At the 1997 505 World Championship in Gilleleje, Denmark, the class decided to evaluate larger spinnakers for the 505 class. Due in part to the tight reaches (55,70,55 angles) 505s sail at major events, we have evolved a spinnaker that is rather smaller than the maximum allowed by the class rules. A number of 505 sailors are interested in a longer luff spinnaker, which would allow us to increase the spinnaker to something approaching the maximum area in the class rules, while retaining an efficient shape, or simply develop a more efficient higher aspect ratio sail, without necessarily increasing the area a great deal. These spinnakers - if the class votes to adopt them - would be used in conjunction with somewhat broader reaches. Using these spinnakers 505s should also be able to go high and fast on runs at a lower windspeed than the current 16-19 knots with current spinnakers.
Class President Pip Pearson explains the rationale behind the larger spinnaker evaluation
The larger spinnakers and the tests run to that point, were discussed at the 1999 AGM in Quiberon, France, and a draft rule to govern the proposed larger spinnaker was developed to support testing. Note these larger spinnakers ARE NOT class legal, and WILL NOT BE unless voted in at an AGM AND AT A POSTAL BALLOT OF THE INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIP. They may be allowed in certain events, by your national 505 class association. Here is Class President Pip Pearson's explanation (After 1999 AGM) of what we are doing, along with the actual Trial Rule.
Here is the text of the rule changes that went to postal ballot of the full membership.
Reports on larger spinnaker tests: