Expert Review: Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop

by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor

Yeah, we know. It only takes a few twists of the Freedom Panel knobs on your Jeep hardtop and you can pull those fiberglass front panels off on warm days.

But once you get those things off, where do they go? Garage? Basement? The back of your Jeep?

Truth is, a Jeep’s Freedom Panels can be weird to work with during the summer. If you take them off and store outside the vehicle, then you take a chance on the weather. If you put them in the backseat, you risk them flopping around and getting scratched.

So, what to do?

Well, for Jeep Wrangler JK, JL and Gladiator JT owners who relish the open-air experience but dread the hassle of dealing with heavy Freedom Panels, the Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop offers an elegant solution. This innovative accessory replaces the factory Freedom Panels with a soft top that flips back effortlessly, providing instant access to the sky without leaving your seat.

Bestop’s Sunrider for Hardtop is available in two premium materials: the 28 oz. Black Diamond and the 30 oz. Twill. Both fabrics are waterproof, UV-resistant, and designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring durability and longevity. However, the Twill option has been the most popular over the years — offering a more refined appearance and a quieter ride, thanks to its heavier fabric weight. Additionally, either material weight can be upgraded with a sunscreen option that gives you a mesh ‘bikini’ style covering.

Installation is straightforward, requiring no drilling or modifications, and the Sunrider for Hardtop comes fully assembled with the fabric pre-installed on the frame, along with door rails and all necessary hardware. It's compatible with 2007-18 JK Wrangler, 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL and 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator JT models equipped with factory hardtops. The entire process can be completed in under an hour, making it accessible even for those new to vehicle modifications.

As far as operating the Sunrider, even for me it is a breeze. It features a simple flip-back mechanism that allows you to open or close the top from the driver's seat, transforming your driving experience in seconds. You just detach the front latches from the windshield frame, then flip the thing back. If you have the sunscreen option, you can pull it forward and hook the clips under the front windshield frame. The whole thing seriously takes less than 20 seconds.

One tip though: just make sure you flip it back before you start driving because, you know, safety first.

When secured, the Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop’s design ensures a tight seal, minimizing wind noise and preventing leaks, even during heavy rain. I’ve had this top on my Jeep since last summer and have never experienced any water leakage. Thankfully. Because, yeah, I left the top off my old JK Wrangler several times in rainy weather and spent hours cleaning up the mess.

Look, Bestop didn’t reinvent the wheel here. They’ve had this feature on their Sunrider and factory Mopar Soft Tops for a while. But moving it over to a viable option for hardtop Jeep owners is a fantastic choice.

The Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop is a must-have for Jeep enthusiasts seeking the freedom of open-air driving without the inconvenience of removing and storing hardtop panels. Its high-quality materials, ease of installation, and user-friendly operation make it a valuable addition to any Wrangler JK, JL or Gladiator JT. Whether you're cruising through city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Sunrider enhances your Jeep experience by bringing the outdoors in with minimal effort.

Key Features & Benefits

Instant Open-Air Access

Enjoy the freedom of open-air driving by simply flipping back the Sunrider panel, eliminating the need to remove bulky Freedom Panels.

Premium Fabric Options

Choose between durable 28 oz. Black Diamond or luxurious 30 oz. Black Twill fabrics, both designed for year-round use and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

No-Drill Installation

Installs easily using factory mounting points with no drilling or modifications required; includes pre-installed fabric-on-frame assembly and necessary hardware.

Year-Round Functionality

Engineered for all-weather performance, providing protection against rain, snow, and sun while maintaining a quiet and comfortable ride.

Enhanced Driving Experience

Offers a seamless blend of hardtop security and soft top versatility, allowing for quick transitions between enclosed and open-air driving.

Made in North America

Manufactured in North America, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and materials.

Comprehensive Warranty

Backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty on Twill fabrics and a 5-Year Limited Warranty on Black Diamond fabrics, providing peace of mind for your investment.