First appearing in the early 1980s Class 5 are the smallest competitive design recognised by the 
sports  international governing body. They are designed and made to a rigid specification. Modern
 Class 5s have a tubular steel chassis, aluminium axles and wheels, and a glass fibre or 
carbon/kevlar composite  fuselage. Precise tuning and alignment as well as good construction
 techniques are essential to make use of a Class 5 yacht's potential.