Master boat builder Timo Lantzsch experienced last summer what many folkboat sailors know. On the way from Kappeln to Rødby-Havn, the main boom broke in a patent jibe at five to six astern. Fixed in Rødby, Lantzsch sailed to Fehmarn, his home island, and consulted his grandfather, a mechanical engineer with a penchant for solving technical problems.
This gave rise to the idea of developing a stylish kicker made from classic materials. They built a first prototype for the Folkeboot on site, which was tested on the Baltic Sea during the season and found to be good. Further improvements were channelled into a second version for larger boats.
Made by hand
The kicker made of bronze and wood is now ready for the market. The first version is calculated with a maximum gas pressure of 1200 N for boats between seven and nine metres and is available from 1800 euros. Lantzsch can produce larger versions for yachts up to 20 metres. The type of wood can be selected, as each kicker is custom-made by hand. The bronze parts can also be chrome-plated or brass-plated on request to blend in with the deck design. Lantzsch also offers prior measurement and subsequent assembly, as well as supplying all the fittings required for the mast and boom.
The adjustable gas pressure spring from ACE is surrounded by a precious wood casing. It is glued in four parts so that it has vertical growth rings all round and therefore has maximum durability. The Dyneema jib has a six-fold reduction and eight to ten-fold in the larger models. Special plain bearings are designed to guarantee virtually frictionless mounting.
On show at boot Düsseldorf
On the boat Timo Lantzsch will be exhibiting his product in Düsseldorf from 18-26 January 2020 in Hall 10, Stand BO4.3.
