Has there been done any research on why you go slower upwind with the spi gear on? The Tornado class noted the same thing when testing different configurations. The classic rig was a witch to beat upwind..

The spi gear adds weight, but is it really that significant? I dont think so. It must be the extra windage that really hurts upwind performance? Have anybody looked seriously on least windage solutions like airfoils shaped solid snuffers and telescoping bowsprits (not KISS, but faster perhaps).