plastic ones. 3640 weighed in at 78kg and I was there to witness it! (Follow link - this is 3640 being constructed by Laurie and Steve).

Baaaahhhh
           BAAAAAHHHHHH

This boat is still imaculate - stiff/light and FOR SALE

So why are you selling it and keeping your Winder then?

I may not - just waiting for the Winder 2nd hand price to go even higher!
Seriously, I wouldn't if Smart Tart had a one string system. It could be retro fitted but it is a bit of a hassel - I don't think it is inherently slower and the results prove it.

Go on Pat get the conversion done, climb back into that beautiful ship of yours (3640) and prove to everyone next season that wood is just as good if not better than plastic.

Hopefully Glen T will do just that when he takes to the water in 3626 next year an all wood Driver - Let it Ride, win lots of races and turn heads!

UP THE WOODEN REVOLUTION

Come on Pat you are an experienced sailor of some talent how about you letting the world know with an intelectual appraisal of the pros and cons of Winder and EZ?

Dear Dot (or Dotty if I might be so bold),
Would that it were so easy but unfortunately intelectual and appraisal are two words I never did!
I did however do pros, and cons I suppose - but that is for another thread!