Best Top Option for summer?

[kingsingh14]

in January of 2023, I finally received my hardtop 4D BL SAS LUX! I could not be happier with it and I can’t wait to take it on some adventures this summer.

I wanted to reach out to those who have owned their hardtop broncos through the summer in hopes of getting some inspiration about what to do (top wise) in the summer.

I love the hard top and how the front panels can be removed in a few minutes, I’m looking for something more seamless.

I looked at the Skyrider from bestop, and it seems really appealing, other than the fact that it’s a more permanent install. (according to threads I’ve read on the forums) I do a lot of highway miles during the year, therefore I am worried that I would get tired from the wind/road noise since I’d keep it on year round (due to it’s difficulty of removal)

I also was interested in the trek top, especially considering it’s an entire soft top for a very similar price to the sky rider. I’m not the biggest fan of the fastback (relative to the standard squareback) but I can live with it for a few months out of the year.

The last option, and the one I’m most hesitant to consider, is simply removing the hardtop and storing it in my garage. Unlike most bronco owners, I didn’t come from a Jeep, but rather a BMW convertible. So, I was always able to simply close the top at a press of a button. While I don’t keep any valuables in my bronco, I’m still just uncomfortable leaving my entire interior exposed when I’m not there to shew any prying eyes. I’m also worried about a flash flood soaking my interior. (yes I know it’s water resistant, but I have PTSD from my NA miata, god rest her soul)

does anyone have any advice on what option I should take? Anyone with a skyrider that plans on removing seasonally care to chime in?

Thanks I’m advance guys 🫡

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[thebeav]

Coming from a wrangler, I just kept the top off all summer and loved it. I’ll do the same with the bronco. I did get a center console and cargo area safe though for storing things.

 

[kingsingh14]

Coming from a wrangler, I just kept the top off all summer and loved it. I’ll do the same with the bronco. I did get a center console and cargo area safe though for storing things.

Did you do anything in particular to protect from rain or did the interior hold up ok?

 

[thebeav]

Did you do anything in particular to protect from rain or did the interior hold up ok?

It held up, but only had a few times with much rain. Now I have a badlands with all rubber and marine grade vinyl, so not worried at all about rain.

 

[Mpatient1]

2 door here, I love running with just the 2 front panels... But until I figure out a more substantial secure storage than the center console would provide I have to keep the whole top on on my work nights

 

[AZ_Liberty]

Summer = 116 in the shade. I'll take the top down in mid to early spring, and maybe late fall.
Even in the Mustang I never put the top down in summer, and it's two latches and a power button.

 

[Pancho Kornwallace]

I am happy taking the front two panels and storing them in the back of my 2 door bronco. Ford only gave me one bag to hold both. It is really hard to fit both of the front tops in there, so I got another bag. I feel comfortable driving on the highway with the panels off, especially with the roof rails intact. I never felt that comfortable with the top down on the highway with my prior vehicle (Mustang convertible). Also, consider taking the doors and roof panels off sometime and see if that is enough for you.

 

[Pancho Kornwallace]

I am happy taking the front two panels and storing them in the back of my 2 door bronco. Ford only gave me one bag to hold both. It is really hard to fit both of the front tops in there, so I got another bag. I feel comfortable driving on the highway with the panels off, especially with the roof rails intact. I never felt that comfortable with the top down on the highway with my prior vehicle (Mustang convertible). Also, consider taking the doors and roof panels off for a day when you are worried about security and see if that is enough for you.

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