Thread: ARB Batwing Awning

Originally Posted by Eric SDV6SE

Just had a look at both the Drifta 270, the Rhino batwing and the 30 second awning.

In order of preference:
30sec
Rhino batwing
Drifta

The 30 sec is heaviest, but looks so easy to set up and strong in the wind. I also like the centre pillar to push up and allow water to drain off. Cheaper than the drifta too by 200 bucks or more.

Rhino second because i have a rhino platform, but the knuckle looks flimsy and reviews indicate the same. Canvas looks ok though and self supporting also ok. Also cheaper than the Drifta.

Drifta a close third, a bit more expensive, appears a bit awkward to set up, but the tailgate flap is neat and knuckle appears a bit better. But at around 1200 bucks, a bit too steep.

Ive currently got a straight 2.5x3.0 unit that is a PITA to set up, needs 2 people to set up, even with integral poles.

Just my thoughts.

I decided on Drifta mainly due to the weight. Every kilo less I carry is useful for something else. I also liked Drifta's brackets for their awning. It is designed for the Rhino platfoom and goes across 2 slat supports to make it more secure. I went for the awning without the valance as I'm never going to add walls to the awning, so that made it lighter and smaller when rolled up.

As you state, there not much between them all, but for me it was weight mostly, but ease of setup was also important.

Been looking for one for the 101. Weight isn’t an issue thankfully so i’ll be going the 30 second unit. Will post some pics when i’ve got it installed.

I finally decided to get the Rhino Batwing - looked at the 30sec and was not too happy with the support poles joints at the poletops.

Like the joint on the Rhino Batwing and also way it folds up as part of the frame to fold away - everything just felt a bit sturdier to me.

Get the new (used) Landy next week - can’t wait but this time round I’ve had every anti theft gizmo fitted and then some. Stolen one not found yet..

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I really like the Batwing set ups.

Ironically, I purchased an awning about 3 years ago and fitted it up to the rack. Haven't set it up even once.

Originally Posted by Tombie

I really like the Batwing set ups.

Ironically, I purchased an awning about 3 years ago and fitted it up to the rack. Haven't set it up even once.

We use our standard awning a lot on beach trips with the kids. Annoying in WA though as it’s always so windy and they just don’t do well in the wind. I’d be keen to know if these batwing free standing ones (with the poles down) are more stable.

Originally Posted by DiscoJeffster

We use our standard awning a lot on beach trips with the kids. Annoying in WA though as it’s always so windy and they just don’t do well in the wind. I’d be keen to know if these batwing free standing ones (with the poles down) are more stable.

Our self supporting has handle very windy conditions...and the ease of setup l, one person we set it up at the drop of a hat.

Our only has one pole but three ropes, have only needed to use the pole 2 or 3 times, each time only used the rope on the post arm.

Get comments all the time about how sturdy in the wind.

Like my example above on Fraser Island. On Fraser nearly every car has one fitted but rarely did I see them being used.

I have the Rhino-Rack Batwing Awning. I will try and do a video review on it tomorrow.

I have a Bunduawn by Bundutec.

YouTube

Huge covered area, one person set up & pack up, doesn't pool water as the car side is always higher than the edges - gives more head room too. Did I mention the huge covered area????