2018 JL soft top options

[424hamst]

We just purchased a new JL unlimited hard top and am curious if anyone has purchased a soft top kit for this new model? Definitely regret not opting for both tops when we got ours. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

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[Shamus13]

We just purchased a new JL unlimited hard top and am curious if anyone has purchased a soft top kit for this new model? Definitely regret not opting for both tops when we got ours. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

There will be more options as aftermarket companies release their new designs.
There are 2 different types of soft tops. 1) Framed Tops (like factory with bow system) 2) Frameless Tops.
Both have pro's & con's. price will come down as more become available.

Dual Top option from the factory is the most cost effective but you can easily get aftermarket. Bestop actually makes the factory soft tops

 

[Jeepers!]

No aftermarket soft tops are available yet, even the OEM ones.

 

[Shamus13]

Correct. But you can pre-order Bestop. Quadratec says it starts shipping June 15th.
But with the shortages I imagine that will be a moving target on shipping date.

 

[Movingday]

There will be more options as aftermarket companies release their new designs.
There are 2 different types of soft tops. 1) Framed Tops (like factory with bow system) 2) Frameless Tops.
Both have pro's & con's. price will come down as more become available.

Dual Top option from the factory is the most cost effective but you can easily get aftermarket. Bestop actually makes the factory soft tops

What are some of the advantages/disadvantages of the two tops? I love the look of the frameless on the jk, but have never owned a frameless before

 

[Shamus13]

What are some of the advantages/disadvantages of the two tops? I love the look of the frameless on the jk, but have never owned a frameless before

I've never owned a frameless. I believe Quadratec has a video comparing the two. Google / YouTube is your friend.
I believe the frameless are easier to install when converting from a hardtop (no frame to install) & easier to store when running hard top. But the frame tops are more taught / less flutter when driving.

 

[424hamst]

Thank you for the input. I appreciate everyone's comments.

 

[WXman]

What are some of the advantages/disadvantages of the two tops? I love the look of the frameless on the jk, but have never owned a frameless before

I'm in need of a soft top also.

From what I gather, the frameless tops have straps and zippers and attach directly to the sport bars. For that reason, all of them are going to give you the "fast back" look. I personally don't like it, but some guys love it. However, since the frameless tops have no bows or framework to assemble and install, they are easy to use and are far less expensive to purchase.

The framed tops have more cargo space in the rear because they keep the boxy shape, flap in the wind less, and can be folded down faster since the entire top is attached to the assembly. It all comes down at once, whereas the frameless tops have to be removed in sections for a full open air experience.

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