Hobie Bimini Sunshade

I recently purchased the bimini sunshade and love it! It’s a game changer as far as making it bearable to stay out in my hobie sport for hours in the Florida summer sun. I’m still getting use to it. Where I am having a few issues is when it is a little windy and a strong current. I have the hobie sport with the mirage system. I was out the other day and had to go against the wind and an outgoing current and the bimini top seemed to make it extremely difficult. I was pedaling and pedaling and not getting too far. I almost had to “tack” a little to make progress. When I was coming back and the wind was to my back, the back of the shade that was tied down with the cords would collapse down.
Does anyone have any experience and/or good hints or suggestions on using the sunshade? Also, it’s there a suggested windspeed maximum?

Wind speed would be related to direction. You would have to be cautious with winds of 8 knots or more I think. Gusty winds are the most difficult.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

I went out again yesterday with winds 11mph. I had a terrible time going into the wind- my kayak wouldn’t move. I finally had to pedal to the shore (with the back collapsing) and take the top down. I don’t know if tying the cords tighter or looser in the back will help. And I’m not sure how to use the tension in the front (buckle) to make adjustments. Being on the Gulf, we always have some wind. I cannot find anything about how much wind is too much on any of the hobie literature. I really love having the top, but to be honest it really makes me nervous using it.