The WinchRite is an electric and wireless winch handle that allows the mainsail to be hoisted or the genoa to be easily unfurled and furled. It works with a rechargeable Lition-type battery. With a pull of 25 to 30 kg, it provides the same strength as an average person. It offers two directions of rotation and two speeds of action. This new WinchRite, a new generation electric WinchRite, offers more autonomy and power than the basic models.
The question that one might naturally ask oneself is "Is this really helpful?" . Bateaux.com has conducted its investigation and gives you the advantages and disadvantages of the product, but also testimonials on its use.
Laurent who sails 9 months a year on a Gib Sea 43 and has 100 m2 of sail explains "I've had a WinchRite for a year now and I've found that you shouldn't force it on the genoa boards at full throttle. Quite often you have to finish by hand because it cuts and doesn't work anymore. I've already carried out several repairs on it and still have to bring it back. It's a bit tight for a boat with 100 square metres of sail area." .
Gérard explains "My wife and I are passionate about sailing, but as we get older it gets harder and harder to unroll the sails. So I have invested in a WinchRite, because it is a certain investment, it has to be said, but I am satisfied with it. I use it mainly for the mainsail, but it can still be useful with a genoa .
Among the qualities appreciated in the WinchRite are the following "easily manipulated" , "light and easy to store" , "quick to recharge" . Étienne also declared himself "very satisfied except for the winch and the design is excellent." .
Frederic thinks that "it's a good device for older sailors and it's ideal for women." . And Thierry to comment "I'm delighted, it will give me many years of sailing" .
But some browsers also have some reservations about using WinchRite "I question the battery's endurance and its ability to be replaced." comments Pascal. "And then it's a high cost, it costs 1/3 for a tool that's less powerful and disposable." adds Franck.
Finally, the WinchRite is ideal for those who are looking for a tireless and muscular crew member to continue sailing with a reduced crew. Even if, as Alain says so well "In spite of the chosen device, the final voltage will have to be finished by hand. Any motorized device will not be able to apply as much tension as that achieved by hand. Especially since there will always be the risk of damaging the pulley. Winches can't detect problems unlike the trained eye of the sailor."
What do you think? If you own a WinchRite, feel free to give us your opinion and react to the article.
