O'pen Bic sailors participate in a light-wind race in France.
The O'pen Bic, often simply referred to as the Open Bic, is a single handed sailboat designed for younger sailers. Developed by Vitali Design, the boat was launched in 2006. It is an International Class, as recognized by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF),.[1] The ideal weight for a user of this boat is 30 kg (66 lb)–65 kg (143 lb), but it can accommodate up to 90 kg (200 lb),[2] making it suitable for children and young teens, the same people who would sail Optimist dinghies and are looking for a more exciting boat.
Components
Hull
The thermoformedpolyethylene hull is self-draining. In the event of a capsize or shipping water by some other means, the water simply flows down the angled floor of the cockpit and out of the open transom.[3]
Mast
The two part, 2.1 kilogram, O'pen Bic mast is made from a fiberglassepoxy composite. The boom is made from aluminum. These hold a 4.5 m2 sail made from K.Film - Polyester, with full length battens of adjustable tension. A smaller, 3.8 m2 sail made only of Dacron (polyester) is also available. The rig is interchangeable with that of the Optimist.[4]