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Trogear Bowsprits - Selection Guide

Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit AS-50 carbon-fiber aftermarket sailboat bowsprit

Trogear Adjustable Bowsprits are lightweight carbon-fiber aftermarket bowsprits that let almost any 20–70 ft. monohull, catamaran, or trimaran fly asymmetrical spinnakers and Code 0 sails. Choose your model by boat length and sail area: the AS-25, AS-30R, AS-40, and AS-50 cover most cruisers and racers, while the Atlas 500, Atlas 1000, and Maxi handle larger yachts.

Trogear bowsprit models at a glance

Model Boat length (up to) Bowsprit length Weight Max asymmetrical Safe working load
AS-25 26 ft. / 8 m 33.5 in. / 85 cm 2.25 lb. / 1.10 kg 750 ft² / 70 m² 1,500 lb. / 700 kg
AS-30R 36 ft. / 11 m 33.5 in. / 85 cm 2.75 lb. / 1.25 kg 1,075 ft² / 100 m² 2,200 lb. / 1,000 kg
AS-40 36 ft. / 11 m 50 in. / 126 cm 4.10 lb. / 1.90 kg 1,075 ft² / 100 m² 2,200 lb. / 1,000 kg
AS-50 46 ft. / 14 m 50 in. / 126 cm 5.70 lb. / 2.60 kg 1,300 ft² / 120 m² 2,750 lb. / 1,200 kg
Atlas 500 52 ft. / 15.8 m 54 in. / 137 cm 7.90 lb. / 3.60 kg 2,150 ft² / 200 m² 4,400 lb. / 2,000 kg
Atlas 1000 52 ft. / 15.8 m 73.3 in. / 186 cm 11.0 lb. / 5.0 kg 2,150 ft² / 200 m² 4,400 lb. / 2,000 kg
Maxi 70 ft. / 21 m 89 in. / 226 cm 24.25 lb. / 11.0 kg 2,700 ft² / 250 m² 5,500 lb. / 2,500 kg

What is a Trogear adjustable bowsprit?

A Trogear bowsprit is an aftermarket, removable bowsprit built from carbon fiber, giving it an excellent weight-to-strength ratio. Its solid, triangular design is strong yet light, and it is engineered to be mounted below the deck line for extra strength while keeping your deck clear of obstructions. Deck mounting and attachment to the bow roller are additional install options.

Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit AS-50 carbon-fiber aftermarket sailboat bowsprit
Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit AS-50 — a 50 in. carbon bowsprit rated for boats up to 46 ft. and asymmetrical spinnakers up to 1,300 ft².

Which Trogear bowsprit should I choose?

Match the model to your boat length first, then confirm your largest downwind sail fits within its maximum asymmetrical and Code 0 sail areas. Because the models were designed to fit the widest possible range of yachts, some have overlapping ranges of use — so the final choice, or whether a semi-custom size is needed, can depend on your bow geometry, rating, and how you intend to sail. The AS-25 uses an anodized aluminum 6061 shaft, while the AS-30R, AS-40, and AS-50 use titanium shafts; the larger Atlas and Maxi models use titanium or carbon-fiber shafts. All models share a G10 fiberglass hinge tube with a 1.00 in. (25.40 mm) outside diameter.

Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit Atlas 500 for larger sailing yachts up to 52 ft
Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit Atlas 500 — a 54 in. sprit for yachts up to 52 ft., carrying asymmetricals up to 2,150 ft².

How do I install and maintain a Trogear bowsprit?

Most owners can install the Trogear bowsprit themselves: it is not a difficult process, but it does require careful measurements to ensure the best fit. If you are unsure at any point, contact us or consult your rigger. The bowsprit is fully removable — remove the bolts and slide out the shaft — and a quick-release upgrade is available on most models for faster removal.

For maintenance, inspect all parts before use for cracks, corrosion, chafe, and loose attachments, correcting any issues first. Flush with fresh water after each use, and disassemble for thorough cleaning, inspection, and lubrication of moving parts at least once a year (more often with heavy use or in stronger winds and sea states). A UV protectant such as 303 Marine & Recreation Aerospace Protectant helps guard against sun damage.

Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit AS-25 compact carbon bowsprit for small sailboats
Trogear Adjustable Bowsprit AS-25 — the compact 33 in. model for boats up to 26 ft., with an anodized aluminum 6061 shaft.

Is a longer or shorter bowsprit better?

In general, a longer sprit is better for downwind speed and for inside jibing, but length affects your handicap rating, so weigh performance against your rating goals. A long bowsprit is not necessary just to fly a Code 0. Because length can change your rating, it is best to talk with your sailmaker before committing to a size.

Frequently asked questions

Can I install the Trogear bowsprit myself?

Yes. It is a straightforward job for most owners, but it requires careful measurements for the best fit. If in doubt, contact our team or consult your rigger.

Is the Trogear bowsprit removable?

Yes. Remove the bolts and slide out the shaft. A quick-release upgrade is also available on most models for faster removal.

Will a Trogear bowsprit fit my boat?

Trogear bowsprits suit monohulls, catamarans, and trimarans from 20 to 70 ft. Check the comparison table above to match your boat length and sail area; in some cases a semi-custom size is the right answer.

How do I care for the bowsprit?

Inspect all parts before use, flush with fresh water after each outing, and disassemble annually for cleaning, inspection, and lubrication. Use a UV protectant for added protection against sun exposure.

What sail sizes can a Trogear bowsprit handle?

It depends on the model: maximum asymmetrical sail area ranges from 750 ft² on the AS-25 up to 2,700 ft² on the Maxi, with corresponding Code 0 limits. See the table above for each model's figures.

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