It continues to amaze me that Hobie is always looking for ways to improve their products. They've recently upgraded their Mirage Drive masts -- again. the composite pic below shows the development of the mast series (Turbomasts pictured) since 2006:
Starting on the left, first generation masts had crude depressions for the Allenhead lock screws. The hole on the bottom is for retrofitting to the old stainless sprockets, making the masts reversible, depending on the application.
The second version was shortened by 1/4". This removed some of the stress on the Drive and improved performance potential for the fins by allowing more room to "wind up" or twist up the mast for more forward thrust. The notch was also "improved". There were at least 3 evolutionary variations of this mast.
Next saw the introduction of the "V2" mast -- threaded with a slot in the bottom for a screwdriver. This almost always required at least one set of Visegrips and usually resulted in burring on the tip and sliding surface. Looking closely, you may see the the improved tip bevel.
The newest mast is notched on the sides for a wrench, replacing the less efficient screwdriver. The tip is rounded off to deter fin poke throughs upon striking underwater objects. The surface is now electropolished. This removes small burs, scratches and sharp edges; polishes the surface and enhances corrosion protection. It typically removes about .0002" from the surface, allowing an easier insert and threading into the sprocket. It looks like Hobie has expanded this process from the new C&G system.
Hobie could have stopped on the third mast version if not the first. Improvements like these don't sell products (at least not directly) , but show a continued commitment to excellence -- better functioning, easier installation, better durability, attention to detail. You can see an evolutionary improvement and continued refinement in most of their products that is obviously inbred in their corporate philosophy. It's almost become their trademark. Fantastic!
