Z5 Bimini on G23

[aoblak]

I have a couple questions regarding the Z5 Bimini on a G23

With the actual Bimini removed can the tower be folded? Looking at pictures it looks like the brackets are on the outside and would hit the sides of the boat

What's is the opinion to is the Bimini worth the money

[Kporsch]

You need to remove the mounting arms to fold the tower. Z5 is well worth the money but the extra storage isn't needed in the G23. I debated on switching to the tower Bimini but decided the z5 looks way better.

[axeman]

If you plan on lowering the tower often then you should stick to the stock Bimini. However, in my opinion the Z5 looks better.

[aoblak]

I will have to raise the lower the tower everytime I use the boat. My wife isn't sold on the looks of the stock Bimini

[vision]

Raise and lower my tower every day with a Z5.

If you need the clearance of the tower all the way down, then the Z5 will frustrate you as it sits about 18 higher than with the the stock bimini when folded. Plus you have to remove the Z5 (simple) to lower it to this level. As mentioned, the bracket is the problem. You could easily have a folding bracket made that would allow you to remove the Z5, fold the bracket arms, and lower all the way. But certainly not as easy to deal with as stock bimini.

Personally, I think the stock bimini is severely cosmetically challenged. In addition, when you are caught on the lake in the rain, you can tilt the Z5 down to the windshield and it really protects you from the elements.

If you do not need the extra 18 inches, the Z5 is a much better option in my opinion. if you need to lower the tower all the way every day, it will get old with the Z5 unless you modify it.

[bradw]

I will have to raise the lower the tower everytime I use the boat. My wife isn't sold on the looks of the stock Bimini

I was in the same boat i liked the look of the Z5 but i have to fold my tower. I went the factory bimini and its super quick and easy to use and has extra head room.As other people have said you dont need the storage on top, im glad i talked myself out of it.

[aoblak]

I will need the most height that I can get when folding the tower so I guess the Z5 is out of the question! I really like the look of that Bimini!

[skye6969]

I just bought a new G25 and the biggest debate was the Bimini. I don't like the look of the stock one but the Z5 smacked me in the head at least 3 times ( slow learner) I'm used to my old biminin my SAN 230 coastal and it was always out of the way. I went with the Z5 hoping I'll learn not to smack my head but wondered if anyone else had height issues and wished they went with the stock? Also are ther any other options out there ?.?

[aoblak]

My dealer said that they could have an original style Bimini made

[vision]

I did slowly learn to avoid hitting my head going back and forth from the bow. Since the tower speakers are essentially the same height at the Z5 in the back, the addition of the Z5 really does not alter clearance under the tower.

The lower bimini position also improves your shade and rain protection. But smacking your forehead on the bimini can be painful!