U20 Class Member's Forum

General Category => U20 Boat Maintenance & Care => Topic started by: Brian Mikiten on May 18, 2025, 02:13:38 PM

Title: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Brian Mikiten on May 18, 2025, 02:13:38 PM

I just purchased a U20 and have it rigged and about ready to hit the water. The one thing I can't seem to find consensus on is the use or non-use (removal) of the boom kicker. I've seen boats use it in light air, with the vang or totally removed with the suggestion that the crew just not lean on the boom. Is there a current consensus?

Thanks

Brian in San Antonio

Title: Re: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Josh Jones on May 21, 2025, 12:53:22 PM

Nobody uses them anymore.

Title: Re: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Josh Jones on May 21, 2025, 12:54:30 PM

Also welcome to the class!

Title: Re: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Steve Shaw on May 21, 2025, 04:14:18 PM

We don't use them as the leech of the main needs to be loaded in order for the sail to best propel you.  Unless you just want to hold the boom up when your raising and lowering the main, there shouldn't be any need for it.

Title: Re: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Brian Mikiten on May 22, 2025, 11:06:59 PM

Thanks everyone. Looking forward to being active in the class.

Brian

Title: Re: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Travis Gregory on May 27, 2025, 07:19:46 PM

Hey Brian, I think with the older main sail cuts the kicker was helpful in the really light air to get rid of heavy boom syndrome.  Not a problem as of late.  It is a nice way to keep the boom from smacking the deck if it gets fumbled. 

If you decide you want one, let me know!  I may no a guy with a used one. :)

Title: Re: Boom Kicker use or non-use
Post by: Brian Mikiten on May 29, 2025, 11:14:44 PM

I appreciate that. My new (to me) boat came with two and it wasn't clear that it was particularly useful except in very light air.