Bass Tracker Classic XL - Bimini Top Installation and Review

I bought a Bimini top for my Bass Tracker Classic XL and I show how to install the bimini and reviewed this which I purchased from Amazon. I am extremely happy with the bimini top and although I don't know much about them thought this was reasonable quality for the price. I highly recommend it.
Bimini top
www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B086...
Stainless Steal Mounts
www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07C...
Adventures Outdoors highlights the hunting, fishing, camping, outdoor cooking, hiking, and ATV adventures of Frank Zinck. Frank works in Information Technology and is an avid martial artist and is the owner of Budocentral Martials Arts where he and his wife Johanne teach Kyushu-Ryu Ju-Jitsu, Karate-do Shotokai and WASP (a women’s self defence class) You can find more info on their club at www.budocentral.com. Frank lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and was born in Newfoundland and has a passion for anything outdoors.
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[@marinarodiguez2457]

Thank you! This was very helpful! I ordered my dad the Bimini top and the latches for Father’s Day! He also has a Bass Tracker xl classic. He’s going to love it!

[@FrankZinck]

He going to love it. Mine is three years old now and still perfect. I love it.

[@rcnitro001]

Very good video. I just bought myself a 2024 Bass Tracker Classic XL today. I can’t wait to get on the water and of course do a few upgrades like this.

[@FrankZinck]

Congratulations that’s awesome. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

[@pakviroti3616]

You made my day when you put it on backwards. I laughed and laughed. No harm though, seems to work that way just as well as the other way. Thanks for the link to the stainless steel pieces.

[@FrankZinck]

LOL yes I know, we did fix it last summer.

[@raynichols9507]

Great job on your install, very nice looking boat also!

[@FrankZinck]

Thanks so much.

[@quigleyclampett6132]

Very informative video! Ordering mine today!

[@FrankZinck]

You’re going to love it.

[@davegrachan6397]

Great video! Have to get one now for sure, thanks.

[@FrankZinck]

You should! You’ll love it.

[@navymark101]

Thanks for the video Frank, as I'm waiting for my bimini top to arrive I started to think about the installation of it. Now I have a pretty good idea on what to do. I have a Tracker 175 that I ordered and picked up already so I'm looking forward to being on the water and having a bit of shade.

[@FrankZinck]

Mark you are going to love the Bimini. My video has the Bimini backwards. It’s an easy fix. The main bar should be in the back and the folding bars in the front. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@ASharpDrum]

Thank you very much for this video. We just bought one of these for our 89 Bass Tracker. Hopefully it goes as well as yours did. I've referenced this video several times in hopes it will set me up for success. Thanks again!

[@FrankZinck]

Good luck. I hope it helps. We used our today as we were fishing and it was crazy hot here on the east coast.

[@FrankZinck]

Lol the Bimini is actually backwards the beams on the frame should point forward. I simply reversed it after.

[@leojagawaga6481]

Great Video Best By Far ! Good Thing You Had Your Better Half To Give You Good Advice . Great Reference Video On How To Install A Bimini Top Thanks Very Much

[@FrankZinck]

She is always a big help. I really value her opinion. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@rockyraab8290]

Thanks, Frank! I get my Classic in the Spring, and a bimini is right up there as a "probable" accessory to cope with our very high solar UV in Utah.

[@FrankZinck]

You’re gonna love this boat. I sure do. Here in eastern Canada a Bimini is cool... I’d say it’s a necessity in Utah lol.

[@bagerton]

Great job and video Frank and Lady. You are like me. I would have installed it backward also. Enjoy my friend!

[@FrankZinck]

Thanks 👍

[@thedutchfisherman7078]

Awesome video! 👍👍 I like the fact that you not only demonstrate the installing but also show us how far the shade goes. You don't see this that often. So thank you for sharing.

[@FrankZinck]

Thanks for you comment I really appreciate it. The Bimini was well worth it.

[@gregwalden5812]

Love it ,I need one

[@FrankZinck]

The price is right lol. Well worth it.

