Hello all! Excited to be here. New to the Forum - already deep in reading. I've scoured the LLM plans and have cut lists etc all ready to go but am hung up on the wheel part of the equation. I'm a kite buggier and have some wheels from the buggy I could put to use but wonder if they are going to be effective on a LLM? I'll be primarily on grass sports fields I would assume. At least for the beginnings of this adventure. I've secured myself a composite mast and a 4.5 and 5.4 windsurf sails so it's about time to get to the metal shop and get some tube!

Welcome ..I used have buggy wheels(As long s they have bearings and spacers between) for years no problems with them at all. The LLFM is a well designed and perfectly doable as a diy. But there are better designs about. If you want to stay within the LLFM to compete with others then go for it.
But have a good look at Y framed designs. There are considerable benefits....The seat can be dropped lower between the Y lowering the Centre of gravity,longer axles give a bit of suspension. But for me the greatest avantage relates to being able to alter the amount of weight transfered to the front wheel......Its recognised that for performance you want just enough weight on the front wheel when fully sheeted in with the pilot on board,to alow the wheel to grip for steering control. but too much weight causes drag.
Since with a Y frame if you slide the axles right into the frame you reduce the width but also move the axle position forwards thereby efectively moving the seat back which puts your weight further back reducing the front wheel weight (See simple lever) So in a light wind reduces the drag on front but enough to maintain steerage,
In stronger winds pulling the axles out to full extent extends the width (Less hiking) moves the axle line back, moves the seat and pilot weight forwards thereby putting more weight onto the front wheel both effects exactly what you want to be able to do in different wind conditions. Control hiking and weight distribution.
Just takes a bit of calculation on agles and lengths of the frame and axles to give enough movement to achieve this ,the rest of the build is as the LLFM.
However good luck on what ever build you take on, I'm sure if you go for the LLFM you will be more than happy with the result many are

I'm interested to learn more about these Y-frame designs but haven't been able to find any. Do you know of plans floating around "out there" that I could have a look at?

Enter seabreeze construction page 2 in search and all old posts are still on web (Well in UK they are) as well as general and sails if you get it up search for clemco mini build .There are lots of posts re Y framed yachts.,Entering clemco mini build may bring it up also Paul days Pacific magic plans are on the net

Thank you! I'm digging now. Have just started my way through a great long thread showing me lots to look deeper into. I sure love old school forums. Give me that over a facebook group any day.

what type of option is this?