A proposal has been made for an optional rigging change to the H-20. The change involves modifying the H-20 traveller control system to allow a pivoting cleat mechanism and fairlead that controls the traveller line to be mounted along the forward edge of the rear crossbar on a bracket rather than on the traveller.
The new system is very similar to that in use on the H-16, Tiger, Getaway, Fox, H-18 and other brands of catamarans. The change would create a consistent cleat location and cleating action on all points of sail, and improve traveller control, particularly downwind or in high-wind conditions. In addition, the new system would make recovering from a dropped traveller line much easier. With the current mechanism, if the line unexpectedly pulls free of the cleat, the traveller—and much of the line —is yanked to the leeward side of the boat, making recovery a chore. With the cleat in the center of the boat, the sheet is within reach without climbing to the leeward side, or reeling in handfuls of line.
The cost of the improvement is minimal as all of the existing traveller parts would be reused, Only a small mounting bracket (available through Hobie, Murrays or most boat supply stores) and a handful of rivets ($20 to $30 total cost) would be required to make the change. The proposal suggests the following language be added to the class rules:
7.12 A cleat and fairlead for controlling
the traveller line may be mounted
on the traveller or rear crossbar in
any manner so long as the
mounting bracket does not block or
otherwise interfere with the
traveller’s movement, or allow the
traveller to be sheeted to windward
of the boat’s centerline.Sailor comment on this proposal is being solicited at this time. Sailor comments will be provided to the IHCA Rules Committee which will then make their recommendation to the IHCA Council, most likely at the IHCA meeting in South Africa this fall.
Make your voice heard in the class association!
Existing System—Hobie 20:
Proposed System (Shown on a Hobie Tiger— H-20 would require a bracket to support the swivel cleat):