Ashley and others concerning the flushdeck, I am the current owner of Coyote, Jerry's first FD, that although these are really neat boats, they aren't much different from the cabin models except for slightly less weight and a taller aspect rig. The main reason for the handicap number difference was the skill of the original owners/racers of these boats. The original reason for the flush deck was to beat the heck out of everything else out there. The owners were sailmakers, boat builders, super enthusiasts who tweaked and knew how to go fast. As a result, the numbers separated. As the boats got older and went to less competitive owners, the handicap numbers were never disputed or changed. Of the few FD boats still out there, few race, so new numbers are hard to negotiate. We still enjoy sailing and one or two races a year, but the boats are rated inappropriately for their present use. This is just one person's opinion, of course. Also, if you would be interested in going really fast, the Coyote is available for a new owner.... John in Tucson