[@NicklisFamilyAdventures]

Great video

[@FrankZinck]

Thanks!

[@sycodad4483]

Did you ever figure out that you mounted it backwards? The main bow is the longest and should be mounted tipped back and the shorter bows angle to the front. The support poles go to the rear and support the main bow. The straps should attach to the second longest bow pulling it forward to tighten your fabric. Put a short strong bungee on one end of your straps can help keep fabric tight as well. Also if you notice when you show it folded down it sits on the shorter bows and is not supported well. With the longest bow tipped towards the back it will lay much flatter when not in use.

[@FrankZinck]

Yes I had had tons of comments. Lol. It’s fixed now lol

[@tonynelson2100]

Thanks brother 👍🏻

[@FrankZinck]

No problem

[@davehaag8175]

What i did was use industrial double sided tape and placed the brackets to put it up and that way i could sit under it and find exactly where i wanted it...im happy i did because i realize that moving a couple inchs back after putting where i thought made better sense

[@FrankZinck]

Great idea

[@leerognlie1781]

Looking hard at this boat, will need the Bimini in Texas. Why do you need it with your short cool summers? Thanks for the videos, offer great info!

[@FrankZinck]

LOL, this may not be hot for a Texan but it does get 90F for a month here and the sun can be hot.... not Texas hot. The main reason is that I had skin cancer removed and want to reduce as much sun contact as possible. If I'm having lunch on the water its nice to be out of the sun. You're going to love this boat. Glad you enjoy the videos.

[@stevehughes208]

Great video. What size drill bit did you end up using for your pilot holes?

[@FrankZinck]

I can't remember if it was 9/64 or 5/32.... I'm thinking I used 5/32 for my rod holders and #12 screws and 9/64 for the Bimini.

[@mkapuscik01]

Great video. I'm looking to order one for my Ranger but still undecided if to go with 46 or 54 height. I guess 46 would allow for more shade and am thinking how many times do I really need to stand near the wheel area anyway! Probably will go with the 46 since I'm 5' 5".

[@FrankZinck]

I like the shorter one. More shade less rain. It only covers the cockpit. I can stand in the bow and stern because their open. I’m happy with my decision to order the shorter one.

[@TheVdryvs]

great video. thanks for sharing. i just bought a top for my 2021 XL, what is the measurement from transom to the first screw of the deck hinge ?

[@FrankZinck]

I would check for you but my boat is winter storeage until May unfortunately.

[@billybooth6737]

Frank what size top did you purchase in your video. Enjoyed your video. Thanks for sharing. Billy

[@FrankZinck]

Glad you enjoyed it. I can’t remember the width. I measured it across just between the steering wheel and seat. The poles have some flex. So it is forgiving.

[@kenp4464]

Nice mod, to get away from the sun beating on you. Any access inside the hull to use nuts to hold the fasteners vs just the hull?

[@FrankZinck]

I think I could have put the bow straps on the deck instead of the gunnel but I’m still happy with it. In the end if I drilled wrong I likely would have plugged the hole with a tiny bit of body filer lol.

[@michellebeaver7032]

HI Frank, ordering our top. We measured the boat at widest point and it was about 80 inches and boat is 16 ft 2 in foot long bass tracker with 4 seats. We really want it to fold down like yours does so we are going to go with the 6 foot like you did. For width do you suggest we order the 73-78? or go bigger with the 79-84? Does this matter? Our boat looks similar to yours so doubting that it needs that much larger than you used. Thanks!

[@FrankZinck]

I would go 79-84 that should give you a nice wide one, the poles are flexible. You’re going to love it.

[@tellrich29]

This maybe a dumb question to ask but does the front and back seat come with like a post extension to raise the seats for those a separate purchase.

[@FrankZinck]

The post came with the boat.

[@HackerReportBFH]

1 - Is it still holding up like new? 2 - How does it do at full speed? And thanks for doing a video!

