Stupid bimini question

[TBarCYa]

Does a bimini have to be taken down when under way?

I have a 1975 21' Regal Cuddy and I'm thinking of getting a 2 bow bimini. The problem is that because of the windshield, the only way I could fold the top down would be towards the back which would interfere with passengers. Is it typically okay to be under power with the top up? Also, should I try to get a top that fits as close (height wise) to the windshield as I can stand under or is it okay to get one that is taller to create more shade?

Thanks.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Stupid bimini question

I'd say you are just going to have to try it, and see how the air flows over your boat..might flap around, might not..

 

[QC]

Re: Stupid bimini question

Taller kinda means less shade as the sun will get "under" it earlier in the day . . . I prefer my Bimini's as short as I can get away with for this reason. Another solution to your down stowage deal is to install a second set of mounts just for when it is down, you just move the whole thing to the alternate mounting spot that might allow it to lay down just aft of the engine cover but still on the transom for example.. The 2nd mount can also be used for the rear straps if it is in the right place for that.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Stupid bimini question

I ran around with my bimini up all year long. The only time it was folded up was for street travel or storage.

 

[TBarCYa]

Re: Stupid bimini question

I really like the second set of mounts idea because it will let me move the shade if I need to. When fishing, I can keep it on the aft mounts but when cruising or sitting keep it closer to the windshield. Excellent!

Thanks.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Stupid bimini question

You need a set of these top slide tracks:

Mount them so the end is where you want the top "mounting point" to be when the top is up. When you fold the top down to the rear, then it can slide along the track until it is out of the way of the passenger area. They come is lengths from 18 to 72 inches, so you should find a set to get your top out of the way when folded down. They can be mounted on top of the gunnel, or on the side of the gunnel. There are top mounts for either position.

I use them on my boat and they work great. I worry about the top opening like a parachute behind me so when I fold it down, I put a bungie strap around the top and hook it to the splashwell.

 

[TBarCYa]

Re: Stupid bimini question

That's a great idea. Thanks.