SeaRide
Active Member
Gary,
I have a 1999 230BR, which is similar but not identical to yours. In 2001, SR redesigned the 230. Our interiors have the same basic layout, but yours has clearly been refreshed. My 230 has an aft circular/u-shaped bench with two bucket seats (helm/passenger) forward. With this configuration, I am able to lay the bimini across the forward section of the bench with the aft strut and jaw slides resting just above the cup holders. The bimini struts will rest inside the lower storage panels. Then I use towels to cushion/protect the areas where the bimini comes in contact with vinyl. FYI, my upper and lower storage panels are completely open without a curvature. I think they added a bit of a curvature and more of an enclosed look to the 2001 and newer models, which could present a problem for you.
My procedure is pretty simple. Turn the bucket seats back to back and flip up the seat bolsters which allows me to slide one side of the bimini into the lower storage panel. Then lower the other side of the bimini into the opposing storage panel. Once again, this works for my seating configuration and may work for you if you have the same seating configuration. However, I think the enclosures and curvature of the lower storage panel may present an issue for you, but it's worth a shot.
I have a 1999 230BR, which is similar but not identical to yours. In 2001, SR redesigned the 230. Our interiors have the same basic layout, but yours has clearly been refreshed. My 230 has an aft circular/u-shaped bench with two bucket seats (helm/passenger) forward. With this configuration, I am able to lay the bimini across the forward section of the bench with the aft strut and jaw slides resting just above the cup holders. The bimini struts will rest inside the lower storage panels. Then I use towels to cushion/protect the areas where the bimini comes in contact with vinyl. FYI, my upper and lower storage panels are completely open without a curvature. I think they added a bit of a curvature and more of an enclosed look to the 2001 and newer models, which could present a problem for you.
My procedure is pretty simple. Turn the bucket seats back to back and flip up the seat bolsters which allows me to slide one side of the bimini into the lower storage panel. Then lower the other side of the bimini into the opposing storage panel. Once again, this works for my seating configuration and may work for you if you have the same seating configuration. However, I think the enclosures and curvature of the lower storage panel may present an issue for you, but it's worth a shot.