As I mentioned before, the 14 and 16 have different rudder rules than all the other classes.
It was not "preferential treatment" for the 14 and 16. It was because the original ABS rudders, made for the 14, proved inadequate for the stress of the 16's platform. Therefore, the rules were changed in the early '70s (before any of the other Hobie Cats were introduced) to allow aftermarket rudders:
1. RUDDERS AND RUDDER ASSEMBLIES
1.1 Rudder blades made of another material, yet
conforming to the size, shape and minimum
weight of the standard rudder blades, may be
used. Rudder blades must conform within the
minimum and maximum dimensions that are
found within the profile plans. Profile plans are
available through the IHCA.
1.2 The maximum thickness of a rudder blade(s)
shall not exceed 1.015 in. (25.8 mm.), tapering
over a distance of 2 ft. (60.96 cm) to a maximum
thickness of 1/2 in. (12.7 mm), 2 in. (50.8
mm) from the bottom tip of the rudder. These
dimensions are for reference purposes only.
Please refer to profile plans for exact dimensions.
Profile plans are available through the
IHCA.
If you look at the any of the 30 or so definitions of "stock", none of them really covers what the word means in the context of the rules for all the other boats.
Does it mean "supplied originally with the boat"? or "supplied by Hobie Cat Company [out of their stock]"?
It's a poorly worded rule.
