The 83 16

I have read several posts on a number of various issues that have discussed differences in different year/model boats. I have a 1983 16 and I was curious if any of the more knowledgeable sailors on this forum would be willing to comment on any specific details about this year's boat. Are there any general modifications that are recommended on a boat of this year? Any comments would be appreciated. I've been trying my best to learn as much as I can about Hobie sailing and the more I look in to it the more I realize what a long history the Hobie company has had. I think it would be interesting as well as beneficial to know any specifics about this particular year's boat, especially since it was born the same year that I was. It kind of adds an additional nostalgic value to me. Thanks in advance.
James

The basic structure of a Hobie 16 has never changed. Most changes over the years have been related to hardware... blocks, fasteners etc.

Significant changes:

1982 - Shorter shrouds, longer forestay, modified mast step casting to allow for more aft mast rake.

1984 - There was a change to construction technique. The class weight was lowered from 340 to 320 lbs. That means that a 1983 would likely be 340.

1985 - We introduced the CompTip (see FAQ topics).

1994 - We went to a jib and main traveler track that is molded into the crossbar extrusion.

1995 - We went to Hobie Cat France made corner castings. They are injection molded and more consistent dimension. We also changed the pylon at that time. Original pylons were H14 mast extrusions. Current is a pylon specific extrusion with no luff track. Much tighter fit into the castings and requires less machining.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Thank you very much for your response.
James