Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

[rs1lollie]

I'm planning on purchasing a bimini top from Iboats.com for my open bow boat, My question is should the front of the bimini top be even with the top of the windshield or cover some or most of the windshield?
I know that it is personal preference, but would like to here from you guys on your thoughts, suggestions and own setups.

 

[DBreskin]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

The bimini should be positioned to provide shade where you want it to be.

I have mine positioned so the front edge of the bimini is about even with the top edge of the windshield. The position allows me to be in the shade when I'm driving, but it's specific to my boat's design and the distance from the seat to the windshield. Yours may be different.

Also be aware of the bimini's angle to horizontal. I set mine so it's fairly level when the boat is on plane; I want to minimize lift or downforce so there isn't excessive stress on the frame at speed.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

I would put the bimini where it's most convienient for folding it up and deploying, I want the mounting points positioned where they would be the least conspicuous and easily accessable from inside, where the straps will go should also be considered, like being able to easily reach everything.
The sun moves as the day progresses so to my straight up dead center would my starting point, actually my starting point would be right here asking questions like you did, unfortunately I haven't got a bimini and I'm not speaking from actual experience.

 

[pinellas50]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

I first installed mine so it was just above the top edge of the windshield. I deployed the top(in the driveway) and sat down to get a feel for the new shade. Well, I was still completely in the sun. I had to move it forward 16" to make sure I was almost always shaded in the driver's seat.

In this configuration, the 2 back to backs are almost always saded. The bow never is obviously nor are the rear seats next to the motor well that no one usually sits in.

My advice is to put the top together and then hold it up to the boat(using 2 friends) to see where it will suit you the best on your boat.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

consider this as well, as if you don't have enough:

you may want to be able to fold it down so it rests on or just in front of the transom or splashwell so it deosn't take up open space.

If you have split console including a bow rider, do you have to duck under it when moving forward?

The taller it is, the better for moving around but the less shade.

This is why you buy a used boat, pre-rigged, so you can worry about bait v. lures instead.

 

[rs1lollie]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

Thanks for all your input, I was thinking of just that , getting bimini top and
setting it up and move it around till I find the best place for shade/storage. I'll post pics after I install top.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

Ok, we're going to hold you to it, I would like to see and hear about your finished product.
Very nice photo Pinnelas I like that look too.

 

[Triton II]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

Biminis are traditionally mounted above the windshield so "clears" can be fitted:

However if you're not fitting clears, then yes, place the bimini to maximise shade over the helm. Good luck, pix please!

TII

 

[rs1lollie]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

OK guy's I promised you some pics after I installed my Bimini top. So here they are.

 

[Triton II]

Re: Question on bimini tops mounted on a open bow

Looks good Lollie.