8’ Long vs. 6.5’ Standard Bed (Performance)

Couldn’t find a thread on this. So, for the SR5 trim, how would off-road performance of DC standard bed compare to DC long bed? Does the longer bed compromise anything on tough trails, feel more awkward? (Maybe assume both are upgraded with TRD off-road package.)

I have same question for highway driving. Standard feel different from long? I drive a 1st Gen limited today (6.5’ bed).

 

The longer bed will have a worse breakover. Shorter and narrow is better for offroad.

 

I don't have much experience driving a standard length bed tundra, but I did drive a. 04 Tacoma for 4 years before upgrading to my 07 DCLB Tundra.

After 1000 miles on the highway, I would say it feels more stable with the longer wheel base. Long corners and lane changes feel more planted. It definitely isn't as nice in tight corners, pulling that long bed around feels a bit like steering a boat.

It's not going to be as good off-road, since the longer wheelbase makes it easier to high-center yourself, but if you're not planning on doing any hardcore trails or rock crawling, you'll probably be fine.

It's also noticeably wider than your first gen. If you don't like Tennessee pinstripes, you won't like taking a 3rd gen through tight forest trails.