The RX CLASS is the radio-controlled counterpart of the freesail X-class. The X Class was created in 1939 as an “experimental” class, to allow builders to try out different ideas in yacht design. Thus, it is a developmental class, unlike the other RC classes in the SFMYC, which are one-design classes. The RX Class’s overarching rule is a limit of no more than 1,000 square inches of measured sail area, with almost no restrictions as to hull shape, length, weight, materials, or type of rig. Very quickly after 1939, the X Class became very popular all over the country. With the development of radio control, some X-class boats were converted to RX boats. The class remains popular in the SFMYC although it has faded away elsewhere. The RX Class is not recognized by the AMYA and the class is administered by the SFMYC. RX sailors do, when racing, follow the AMYA rules for sailing.
The class is too small to attract a dedicated manufacturer. Today, the RX class boats are custom made, or are modified from other classes, such as10-Raters or Marblehead boats with up to 1,000 square inches of sail. RX boats are generally very fast, high performing yachts, much more so than their freesail counterparts. The SFMYC adopted certain limitations on the freesail X boats for the purpose of keeping older boats competitive. Known as the “SF Restrictions”, these included displacement and draft limits. The RX Class did not adopt the “SF Restrictions”. Fiberglass tends to be the material of choice, and the boats are long and slim, with deep keels, tall rigs, and light displacements. See the RX Class Rating Rules for more information governing the RX Class specifications. SFMYC members have approximately 14 RX boats. They have an 8-race season, and compete on Thursday afternoons.