LOFTSAILS RACING BLADE 2016 – WHAT’S NEW?

We asked Monty to outline what’s changed in the flagship 2016 Racing Blade range.

What are the Key Developments?

‘The plan form (outline), material change (more monofilm), leech tuning, tuned batten-taper and horizontal curve schedules – and new colors!’

And the Benefits?
‘Expand the wind range, improve stability, improve speed throughout the wind range … easier-to-access performance.’

How did you Achieve those Enhancements?
‘Testing with my new Tarifa-based team – Ramon and Fernando – Monofilm proved to be faster than the 2-mm. x-ply used to build the 2015 Racing Blades. 

‘The mono test was conclusive: Racing Blades identical to each other EXCEPT for the material were tested against each other extensively. The result of our investigation concluded that monofilm produces improved performance. 

“Racing Blade 2016 has taken a very large step forward”

‘The difference is not big in the low end, although a difference is certainly there. In medium winds monofilm starts to shine. While in the upper end, monofilm produces more stability – a direct, ‘slippery’ feeling that contrasts clearly to x-ply. 

‘Monofilm is equal to xply for reliability when the sail is built well with scrim dacron applications.

‘And our orange colored mono has significantly better UV life than standard clear monofilm.

‘The 2016 leech tuning allows the Racing Blade rig to settle comfortably into greater rake: more angle closing the rig down onto the board. This is a faster configuration for performance.

“The 2016 edition is my best work – ever …”

Greater rake required re-designing the foot outline.  

‘Batten tube lengths have been revised for 2016, and the profiles worked into the battens have been adjusted. 

The result is slightly deeper and forward oriented profile which assists to expand both tuning reactivity and wind range.’