The Manta Twin is a good first time class to begin landsailing in. As wise Tom
Speers mentioned the Fed 5 is much more demanding in a sailing skill set, but
the reward is higher speeds and much better upwind and downwind performance. Be
avised one has to reduce sail area in medium to high winds to keep in control of
a Fed 5. Using the new improved Sin City front end by Terry Fulbright and
Howard Haupt greatly improves stability and in turning.
I also have started using a larger section Schwin 16 in front tire with good
results. Fed 5's are hard to fine as most of the class was built in 1994 and
1995, but it's a lot of fun to sail. I should know as I have had 4 Am Cup wins
in this class and my fair share of spinouts!!!! The new front end stops that
nonsense. I would be glad to discuss these two classes or a demo ride at the
PACRIM. Look for an RV with license plate I SAIL. Did I mention I can be
speedy in a Manta Twin also? I tend to forget my past sailing skills. Still
learning,
Mark Harris.