[quote=astglenn][quote=mummp][quote=astglenn][quote=mummp]I do. What do you want to know? It's similar to the 5.8 but pivot centerboards, updated sail plan, spin kit, etc. Nacra changed the main to a boom vs. boomless.
If I had to choose between 5.8 or 580 I would pic 5.8NA for performance/racing and pic the 580 for recreational use.
Now to throw you a curve ball. I would pick the F18 over the 580 for oh so many reasons.[/quote]
I am looking for something with a fairly uncluttered tramp, a modern hull design, updated sail construction and the ability to haul balls without being on the edge unless really pushed. The 580 looks like it would fit the bill. My Hobie 18 is a beautiful high performance truck. It is an 82, so its really heavy....... I will sail this solo about 50% of the time. The A Cat is cool from a weight perspective, but I fear it would be a tad more edgy.
......It sounds like you have had a good time with the 580. I have yet to read a bad comment about that specific boat.
Thank you for the input.Edited by astglenn on Aug 27, 2012 - 01:24 PM. [/quote]
What's your name?
Of all the criteria that you listed, the 580 really does not fit the bill. The hull is modified (boards, beam beds) from the original design from the 80's, if that is what is important to you. Still the original design was a great hull that was before its time. The typical layout of the 580 does not have a self tacking jib, which all modern sloop rigs now have. If you are sailing with a spin you absolutely want a self tacker, and even more so if you are sailing solo. The boat is still heavy, and sailing it solo in a good stiff breeze is no fun. It's not really set up for solo, and it is a powerful 19 foot beast.
Uncluttered tramp: All the current boats come with a perfectly uncluttered tramp, by design. The 580 is a bit better than the vintage old boats of yester-year in clutter as the jib blocks are mounted on the beam and they did away with the 4-way set up.
There are not a lot of 580's in circulation in the US (more so across the pond) and sourcing important parts like the pivoting dagger would be expensive and likewise, would be a deal killer for me.
For your budget, and considering your zest for a modern design, you might want to put some thought in the A-cat, F-16, or F-18. All three platforms meet your criteria and there are plenty to choose from. They all offer the "haul balls" factor. The F-18 is still heavy and probably more than a handful if you are keen on solo. The A-cat is beauty in its own art form in every way, but strictly a solo rig.
Might as well throw in the F17, a dated but still fairly modern design. They are dirt cheap and set up for solo, and you can add a jib and sail it two up.
I would again look at what you want from your boat and re-evaluate.[/quote]
I really appreciate you taking the time to reach out with all this information. Let me get my priorities straight in my head and list them sensibly. If you are willing to offer this level of recommendation, I desire to ask the right questions. I shall return. BTW. My name is Glenn.<!-- editby --><em>Edited by astglenn on Aug 27, 2012 - 05:40 PM.</em><!-- end editby --> [/quote]
