Clamshell RTTs

[hamburglar210]

Those of you that have one, how do you like it?

Did you have a traditional RTT first and if so, how does it compare.

It looks like GFC is releasing one similar to the Alucab and possibly no need for a new rack definitely has me interested so I'm trying to get some opinions.

It'll probably be the GFC or the Yakima 3 person because I want something small or easy to remove.

 

[Daohaus]

Man, GFC is doing great things w/ that product. Makes sense that they could quickly adapt it to a sleeping platform for SUV's.

I like the way the iKamper is setup where the clam opens up to the side of the vehicle and how massively big the sleeping area is for that one.

 

[Gabex35]

Ive had 3 soft shells and currently have an autohome. there are pros and cons to both with the big cons (for me) of the hardshells are price and the fact that it takes up the whole roof.

my takeaways from having both is that you have to ask yourself what kind of camper you are. if you are the type that stays in one place for more than a night or isn't in a hurry in the morning, then i would recommend the soft-shell simply for the saving of money. if you are the type that gets into camp late from wheeling and up early to continue the trip and time is important then the hardshell is a big win for that.

i have a hardshell for multi day/distance trips where we have a lot of ground to cover. we usually arrive late and are up and rolling quickly. i am also usually the only one sleeping in the tent so the small space of the hardshell is no issue. I also have a CVT soft-shell that i have on my trailer for my family of 4. i need the space and setup/breakdown time is of no importance with a wife and kids that don't like to be rushed. haha.

one thing i see being an issue with the GFC is that its so low profile, that it may have issues closing it with bedding and pillows in it (just and observation). My AH Columbus is tough sometimes with a cold weather sleeping bag, pillows, and the ladder and thats with a pretty considerable hump to the rear.
just some things to consider...