The trapeze is a source of interference with the original goals. If we accept that it is indeed advantageous for the class to target this segment (startup boat for ages 7 to 12), we'll have to analyse this feature carefully, for it leverages the advantage that kids over 12 have against two smaller ones.
Another argument I found against trapeze is that is does add cost beyond its direct advantages. Mostly because you have to buy a kids harness which he or she will grow out of very quickly necessitating maybe a new harness 3 years down the line ? These kids do grow at a pretty impressive rate. In the end it is just another thing to buy when a kid starts out sailing these and it all adds up in my opinion.
I figured that it was better to just add a little more width to the platform and hike to get to the same overall performance.
Wouter
