Before this boating season starts, we wanted to get a custom bimini made. It is my understanding that Sunbrella has 2 grades of fabric but I do not know the names or differences. Also, what have people used for the framing. I would think steel would work better cruising at 45-50 mph than aluminum, but I am not sure if there are different grades, pros and cons with them, etc. We want something that is done right the first time and need some help.

If someone has done their own custom bimini, could you please let me know the specs you gave to the vendor making it? Thanks.

Randy

I have torn the stiching out of mine so many times at 50 mph or so that dont leave it up anymore. never had a problem with the material, just the thread used in the stiching.

I had a bimini that worked up to 70 mph with no problem. It was stainless steel and had a low profile acron bracket that was how it connected to the boat. PM me and I will look up the manufacturer and let you know.

I had my bimini custom made by a local shop. I used aluminum...but anything over 50MPH...I'd consider a stainless frame. My aluminum holds up at 50MPH...but it's gets sketchy with a gust of wind.

Also, it's real important to have it adjusted right (with the attitude of your boat at speed) to put less stress on the frame.

Also, the fast guys are using a mesh fabric. It does block alot of the sun, but not all. Since it lets some air through at speed, it's easier on the frame.

Like OSO said, the solid mounts (vs. straps) will give you much needed stability at higher speeds.

There's some guys out there with 100MPH biminis...

I've had custom bimini's on my boats since 1978 (about 20 in all) and I know with the correct shape, angle, SS frame and adjustment, they're good to about 90 MPH. The new Textaline mesh is great, but noisy at speed. My current boat has a combination of solid and mesh done in the same colors in my gel. The hardware is great for quick disconnects...

Cuda, you could be having a field day with this thread.

I've had Biminis on my Top Gun and Black Thunder. All stainless tubing. Instead or sunbrella, I used Stamoid. It is a vinyl coated nylon material that is waterproof, as opposed to water resistant. Same stuff they use for the enclosures on sportfish boats. Really nice in a heavy downpour. It's also lighter than sunbrella. Use goretex thread so it doesn't leak at stiching.

Horseplay3,

Sissyboy

Ya Cuda were are ya at

See what happens when I'm away for one day?? It's all gone to hell in a handbasket.