Tonneau Cover Compatibility with the Big Days Chase Rack System

Tonneau Cover Compatibility with the Big Days Chase Rack System
Coleman Edwards

For truck owners who want the best of both worlds—secure bike transport and a protected truck bed—a tonneau cover and the Big Days Chase Rack System make the perfect combo. But not all tonneau covers are created equal when it comes to compatibility. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your Big Days setup works seamlessly with your tonneau cover.

Best Tonneau Cover Option: T-Track Systems

The easiest and most compatible way to use the Big Days Truck Bed System with a tonneau cover is by choosing a T-Track-equipped tonneau cover. These covers feature integrated tracks that allow for easy attachment of the Big Days rack using our included T-Track mounting hardware.

Benefits of Using a T-Track Cover

Easy Installation – The rack slides directly into the T-Track, making setup a breeze.
Seamless Functionality – Your tonneau cover can still open and close without interference.
No Need to Uninstall – Once installed, both the cover and rack work together without constant adjustments.
Added Security – The covered storage area keeps your gear dry and out of sight.

Popular T-Track Covers That Work with Big Days

  • Retrax T-Track Covers (fully compatible)
  • EGR T-Track Covers (fully compatible)
  • Other bed covers with a built-in T-Track system

Soft-Shell Tonneau Covers: Another Viable Option

If you’re using a soft-shell tonneau cover, there’s a good chance it will work with the Big Days Chase Rack System. However, some modifications will need to be made to your truck.

⚠️ Requires Bolt-On Installation – Since the Big Days clamp hardware interferes with a soft-cover tonneau mounting system, the way to make a rack fit is to bolt it directly to the bed. This means drilling into the top of the truck bedside and using our bolt on kit (included with purchase) to mount the rack. This allows the rack to sit outboard enough for the soft, rollable covers to move where they need to be and for their mounting hardware to fit under the bed.

This method requires at least 3 inches of flat bed rail outboard of the cover for the Big Days risers to rest on. If the tonneau cover extends all the way to the outside of the bed, it will not be compatible.

Compatibility Considerations for All Tonneau Cover Types

⚠️ When hauling bicycles, the lower in-bed crossbar must be taken in and out – Our bicycle mount (which holds the front wheel) is made to be used in conjunction with our lower crossbar, which sits in the bed. The tonneau cover will not open or close with this lower bar in place, so it will need to be removed when you'd like to close the cover, and put back in place before when loading bikes. 
⚠️ Skipping the lower bar is an option, but stability is reduced – If you choose not to install the lower bar, mountain bikes won’t be as secure. For smooth driving with a bike or two this method is OK, but we'd DEFINITELY recommend taking the time to add the lower crossbar back when hauling multiple bikes, or going on long journeys or rough roads. A ratchet strap cinched down over the rear wheels does help to stabilize bikes in a pinch.
⚠️The moto and ski/snowboard mounts do not require the lower crossbar - No need to add and remove the lower crossbar when using those mounts.

Tonneau Covers That WON’T Work

While the Big Days Truck Bed System is highly adaptable, some tonneau covers simply aren’t compatible:

❌ Hard-body tonneau covers – These covers sit flush with the bed rails and prevent the rack from mounting.
Tri-fold tonneau covers – Most tri-fold covers interfere with the rack’s mounting system and bike clearance.

Why a Tonneau Cover + Big Days Rack is the Ultimate Setup

Pairing a tonneau cover with a Big Days rack gives you the ultimate setup for hauling bikes while keeping your truck bed protected. You get:

Full Truck Bed Storage – No more cramming gear between bikes and straps.
Secure Cargo – Protect your tools, gear, and valuables from the elements and potential thieves.
Adventure-Ready Convenience – Load up your bikes and gear without worrying about space limitations.

Upgrade Your Truck Bed Today!

If you’re looking for the best truck bed bike rack setup, make sure you choose a tonneau cover with a T-Track system for seamless compatibility. The Big Days Truck Bed System makes it easier than ever to haul your bikes without sacrificing bed space.

Check out our tonneau-compatible bed racks!

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