The Orbit range previously comprised 20, 30 and 40 mm winches. The two larger models were characterised by the new QuickTrim function, which allows the sheet or halyard to be fished without removing the line from the selftailer. The two new sizes 45QT and 50QT are now intended to extend the range of use to yachts up to 14 metres in length. In addition to the QuickTrim, there are now also three gears. The first gear is designed to haul through lines particularly quickly. As the load increases, the winch shifts to second gear and finally to third gear for particularly heavy loads. This can speed up the setting of the sail in particular if the first few metres offer very little resistance. The 45QT and 50QT are available as two-speed and three-speed versions.
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The E1 Electric Orbit winches in sizes 30QT and 40QT are a further addition to the Orbit series. The electric winches are available in 12 and 24 volt versions. The electric drives are also available as a retrofit kit to electrify existing 30 and 40 Orbit winches. Installation is said to be particularly easy as no external control unit is required. The illuminated pushbutton offers monitoring and safety functions such as overload protection, overtemperature, protection against unintentional starting and reverse polarity protection.
The Orbit winches were honoured with the Dame Award at the 2023 Mets in Amsterdam. The QuickTrim function was particularly impressive. This allows lines to be fished without having to remove them from the selftailer. To activate the QuickTrim, the upper winch cover is turned slightly in the opposite direction to the winding direction, which disengages the selftailer and the sheet can be fished by hand. When the winch head is released, the clutch snaps back into place and the winch operates normally.
Ronstan winches are sold in Germany by Kohlhoff. The 40 Orbit winch from Ronstan costs 1,325 euros. The 45QT with two gears costs €1,980, the three-speed version €2,925 and the 50QT two-speed model €2,618 and with three gears €3,555.
