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Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2011 6:57 pm
by bubbasimms
Just curious if anyone had purchased one of the bimini tops from Vortex Direct off of ebay and their opinions of them. I'm looking at their 12 foot top for my pontoon project. Its only about $350 delivered. If anyone has any experience with them, I would appreciate some input.
Thanks

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2011 8:01 pm
by dockholiday

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2011 6:14 am
by bubbasimms
yep, that's the one, only I'm needing the 96" width, but its the same top.

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2011 6:21 am
by spurhunter
Not yet, but I am sure thinking about it! I was about to last week, but momma said I needed to give the checking account a break for a week or two. :biggrin2

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2011 10:36 am
by bubbasimms
Well, I'm gonna pull the trigger on one this afternoon so I will let you know when it comes in. I bought a cover that was the same weight material (600 D) as the top and it seems pretty decent so here goes nothing.

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Tue Jun 14, 2011 3:03 pm
by bubbasimms
Well I got it in and for the price I think its ok. Check my rebuild thread "New Toon For the Family" for pics and more info.

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Tue Jun 14, 2011 6:41 pm
by dockholiday
hope it works for you.........let us know
doc

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sat Jul 23, 2011 1:32 pm
by bubbasimms
Well after spending some time with the vortex bimini top I have a little more to report...first off the boot for the top that keeps it covered when closed up has already faded to almost white on the top side and the zipper will zip completely off the end if you don't stop it short. The material is supposed to be UV treated but I'm having my doubts about that. Its not even been two months.... :donno

If I leave it up but closed up It really rocks side to side at slow speeds when towing, ie like when pulling out of the driveway. It rocks so bad I have been putting it all the way down and resting it on the rails for fear of it breaking or bending.

When on the water and moving it does fine, it doesn't act weak or like its going to break. The only problem on the water is if parked and a big wake comes parallel to the boat and rocks it side to side the top gets to rocking pretty good.

Time will tell...for now I'm still ok with it because of the price. I could probably buy 3 of em compared to a high quality bimini's with the large square tube frame.

If money wasn't a factor I would definitely not buy the vortex but rather spend the big bucks on one of the top of the line tops. I'm hoping this one lasts long enough to be a decent value.

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sat Jul 23, 2011 9:02 pm
by dockholiday
I noticed it has the straps on the front. My old toon had those which created alot of vibration so I replaced them with a cable that was encased in plastic and attached turnbuckles on each to tighten. If you do that don't tighten too much cause not sure those crossmembers could take a lot of strain. Anyway that may help some
doc

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sat Jul 23, 2011 9:27 pm
by lakerunner696
If the straps vibrate just give them a twist and re snap them

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sun Jul 24, 2011 5:02 pm
by bubbasimms
ahhh.....I've done some flatbedding so I know about the twist in the strap trick. There isn't any vibration really and it stays real secure in the bow to stern direction...its when shes rocking port to starboard it seems floppy.

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Sun Jul 24, 2011 6:36 pm
by Road Glide
I bought a pontoon cover from these guys so I cant comment on the bimini, but they shipped a quality product on time with no issues. I was pleased with their product and service.

Re: Vortex Direct Bimini

Posted: Wed Aug 31, 2011 9:09 pm
by MH Hawker
i also bought one and so far its ben fine , but i added some side supports( alum tubing) on the back to stop the woble, and other than that its ben fine

Vortex Direct Bimini Top

Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2016 3:12 pm
by vortexdirect
Definately a good product and a must on these hot days. If you have any questions about one for your boat call 1800-309-5190.
http://www.vortexdirect.com