Those "cheap" bimini

So my boat's  canopy - all the vinyl, the steel framework and clears are all falling apart.  They have done a good job over the years.

Without getting a quote yet, I am guessing that to replace the lot would be upward of $1500.  Unfortunately I rather not spend that money now.

So, has anyone had any experience with those cheaper bimini kits?  Like the ones below?  If so, how many years have you had it and was it stored outside with it open to protect the boat? 

 

www.oceansouth.com/index.php/tops/bimini-tops/4bowbimini-detail

www.kaiserboating.com.au/bimini-top/kaiser-premium-4-bow-1-9m-2-1m-light-grey-bimini-top/

 

As far as I can tell - they are both very similar in built quality - ie. Polyester Canvas, 25mm Aluminium tubes, Nylon & stainless fittings.  I also understand that they should be folded up for high speed towing.

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 Haines Signature 610C with Mercury 150 EFI


JohnF's picture

Posts: 2836

Date Joined: 07/07/10

yeah, I put a Whitworths one

Wed, 2016-03-30 11:17

yeah, I put a Whitworths one on my Trailcraft, was excellent.

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Boston Whaler 235 Conquest......getting the flogging it was built for.

z00m's picture

Posts: 1086

Date Joined: 10/05/14

Bimini

Wed, 2016-03-30 11:29

If you're interested in a cheap one I have the one I just took off my boat to fit the hardtop. It has a boot that you zip over to protect it when not in use (although I think you are saying you want something to keep open?). I don't think they would last that long if left open to the elements for extended periods.

Let me know if you're interested. Mine is black.

http://fishwrecked.com/files/z00m/Seafox.jpg

Grumpysmurf's picture

Posts: 97

Date Joined: 26/02/09

 Thanks Z00m, but I need a

Thu, 2016-03-31 10:16

 Thanks Z00m, but I need a longer one.

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 Haines Signature 610C with Mercury 150 EFI

Swompa's picture

Posts: 3783

Date Joined: 14/10/12

I have one on my Centre

Wed, 2016-03-30 11:43

I have one on my Centre console. Must have done three or four years. The black tape around the edges are starting to die though for the first year it didn't have a cover. More UV killing it than anything.

I think it is bang for buck.

Posts: 315

Date Joined: 07/05/11

Just covers balcatta

Wed, 2016-03-30 19:38

 not sure if they're still there but bought mine in 2008 and she's still fine

$600 from memory fitted to suit

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 Baron Sportsman

Just the depth that Varies

Posts: 358

Date Joined: 12/05/12

Just fitted one

Wed, 2016-03-30 20:25

 Just fitted one of these to my trailcraft, appear okay, went for the larger size frame for strength. They do not come with mounts for the feet so if you order make sure you add them. 

www.coverworld.com.au/marine-covers/bimini-cover/whitewater-bimini-top/2100mm-2300mm-mounting-width-whitewater-bimini.html

 

Grumpysmurf's picture

Posts: 97

Date Joined: 26/02/09

 Thanks all for your

Thu, 2016-03-31 10:16

 Thanks all for your comments!  I have ordered one now.

____________________________________________________________________________

 Haines Signature 610C with Mercury 150 EFI