Those "cheap" bimini

[grumpysmurf]

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?

http://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/ (http://www.kaiserboating.com.au/bimini-top/kaiser-premium-4-bow-1-9m-2-1m-light-grey-bimini-top/?gclid=Cj0KEQjwz-i3BRDtn53Z5Z7t4PUBEiQA23q2APYcl-MMCQ-6jy2voNNUV1jktTTbFnbqDt2EBDweVdUaArMH8P8HAQ)

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.

[Moonlighter]

I cant say anything about the biminis, i can only add that recently i bought a tinny cover and outboard motor cover from Kaiser Boating and was very impressed with the service. Initially i ordered a size that ended up being too small, Kaiser were very helpful in facilitating the return and exchange for the correct size model. So i would buy confidently from them again.

[bazza65]

Naturally they are going to fade and deteriorate if left in the sun, all canvas and poles will.
I bought one on Gumtree a few months ago for $100, 4 post 2.6 mtr long. Very good condition.
I think they are rated to 45 knots when opened up.

[airlock]

I've had Bimini tops from both ocean south and blue line on boats, neither let me down in any way, great sun and light rain protection and both lived outside, one with a cover and one without and neither showed any signs of accelerated degradation. Although Blue line did miss a trick in the quality control, the bastards didn't think to engineer them with the ability to withstand falling tree branches.

[Triple]

I've bought a 3 bow and a 4 bow from these guys with no issues. Both are stored folded down in their travel socks but. Look exactly the same fittings and poles/cover as the bcf ones.
https://www.ebay.com.au/ulk/itm/201285720601

[shakey55]

I had one of the Oceansouth bimini's on my old seafarer v-sea. I found they were reasonably priced, sturdy construction, fabric appeared to be good and did not fade while I had it.

Value for money = 7 out of 10. ✔️✔️✔️


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