Soft top or hard shell??

No soft topper but I've had canvas contertible tops on cars, how would it really be all that different?

Better yet, show me what it looks like in 13 years.

 

You should be able to get one bike in the back with a topper. I had a Leer on my 1st Gen that I used to carry my bike in when going on long trips. I took a piece of wood and cut it the width of the bed, laid it flat on the bed then attached one of the fork mounts to it, like the one above. I had to angle the bike a little to get it to fit but its doable. I still had room left for camping gear, etc.

 

Its different material than a cars canvas convertible top (I have a Porsche Boxster S convertible in my garage) more durable like a vinyl not fabric. Judging by the amount of members here than run Softopper brand I would say it lasts. Its all preference, budget, and intended use.

 

I do not own a Softtopper, but I would love to have one. I'm guessing the material they use to make it is identical to what they make Wrangler soft tops out of. If that is so, those things can last for years with just some basic care. I would not hesitate to buy one at all. They are the best of both worlds it looks like to me. Cab height topper when ya need to keep items out of the weather, and fold it up against the cab to haul your taller items. I think the idea is brilliant...

 

I started with a used Bestop for my 3rd gen, that didn't stay on but an hour or so, I did not like the way it fit, and Bestop didn't make any changes from the 2nd gen version to the 3rd. Softop did make adjustments and it fits and works awesome.

 

I used to work on NB ave and Richard st u need the trailer I'll hook u up

 

Yup exactly like a Jeep top.

 

I wish.....my yard can't really fit a trailer

 

my initial thought was to hang the fork over the tailgate since i have a Dakine tailgate pad, and then secure the rear window somehow...but idk that could get sketchy

 

The above pic is basically what I did but with a 1x6. The board just sits in there when needed so you can remove it when your not carrying a bike. The photo must be of a full size truck though, I had to angle my bike some to make it fit in a Tacoma.

 

You’ll shred the window struts that way. I’d do like EHT suggests above.

Or you could do like I’m doing now. Tonneau cover. It’ll lock your skis in there just fine. Bikes, fold the cover back and hang them over the tailgate. Cable lock through the frames and wheels for security.

 

Should be able to fit a longbed, I have three beach cruisers across here and the fork mounts aren't all the way forward.

 

Not with a topper though.

 

Why not I used to run two bikes side-by-side with a Topper in my 91. You can easily do two bikes, even make one face the rear to clear handlebars with the fork mounts bolted to the deck. I stored my bikes in the truck like that for years.

Just drop the seat posts and it's short enough for a hard top.

Or this.

 

Hard shell for the win

 

Both.

 

Soft top because of this in the summer.


I have a lot of expensive toys that I roll with too. I use a hitch bike rack that's lockable and lock and cable inside just in case. Other than that it's not too inconvenient to bring the stuff inside.

Other Pros:

Lightweight (gotta save mpg where I can)
One person removable
Cheaper (Went Softopper. Great build quality. Done with Bestop having Jeeps my whole life. Done with windows scratching and breaking)
Company (Small out of Boulder, CO. Great service.)
Easy to store

Cons:
Security but.... I don't work out the back and most places I camp are off the beaten path. Had an 04 Jeep Unlimited LJ for over 12 years. Used to not leaving anything valuable inside.

Carrying Loads on top but.... There are options around this and would still be cheaper than some fully loaded hardtops.

My .02

 

Hardshell. Great for dogs (got two side windows-slider for onroad ventillation and another for side cargo accessibility), weather, added weight for traction on the snow and better integrated looks. And... I am just not into parts-jargon contraptions I see on the softtop.

 

Just ordered a Bestop for my longbed. Although I have a legitimate need for it, I hate tops in general, so it will likely spend most of it's time in the garage.

 

Let us know how it fits, I am hoping they finally updated it for the 3rd gens.