C2 Byte

Designer: Ian Bruce/Julian Bethwaite (rig)
Design Year:

The c2 version of the Byte is the Byte hull with a super-light carbon fiber mast and a modern Mylar sail. To contain the costs of the technology upgrade, the c2 Byte uses all of the standard running rigging, blades and boom.

Most sailors will immediately recognize the difference of the "feel" of the c2. The top portion of the mast is mostly fiberglass and so is bendy and responsive to gusts and lulls. In a gust, the top portion "dumps": the mast tip sags to leeward briefly and opens the mainsail leech. It is important to note that this auto-depower feature is at the top of the mast, right where leverage and heeling moment are greatest. It's the ideal place to unload some power and the technology comes the 18 foot skiffs.

The CII rig has a flexing carbon-fibre mast and mylar sail. The CII sail is slightly higher and narrower than the original Byte sail, with more roach. The CII rig is more self-depowering, a big help to lighter sailors -- although it is also supposed to help heavier sailors in light air.

The weight of the complete rig and sail is only 16 lbs, (7.3 kgs). Designed by skiff guru Julian Bethwaite, designer of the 29er and 49er.