Half Hoods

[Ca11um]

I was looking at trying to get my hands on a half hood. Most people seem to suggest Soft Bits for Se7ens. I was wondering what peoples experiences were with the different designs. I was thinking either the retro or classic design as it's really just for shade whilst touring in Europe. Or are there any others worth a look? I notice that Caterham are also now doing a half hood and tunnel bag but cost a little more...

[allen l]

The CC stuff comes from Softbits. Looks exactly the same.

I have the Halfhood Plus from Softbits. Ideal when you park your car in the rain.

[Tango7]

allen l said:

I have the Halfhood Plus from Softbits. Ideal when you park your car in the rain.

If you are using the classic versions, make sure you park facing into the rain...

[CanAm]

Tango7 said:

allen l said:

I have the Halfhood Plus from Softbits. Ideal when you park your car in the rain.

If you are using the classic versions, make sure you park facing into the rain...

When I got mine there was only the original version. If I'm parking up and the weather is looking dodgy I use the tonneau cover as well. For overnight parking when touring I have a lightweight top that covers the cockpit and 'boot' stopping rain from seeping in via the roll bar. Cost under £40 and folds into an A4 size bag about half an inch thick.
The big advantage of the half-hood is the speed of fitting.
Alan

[Chris71]

CanAm said:

The big advantage of the half-hood is the speed of fitting.

They're not - contrary to opinion - completely watertight. But they are reasonably good for very rapid fiting time - if you have it already attached to the back in its bag the whole thing can be unrolled onto the roof and secured in about 20 seconds.

[BDA]

Canam,
The cover you mention for £40, what is it called and where can I get one?

Many Thanks
Chris

[CanAm]

BDA said:

Canam,
The cover you mention for £40, what is it called and where can I get one?

Many Thanks
Chris

Hi Chris, it was a couple of years ago, but I think this is the one http://www.coverscars.co.uk/toponlycarcoverprices.... . I don't have it with me at the moment, but when I get it back I'll confirm it for you.
Despite mentioning Caterham, it was a generic sports car top cover and not tailored specifically for the Caterham.
Despite that, it was cheap, light and fits well over the screen with cut-outs for the door mirrors, just needing to be tied down at the rear. For the very rare occasions that I need it (Isle of Wight!) it was a better buy for me than the far better Softbits Half-hood Plus.
Alan