The "chine" being discussed here is really not much different from what has been on the Geltek and Egner Flyer II for the last three years. It is really quite a soft curve as Glenn describes. I would call it more a tumblehome from the waterline to the deck. It's really quite obvious when you put a straight egde on the hull at the main beam. It also emphasises Glenn's comment about the bouyancy under water compared to above waterline. This was starkly illustrated to me in the last few days. I've been sailing a Boyer MKIV for some testing and it feels completely different from my Geltek. The Geltek "sits on the water" while the MKIV is more in the water. It leads to a much lighter "feel".
Glenn has always trapezed lower than most people - not feasible for those of us with older backs! Although I've never used a main cleat on an A in thirty years for either centre or rear sheeting. I think it leads to too much risk of capsize and also laziness when going to windward. I like to be able to quickly fine tune the sheeting through gusts. I also don't use the trap handle going out and use my leg straightening as I go to sheet on more. it just seems a bit quicker getting out and accelerating that way.

Cheers
John Dowling
AUS9