Single Hand Hobie Sport 17'

Been sailing a Hobie 16' for many years single handed in the Atlantic. Can't right it by myself being 5'10" and 180Lbs. even with a bucket/bag. Lost it a few times but support always available, eventually....
Question is, can I single hand a 17' efficiently and appreciate more speed with sustained control in 10-16mph? I'm super quick with sheets and a 6:1 main.

You should definitely be able to sail a 17 single handed, especially if you've been sailing a 16 solo already. The 17 was originally designed as a singlehanded boat. The 17 Sport is essentially the same as a 17SE except that it has a jib, so if you get overpowered, just furl up the jib and you have a standard 17.

Whether or not you will notice any great improvement in speed is questionable. The 17 should be a little quicker, especially upwind, but not by any huge margin. The wings on the 17 are what make the boat unique and truely fun to sail.

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Yes, yes you can. I've solo'd both the H16 and H17Sport, extensively. The H17 is actually easier to right than the H16, I don't know why, something about righting moment. I used a righting bucket for the H16 and still strap it under the tramp of my H17Sport, but almost never use it (granted I weigh 210 lbs). I have never lost a bucket, but that is because I have it pre-tied to the dolphen stricker center post so it can not be lost. I just toss it over which ever hull is over my head. I found the H17Sport to be a quicker boat, especially in high wind, though the H16 is more fun to fly high.