Reynolds 21/slim

Discussion in 'Multihulls' started by diegokid, Jul 21, 2013.

  1. diegokid
    Joined: Nov 2010
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    Location: southeast

    diegokid Junior Member

    Several years ago I bought a reynolds 21. The mast had been replaced with a Hobie 18 mast and associated sails. The boat does well but is a PITA to set up and haul. Was wondering what the outcome would be if I reduced the overall beam to 8.5' for easier trailering and much quicker setup and takedown. Since the nets need to be replaced anyway I was thinking about this before I have them made.

    I am new to this and really would like some input into this change.
     
  2. Corley
    Joined: Oct 2009
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    Location: Melbourne, Australia

    Corley epoxy coated

    A narrower boat will mean less righting moment which might be a safety issue depending on your sailing venue on the positive side of the coin you will fly a hull sooner which should make the boat faster at lower windspeeds.
     
  3. rapscallion
    Joined: Oct 2006
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    Location: Wisconsin

    rapscallion Senior Member

    The hobie 18 is 8 feet wide, and weighs about 450 lbs. I bet your 21' cat is heavier. I would go for it, but put a teardrop float on top of the mast just in case.
     
  4. diegokid
    Joined: Nov 2010
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    Location: southeast

    diegokid Junior Member

    Your right on the weight. It's about twice that of the Hobie.
     

  5. bruceb
    Joined: Nov 2008
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    Location: atlanta,ga

    bruceb Senior Member

    weight aloft

    Much of the capsizing tendency of older beach cats was a least partly due to overly robust and heavy masts and rigs. The H-18 rig is probably lighter than the 21s, and any thing you can do to lighten the rig- foam core battens, synthetic stays, and even lighter sails can make up a lot for the decreased beam. I think I also would try it.
    Of course, Reynolds 33s ended up having to Increase their beam to help keep the rig pointed up. :(
    B
     
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