GT205 Bimini Top

[seashell]

Is the Bimini top on a Glastron GT205 able to be folded down? It seems like it is, (due to the quick release pins on the rear poles), however when I fold it down to the rear of the boat, the front poles will make an indention in the boat near the front poles mounting point. Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks!

 

[jt185]

Re: GT205 Bimini Top

Sometimes the old Glastron threads get pretty quiet. I have no experience with Bimini tops. Although I'm interested in an answer because I want to buy one before the summer heat is blazing and would like to know if it can be folded down for travel and storage. I see it's your first post.

Welcome to the forum!

 

[edgarplanet]

Re: GT205 Bimini Top

The bimini does fold to the rear and the front for covering or storage. It seems to fold to the front better as folding to the rear puts a lot of strain on the mounts. Either way you fold it, it strains the mounting points. I only ever folded it (forward) when I was covering it. I've since replace the bimini with a wakeboard tower from Aerial and love it. Selling my bimini since it no longer fits. I'm in MD if anyone is interested. $100 for local pickup.

 

[qmrichardson]

Re: GT205 Bimini Top

I have the same problem with mine. Can't fold it to the back without scratching the boat. Even folding it forward, it needs to be covered with towels or something close to the mounts to prevent scratching. I just take mine off and store it inside the boat for transport. I don't care too much for the wobbly fit of the thing, and have already had to have one of the mounts replaced where it pulled out of the boat. A wakeboard tower would be better, but then I couldn't get it in my garage...

 

[rw99]

Re: GT205 Bimini Top

I have the same problem with mine. Can't fold it to the back without scratching the boat. Even folding it forward, it needs to be covered with towels or something close to the mounts to prevent scratching. I just take mine off and store it inside the boat for transport. I don't care too much for the wobbly fit of the thing, and have already had to have one of the mounts replaced where it pulled out of the boat. A wakeboard tower would be better, but then I couldn't get it in my garage...

Yah, this top could use a redesign of its mounting arrangement and hardware. The main coupling incorporates too much play (I've added washers to mine) and if you don't keep an eye on it the screws will back out due to the support moving back and forth when underway. Folding back to stow isn't quite right; the top won't fold all the way down (the last 8-12") so you're left feeling like you're stressing the mounts when you leave it there.

On the positive side, the bimini is made by Sunbrella and the canvas looks to be high quality. It's fine when left up at 40 mph, too.