When it comes to choosing the right bed cover for your truck, the comparison Retrax XR vs Roll-n-lock XT offers an insightful perspective. Both of these covers are premium products, tailored for outdoor activities and camping, providing not only secure storage space but also an efficient way to carry bikes and other items. Given their comparable price points, deciding between the two could be a challenging endeavor, as each comes with its unique advantages and considerations.
The Roll-n-lock XT stands out with a rack storage rail system at the back of the truck, a feature that promises extra storage and versatility. On the downside, its strap system may pose some inconvenience during the loading and unloading process. On the other hand, the Retrax cover showcases a low-profile, flat design that many users might find aesthetically appealing. However, it’s not without its cons, as cleaning the Retrax cover could prove to be a bit of a task due to the small gap for access.
Each cover offers a lockable system, differing in the mechanism and the satisfaction one derives from locking. And while the installation process is straightforward for both, the Retrax cover takes the lead with its heavy-duty clamps for improved security. It’s worth noting though, that the larger canister size of the Retrax cover does mean less storage space underneath compared to the Roll-n-lock XT. Ultimately, the choice between these two exceptional covers depends largely on individual needs and preferences. If you lean towards using a rack system frequently, Roll-n-lock XT might be the ideal fit, while the Retrax cover could be a better option for regular bed cover usage.
Roll-n-lock XT: A Versatile Storage Solution
For those who are going to use the rack system a lot, the Roll-n-lock XT emerges as the clear winner. The Roll-n-lock XT stands out with its bedrack storage system. The versatility of this setup enables it to accommodate a wide range of items, from bicycles to fishing lines, and cargo racks. So if you’re using the rack system, why clutter up the space with a big container? The Roll-n-lock also solves the strap clearance issue. With its cover system, you can simply wrap the strap and it stays out of your way. 🛠️
Key Features
- Material: Industrial grade vinyl layered over a rigid aluminum subframe. Resists dents and UV damage.
- Operation: Retracts with a pull strap and patented rotational locking levers. Very smooth and fast opening/closing.
- Security: Keyed lock can secure cover every 12 inches. Includes tailgate lock for maximum security.
- Finishes: More color options including black diamond plate and carbon fiber print vinyl.
- Price: MSRP starts at $959 for a 5′ 7″ bed.
However, the Roll-n-lock XT is not without its drawbacks. A strap that tends to interfere with loading and a lack of a side closure mechanism are areas of potential improvement. Also, the cover’s design necessitates occasional lubrication due to the grooves-slides mechanism.
Introducing the Competitor: Retrax XR
The Retrax XR, a worthy competitor, brings in some unique features while also presenting certain challenges. If you’re not going to use the rack system and you don’t mind losing a bit of truck bed space, the Retrax XR is probably the better choice. The handle on the Retrax and the feel of its sealed ball bearings give it a quality feel. Moreover, I was confident that these sealed bearings would last a long time with little to no maintenance. 📦
Key Features
- Material: Made of rugged, dent-resistant polymer rather than vinyl. Provides better impact protection.
- Operation: Opens and closes with an automatic latching system. Smooth retracting motion. Can be stopped at any point.
- Security: Features a locking system operated with a key. Secures the cover the entire length of the rail to help prevent theft.
- Finishes: Available in matte black, gloss black, silver or white finishes to match truck styling.
- Price: MSRP starts at $1,099 for a 5′ 7″ bed.
Main features Retrax XR vs Roll-n-lock XT
| Feature | Retrax XR | Roll-n-lock XT |
|---|---|---|
| Design | The Retrax XR features a low-profile, flat design which offers an appealing, sleek look. | The Roll-n-lock XT has a more industrial look with a storage rail system for additional versatility. |
| Storage | The Retrax XR cover has a larger canister size, which might result in less storage space underneath. | The Roll-n-lock XT, with its rack storage rail system, maximizes the truck bed’s storage space. |
| Security | The Retrax XR comes with heavy-duty clamps that provide excellent security. | The Roll-n-lock XT, while secure, doesn’t include the heavy-duty clamps found in the Retrax XR. |
| Usability | The Retrax XR might be challenging to clean due to the small access gap. | The Roll-n-lock XT’s strap system could be inconvenient when loading and unloading items. |
| Locking Mechanism | Both covers offer a lockable system. The satisfaction derived from the locking mechanism may vary based on personal preference. | The Roll-n-lock XT also offers a lockable system with a distinct mechanism. |
| Installation | Both covers have a relatively straightforward installation process. | The Roll-n-lock XT also has an easy installation process. |
| Ideal Usage | The Retrax XR is better suited for regular bed cover use. | The Roll-n-lock XT is ideal for those who frequently use the rack system. |
This comparison should give you a clearer understanding of each product’s key features, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences:
- Both the Retrax XR and Roll-n-lock XT are premium bed covers that offer secure storage for camping and outdoor activities.
