The Smarter Way to Cap Your Truck. (RSI Smart Cap Review)
Introduction
Truck owners have the unique challenge of securing cargo while ensuring that the bed of the truck remains accessible. The traditional solution has been to use a truck bed cap, which offers a level of protection but can be cumbersome. However, with advancements in technology, a new solution has emerged - the SmartCap for F150. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about the SmartCap, including its pros and cons.
The RSI Smartcap is the first “Modular” Truck Cap System. This truck cap differentiates itself from other traditional truck caps as this is a stainless steel truck cap.
There are multiple versions: EVO Sport, EVOa Adventure, EVOc Commercial, or an entire bed replacement system.
EVO Sport
This is the trademark Cap that many people initially see with RSI caps. This a forged from stainless steel and not fiberglass. This cap also has three doors (with glass inlays) to access the cab from both sides and the back. The two side doors have small windows that allow for increased ventilation. The front of the cap also has a small window allowing pass-through access to the truck back seat for those trucks with a window in their rear glass. These doors all have the ability to be locked and have heavy-duty latches to allow a secure fit. This cap also comes with a negative pressure vent on the top to allow negative pressure and decrease the amount of dust that collects in the cap. An integrated third brake light can be attached to the rear brake light or the 7-pin connector used for towing using an RSI-supplied harness.
EVOa Adventure
This cap is built for more extreme on-road and off-road adventure use. There is a rear glass inlay in the back of the cap. The two side doors on this version do not have glass inlays and are solid steel doors that lock to allow secure storage. The remarkable aspect of these Gullwing doors is the interior MOLLE panels for mounting gear. You can add accessories such as kitchens, off-road recovery gear, tools, or storage areas that you can access from the sides of the bed and keeps everything in order.
EVOc Commercial
This cap is for more commercial use. These commercial caps are built with more security and steel grates over the back window, allowing a more secure and lockable feature for more valuable tools.
Pros of SmartCap for F150
The SmartCap is designed to meet the needs of truck owners who require a versatile and practical solution for their F150. Here are some of the advantages of the SmartCap:
1. Easy Access
One of the most significant benefits of the RSI SmartCap is its easy-to-use design. Unlike traditional caps, the SmartCap offers easy access to the bed of your truck. The cap features a unique gull-wing design, which enables you to open and close the cap with a single hand. This means you can access your cargo quickly and efficiently.
2. Versatility
The SmartCap is a versatile solution that offers a range of customization options. You can choose from various accessories, such as sliding drawers, storage compartments, and roof racks to meet your needs. The cap is also compatible with most F150 models, making it a great investment for truck owners.
3. Durability
The SmartCap is built to last. It is constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand the toughest conditions. The cap features a reinforced fiberglass shell that withstands heavy loads, impacts, and extreme temperatures. This means you can rely on the SmartCap to protect your cargo for years to come.
4. Security
The SmartCap offers an added layer of security to your cargo. The cap has a central locking system that provides maximum protection against theft. You can rest assured that your cargo is safe and secure, even when you're not around.
5. Aerodynamics
The SmartCap is designed to be aerodynamic, which can help improve your truck's fuel efficiency. The cap features a sleek and streamlined design that reduces wind resistance, making driving your truck on the road easier.
6. Modular
The RSI SmartCap is designed to be modular in the sense you can interchange side walls or separate back walls as well as integrate molle storage, kitchen accessories and grills, tool storage, or keep it open. The cap also has integrated permanent roof rails with T nuts that is available to mount a variety of roof racks or accessories. * Not all roof racks will work and some modifications might need to be made. RSI makes their own platform, load bars, roller rack as well as a drop rack that allows easy access to the roof rack. There are also Frontrunner racks made specifically to fit the RSI SmartCap
Con's of SmartCap for F150
While the SmartCap offers many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
1. Price
The SmartCap is a premium solution, and it comes with a premium price tag. If you're on a tight budget, you may find it challenging to justify the cost of the SmartCap.
2. Installation
Installing the SmartCap can be a complex process. Please, follow the instructions carefully and have some technical knowledge to ensure the cap is installed correctly.
3. Weight
The SmartCap is a heavy-duty solution that can add significant weight to your truck. This can impact fuel efficiency and handling, especially if you frequently drive in challenging terrain.
