Jeep SUVs are some of the most widely used vehicles in the world. One of their most popular SUV is the Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep Wrangler also happens to be one of the most customizable vehicles in the world. Almost every single one is modified in some way.
One of the most common modifications people make on the Jeep Wrangler is installing a Bikini or Bimini top.
The main difference between the two is that a Bikini top only covers the front seat passengers and the driver, while a Bimini top covers the front seat as well as the back seat.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specification | Bikini Top | Bimini Top |
| Top Coverage | Front seat driver and passengers | Front seat and back seat coverage |
| Top Materials | Fabric or mesh | Fabric or mesh |
| Installation Method | Take out the hard top, then install it over the sports bars | Take out the hard top, then install it over the sports bars |
| Ideal Usage Time | Summer and Spring | Summer and Spring |
| Top Price | Around $99.99 | Around $119.99 |
In-depth Comparison Between Jeep Bikini And Bimini Top
Hard tops on Jeeps are good because of their durability and the protection they provide against the elements. However, during hot periods, it can be uncomfortable to drive under a hard top without using air conditioning.
This is where Bikini and Bimini soft tops come in. Both Bikini and Bimini tops let you experience nature and the open air freely.
The tops provide basic protection from elements such as direct sunlight and UV rays while still allowing you to enjoy the breeze.
After going through the brief comparison table that has been provided, you should have a pretty good idea about the features and specifications of Bikini tops and Bimini tops for a Jeep Wrangler.
Now, let’s go a bit more in-depth into the characteristics of the tops and really break down and discuss each characteristic separately.
- Jeep Top Coverage
This is where the key difference lies between a Bikini top and a Bimini top.
As mentioned before, the main difference between a Bikini and Bimini top is that a Bikini top only offers coverage and protection against the elements to the frontside driver and passengers.
On the other hand, a Bimini top also covers the backside of the vehicle while already covering the front.
Neither of the tops provides much in the way of protection against the elements. With either a Bikini or Bimini top, your Jeep becomes very exposed to external factors. Dust, water, smoke, and other things can easily enter your Jeep which, may cause some issues.
However, despite the exposure risks, a Bikini or Bimini top also allows you to enjoy the outdoors and the open air while driving around with friends or family.
Because of this, these tops are very popular among most Jeep owners, especially during the hot seasons when a more open vehicle offers a more comfortable driving and riding experience.
Also Read: Differences Between Lund Bimini And Sport Tops.
- Jeep Top Material
An important factor to consider before purchasing is the material the top is made of. The two most common materials used in Bikini and Bimini tops are fabric and mesh.
Bikini and Bimini tops that are made of fabric offer more complete protection against the elements compared to mesh.
As fabric features textures that are closely woven together, the surface is almost completely solid. This means rainwater, sunlight, and other elemental factors will not penetrate through the fabric top as much.
On the other hand, the mesh is more loosely woven than fabric. This results in thousands of tiny holes in the material. This means that rainwater and sunlight will more easily penetrate a mesh top.
However, this also means that, on a cool day, a Jeep with a mesh top will have a much cooler interior than if it had a fabric top.
- Jeep Top Installation Method
The process of installing a Bikini or Bimini top over your Jeep is very simple and does not require any prior knowledge.
The process does not require drilling or any extra, outside components.
The first step before installing a top is to remove the existing hard top on your Jeep.
After the top has been removed, you need to follow the installation instructions provided with whichever top you chose.
For most Bikini and Bimini tops, you just need to lay the top properly over the sports bars of your Jeep. After that is done, the final step is fixing the top to the bars using the straps or clips that are already attached to the top.
- Ideal Usage Time for Both Tops
Most Jeeps come with a pre-attached hardtop. The hard top is durable and provides full protection against the elements.
However, during the hotter months, it can get comfortable riding under the fully covered hard top, especially if you do not use air conditioning.
Because of this, the openness and exposure that Bikini and Bimini tops offer are perfect for the warm summer and spring. It allows you to enjoy the open air and the cool breeze while driving.
However, the tops are not built for use during the winter. So, when winter comes around, it is recommended that you switch back to your hardtop.
- Price of the Tops
The final and arguably the most important factor that people consider before purchasing anything.
A Bikini top for your Jeep will set you back around $99.99. On the other hand, because of the extra coverage it provides, a Bimini top will cost you around $119.99.
Which Top Should You Choose?
Now, we come to the ultimate question. Which top should you buy for your Jeep?
The answer to this depends on your preferences. If you do not need extra coverage for the backseats, you should choose a Bikini top.
However, if you do need the extra coverage, and are willing to spend a bit more money for it, you should go for a Bimini top.
Also Read: Differences Between Lomax Urethane And Matte Black Finish Tonneau Cover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
A Bikini top will protect you against light drizzles but not against downpours.
A Bikini top is a soft top that covers the front side driver’s and passenger’s seats on a Jeep.
To install a Bikini top, first, you need to remove the existing hard top.
First, you remove the existing top on the Jeep. Then you put the Bikini top over the bars and secure them with the in-built clips or straps.
Final Words
To sum up this article on a Jeep Bikini top and Bimini top comparison, they are both soft tops that are used mainly during the summer.
A Bikini top covers only the front side while being less expensive, while a Bimini top covers both sides but it is pricier.
Hopefully, this write-up helps you choose the best top for your Jeep.
