posted 07-21-2006 07:44 AM ET (US)        

Has anybody installed a lower one with sliding tracks to move it forward or back to a down stored position?

Anyone have experience with Overton's biminis, particularly the Sunbrella models? Any recommendation with other company?

I know many will recommend the Mills models, but that is not an option at this time.

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

posted 07-21-2006 07:01 PM ET (US)            

I have the factory installed bimini on my new 150 Montauk and I like it. It has the ss fore and aft support rods and will fold down inside the rails for trailering. I don't find it to be to high.

posted 07-23-2006 09:32 AM ET (US)            

http://home.att.net/~roadkingmoe/Whaler/UsInWhaler.jpg

For a little sun, you can disconnect the forward straps and fold it back into a "radar arch" position, zipping the included boot over the bimini canvas. This is handy for us because it keeps our VHF antenna up high.

For trailering, with the bimini folded back in that position, you disconnect the struts where they attach to the boat and the whole framework folds forward inside the railings.

The factory Whaler does have some downsides. The mounting position that gives good coverage aft also means it covers the rod holders and three-foot rods would be about the longest that would fit in them. Since we rarely boat without the bimini deployed, I removed the rod holders.

The rear mounting position also means the bump behind the motor controls pushes the folded down framework toward starboard, and the frame wants to fall inside the port side gunwale. We put an ice chest behind the bow locker when trailering to support the bimini.

These downsides are just a compromise for having the bimini in such a good position to provide coverage from aft.

Our VHF antenna is mounted with a ratchet rail mount. It's normally vertical, but this day, we were in a hurry during setup and got it one tooth off. The ratchet mount lets us rotate the antenna down to align with the rest of the framework when we fold it all down for trailering. In fact, we can rotate the VHF antenna up vertical, even with the bimini folded down and forward.

My wife sewed a red "pup tent" enclosure that hangs on shock cord from one side of the bimini frame to the other, just behind the main seat. It has plastic clips that clip onto the bimini frame. It gives her privacy when using the Porta-Potti on the cockpit sole behind where she's sitting in that picture, and it also provides a place for her to change clothes.

That's my take on the 150 Sport bimini. Handy for more than just shade.

--
Moe

posted 07-23-2006 10:00 PM ET (US)            

I know you are looking for non-Mills bimini, but this can be related.
I installed Mills bimini top (sun-top) that was originally made for current model Montauk. With tracks, it folds forward, perfectly following bow rail contour or aft if you chose.
It's tall but longer and wider providing better protection. Some modifications required but nothing serious.
Most challenging adjustment was to bend frame to compensate for the beam difference.
Aluminum frame can be "adjusted" with your bare hands.

posted 07-23-2006 10:02 PM ET (US)            

The message of above relates to 2004 BW 150 Sport.