Bed bars are widely used in off-roading and overlanding because they add utility without breaking the bank. They keep a fairly low profile and can easily be installed on your factory bed rails without any modification. Bed bars can be used to mount a rooftop tent (RTT), secure gear like a Hi-Lift jack, or other larger items that can’t fit on the roof or within the bed.
DRT’s Lo-Pro Bedbars are one of the best options for the Tacoma because of their low profile design. This allows a RTT to be mounted and still sit below or flush with the overall height over your roof line. While they seem like simple metal bars, a lot of R&D went into them to create a quality product that can withstand the rigors of offroad.
Specs & Features
- 1/8″ steel baseplate
- 3/16″ steel upright
- 1.75 x .090 tube
- The height from the top of the bed rail to the top of the tube is 4.25″
- Grade 8 hardware included
- Laser cut HRPO steel
- Clean and simple design
- Total weight: 26 lbs.
Table Of Contents
Installation
Tools Needed
- Ratchet
- 14mm Socket
Step 1. Prep Bed Rails
If you don’t have any accessories installed in your bed rails, move to Step 2. I had Cali Raised MOLLE panels that needed to be temporarily removed so I could install the bed bars. Once those were on, I could reinstall the MOLLE panels.
Remove the plastic end caps and any other accessories that will block the way for the T-slot plates needed for the bed bars.
Step 2. Position Bed Bars
Positioning the bed bars is entirely up to you. If you plan on mounting a RTT, space the bars accordingly. The same applies to any other large items you plan to mount. If you don’t have any immediate plans, I found that spacing them evenly over the length of the bed was the most aesthetically appealing.
Step 3. Attach Bed Bars
Included are (4) T-slot plates, (2 for each bedside) that slide into the bed rails. These are what the included bolts will secure into. Position the T-slot plates to where you want the bed bars mounted.
Insert (2) bolts and washers through each bed bar and into the T-slot plate behind it. Hand tighten only for now so you can adjust the final positioning.
Once everything is where you want it, use a 14mm socket to tighten all the bolts. There’s no need to overtighten or use an impact wrench.
Initial Impressions
I was able to hang out with Derik, the owner of DRT, as he made these. Watching the pieces all come together was amazing. When he welds, it’s like watching an artist create a work of art – his craftsmanship is second to none. He puts a lot of time and extra detail into his work, especially when it comes to his welding.
The lo-pro bed bars are lightweight but still feel substantial and should easily support the weight of a RTT. It’s worth noting that these only come in raw steel, so you’ll need to have them powder-coated or painted before installing them.
Final Thoughts
This product is simple by design but serves its purpose flawlessly – to mount your overland/off-road items. They’re priced fairly considering the quality of craftsmanship and the fact that they’re made in the USA.
I’m not a fan of large bed racks, so these were the perfect solution. They’re minimal yet you will be surprised at how rugged your truck will look just by adding a set. Not only do they look good, but I’m sure they add some structural support and reduce bed flex.
