Sharp Honda - How does the 2026 Honda Ridgeline’s Dual-Action Tailgate help weekend projects around Emporia, KS?
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline is known for its smooth, quiet ride and confident AWD traction, but its bed innovations make just as big an impact when you are tackling projects at home. The Dual-Action Tailgate can drop down like a traditional gate for sliding in lumber or appliances, or swing to the side so you can stand closer to the bed floor and reach gear without straining. That side-swing motion also provides direct access to the Lockable In-Bed Trunk®, a secure, weather-protected compartment that keeps tools, paint, or hardware out of sight and out of the elements. With a drain plug built in, it even doubles as a rinse-and-go storage space when the job is done.
Because project days rarely go exactly as planned, Ridgeline’s flexible cargo ecosystem gives you options. The UV-stabilized, scratch-resistant composite bed resists dings while the minimal wheelwell housings help a load ride flat and steady. An available truck-bed power outlet turns the Ridgeline into a mobile workstation, and accessories like the bed extender or In-Bed Trunk® cargo dividers help you secure bulky items or keep small parts neatly separated.
- Load flexibility: Drop the tailgate for long items or swing to the side for closer reach-in and trunk access.
- Protected storage: The Lockable In-Bed Trunk® keeps tools dry and secure, and its drain plug makes cleanup easy.
- Bed durability: The composite surface resists scratches and UV wear, standing up to repeated jobsite use.
- Power at hand: The available 150-watt/400-watt bed outlet supports tools, lights, or even a TV during breaks.
- Organization add-ons: Optional cargo dividers and a bed extender tailor the space for big or small tasks.
These features are not just convenient—they change how you plan a project day. Instead of crowding the cab with fragile gear, you can lock it in the trunk. Instead of struggling to reach that last box behind a full bed, you swing the tailgate to the side and step in closer. And when you finish framing, sanding, or painting, you can pull the drain plug, rinse out the trunk, and head out for the next errand with a truck that still looks sharp.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much can I actually fit with the tailgate down?
The bed was designed to accommodate common materials, including 4-by-8-foot sheets of plywood. With the gate down and load secured properly, you can position longer items flat and stable thanks to minimal wheelwell intrusion.
Is the In-Bed Trunk® really weather-tight for tools?
Yes. The trunk is lockable and designed to keep items protected from the elements. Many owners store power tools, fasteners, or paint there during project runs, then use the drain plug to rinse it out afterward if needed.
Can I run power tools from the bed outlet?
The available 150-watt/400-watt truck-bed outlet can support light-duty tools or portable electronics. It is a handy way to power a shop light, charge batteries, or run a TV for game-day breaks at home.
The 2026 Ridgeline’s bed and tailgate systems are engineered for everyday practicality just as much as weekend fun. If you are comparing setups for a busy season of home upgrades, factor in how often you need secure storage, easy reach-in access, and quick cleanup. When a truck makes the loading and organizing part simple, you can focus more on the job itself and less on the logistics.
To explore these solutions firsthand, we welcome you to a hands-on demonstration of the Dual-Action Tailgate, Lockable In-Bed Trunk®, and bed accessories. Sharp Honda is serving Lawrence, Emporia, and Holton with knowledgeable guidance so you can tailor the Ridgeline’s cargo systems to your must-do list this year.
