[quote=yurdle]I don't think that the sheeting force difference is due to having a boom or not.
One thing I'd recommend, and I'm probably totally alone in this, is to set your cleat on your main so that you can't cleat it even if you try from the wire. I can only cleat mine when I'm a few inches from it, which I do for tacking and jibing. I have a 7:1 with a square top, so it pulls back pretty good, especially with 2 on the wire, but it also gives me a great 'feel' for the boat while I'm trapped. Anticipating heel is extremely easy, which makes it very controllable. I don't think its the best idea long term, especially in a large body like you guys have, but I've found it very handy for learning my 5.2.
I'm really surprised that you have to use two hands, though. Maybe try an 8:1? Is your sail blown out?
The 5.2 is an excellent solo boat. It's fun and wet, and very forgiving. The 5.5 is also an excellent boat, really a nicer boat IMO, but maybe not the best for soloing. I'd think the extra 6" of beam would help, though.[/quote]
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