After sailing M-17 #633 for several months last season, I am in the process of coming to decisions as to how (or if) I would like to modify it for the coming season. I will be sailing most of the time solo, mostly on the Potomac River, but also at times on the Chesapeake Bay. I would also like to race in the local cruising class races. I have 85% and 109% hank-on headsails, but no genoa. My main concern is easy main reefing, but headsails can also be a problem when alone. As an M-boat novice, I'd like to solicit opinions and advice, for which I give my thanks in advance. Here are my options: Headsails: 1) Make no changes, 2) add a 150% hank-on genoa for racing and light airs or 3) put on a roller-reefer with a 130% genny and sell my hank-on sails. Furler: Ease and safety in reducing headsail area when single-handing (most of my sailing). Keeps me off the foredeck. However, less efficiency in headsail performance when partially furled, which would probably be most of the time. I've heard that furlers can fail when you need them most, but present-day designs seem to be reliable. Hank-on sails: Probably I would start with the 109% most of the time. How often would I actually have to change to the 85%, assuming I can easily reef the main? Probably would not start with the 150% very often, since single-handing it will be overpowered in not too much wind, and I want to avoid changing sails when alone. Racing, I will have a crew, and can therefore use the big genny. 2) Reefing - I have seen (Gary O's, for example) neat single-line reefing systems which involve leading the reefing line to the base of the mast and round to the cockpit. How much in ease of operation and performance would I give up by terminating the reefing line at a cleat on the boom after a turning cheek block at the tack? How about falling back to separate lines at tack and clew, both terminated on the boom? Being able to reef the main when alone is probably my most important task. Just trying to make it easy. Any inputs would be appreciated. Thanks, Rick ************** Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489