That
was my question. As the mild-mannered 18 magnum, it's a comfortable vessel with so much room it exudes a sense of security, enough to take a young child or grandmama along and enough power available even with four aboard to give an impressive ride (and those clever steps to get back on the dock).
Today the wings came off, grip tape went on. 13-14 mph and gusty, 2 to 3 foot chop. Why did Hobie stop making this boat? I've owned and raced a 16 for a long time. I now have experienced what put those weird grins on the 18 sailors face
Let 'er rip Baby! After getting parallel with the hull three times, my son spent the rest of his wire time with that weird grin on his face. While he rested it was my turn to trap. For the first time, I was able to truly
see this boat in action. After an hour or so of practicing tacking and trapezing (all upwind), we broad reached all the way back down the lake, rudders howlin' like crazy, people waving and hootin'.
If you have a Magnum or SX, even if you never plan to race or even trapeze for that matter, you have got to experience this boat as it was originally designed, at least once.
Tomorrows forecast, 17-18mph and gusty. A little SPF 35 and...no wings, doulble trappin'. I love this boat.