Aftermarket tillers???

Was at the Strictly Sail Chicago boat show recently, and saw a Wichard tiller that had a D-handle on it. Thinking that may be a better design than a straight stick (not racing just blasting around on high wind days). http://www.wichard.com/rubrique-Telesco ... 00-IM.html

The guys at Wichard said they don't make longer versions than their current range. Given this is for a H18, it needs to be longer than their current designs.

Any recommendations on tillers other than the standby ariba fiberglass or carbon hot sticks? Anyone ever used a D-handle stick on their Hobie?

You'll be sorry you bought an aluminum extension the first time you accidentally drop it and it gets swept back against the rudder castings (under the tiller).

*SNAP* $CHA-CHING$

I can't tell you how many tillers I went through back in the 70's before the boats came with fiberglass tillers, but I still have some of the pieces left 35 years later.

It's all personal preference, but D handles only accommodate one type of grip at one position. It's meant for a helmsman that doesn't move around much. I move around a lot on the boat and have two grips (overhand / underhand) that I use depending on where I am and how windy it is.

The D is in a bad place weight-wise, too. Slinging that thing around in a tack or a jibe would be a work out.

I generally stick with the stock fiberglass tiller. Can't wait until carbon sticks are class legal.

If you want an adjustable tiller extension the Marström ones are sweet. You can also replace either section. I take mine and flip them though, so the fatter section is in my hand.

I like the new Wildcat tiller extentions light weight and not as expensive as the marstrom ones.

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Rich Vilvens
F-18 5150
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http://www.sailblogs.com/member/f-185150sailing/