Bakflip or Full Metal JackRabbit

[StoneRidge07]

I am looking for some heavy duting serious opinions. I am in the market for a cover for my 07 Ridgeline and I am stuck between which is better, the bakflip or the FMJR. Please if anybody has any good answers let me know. I would like to purchase this weekend. Has anyone installed one of these products?

[arctictraveler]

I suggest reading the long thread here on the BakFlip. It sounds like some of them are falling apart. Enough complaints that I've eliminated them from my list of options.

[StoneRidge07]

Yeah i saw that i think i am going to go with PACE Edwards! I am going to order one this weekend and keep everyone informed.

[breakfastchef]

Just curious why you did not consider the RETRAX?

[jfunk]

Originally Posted by breakfastchef

Just curious why you did not consider the RETRAX?

Well, if I could chime in with my opinion, as someone who is also considering a new retractable bed cover.

Basically each of the major players make a quality product, that functions well: Roll-In-Lock, Retrax, and Pace Edwards. So it comes down to individual features and appearance.

First the R-I-L- They patented a new design for the interlocking aluminum slats which they claim to slide more smoothly. I personally ruled this cover out due to:
A) The elevated (non-flush) canister.
B) The severe limiting of the in bed trunk opening.
C) More $ than the standard Jack Rabbit of similar design.(vinyl over aluminium)

Secondly Retrax- I like a lot of things about this cover but a few things swayed me away:
A) Appearance
1) The main thing that bugs me here is at the back, where the side rails overlap the tailgate by a couple inches, to me this leaves an unfinished look. (I know this was an intentional, design thought, to keep water out of the tailgate but..)
2) This and the side rails appear to be more elevated than the others which IMHO looks less integrated on the top of the bed.
3) I prefer a more flat/matte looking finish as opposed to the shiny black.

B) Wind noise, I know many owners here say it's a non-issue, and is minimal- but it is still there.

C) Aluminum canister- is larger than most, and can be dented from heavy items being pushed against it.

Finally Pace Edwards-- Their retractable covers IMHO appear the most flush-looking and integrated. I understand their are some drawbacks to this, but with similar functionality between these top brands, and all other things being pretty much equal, I look to aesthetics and again IMO the Pace Edwards looks more flush, integrated, and attractive.

The standard Jack Rabbit can be had for 100-200 bills less than the Retrax and RIL, has the same basic function, it looks good, and has a 3 year warranty- compared to one for the other brands.

The question for me then, comes to the standard Jack Rabbit or the Full Metal version. Again same basic functionality, but the Full Metal is even more attractive with black powder coated extruded aluminum slats. Is it worth >$300 more than the standard Jack Rabbit is what I am grappling with....

JR

[StoneRidge07]

jfunk great run down I am thinking the same thing. The answer to the Retrax ?, would be a payment plan option?, Do they have one? Not saying I don't have the money but it is hard to dish out anywhere from $600-1500 for a good cover in a days time. But auto everything has a bill me later option and they are holding a 3 months to pay option. I could then get the money together for the FMJR cover. Any other members know of a payment option with retrax, if so I would look into that also.

[Paladin]

I recently got rid of my BasicKoncepts cover about 2 months ago and replaced it with the Pace Edwards FMJR and I gotta say that it is money well spent. Your Pace Edwards description holds true - a well integrated leveled look. Installation is a breeze with 2 people but do-able with one. Should you decide to go with the FMJR, I recommend running a line of clear outdoor silicone on the slight gap between the canister and the front of the bed. This will make it a bit more water tight.

[klundy]

Paladin - how about a pic? I don't think anyone has posted a pic with a FMJ yet.

Kevin

[jfunk]

Originally Posted by Paladin

I recently got rid of my BasicKoncepts cover about 2 months ago and replaced it with the Pace Edwards FMJR and I gotta say that it is money well spent. Your Pace Edwards description holds true - a well integrated leveled look. Installation is a breeze with 2 people but do-able with one. Should you decide to go with the FMJR, I recommend running a line of clear outdoor silicone on the slight gap between the canister and the front of the bed. This will make it a bit more water tight.

Yes, please put up some pics, I would really like to see a variety of shots.

JR

[Paladin]

I will have some pics posted sometime tomorrow. I cannot find my good camera and don't want to upload some crappy phone camera pics.