Guys, an analysis for optimal crewweight is online

As you know, the class is sometimes subjected to ridicule because we're only 16,4 foot long.

Elliot Tonkes, well schooled in mathematics, he done a statistical analysis on the optimal crewweight of the Taipan 4.9 design. That is without a spi fitted. He has used the results of the Taipan 4.9 one design Nationals 2000/2001 in Australia where this class is very strong.

Elliot has indicated that he is looking to update this analysis with the analysis of the the 2001/2002 Australian Nationals. This would make the result more accurate.

But the current analysis is already a very good read and is well developped. From what I can tell from my enginering background.

You can find the page at link :

http://www.geocities.com/f16hpclass/F16HP_optimal_crew_weight_analysis.html

And on this page there is a link to the raw data from which this analysis is derived. So you can check all yourself.

Btw, his current finding is that a Taipan 4.9 with 240 kg = 580 lbs has the most consistant finishing in a range of wind and surface conditions.

IF this can be extrapolated to the F16 class than 240 kg's -100 kg's = 140 optimal crewweight for F16 = 310 pounds.

And this would be right smack where we wanted it too be.

With a margin of several Kg's up and down and this weight range would perfectly enclose Female-female; husband-wife and light male-light male crews.

Happy reading.

Wouter