[@FrankZinck]

It’s really my first boat so I’m not that experienced. Our lakes are small and at full throttle the boat is amazing. It’s a real dream. As of May 28 here in Nova Scotia we are locked down and restricted from travel because of a breakout of Covid and my boat is in storage so I haven’t been able to get it to use it this year. It’s very frustrating.

[@garygazman3827]

Hello Frank, what height top is that ? The amazon screen shot showed 4t” , but looks taller. I’m trying to decide between the 46” or 54” for my Tracker Pro Guide V16

[@FrankZinck]

It was the 46. I wanted the 54 originally but I’m glad I got the 46 more shade and it’s perfect. It folds perfectly between the rear deck seat and the motor.

[@garygazman3827]

@@FrankZinck Thank you!

[@bidkid2020]

Worth a million dollars for that feeling nice boat

[@FrankZinck]

Worth every penny my friend. Lol.

[@jeffcustrin5797]

Tell me about it just bought one on amazon no instructions thanks for the video

[@FrankZinck]

Hope it helps. I did make a mistake because of the lack of instructions. Mine is backwards the main long piece should be in the back. The folding one toward the front. An easy switch around.

[@timj3594]

How do you keep the framing from rubbing and marking up the red paint when it's folded up and laying down? Especially when you're trailering the boat.

[@FrankZinck]

We cut short pieces of pool noodles and put around the sections that touch. Also we bungee it down when traveling so it doesn’t bounce.

[@timj3594]

I'll try that. Thanks Frank!

[@malibujoe01]

Looks like on classic they did away with the Versa Trac? I was able to install a bimini on my Tracker Grizzly utilizing the Versa track without drilling into the gunnels. Some guy in Minnesota makes hard rubber blocks for mounting things using the Versa Trac system alone 🤔

[@FrankZinck]

I don't think the Classic ever had the versa Trac.... at least not for several years. It was something that had me thinking about upgrading when I was doing my research. I really wanted the trac. All the other boats seem to have it.

[@malibujoe01]

@@FrankZinck I did not know that Frank. I stand corrected 😳 I enjoy your video s keep it up!

[@FrankZinck]

I'm glad you are enjoying the videos.

[@carlbridgeforth3651]

i have to say your wife help you and was great you got lucky with her.

[@FrankZinck]

You got that right!

[@sukrull381]

OBTW my boat brand name is Sun Dolphin

[@sukrull381]

I have been trying to figure out how to get right Bimini top for my American 12 Jon boat ,my width is 42 inches and everywhere I go to look for tops online the smallest widths are 54 " up !....Anyone help an oldtimer out , my first boat too :).........What I don't know is if the 54 inch width bimini top will adapt to my 42 inch width or can I purchase smaller tops any help be nice .

[@FrankZinck]

I don’t really know. The aluminum poles do flex and bend a bit but ten inches would not be good. If you could find one for 44 or 46 should work. I don’t think I have seen any that narrow though. Sorry.

[@joetamm]

Thanks for the info. We just ordered the Pro 170. Did the installation of the top affect the warranty on the boat. 🇺🇸🎸👮🏻‍♂️

[@FrankZinck]

I was told that Bimini install does not void warrenty, Holes in the Transon for say a swim ladder would. But don't go by me lol.

[@joetamm]

@@FrankZinck thanks!

[@shadrack7145]

It is worth noting that you should pay an authorized dealer to install this so you don’t immediately void your warranty on a new boat. As soon as you drill one hole in your new boat, say goodbye to your warranty.

[@FrankZinck]

Yes if they wanted to push it in some cases it might be the case. But everyone wants accessories like this, rod holders, etc. won’t effect the motor warranty. They have a case if you troll holes in the transom and the seems come apart. But rod holders wouldn’t be a justification. I wish this boat cam with the Versa track.

[@tushugars]

Stainless steel screws into aluminum boats... Put some silicon or "something" - a nylon washer perhaps. Put something in the hole you drill" to stop electrolysis ... If you don't you risk your paint bubbling...

