Performance upgrades for the Jeep vehicle abound, all a Jeep owner has to do is open up an issue of any automotive magazine to find items advertised and/or for sale from various manufacturers. However, there is an aftermarket item that can make the Jeep driving experience a delight.  This item is utilized more than any other component on your Jeep, and Bestop excels in bang for the buck, with their Trailmax Sport.

       The product tested was the Trailmax Sport fixed high back bucket seat, in a 1982 CJ-7 Renegade. The Trailmax Sport is a replacement for the old design of Bestop high back seats.  With this product, Bestop has managed to combine economy, performance, and comfort in a sleek package.

       Many of the Trailmax's features  (side bolsters, reinforced framework, and universal application for Jeep vehicles) can also be found on more expensive seats.  Passenger's quickly comment on the comfort of the Bestop seat, but the most outstanding feature is one that they might not even notice. The Trailmax supports both driver and passenger in off-camber situations better than a stock CJ bucket was ever designed to do.  Side bolsters on the Trailmax, although subtle, grip the rider and work exceptionally well with a 3-point harness.  The seat also gives the feel of progressive absorption; on a cruise down the pavement the seat is soft and comfortable, but off road the seat supports you firmly without giving the feel of a springy ride.

       A reclining feature which is available elsewhere in the product line would be nice on this base model seat.  However, the angle of the base model Trailmax is excellent and puts you in a comfortable driving position. Durability testing is still underway, but the seats, as installed on a Jeep that is mostly top down, give no indications of defects in workmanship or material quality.

       On a scale of 1-10, the Trailmax Sport scores a solid 9 for combining economy and performance in an attractive package.   For more info visit Bestops website.