- The Retrax XR has a sleek, low-profile design and heavy-duty clamps for enhanced security, though it may offer less under-the-cover storage due to a larger canister size.
- The Roll-n-lock XT excels with its rack storage rail system at the back of the truck, offering added versatility. However, its strap system could be inconvenient during loading and unloading.
- While both covers have a lockable system and straightforward installation process, user satisfaction may vary based on personal preference.
- Choosing between these two bed covers largely depends on individual needs and preferences. If the rack system’s frequent usage is a priority, the Roll-n-lock XT could be a better choice, whereas the Retrax XR might be more suitable for those seeking a regular bed cover.
First Impressions and Design
In the world of truck bed covers, the Retrax XR and Roll-n-lock XT are both standouts. They both offer premium quality, but they couldn’t be more different. The Retrax XR, with its sleek, low-profile design, wins the beauty contest. Meanwhile, the Roll-n-lock XT, with its robust rack storage rail system, is the rugged outdoorsman, not afraid to show off its muscles.
Functionality and Storage
Diving into the functionality, the Roll-n-lock XT’s innovative rack system is quite the showstopper. It’s like a Swiss army knife, offering multiple solutions in one unit. On the flip side, the Retrax XR comes across as more of a specialist, doing one thing very well. It offers a flat, clean bed without any hindrances, although the larger canister does eat into the storage space a bit.
Ease of Use
Now, let’s talk about everyday use. The Roll-n-lock XT, with its strap system, can be a bit of a puzzle while loading and unloading, especially when you’re in a rush. In contrast, the Retrax XR’s operation is smooth as butter, closing with a push, which can be a godsend when you’re juggling multiple tasks.
Security and Installation
Security-wise, both covers are lockable, but the Retrax XR stands out with its heavy-duty clamps. They give you a sense of security that’s hard to beat. And while installation is generally straightforward for both, the Retrax XR gets a slight edge for the superior clamping system.
In conclusion, picking between the Retrax XR and Roll-n-lock XT is a bit like choosing between a Swiss watch and a rugged outdoor timepiece. Both have their charm and functionality. The Retrax XR is sleek and smooth, easy to use, and secure, but sacrifices a bit of storage space. The Roll-n-lock XT, on the other hand, offers incredible versatility and storage but might be a bit of a handful in daily use.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. The best choice depends on your needs, your truck’s usage, and, of course, your personal preference.
Retrax XR vs Roll-n-lock XT – Rack System Compatibility
When it comes to compatibility with rack systems, the Roll-n-lock XT takes the upper hand due to the four-point locking system, and its ability to offer more bed space.
Installation Experience
Installing the Retrax XR was a breeze, mainly because of its robust clamps and bolts. I found the installation process of the Retrax to be rather satisfying. The heavy-duty clamps and the bolts extend out to create additional pressure, friction, and grip on the sides of the truck bed. The sense of security it provides was a huge plus. 🔩
Comparison of the Two Systems
Both the Retrax XR and Roll-n-lock XT systems are excellent in their own rights. It eventually boils down to what you want to use them for. Both covers serve their purposes well, but it’s essential to choose based on your needs. 👍
Differences between the Retrax XR and the Roll-n-lock XT bed covers
In comparing the Retrax XR and Roll-n-lock XT, a few differences set them apart, which might tip the scale in favor of one or the other based on your specific needs.
As someone who has experience with both of these bed covers, here’s my personal take on what sets them apart:
- Design: The Retrax XR offers a sleek, low-profile design that blends seamlessly with the truck bed. On the other hand, the Roll-n-lock XT, with its robust rack system, presents a more industrial look.
- Storage: If you frequently haul larger items, the Roll-n-lock XT might be more advantageous due to its rack system. But if you prefer a clean, flat bed, the Retrax XR could be a better choice, despite the larger canister size.
- Usability: Consider the practical aspects. The Retrax XR might be a bit challenging to clean because of its small access gap, whereas the Roll-n-lock XT’s strap system could get in the way during loading and unloading.
- Security: The Retrax XR comes with heavy-duty clamps, providing a more robust security mechanism. Although the Roll-n-lock XT also offers secure storage, it lacks the heavy-duty clamps.
