Ordering a Defernder 110 which I will use a cargo box on very often + surf gear in summer. I barely manage on my disco sport so thinking about ladder / side step.

Do any of you that have a ladder / side steps recommend it? The deployable side steps look amazing but the cost is high and I'm worried about reliability (another thing to break).

David

 

Just received these yesterday, still in the box, with plans to install later this week. Came with trim removal tools, trim clip removal tool and spare trim clips, because they are sacrificial when removing them, and all mounting hardware.

 

I have the ladder and it’s an engineering marvel, very robust. It’s a life saver when I need to set up a cargo box. It’s very high getting up there. Highly recommend it. Side steps aren’t needed for food access because you really need to have the doors open as well and use that step area to reach up.

 

I’ll second the LR ladder. Installed mine after about 6 months with our Defender and it’s awesome. Extremely functional and easy to use. We do some surfing as well, getting the boards secured on the rack is infinitely easier with the ladder.

 

check out the Lucky8 ladder. that is the one that I am considering seriously.

 

I checked out the Lucky8 and liked the look, but it just didn't seem as functional in the end. Smaller foot spaces, confined to organizing anything from the rear of the car, more expensive, and the first step is actually fairly high. At first I thought the LR option looked a little gimmicky in pictures but after seeing it in person it really is a nice setup. The side access gives you the ability to reach just about anywhere on the rack.

 

Ladders on vehicles/Defenders are as much form as they are function. I respect those who are fond of the JLR version, but I'm too much of an old school LR person for it. I am a huge fan of the Lucky8 (other than the price!) and it works for me. I'm not a small guy (ok, I'm 6'3" and over weight) but have had no problem scampering up the thing. I have much more ability to reach right/left off the rear than just one side or the other. Granted, not the same for the front, but easily reach up there from the front doors when standing on the foot wells. If I need to scamper up there, I've had no issues with the ladder narrowing at the top. Frankly, I'm already up there by the time I need the top step anyway. I think it's more for aesthetics or balance anyway. I recently added a "step" to a toe ring with a quick release **** to make it even easier to go up the ladder or to stand there accessing the back.

There are those who will love the side (though I think we can all pan the Voyager version) and those that like the L8 version. I'm just in the later ladder list.

 

A ladder is a great option. A must if you're using the rack as intended.



Side steps are to me, completely without merit. Even in off-road height my kids can clamber in with ease. In access height it's a non-issue for anyone. The steps detract from the clean lines of the Defender to my eye at least, and add nothing to functionality.

To each their own of course. Some folks love the look no doubt. YMMV

 

I actually like the voyager ladder more than either oem or L8. Completely functional and in keeping with the traditional round bar look. As for sidesteps, they truly make no sense if you plan to ever off road. Better to get sliders which can also aid as steps when needed.

 

i agree, i really like the voyager rack and ladder combo. I might like the l8 ladder slightly more but doesnt look like it can fit with the voyager rack, which imo is the best looking rack