Two new camper shells seen at SEMA

[rms56]

I am underwhelemed by both....com'on Swishman send me that tonneau!!!!

[BassBud]

Great pics.....thanks for taking these....

Like several others, I'm really torn -- and I do need a topper. I've had an A.R.E, and it was a super product, but I like the way the Leer looks on the exterior.... better lines that flow with the Ridgeline design!

Thanks again

[ridged]

Originally Posted by Spritegeezer

I'm not trying to start a debate, but what are the advantages of a Ridgeline with one of these shells and a Pilot or Element? I don't know much about the latter two.

I reckon the Ridgeline's bed is more heavy duty and forgiving when used to haul cargo.

[SnowRidge]

I like the looks of the Leer better, but I don't think I would even want a cap on my truck. I would rather have the tonneau cover, like the retrax. If I had dogs to ride in the back, I would probably go with a cap. Since I don't, I would probably be better off with an SUV instead of a truck with a cap. Just my opinion.

[captmiddy]

I like the Leer cap, and if I had the space to store it when it wasn't on my truck may actually consider it. I think it would be useful for moving camping geer without it getting wet, and for other things that are a little higher than a cover would allow for. The advantage to a cap over just getting an SUV is that it is still a truck bed so when you need to deal with the truck bed it is there. Even though the Element has a washable interior it is still not quite as versatile as a truck bed can be. Of course if you need to move about more people then an SUV is going to be a better choice.

So far though I really haven't had a need for something like this so I guess it will make more sense to consider it when I get to the point that it really is a utility for what I use my truck for.

[Racenic]

Did anyone else notice that with both models there is no Factory Roof Rack on the Ridgelines? The A.R.E. model looks as if the Roof Rack might be in the way. See the Second to last picture.

Nick

[Blue]

thank you for posting comparisons.

I agree with all of you that leer looks better outside and more functional with FOB tailgate. Since I am not going inside and really want a FOB tailgate, there is really not a choice but go with Leer with the roof rack.

then again cost will always be the final factor.

[Ultra-HOG]

My vote goes to the ARE. It looks like it belongs on the truck, not just an afterthought. For my taste, the exterior lines are much better. The interior also is finished very nicely. Both caps seem to take away the unique eye appeal of the Ridgeline, or lack thereof for those that do not like it.

[ridgeline5]

i've always wondered what our Ridge's would look like with a camper in the back...and I was right, they look horrible

[Mike B]

Well, for what it's worth,

I didn't buy my Ridgeline because it LOOKED like the coolest truck being made - in my opinion. The looks had to grow on me. In fact, I'm still not blown away by any means.

I bought it because it DOES the coolest stuff of any truck being made "when it comes to my demands on it".

I'll have a Leer Canopy on my truck the first day it's here.
I want one of my trucks to have a dry cargo bed in the inclimate weather we have here in Oregon.
I want to take my two Great Danes with on rainy days.
I want to lock up cargo overnight without having to off-load everything I took the time to load.

Plenty of reasons for me to...'er....."shell" out the bucks.

One thing about feeling one way or another is that's it's really not up for debate. It's a feeling.

I think that all the different directions this group are going with their rides, as they personalise them, is a great thing to watch. Everyone has their reasons for the mods and options they choose.

We are all pretty fortunate to have choices like these to ponder over. Things could be a lot different. Ask any of our troops overseas.

Oh.....did I say that "outloud"? LOL