Even if you're not!
Automatic Load-sensing Ratchet
Harken's 75 mm Carbo Ratchamatic is the newest addition to Harken's award winning Carbo Block line. A scaled-up version of the popular 57 mm Ratchamatic line, these blocks roll freely in both directions under low loads like a non-ratcheting block, but automatically engage a ratchet mechanism as loads increase, to give sailors holding power of up to 15:1. Ratchet engagement can be adjusted to a higher or lower load depending on strength, sailing style and system usage.
”This lightweight high-strength ratchet allows sailors to create more efficient sheeting systems,” said Chuck Lob, senior engineer for Harken. “A ratchet is only helpful when you're pulling against the load. When easing, our ratchet turns off to allow easier maneuvering, such as jibing an asymmetrical spinnaker or easing a mainsheet quickly at a weather mark. Not only does the Ratchamatic automatically sense load, but it shifts between light air and ratchet mode seamlessly.”
Use the 75 mm Carbo Ratchamatic for fast release of jib sheets, mainsheets, and spinnakers on boats through 30 ft (9 m). It is the perfect choice for asymmetrical spinnakers because it has the holding power of a ratchet, but releases immediately for fast, smooth jibes.
Carbo Racing Foil
Harken has also introduced a new headsail foil - the Harken Carbo Racing Foil which not only benefits from a new design, but unlike most foils, commonly made from PVC, it is lighter and stronger. The later quality any racing sailor will appreciate as foils have a tendency to break all-too easily at the last mark, and normally when you're leading the fleet!
”By using modern engineering resins instead of commodity plastics we have raised the bar,” said Greg Hartlmeier , Senior Engineer-Special Projects. “These twin-grooved foils are 15% lighter than PVC, stronger, and extremely lubricious. Racing sailors will love them - it will not be a difficult decision to change over to Carbo.”
The foil's Carbo material is very low friction for fast hoists, douses and sail changes. Its high strength dramatically increases resistance to line wear. Impact resistance is also increased with less foil damage from spinnaker poles, especially in cold weather. Heat has a negligible effect on stiffness, so the sail holds securely. The black colour provides superior UV protection and is easy to see against a light sky, while complementing modern sailcloth colours. The foil also features an improved feeder/prefeeder system.
Installation is easy. When the foil is uncoiled it straightens. Snapping the foil onto the stay is a simple task and can be done with the mast up. The Harken Carbo Racing Foil fits boats with headstays to 5/16 in. or rods to -17.
