Just ordered my ARE CX Classic...

[Brigrat]

Ordered mine 8/3 installed 12/22 in all fairness to ARE it was actually at the dealer for 10 days before install, I was simply working out of town. All things considered, I'm happy; the dealer does custom truck parts and has custom-built two Gladiators the 2nd of which is a Sting Grey 2021 like mine. We ordered our caps together and they took the time to make sure the trim was even and install was clean the first time so I would be happy. They know I'll be back soon for my next round of upgrades which will include lifting this thing a bit. As you can see I also added the ARE Ascend Roof Basket.

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[Brigrat]

It’s finally on! I really like the looks of it overall. Not exactly sure if i like the black hard top mixed with the gobi cap. I’ll give it a while and see if it grows on me. If not I’ll be looking to either get my top paint matched or swap with someone who has a gobi top already.

Like everyone has already pointed out, there’s definitely some quality control issues. I noticed it has some paint chipping on the outside edge of the right side of mine. I have a feeling this probably happened during shipping but there’s no telling. Luckily this is the only issue I’ve found so far.

The dogs already approve. It may just be my imagination but it feels like the added weight of the cap has really settled the back end from bouncing around over bumps.

I agree about the change in ride, things have smoothed out nicely with the cap added, overall, I am pleased with the handling now that the added weight is back there.

 

[pendragonz]

As you can see I also added the ARE Ascend Roof Basket.

Do you have dimensions on the basket?

 

[Brigrat]

Do you have dimensions on the basket?

I started to measure, and you know it is really cold out... but then I remembered I have a dimensions sheet on it so here ya go... as an aside, height from ground to top of basket is just under 84" on my truck which isn't lifted yet.

 

[Conrad101st]

Has gas mileage changed from what you can tell after the install; More weight vs better aerodynamics (maybe?).

 

[pendragonz]

Has gas mileage changed from what you can tell after the install; More weight vs better aerodynamics (maybe?).

I haven't noticed any change. I can feel the wind way more though, let me tell you.

 

[Conrad101st]

I’m two months into my order. Should be here in February (+/-). I’ve always had SUVs, including a 4Runner, Tahoe, ranger rover, Range rover sport, and 2 suburbans. I love the gladiator. Best truck I ever owned, but missed having an area to store my hunting gear in the fall, rather than strewn about my garage. Can’t wait to get the top.

 

[ckgjt]

I’m two months into my order. Should be here in February (+/-). I’ve always had SUVs, including a 4Runner, Tahoe, ranger rover, Range rover sport, and 2 suburbans. I love the gladiator. Best truck I ever owned, but missed having an area to store my hunting gear in the fall, rather than strewn about my garage. Can’t wait to get the top.

even though I have manufacturing issues with my top i still love it-Just majorly frustrated as it has to go back to be fixed which means BACK to ARE and not the dealer which will take over a month to get fixed. You can see what i am dealing with here:
https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/a-r-e-camper-shell-build-quality-is-a-joke.52320/

 

[msrebel]

Has gas mileage changed from what you can tell after the install; More weight vs better aerodynamics (maybe?).

I don't have any data, but I think my mileage has dropped a mile or so a gallon on my diesel after adding my top and Yakima Jetstream bars. I love the utility and the look with both on there, though!

 

[Brigrat]

I've only driven short trips around the house since I got it, but I'm returning to my normal routine next week so I'll update in a couple of weeks once I have "back to normal" data.

 

[SRIGGS]

FINALLY!..Five month wait was worth it...looks and fits AWESOME...for all those that are patently waiting...it is worth it!...not sure why the pics rotated

That looks awesome! Which model is that if you don’t mind my asking

 

[ckgjt]

That looks awesome! Which model is that if you don’t mind my asking

CX Classic with the OTR option

 

[Slojo]

Love my ARE topper. Man.. these lead times are getting bad. Glad I got mine when I did.

I see multiple opinions about carrying a RTT on top of an ARE or LEER. How has yours been holding up?

 

[Black_Widow_Overland]

I see multiple opinions about carrying a RTT on top of an ARE or LEER. How has yours been holding up?

Mines been great. I dont keep it on top all the time. Only put it on when im gonna be using it. I like to have my Jeep in the garage. lol. I might have my local fabricator fab up a bracket inside to help keep the weight off the top thats if i keep my rtt. Ive got a pretty nice ground tent i prefer over my rtt. I do try and watch the terrain i take with the tent up high. Ive got a bed rack i use to use before the topper. Both rack/tent are currently forsale.

 

[Conrad101st]

Came in about 3.5 months. I think it looks sharp.

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