Storage, maintenance & transport
STORAGE
How should I store the O’pen Bic?
All boats should always be tied down and secured when not in use (on a
trailer or boat racks). Ideally, the O’pen Bic hull should be stored:
- On racks that pass along the length of the boat.
- In a “soft” sling.
It is possible to rest the O’pen Bic hull on the ground, either on the bottom of its hull, stern (be careful with the rudder mounting points) or side. Care should be taken that the ground surface is not too abrasive. It is also possible to stack the O’pen Bic directly one on top of another. If stacked, or stored upside down, care needs to be taken with the black “non-skid” pads.
As with all polyethylene products, storing the boat on racks that pass across the width of the boat (at a 90° angle to the vee) should be avoided. Point loading on the vee of the boat can cause deformation of the material in this area.
… and the rig components?
All rig components can be stored in the rig bag provided. Ideally, the
sail should be rolled up and placed in the rig bag only when dry. The
best way to dry the sail is to leave it rigged on the mast and boom.
The monofilm material can be damaged when not under tension or if left
to flap in the wind. Once in the rig bag, the bag should be laid flat
on the ground in a clean, dry place. If stood upright, the luff pocket
of the sail should be placed on the ground.
MAINTENANCE
Where can I get spare parts?
Please contact your original point of purchase for the O’pen Bic. They
will either have any spare parts you require on stock, or they will be
able to get them for you. If you still have problems, don’t hesitate to
contact us here: contact@bicsport.com
Do I need to wash my gear in fresh water after every use?
In order to prolong the life of your O’pen Bic, it is best that the
hull and all rig components are rinsed in freshwater after each use on
the sea. However, if the O’pen Bic is used regularly (at least on the
weekends), it is normally acceptable to wash the O’pen Bic after every
couple of uses. All components should be washed in freshwater if they
are to be stored for an extended period of time, ie. over the winter.
Do I need to take any particular care with the sun?
Yes. Care should be taken to avoid excessive exposure of all O’pen Bic
components to the sun, most particularly the sail. The harmful rays of
the sun can cause the material of any sail to breakdown over an
extended period of time.
How can I clean the sail?
If necessary, warm water and mild detergent may be used to remove persistent dirt.
TRANSPORT
Can I put the O’pen Bic on top of my car?
Yes, the weight of the hull of the O’pen Bic is no more than 42 kg.
However, make sure to double check the maximum weight limit of your
roof rack in your manufacturer’s specifications or user guide. Also
ensure that your roof rack is correctly mounted on the car before
driving anywhere.
What is the easiest way to transport the boat to the water’s edge?
For individual use, Bic Sport has a foldable trailer than can be purchased as an accessory to the O’pen Bic.
Where can I get further information?
If you have any further questions on the O’pen Bic that are not answered here, please use our contact form clicking here or send us an email.
