Steps vs side step bars

[Lwiddis]

I have steps and they do decrease off-roading capability. Are side step bars better? Should I switch?

[opnspaces]

I have side bars on my older Suburban and as Grit calls them geezer boards on my newer Suburban. I prefer those styles over the steps based on functionality alone. For instance, my 83 year old mother has trouble getting into the Suburban as it is. There is absolutely no way she would be able to make it in using the little steps.

I went through many years of having trucks with rock guards, slider bars etc. Then one day I finally admitted to myself that I just don't, and never will take my daily driver down the Rubicon or the Hammers.

Yes I drive over rocks large enough that I need to make sure I place the tire on the rock to protect the differential or axle. But I can't even remember the last time I was on a trail and had to worry about a rock being large enough to damage the body. Those trails do exist and I've been on them, but not in my daily driver.

[MFL]

2012Coleman wrote:
I've got wheel to wheel side bars. I prefer them because I don't have to look where I'm placing my foot to get in and out.

This is the advantage of bars vrs steps. While the steps on black trucks pictured, look good, they just aren't as functional. The wife's SUV, often likes to snuggle with my truck, so can barely get my door open to climb in. I then need to place my foot at the door pillar area to climb in.

I get good stone protection also, using the flaps/bars. My truck gets to remote areas hunting, so not just a TV.

Jerry

[Tvov]

I've got full length bars and like them. One thing I do suggest... make sure that whatever you buy is securely attached to the truck.

I see so many "aftermarket" steps and step bars that are not safe to use because they were either installed incorrectly, or just poorly designed. If you have a choice, go with "frame mounted" steps... I don't see how bolting the step just to the body work will last with use.

[2012Coleman]

I've got wheel to wheel side bars. I prefer them because I don't have to look where I'm placing my foot to get in and out.

[rexmitchell]

Get some Nfab bars. They are high and tight to the frame but still offer a nice step and look good. The 3 step are better but cost more.

This is my 2500. 4wheel parts ran a sale on the Nfabs late last year, these cost me 205$ picked up in their store. Direct bolts to the factory frame holes.

[Grit_dog]

MFL wrote:

Grit dog wrote:
This question is like polling the forum for which color shirt you should wear today......

Nice truck though!

Oh com'on Grit, you're being too nice...tell him, he's a big boy, can handle the truth.:C

Jerry

I got those same looking steps on the old Dodge....so can't be to pot calling the kettle black. Haha
In general, my preference, aesthetically, from good to bad goes like this.
1. No steps (or AMP boards)
2. N fab style rock slider looking bars like on the pic above of that black Chevy.
3. Single hoop steps like Lwiddis'truck
4. Traditional nerf bars (color matched)
5. Full length geezer boards. Extra bad points if they have lights in them!

Yes running boards prevent alot of rock damage and rust. So do mud flaps though.

[Cummins12V98]

AMP Research retracting steps.

[TurnThePage]

I disagree about the looks and think your steps look fine. I would have no problem with them on my truck. However, I think wheel to wheel bars are more practical. As already pointed out, they're easier to land your feet on, and pets can manage them better. Not to mention easier access to the front of the bed (if it's not covered). Nice looking truck!

[wilber1]

Side bars.

[Lwiddis]

"So you're planning on doing some serious "off-roading" with a 2020 LTZ are ya?"

No, GDS. Light/easy off roading only. USFS dirt mostly.

Not "awful," MFL, but the bar may look better.

ACZL, your comments on salt damage are interesting and correct but salt isn't used much, if any, in California.

[GDS-3950BH]

Delete

[GDS-3950BH]

Delete

[MFL]

Grit dog wrote:
This question is like polling the forum for which color shirt you should wear today......

Nice truck though!

Oh com'on Grit, you're being too nice...tell him, he's a big boy, can handle the truth.:C

Jerry

[GDS-3950BH]

Lwiddis wrote:
I have steps and they do decrease off-roading capability. Are side step bars better? Should I switch?

So you're planning on doing some serious "off-roading" with a 2020 LTZ are ya? You have a bigger set than I do.

Nice truck.


Personally I am kind of fond of Nfab Nerfs with the 3 steps.

Not mine, and not sure whose, but I would bet the farm it has never seen anything but asphalt.