FIRST CLASS FIGARO 2 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

Designed by Lombard and built by Beneteau, the First Class Figaro 2 is a purpose-built offshore racer-cruiser known for its balance of speed and stability. It targets competitive sailors seeking a high-performance platform capable of handling challenging sea conditions and technical rig tuning.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

Analysis of the P/E/I/J dimensions for the First Class Figaro 2 rig:

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 2.71 indicates a high-aspect, tall rig designed for aerodynamic efficiency.
• Foretriangle Design: An I/J ratio of 3.49 specifically suits high-aspect working jibs and non-overlapping headsails.
• Sail Area: 56m² total upwind area (31m² Main / 25m² Jib).
• Performance: The configuration is heavily racing-oriented, prioritizing upwind pointing ability and responsiveness.

Popular Sail Configurations

Typical setups focus on maintaining shape under high rig tension:

• Mainsail: High-roach configurations are standard to maximize the 13.01m luff length.
• Headsail: Primarily non-overlapping jibs ranging from heavy-weather J3s to all-purpose J1s.

Key Characteristics

• High-Aspect Rig: 2.71 P/E ratio provides superior lift-to-drag performance upwind.
• Optimized Foretriangle: 3.49 I/J ratio facilitates efficient tacking and close-winded performance.
• Deep Draft Stability: 2.08m draft provides the necessary stiffness to carry 56m² of sail area.
• Weatherly Performance: A narrow beam-to-length ratio ensures a balanced, weatherly feel in chop.

Sailing Considerations

• Effective wind range is typically 8-22 knots; requires active traveler and backstay use to depower.
• Designed for short-handed racing, the rig responds quickly to small adjustments in halyard tension.
• Performance expectations include rapid acceleration and high pointing angles in flat water.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the FIRST CLASS FIGARO 2, we recommend SurgeX membrane sails as the optimal choice for most sailors. SurgeX uses continuous fiber construction where fibers are laid along load paths and embedded in a thin membrane, providing superior shape retention compared to traditional Dacron while being more affordable than premium laminates. The continuous fiber structure means less stretch over time, maintaining the designed sail shape for years.

For racing applications, specify a lightweight SurgeX configuration with carbon or technora fibers and minimal base weight to maximize performance. For cruising or bluewater deliveries, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection. Based on the 2.71 P/E ratio, a tri-radial fiber layout within the membrane works best to manage the high vertical loads. A typical inventory includes a 31m² SurgeX Main and a 25m² Jib. With 56m² of total sail area, plan to reef around 18 knots to keep the boat flat and fast.

Conclusion

The First Class Figaro 2 remains a benchmark for offshore rig efficiency and hull performance. Explore sail options for FIRST CLASS FIGARO 2 to ensure your inventory matches the potential of this Lombard design.