bimini up or down

[skargo]

Re: bimini up or down

I agree. I shouldn't have said a lot. I have made custom ones a long time ago that had that feature.

That would actually be a neat feature!

 

[cwcollins06]

Re: bimini up or down

A lot of convertible tops have zippered sections at the helm which allows the driver to stand.

The top does have a zippered section, but it's lined up with the middle pane of the windshield. I always just assumed that was so people could move more easily into and out of the bow seating area. Maybe you could roll it back and stand next to the helm, but I don't think you could reach the throttle without squatting and leaning awkwardly to starboard. I'll have to try it next time we're out!

 

[bruceb58]

Re: bimini up or down

I have made some that have an addition section to the right of that.

 

[sschefer]

Re: bimini up or down

Store bought tops and frames are usually rated. The ones with a single mount point and fore and aft straps are usually rated for 35mph. The ones with two point mounts and support poles are usually rated to 45-50mph. I snapped a single point at about 50mph and it came down around my head. The one I have on my current boat is a dual point mount and also attaches to the windshield. It's custom made and not rated but I wouldn't hesitate to run it at 50. The boat only does 30-35 so it doesn't really matter about how fast I'm going. The question was about wind and if it were me, I'd take it down because it gives the boat more sail area and would make it more difficult to handle.

 

[jokaj]

Re: bimini up or down

My bimini has 7/8" stainless steel tubes. I was concerned with the performance and not so much damage. Next time I get caught, I will most likely put the top down just in case.