Where to buy tower bimini?

[seymoc1]

I have a 2001 Metcraft tower and I would like to purchase a bimini to fit it. Any ideas where to start searching? should I buy the metcraft bimini or an aftermarket? What should I expect to pay?



thanks for your help.


Chris

[RZMike]

You definately need to go with something other than the metcraft bimini. I've got the metcraft bimini, and it's the only complaint I have about my boat. It just wasn't a very good design.

This topic was discussed before here -

http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=824&highlight=bimini

One of the places that was recommended was www.towerbiminis.com (http://www.towerbiminis.com) .

I'm not sure about price.

[seymoc1]

Thanks RZMike! That is exactly what I was wanting to know. How hard is it to fold down the tower with the bimini up? Does it have to be completely removed or just folded back?


Anyone with a towerbiminis bimini please chime in too. What did you pay? if you don't mind me asking.



Thanks!

[RZMike]

Originally posted by seymoc1
Thanks RZMike! That is exactly what I was wanting to know. How hard is it to fold down the tower with the bimini up? Does it have to be completely removed or just folded back?


When I drop my tower, I have the bimini folded up and strapped to the front of the tower. That way when I fold the tower back the bimini isn't in the way.

The problem with the Mertek bimini is that it's not that simple to fold up and down. The arms have to be attached or unattached every time. This is also been disscussed in another thread. You can read up on it here --

http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=241&highlight=Bimini

[RZMike]

Just in case someone is reading this that's not familar - I should probably clarify that my opinions only apply to the 2000/2001 Mertek tower/bimini's. From looking at other's pictures I think Mertek addressed these issues in 2002 and up towers (hopefully :D)

[billspin]

I have a Towerbiminis for my 2004 22iR. There are some pictures in my galerie. I choose these guys because there are no canvas straps that need to be attached when unfolded. I also found that they were one of the few to offer black powder coated hardware. It attatches to the tower with all of their hardware that is furnished and the legs all attach with pins. Very easy to put up and down. It does not flop at full throttle and provided the headroom needed as we are all tall and did not want to duck all of the time. Since I purchased it I have installed tower speakers and still have enough room to use the bimini. I feel I have made the right choice, these guys were fantastic to work with. This was all custom made to the measurements I provided per their directions. I think it cost about $750 plus shipping but I may be wrong and I can not find the paperwork.