To install a bimini you need three mounting points minimum per side, so a total of 6.

The middle location is where the bow/pole structure would connect.

Forward of this location is typical a loop/pad eye that a support strap would snap too, pulling the bows apart and opening the bimini.

The aft mount, when we will build biminis, is another pole mount. Installing a rigid connection at this point to hold the bimini in an upright position when closed and creating the stretch/tension point when open.

How fast can you go with a bimini?

How fast can a boat go with a bimini open? Well speed is restricted for sure, some say 35mph. Determining a speed and promising a speed is a tough call. We typically tell people it is meant for cruising, or drifting. We double stitch to strengthen the material portion. If you plan on going out and running wide open on on full plane, it would be best if your bimini was in the closed position. Options can be built on, to custom your bimini set up to support more speed. These options are:

• replace all support straps with rigid poles
• remove set screws from mounting hardware and install pins or pop rivets.
• add a second set of forward support straps
• set the bimini tilt to have the forward part set lower then the aft, stopping wind from scooping air.
• bolt hardware to the hull versus using screws.

The major thing to consider when thinking speed is your hull, the material it is made of and how the mounts are fastened.

A list of boats that biminis can be installed and what to think about before doing so…

• All power boats. smaller boats must be aware of wind catch for stability.
• All sail boats. Excluding small single or dual persons style.
• Canoe – careful on size and height as the wind catch can cause the canoe to flip.
• Kayak (large – open water style) – same considerations as a canoe
• Kayak (small – white water style) – not recommended, must be removed if shooting rapids.
• Paddle boats.

If your boat style is not listed and you think mounting points are possible, please give us a call. We love a new challenge.