That was 10 years ago: Black Pepper launched its Code 0 (pictured above), the first sailboat in a range that has grown considerably since then. The concept? Offer a particularly high-performance support, pleasant to steer, well equipped, all dressed up with a retro touch. The latter focuses on the deckhouse - a near replica of a dog house of a classic sailboat. The success of Code 0 in regattas is undeniable. A fleet has even been built up in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. On the other hand, on the commercial side, the results are more mixed. 20 units in 10 years is only one Code 0 every six months..
A project that started in early 2018
It was in the spring of 2018 that Michel de Franssu, owner and creator of the site, started the 0.1 project with the local architect Marc Lombard. In the specifications, the accommodation is much closer to cruise standards. In fact, Code 0.1 now offers a height under the deck of 1.74 m (compared to 1.31 m for the old model) and another 1.56 m under the deck. There is a real square around the keel well - two benches and a table - a double berth in the front, two coffin berths in the back, closed toilets and a real kitchen. A shower is available as an option. On the first model, the large bed is a Breton bed, open and therefore without partitions, but it is possible to close it. At the very front, a large volume accessible through a deck hatch acts as a sail hold - it will soon also be opened inside.
The volume of a real cruiser
Of course, this interior comfort translates into a larger hull volume: the freeboard is significantly increased and the width is reduced from 2.70 m to 3.00 m. To maintain a sporty look - and flattering performance - the deck adopts a unique reverse shearing system. This formula saves weight at the ends while maintaining a higher height in the middle of the hull. The very slightly inverted bow contributes to a modern design, as do the marked bilges. At the rear, the cut angle certainly personalizes the boat.
Carbon? They are everywhere...
The shipyard's mastery of high-tech construction - all the boats are built in carbon/epoxy - makes it possible to maintain a particularly flattering weight estimate: 2,200 kg, including 1,050 kg of ballast. The old Code 0 is a little lighter at 1,850 kg. But the ballast ratio is more favourable at 0.1 : 47.7% compared to 43.2 for the old model.
Code 0.1 Open offers a lifting keel, a mainsail with horn and rigging with double runners - it is in this configuration that the n°1 was presented. The sail area increases from 50 m2 upwind on Code 0 to 59 on 0.1. But an optimized Spirit IRC version is also available. Less covered (50 m2 upwind) with its classic mainsail, it does without runners and adopts a significantly heavier fixed keel. The mobile bowsprit is abandoned in favour of a fixed delphinium of 1.16 m in length. This configuration allows, during cruising, to leave the anchor in position.
A more conventional deck layout
The original deck layout of Code 0 with central winch and offset descent is abandoned in favour of a more traditional distribution. On the other hand, all manoeuvres are hidden under a false bridge. The cockpit is closed to offer a real rear skirt flush with the water. Balconies, dies and thick footrests make it safe to move around.
Peaks at 20 knots on the program?
Just launched last July in Hyères, Code 0.1 quickly found the right tempo under sail. The bow forefoot quickly cleared the water and as soon as the correct adjustments were validated, the boat sailed upwind at 7.5/8 knots. In 17 knots of wind at 80° from the wind under Code and high GV, the Marc Lombard plan was flashed at 18 knots. The two rudders ensure optimum control of the trajectory, even when the heel is pronounced. During its first races, Code 0.1 hung onto the podiums and proved to be more comfortable than 0 in the light breezy conditions.
The same deckhouse as Code 0
Don't think that Code 0.1 is only for hardcore sailors: its self-steering jib rail is there for you to enjoy as a family and even as a solo sailor. Code 0.1, as you have understood, is in no way a redesign of 0 - it is a new boat. A 100% ? No, not quite: the dog house style deckhouse of Code 0 has been preserved, barely enhanced... We have family spirit or not! And if Code 0 disappears from the 2020 catalogue, the site reserves the right to build some on request.
