Anyone done a fixed Bimini top?

[bthessel]

So my original bimini top on my AR230 is on its last leg. I had to leave it up the other week while moving after a rain storm and the wind broke half the zippers and tore it in a couple of places. I was going to just get a new one made at a canvas shop but then I started thinking about how nice it would be to have a large fixed top like the newer 242’s have. Has anyone done it or know of companies that can do that?

 

[mckev]

I got the Big Air Super Shadow Bimini Top from inboardsonly

I have it installed as far forward as possible and its great to have shade all the time, especially while cruising. The canvas takes about 5 minutes to take off and maybe 10 minutes to install.

 

[bthessel]

That looks exactly like what I am looking for. Thanks

 

[Scottintexas]

I was just thinking of something like this, my stupid 230 poles bent, I bought a used replacement and they had the same issue, even worse,


.

 

[Speedling]

Aerial freeride tower with the bimini that goes with. Had a local seamstress modify slightly to be a bit easier to install.

 

[bthessel]

View attachment 132324
Aerial freeride tower with the bimini that goes with. Had a local seamstress modify slightly to be a bit easier to install.

With the factory tower on my AR230 I am guessing doing one over the top will be better. I think one like yours will hang too low. I already hit my head in the tower speaker cans at times

 

[mckev]

Attached is a photo of the Big Air before we commited to the position and cut the hole for the wake tower.

 

[bthessel]

Attached is a photo of the Big Air before we commited to the position and cut the whole for the wake tower.

View attachment 132433

that looks really good, I think that is what I am going to do. When you cut the hole how do you finish the edge to keep it from ripping around it? I would imagine since it is wider than the standard bimini it keeps rain out of the boat also? The factory bimini basically funnels it in.

 

[mckev]

They provide a template and a plastic grommet that gets superglued and pressed (hammered) together.

Havent experienced weather with it. It provides good coverage for the cockpit but we do wish we had something for the swim deck. I've been eyeing an AnchorShade for the swim deck.

 

[bthessel]

Went with the Krypt Tower bimini. I think it looks great.