4. Limited Headroom
While the SmartCap offers easy access to your cargo, it does come with a drawback. The gull-wing design can limit headroom, making it challenging to stand upright in the bed of your truck. This can be a hindrance if you frequently transport tall cargo.
Assembly
The assembly of the SmartCap took me about 2 hours with one other person. This should be an easy project if you are even slightly handy with tools and can follow Ikea's directions. Some multiple screws and bolts must be aligned properly, so having two people will be essential. There are four panels that all fit together with just a few bolts. They are very secure and sturdy once put together correctly. You will need to shimmy the pieces together to get them to fit just right, but it is management. The biggest issue is getting a torque wrench with the proper pound-feet of torque as they require 4 to 10 lbs of torque, and many places only have torque wrenches that start at 50 lbs and more. Once completed, you will need four people or more to lift the cap onto the bed and line it up correctly. Please take a look at the video below for a quick detailed installation video. (Video provided by RSI SmartCap on YouTube).
Conclusion
All the RSI Smartcap options come with integrated roof rails compatible with rack systems, rooftop carriers, ladders, rooftop tents, kayaks, or a wide array of accessories. There is a consideration of how some third-party accessories mount to these T nut mounts as some have different widths, but there are usually some medications or adjustments people can make to make them fit.
The RSI SmartCap is an innovative solution that offers a range of benefits for truck owners. It provides easy access, versatility, durability, security, and aerodynamics, making it a great investment for anyone who needs to transport cargo. However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the price, installation process, weight, and limited headroom, before making a purchase. With the right knowledge and information, you can make an informed decision and choose the best cap for your needs.
Additional Information
If you'd like to learn more about the RSI SmartCap, you can visit the manufacturer's website. The website provides detailed information about SmartCap's features, accessories, and pricing. You can also find customer reviews and testimonials to help you make an informed decision. Also, feel free to contact the manufacturer directly if you have any questions or concerns about the SmartCap. They will gladly assist you and provide the information you need to make the best choice for your truck.
Update: March 2024
After using the RSI smart cap for over a year now, I can provide an updated review highlighting both the pros and cons of this product. One of the standout positives is the durability of the cap. It has endured numerous car washes and even managed to withstand heavy snowfall, with 8 inches of snow not causing any noticeable damage or leaks. This speaks volumes about the quality of materials and construction used in the cap, making it a reliable choice for protecting your truck bed.
However, there have been a few drawbacks that I've encountered during my ownership. One recurring issue is the freezing of locks and latches when exposed to rain followed by freezing temperatures. This has been somewhat inconvenient, requiring extra effort to thaw and operate the locks smoothly. Additionally, the keys provided with the cap have a tendency to bend if not inserted perfectly straight, which can be a minor annoyance when trying to unlock or secure the cap.
Despite these minor drawbacks, I am overall very satisfied with the RSI smart cap. Its ability to withstand various weather conditions and daily use without major issues is commendable. If the freezing locks and latches issue could be addressed in future iterations, it would greatly enhance the overall user experience. Nevertheless, I would still recommend this cap to anyone looking for a durable and reliable truck bed cover.
In addition to my experience with the RSI smart cap, I also wanted to highlight some modifications I made to enhance its functionality. I attached a Sherpa Crows Nest Roof rack to the cap, which required finding M8 screws to securely fasten it. While this may seem like a small detail, it's worth mentioning as it demonstrates the versatility of the cap and its compatibility with aftermarket accessories. The roof rack has proven to be a simple yet highly useful addition, providing extra storage space for gear and equipment.
Furthermore, I also installed a Yakima Power Shower and added some recovery boards to the setup. This not only increased the cap's utility for outdoor adventures but also enhanced its visual appeal. The combination of the smart cap with these accessories has transformed the look of my truck, giving it a rugged and functional aesthetic while still maintaining a sleek profile.
Overall, these modifications have further reinforced my satisfaction with the RSI smart cap. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with additional accessories has expanded its capabilities and made it an even more valuable asset for my outdoor lifestyle. I continue to be impressed by the cap's durability, and with these additions, it has become a complete solution for all my truck bed needs.