CRUISING TIPS

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RIG TUNE & PERFORMANCE

The relationship between rig tune and performance can seem like a black hole. Quantum’s Dave Flynn clears up the confusion by explaining the four key elements of the rig.

1. RAKE

Rake is determined by headstay length. Adding rake is a tool for generating power in light air and reducing rake is part of the de-powering process in heavy air.

2. ATHWARTSHIP TUNING

If the rig is not centered side to side, performance and trim will be different tack to tack. To remedy this, center the top of the rig and then bring each successive panel in line with the top using the diagonal shrouds.

3. MAST BEND

While rake is the amount the mast is angled aft, mast bend is the amount you bend it aft after you have set your rake. A rig that bends gives you a powerful tool for changing the shape of the mainsail–more bend flattens the sail and de-powers it; a straighter mast creates shape and power.

4. HEADSTAY SAG

If some mast bend is good, why isn’t more better? The answer is headstay sag. When the headstay sags, the headsail becomes fuller and more powerful, which is great in light conditions. But as the breeze builds, you’ll want to reduce the amount of sag to de-power the boat and help with pointing.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Keep it simple and think in terms of increasing or decreasing power. Each of the four elements of rig tune either works to add power or take it away.