Tuning Sailing Articles
Do your homework: Test before the race
Brian Bissell of North Sails puts together a short guide on some basic tests to do before a race. You will want to do some speed testing, test the course, and test the starting line. This article is geared towards opti racers, but is applicable to all.
Five Rules for a Straighter Rig
If your sails aren't setting up right, and you're getting different results from tack to tack, be sure to read this article. This article, from Sailing World, touches on some key things to focus on when trying to fix your tune.
Controlling the Laser's New Controls
This is an article from Sailing World, written by top American Laser sailor Andrew Campbell. This article touches on just about everything you need to know if you want to sail a laser properly. Detailed description of the rigging is followed by some tuning suggestions.
Going Fast Upwind in a Chop
Some great pointers applicable to all on how to get improve your upwind sailing when the wind and chop kick up.
High Tech Versus Sail It Simple
Success in regattas comes from a combination of mental preparation and technology... surprisingly probably more of one than the other.
Boatspeed Tuning
Two boat tuning is a great tool when done properly. This article has some nice tips.
The 10 Commandments of Boat Speed
No description needed... If you want to go faster, these are the rules for you. This is a good list to read before every regatta.
Speed Problems? Try Testing
When you have a problem with speed, one of your best fix-up tools may be a methodical two-boat test.
Mast Bend - How much is enough
Greg Fisher describes (with some nice pictures as well!) how to examine your mast bend and what to look for when your properly set up.
Understanding Jib Sag
Lightning expert David Starck explains the how forestay tension relates to performance in various conditions. If you don't know what that means you need to read the article.
