I have been looking at all of the rack systems for the JK unlimited for weeks. I have narrowed it down to just a couple racks to meet my needs (pod/kayak/bike/ski racks etc.)

My question is can you retract the sun-rider soft top back without issue. I have been told you can take the top down but what about simply folding back. Gobi offers what is called the "recon" light bar option for all 2010 JKs and up. My understanding is this is to help with the clearance of the top. I emailed a reseller and they indicated it "MIGHT not exactly work". $1600 investment is a tough might. If anyone could help me out I would greatly appreciate it. I really like the aspects of this rack (Gobi Stealth) ...but what good is a sun-rider if i cant fold it back, by myself, and easily.
Thanks!!

 

I got a response from the source. The sunrider top will not fold back and fit under the rack like the 2006 to 2009; however, the top can be easily removed all the way down. Overall its one of the better racks on the market.

 

I have a Gobi Rack and here is my two cents. Great rack, rock solid, and durable. It came with all the proper bolts and hardware, although I am still waiting on the sunroof insert. Extremely good capacity, I think it is probably strong enough to put another JK on my roof!

Although I have the hardtop, this may apply to your situation as well. There is a cut-out for you to open the front portion of your roof. This works very well and is easy. However, with my specific set-up, it is a bit unpractical. The reason is.......because with the sunroof portion of the hardtop off, and that rack with the lights.......it is like looking up through a hole. It is almost disturbingly annoying, not to mention the ROAR of the wind noise that you will hear at speeds above 40MPH.

For my purposes, I am a camper and not a sun-worshipper, it works great and I am completely satisfied with the product. YMMV