I race an Express against J24s under PHRF. They're both capable boats.

Assuming 4 crew, around 750 pounds:

In winds up to 10-12 knots, the Express tends to eat them alive. The J24 will beat us in winds from 12-18 (presuming they are fully crewed). They can utilize the power of their #1. Above 20 knots the Express takes over.

PHRF allows 1280 pounds on the Express ... I'm not sure where everyone would sit, and they certainly wouldn't have much to do! I've never sailed the boat with more than 950 pounds, so I can't really comment.

We try to have 4-5 people for buoy races. You can do it with 3, but it's much harder to engage in 'boat battles'. We do LOTS of middle distance races (25-75 miles) with 3 crew and do well ... until it's 20+ on the nose. Then you're not as competitive without the rail meat.

In LMPHRF we rate 138 and a J24 rates 168. Pretty even if they're both well sailed.

Bob

:: Hi,
::
:: I am looking at buying an express but own a J/24
:: currently.
::
:: I do not want to debate which boat is better, faster,
:: etc as that could lead to many discussions. LOL!
::
:: I do race PHRF right now and would be racing against 3
:: other J's plus various other boats but that are not
:: close to the J's. Any thoughts on how the express would
:: perfrom via PHRF? Do people find them easy to sail with
:: 3-4 people?
::
:: Thanks,

:: Don