Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

[mcgyver210]

I have decided to buy a new Bimini Top to use in place of the Convertible top I already have.

1. Can't decide which size would be better for our boat?

2. 6' or 8' not sure 8' is worth extra cost seems to be around an extra $100.00 ? If it is why?

3. Opinions on if it will look good aesthetically on our boat?

4. Is it really that much more usable shade?

2. Manufacture says windshield mount is fine which would be the same as my convertible top, opinions?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[Hunters Dad]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

I just installed a tower on my boat, but in doing this I had to replace my existing (very large bimini) with a tower-mounted version which was MUCH smaller. I was worried it would be too small, especially after being used to the larger one. Nope. The thing is, you can never tell how much shade your top is going to throw - you are constantly changing your heading and the sun is rising or setting...
My advice is save the $100 and go with the smaller one.

 

[spdracr39]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

8' is the way to go with out a doubt!! More is better !!
Follow the manufacturers mounting instructions but I would not mount it to the windshield. The mounting brackets on the one I ordered swiveled so it could be mounted on top of the sides or on the outside above the rub rail.
Installation was very easy. I also got the 42" height so I could stand up under it. It also allowed the top to lay across the sundeck when down so I could put the boat cover on without any troubles. Because of this I did not need to invest in sliders or the back braces to keep it out of the way when not in use which saved the extra cost for the larger size.

 

[mcgyver210]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

Thanks for the suggestions I am now leaning towards a 6' long x 36" height mounted to the Windshield Side Wings as mine is now & many I see on the lake are but I am still very open to more advice.

 

[mcgyver210]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

Bought one now I have to find time to install Thanks for all the advice it was very appreciated.

Purchased 1" Aluminum Frame, S/S Fittings, Poly canvas & Rear Pole Braces.

Only Neg so far is I will have to cut it down from 46" to whatever height works best.

 

[alloffroad]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

I am looking at biminies also. I am after the 8' long and 54" high. Will this be too much on my 17' bayliner? I am 6'5" so this is why the 54" height.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

I am looking at biminies also. I am after the 8' long and 54" high. Will this be too much on my 17' bayliner? I am 6'5" so this is why the 54" height.

I think you'll be fine. I have the shorter one on my 18' and as you can see, plenty of room for the extra length http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w200/ezmobee/New Boat/IMG_0460.jpg

 

[robert graham]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

Try to get one with a zippered boot to protect your bimini when it's down, makes it last much longer, protect from sunlight/UV, rain/moisture,mildew. On a really hot, sunny day, a bimini is a real necessity, plus they help some in a rain! I also carry a big golf umbrella on the boat that can be great in a downpour! Good Luck!

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Buying new Bimini Have ?????s

Try to get one with a zippered boot to protect your bimini when it's down

Can you even get one without that? It's pretty much essential. I tried running with mine down and not "booted" once and it was flappin' all over the friggin' place. A boot is definitely not optional.