[@FrankZinck]

Oh wow. I never did that. I'll have to keep an eye on it.

[@5teve..]

Frank, the framing on that top was put in backwards. The framing should lay flat.

[@FrankZinck]

If you look at the pictures from Amazon the pictures are just how I installed it. www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B086HCGBNF?pf_rd_r=W2Z6ZAGT7SW84KV5TGZ4&pf_rd_p=05326fd5-c43e-4948-99b1-a65b129fdd73

[@meethed]

Yup. The long bar should be at the back, and the folding bars in the front. It's a very easy fix, just flip it around.

[@meethed]

@@FrankZinck you didn't install it like that picture... the long/non-folding face forward. It's an easy fix, just flip it.

[@FrankZinck]

Oh wow, I see what you're talking about now. That makes total sense. Crap. When I get the boat back from Winter storage, I'll make the change. Thanks for the tip.

[@5teve..]

@@FrankZinck No prob Sir, I have exact same boat and top. Just trying to help out a fellow angler, best of luck this year🎣!

[@robwhigham1717]

Should used the versatrack rails and then you could have easily adjusted it.

[@FrankZinck]

There's no Versatrack on a Bass Tracker Classic XL unfortunately.

[@billybooth6737]

I enjoyed your video. Can you send me inform on top and boat cover where to buy it. I have a 2020 bass tracker classic xl boat.. Keep up the good videoes. BillyBooth

[@FrankZinck]

Hey Billy. Check the description of the video all the information and link for the Bimini through Amazon is there. Glad you enjoy the videos.

[@jaysoncayetano2438]

How's the bimini holding up after couple of years?

[@FrankZinck]

Absolutely perfect. No issues.

[@georgelombardi1286]

I just bought my classic XL what else could I add

[@FrankZinck]

I installed a bow fish finder and upgraded the cockpit fish finder. That was huge. My other big add was a removable down-rigger for trolling deep.

[@Mattleyist]

Frank, is it me or is your top braces with the two supposed to be to the back with the single up front. You have it reversed by what I am seeing. Even in the Amazon link you shared it shows the rear brackets (2) toward the rear and not the front

[@FrankZinck]

Yes I did install it backwards lol. I changed it around this summer.

[@Mattleyist]

@@FrankZinck Great bimini top for sure. Works great and good call on the change of the front aftermarket supports. They look much nicer than the plastic and the quick releases are sweet

[@fishingphanatics473]

What size did ypu get.

[@FrankZinck]

There’s a link in the descriptions. I went with the 6’ x 46” x 73"-78" size.

[@gregwalden3639]

I think your poles are backwards try turning them around and it will lay all the way down

[@FrankZinck]

Yes you are correct. Thanks.

[@user-pv3bq6mv9p]

Note not not lol I did enjoy your video btw. The rear needs the extra strength thus the extra pole.

[@FrankZinck]

Correct

[@user-pv3bq6mv9p]

I see someone mentioned that the frame was backwards. Maybe add a not to your video.

[@FrankZinck]

Yes you are correct. We fixed it after. Thanks

[@davidsonpeguero2760]

You should put some 5200 on those screws.

[@FrankZinck]

For sure

[@mulespur4806]

Man when you started drilling holes and putting screws you just kept on going rod holders also, I however not that brave! Give me a couple years I might be a hole driller.

[@FrankZinck]

Ya I was very skeptical and terrified to do that. Lol. But I really wanted those add one so bad. I don’t regret it.... yet 😂

[@smc65714]

You put it on backwards!

[@FrankZinck]

Yes I know lol I have had to explain that a lot. Lol. An update is coming.

[@smc65714]

@@FrankZinck just put another one on my boat, Great Deal,Decent Top

[@CDavid1951]

Man just needs a boat and some time alone on the water.

[@FrankZinck]

You nailed it.

[@Phokings]

Great video

[@FrankZinck]

Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it.