In my personal opinion, it really comes down to what you value most. If aesthetics and security are your top concerns, you might lean toward the Retrax XR. If versatility and maximum storage are more critical, then the Roll-n-lock XT could be your ideal pick. Regardless, both products deliver premium quality and practical functionality. Always remember to align your choice with your truck’s primary usage, and you won’t go wrong. Whether you value aesthetic appeal, storage capacity, ease of use, or security, you’re bound to find a suitable match in either the Retrax XR or the Roll-n-lock XT.
Equipment required for installing and maintaining
Here is some equipment required for installing and maintaining the Retrax XR and Roll-n-lock XT covers:
| Equipment | Retrax XR | Roll-n-lock XT |
|---|---|---|
| Ratchet Set | Required | Required |
| Screwdriver | Required | Required |
| Adjustable Wrench | Required | Required |
| Allen Wrench | Required | Required |
| Lubricant | Optional (for maintenance) | Required (for maintenance) |
| Tonneau Cleaner | Recommended (for maintenance) | Recommended (for maintenance) |
| Tape Measure | Optional (to ensure proper alignment) | Optional (to ensure proper alignment) |
Remember, it’s crucial to have the proper equipment and to follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturers to ensure a correct and safe installation. Regular maintenance can also prolong the life and performance of your tonneau cover.
Resources
Couple of resources I found incredibly insightful when making my own comparisons:
- Retrax Official Website: This is the official site for Retrax, the maker of the Retrax XR cover. It’s pretty detailed, providing comprehensive information about the product, its features, installation guides, and customer reviews. Personally, I found the video demonstrations particularly useful. They give a real feel of the product, showing how it operates and what to expect when you install it on your truck.
- Roll-n-lock Product Page: This page belongs to Roll-n-lock, the company behind the Roll-n-lock XT cover. It’s packed with useful information, from in-depth product descriptions and specifications to installation instructions and customer testimonials. The high-quality images were a big plus for me, allowing me to get a good look at the product’s design and functionality.
Remember, it’s always good to visit the manufacturer’s site when making a decision. It allows you to get the most accurate and up-to-date information about the products you’re considering. Both of these resources offer a wealth of information that can aid you in your decision-making process.
Conclusion
After having the experience of swapping out a Roll-n-lock bed cover for a Retrax bed cover on a 2013 F-150 truck, I’ve gathered some first-hand insights that might be beneficial to others.
To begin with, the Roll-n-lock cover had some issues, particularly with retracting and alignment, which caused water leakage. This was quite disappointing, especially considering the cover required frequent lubrication due to the vinyl cover dragging. The Retrax cover, on the other hand, didn’t come with a tailgate lock feature, which I found quite handy as it offered easier access to the tailgate.
The process of removal and installation of both covers involved dealing with screws and clamps, but nothing too complicated. However, one trade-off with the Retrax cover was that it was larger in size, taking up more bed space than the Roll-n-lock. Additionally, the Retrax cover had only one seal at the back of the canister, which raised concerns about rain intrusion.
But where the Retrax cover really stood out for me was its ease of use. It was far simpler to close without having to mess around with straps, making it more convenient when loading and unloading cargo.
In conclusion, the choice between these two covers boils down to personal preferences. For some, the strap on the Roll-n-lock cover might be inconvenient, and they might prefer the smoother handling of the Retrax cover. For me, the trade-offs were worth it for the ease of use provided by the Retrax cover. As always, consider your unique needs and preferences before making your decision.
Table of Contents
FAQs
Which cover, Retrax XR or Roll-n-lock XT, offers more storage space?
The Roll-n-lock XT offers slightly more storage space due to its smaller canister size, as compared to the Retrax XR.
Can I install these covers by myself?
Yes, both covers can be installed by a single person, though having an extra pair of hands might make the process smoother. Make sure to follow the provided installation guides.
Is frequent maintenance required for both covers?
While both covers will benefit from regular cleaning, the Roll-n-lock XT requires more frequent maintenance in the form of lubrication to avoid the vinyl cover dragging.
Which cover is better for quick access to the tailgate?
The Retrax XR does not have a tailgate lock feature, which allows for quicker and easier access to the tailgate.
Is the security mechanism the same for both covers?
A5: Both covers are lockable, but the locking mechanisms differ. The Retrax XR has heavy-duty clamps providing a higher sense of security.
Which cover is easier to use for loading and unloading cargo?
The Retrax XR is generally easier to use for loading and unloading due to its smooth closing operation, as compared to the strap system of the Roll-n-lock XT.