I intend to provide a more critical review because this brand is among the higher-priced covers on the market. However, even if it were half the price, my comments would still hold true, albeit with a somewhat higher level of satisfaction.
Initially, I overlooked an additional box containing extra rails and supplementary instructions, assuming it was just excess packaging. The instructional videos I watched didn't address the need for these extra components, leaving me unaware of their necessity.
Installing the cover on the Ridgeline required removing the top tie-down anchors, with the instructions advising against their reinstallation. Given the price point, it's disappointing that longer bolts weren't provided to accommodate the additional bracket thickness; an issue the company evidently anticipated would create a hazard if the anchors would be reinstalled.
The universal rails provided didn't sit flush on the bed rail, resulting in a slight bow due to insufficient width. A middle support bracket option, even if requiring drilling, would have been appreciated for added stability.
While the main rails installed easily, aligning the cover posed challenges. Following the instructions to align it near the cab resulted in a gap at the tailgate seal, necessitating numerous adjustments for a proper fit. (Which apparently I need to adjust since my bed was soaked after the first rain)
Tightening the cover onto the brackets proved cumbersome due to the locking nylon inserts in the star knobs. I thought I was cross threading them, coupled with the limited grip space, made the process arduous. I’ll probably replace them with nuts, and store a cheap wrench in the truck, if I ever need to take it off. Based on how long it took to align, it’s not something I’d be thrilled to have to take off.
I understand the cover is not advertised as waterproof, but it failed to meet my expectations, based on other covers I’ve owned. I will have to water soak it, and make adjustments if I can. It is not even close to as good as a previous cover I had on another truck that cost ½ the price. I think the universal rails are not wide enough, the gasket did not want sit on top of the bed rail, they seem to make contact on the corner, and without a center support, the universal rail gets pushed away in the middle.
In terms of pros, the cover has a sleek appearance, a low profile, and operates smoothly without the need for Velcro. However, the instructions are lacking, and the cover falls short on acceptable watertight. Additionally, the rails obstruct the Ridgeline trunk from fully opening, which, while anticipated, remains a drawback.
Compared to cheaper alternatives like the Access Lorado cover I previously had, this product leaves much to be desired. While it excels in aesthetics and ease of operation, its functionality is not as good, in that; the Lorado although had annoying velcro, it took up less space when rolled up, albeit you need to roll it up slower, It also offered a little bit of flexibility in closing the cover if an item is just a wee bit too tall. The Lorado was not as low profile, but that meant it did not take up valuable bed depth. I don’t think the solid aluminum hard rollup adds much value as opposed to the cheaper alternatives.
Considering this covers higher price point, I expected a superior overall experience, making it unlikely that I would purchase this cover again.
Install Time:
1 - 2 hours
