Different masts

[Mike Reyes]

Is there a speed difference between the 3 different masts? Ballenger aluminum, C-tech carbon and Forte carbon? I am aware of the issues of mast breakage with the aluminum rig. Has the high wind kit (baby stays) eliminated the issue? Are the carbon rigs less weight?

[Gregg Henning]

Forte Carbon and Ballenger Aluminum are better as they are more tunable.  I have had my Aluminum rig for 20 years.  No High wind kit.  Still works great.

[David Krausz]

I've sailed with both Forte carbon and the aluminum and have not seen a noticeable difference in performance.  Either mast has succeeded in regattas and most people I've talked to don't necessarily see a benefit one way or the other.    I can't speak to whether the high wind kit helps with breakage.

[Robert Homer]

I have a couple of questions in this too!

If I were to change to a carbon mast would I still need my high wind kit?

Are there any issues with the rope spine on the mainsail luff fitting the carbon masts?

Any pitfalls switching to carbon?
Thanks!

[Jeff Finn]

I have the C-tech mast, does anyone have issues with the luff pulling out of the track?  It seems like it might be a bit soft.  Looking like I may need to have the track replaced . If anyone has other suggestions, I'd Love to hear 'em.
  -Jeff