It's nice to just flip 2 latches and throw the top back when the weather is nice. When I approach the freeway I just latch it back up. I can do that without leaving the driver's seat.
You will do fine in a stock Gladiator. Very capable. I've lifted mine 2 inches to help with the break over angle problem and put 35 inch Toyo Open Country tires on and now clearance issues and traction are not a problem on most trails. To help my wife get in the truck I installed Rock Slide...
Before you buy anything, decide what you bought your JT for. Are you planning to drive the Rubicon trail regularly, use your truck as an overland vehicle, or are you going to use it most often as a regular driver with occasional off-road use? I chose the latter. And I know they are expensive...
I bought the same cover for my Gladiator and am very happy with it. It was a bit of trouble as you said to clear out the bed liner material. The only thing I don't like about it is when the cover is folded down you have less than 16 inches of vertical clearance which is not enough for most ice...
I ordered my cap thru Rhino Adventure Gear on January 2nd. I was told it would arrive by the end of February. Then they said there would be a delay because the container it was shipped on was sent to the wrong port. There were two more delays due to who knows what and now they say it should...
My Overland came equipped with nearly everything the North edition does except rear window defrost, slush mats, Griiz, badge, and the bag of crap. But mine also has the bluetooth speaker, all leather interior, side steps, and body color matching top and fenders.
My Overland was equipped with side steps but once I lifted it and put on 35s I swapped it out for some RSE power steps. I sold the old step sides for $200. Maybe they figure the owners of the North edition would want to pick their own side steps.
I just measured it and it is 13 inches from the ground when deployed, and 24 inches to the next step from the ground. When retracted it is 19 inches from the ground to the rock slider. Remember that I am running 35's with a 2 inch lift.