I launched my new 1974 M-17, I was very apprehensive since our closest ramp, is just that, a ramp with no sides and old dead submerged pilings. I was not sure how far to back up the trailer and used my 4-wheel drive 4-runner just in case. I was very surprised the boat slid right on in, this was not the plan though, I was going to climb on board and start the motor and attach the rudder, but this worked. Its amazing how no matter how you plan it, things end up differently. The mast only hung up twice, that was not bad for our first launch. Mounting the motor on the transom I found that I was very limited in my turn angles. because of the transom cutout, I only had about a 15 degree turn on each side. Didn't needed it.I was lucky, I motored it to my backyard and will attach the sails tomorrow I wail no to be able to sleep tonight in anticipation. gilbert