2012 Maui Sails TR-8

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Tuning and perfecting the tension, profile, and twist relationships

After the major step and significant outline and shaping changes of the TR-7, we have dedicated this season’s development to tuning and perfecting the tension, profile, and twist relationships in order to present a finely tuned and polished TR-8 race sail.

Performance wise, we achieved the goal to increase wind range and top speed by a combination of better balance and stability, together with improved control in gusts. The general design theme throughout the line required adding some extra locked in shape to the lower sail profile while balancing this with a slightly flatter upper profile. This produced a more progressive twist and improved release up top. Shaping adjustments were carefully matched to each size to ensure that the correct overall rig tension was achieved and verified with our load cell technology. Larger slalom and formula sizes received relatively more shape down low and a bit more overall tension in order to better support and stabilize their profiles and to aid in coasting through lulls.

While the entire TR-8 range also benefited from some extra shape and stability down low, great care was taken to ensure that they maintain a soft feel and light handling even when being pushed to the max by the biggest gusts. Stiffer reinforcements in the upper mast sleeve reduce stretch and have allowed us to flatten the upper sail body profile shaping and helped us to create an improved twist profile that progresses perfectly all the way up the leech. The result was a leech that has the optimum balance between release for light handling in gusts, without yielding the tension necessary to drive the board and provide excellent acceleration. The whole rig powers you while feeling perfectly balanced, efficient, and light in the wind.

Superior handling and non-issue cam rotation ensure that not only will the sails have brilliant speed in a straight line but will also make it around and away from the buoys as effectively as possible. We are confident that anyone who chooses the TR-8 race sails will have the best, fine-tuned engine with the ability to power them to the front of any pack.

Technora material adds a whole new dimension

The TR-8 XT versions follow on the refinement from the TR-7 major changes in outline and aspect ratio. We can now concentrate on improving each size in the new form and get more out of the major improvements of last year.

Because of the sensitive nature of the lighter material, each size of XT racing sails are tuned specifically to the material, creating an efficient soft feel that responds to every gust. The ODL04 Technora is tough, light, and UV resistant.

The general direction of development has been to create a deep stable profile in the lower sections, and flatten the middle to promote progressive twist. By carrying the flat sections to the top, high end has improved and balanced nicely with the powerful long chords near the boom. The net effect has been an improvement in range without giving up the easy handling and excellent low end of the TR-7.

In the larger slalom sizes and the Formula group, using the Technora material adds a whole new dimension to light wind performance. It must be experienced to be believed, and once you try it, will be completely sold forever.