c-16 bimini

[Bramble]

I am in the process of getting a bimini for my 1976 c-16.  I have genoa tracks on the coaming, so Iwill need to mount it on the deck between the coaming & the rub rail. 
What width bimini will I need?

thanks
mike

[AirborneJarhead]

You'll need to choose where you want to mount the bimini and measure from point to point across the cockpit. You'll also need to leave room behind the main bow (you'll probably get a 2 bow bimini) mounts to put some support leg mounts so you can fold the top back behind the mainsheet and secure it for when you are sailing....unless, of course, you are one of the few I've seen that were able to deploy it under your boom!
Anyway, the main bows are usually pretty flexible, so you won't need to be exact in your size when purchasing.

[carry-on]

I may get to the boat this weekend and take some measurements. The beam is 6 ft. Expect the slide to slide on the Bimini is 5.5 ft. The frame on my Bimini is aluminum tubing with enough horizontal flex to accommodate small width changes The canvas needs to be correct.
The vertical dimension is important. You may want to hoist the main all the way and put minimal stretch on the downhaul; release the topping lift ad measure from the cockpit seats to the boom. If you plan to sail with the Bimini up, this dimension is important to ensure the boom can clear in a tack or jibe. If you are a tall person, the vertical dimension may limit your sitting comfort.
I sail with the Bimini deployed in low winds. If redoing the canvas, I would add a window in the forward part of the Bimini so the sails could be observed.

Suggest you contact Hutchins in Clearwater , Masthead Sailing in St Pete, Or Keith Scott at NC Sailboats. Confident they can tell you what to buy.

[Bramble]

Thanks for the information & the picture.
mike