Runabouts - make use of a flat bottom running surface. Runabouts have strict length and design restrictions. Runabouts turn on the inside chine (rolling it up on the chine) and require the skilled movement of the driver's weight to control turns. The craft are very stable, enabling drivers to run very close together and increasing the drivers and spectators excitement.
Hydroplanes- have fewer design restrictions but are typically built to trap air under the hull. This trapping of air causes the boat to actually run above the water's surface at top speed (hydroplaning). The Hydro makes use of a side fin for turning the boat in a level position. Turning in a group of boats is a different story. The side fins on a group of boats can produce a spray worse than riding through a car wash. Hydros are very tricky to run close together because of the delicate cushion of air they ride on. Too much air and you're over backwards, a sudden change to no air under the boat can cause the bow to dive (and you stuff it!)
I found this on APBA's website, funny how we all talk about what a runabout or hydro is. when APBA's website defines it for us.
Hydroplanes- have fewer design restrictions but are typically built to trap air under the hull. This trapping of air causes the boat to actually run above the water's surface at top speed (hydroplaning). The Hydro makes use of a side fin for turning the boat in a level position. Turning in a group of boats is a different story. The side fins on a group of boats can produce a spray worse than riding through a car wash. Hydros are very tricky to run close together because of the delicate cushion of air they ride on. Too much air and you're over backwards, a sudden change to no air under the boat can cause the bow to dive (and you stuff it!)
I found this on APBA's website, funny how we all talk about what a runabout or hydro is. when APBA's website defines it for us.
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