Recommended Cost-Effective Tonneau Cover and Ladder Rack Combo for a 2017 Ram 1500 5-1/2' Bed

Question:

I’m looking for a hard or soft tonneau cover that still allows me to install a bike/ kayak tower rack that holds the kayak above cab height for 2017 Ram 1500 with 5-1/2' bed I’m looking for an off name brand rack a little more reasonable adjustable would be great then I’m shopping for a moderately priced bed cover roll up or folding that the rack won’t interfere with where the rack is connected to the bed I’m towing a 30 foot tow behind trailer I would like to continue use my bed and cover it. I’m thinking with the ladder rack I can put kayaks on top and hang my bikes underneath the crossbars

asked by: Vance

Helpful Expert Reply:

For moderately priced tonneau cover and ladder rack options that fit your 2017 Ram 1500 with the 5-1/2' bed (and no RamBox because ladder racks won't fit with the RamBox) I recommend the Lomax Hard Tonneau Cover # AB1040019 and the Adarac Aluminum Series Custom Truck Bed Ladder Rack # A4001235.

The tonneau cover is hard so it provides some extra security to the cargo in your bed and the ladder rack sits out far enough that you don't need to uninstall it just to fold up your cover. The crossbars have a T-Slot on the underside but it hasn't been tested for a bike rack and I don't thin you'd have enough clearance for your bikes if you wanted to have the tonneau cover closed.

We do have bike racks like the Hollywood Racks # HRT970 which you can either install directly to your bed or install on a piece of wood to help secure it to your truck bed.

I have attached some review videos for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G