Rugged Ridge New HD Stubby Front Bumper Is Everything You Want and More

You may remember a little while back, we ran through Rugged Ridge’s new JL products—including the brand’s SEMA debuts that had many off-road forum-goers chomping at the bit for purchasing options. Well, while it looks like it’ll still be a minute on those fender upgrades and that modular snorkel (SIGH), the rad-as-hell stubby bumper from the show has arrived—and it’s everything we hoped it would be.

Rugged Ridge's new HD Stubby Front Bumper is durable, innovative, and hella stylish.
Rugged Ridge gets an A+ on the styling for its new HD Stubby Front Bumper, seen here with optional HD X-Striker. Source: Rugged Ridge

The new HD Stubby Front Bumper, while designed for Rugged Ridge’s SEMA 2018 JL build, is available for both 18-19 JL and 07-18 Wrangler JK models. It also comes in a full-width configuration for those seeking some burlier front-end protection. And, a matching HD rear bumper (JL only) carries the good looks and quality construction round back for what the company calls, “a highly-functional, total bumper package.”

Meet the New HD Stubby Front Bumper

The classic off-road inspired design of the new HD series not only keeps trail hazards at bay, but also adds some aggressive styling to your rig. Additionally, the durable thick plate steel construction with a satin black powder coat finish, ensures hard use and bad weather won’t wear down your investment.

Rugged Ridge's new HD Stubby Front Bumper debuted at SEMA 2018 as an evolution of the company's innovative XHD Series.
Rugged Ridge’s new HD Stubby Front Bumper debuted at SEMA 2018 as an evolution of the company’s innovative XHD Series. Source: JLWranglerForums

Engineered with innovation in mind, the new HD Stubby Front Bumper sports a recessed winch plate capable of mounting most aftermarket winches, that also allows for better air flow to the radiator. Additionally, two integrated tow hooks are present, dual-drilled to work with both 3/4 and 7/8-inch shackles. T-shaped notches are also found at each corner of the bumper’s lower fascia as built-in jack lifting points. (The Full-Width option sports all the same features as the new HD Stubby Front Bumper, while the matching HD Rear offers tow hooks and Hi-Lift jack points.)

A Bumper As Tough As The Trails You Tackle

“Plastic bumpers might look good, but run into anything more than bug guts and you’ll see why you need the strength of steel on your rig,” says Rugged Ridge. “That’s why we recommend you keep the flimsy plastic in the picnic basket, not on your Jeep. Rugged Ridge HD Series Bumpers are trail-tested, proven designs that pack a serious punch.”

Ensuring the new HD Stubby Front Bumper is truly trail-ready, Rugged Ridge also offers an optional tubular HD Over-Rider (seen here on the full-width) or HD X-Striker (seen above on the Stubby).

Rugged Ridge also offers a Full-Width configuration in the new HD Series of bumpers.
The new HD Series from Rugged Ridge offers both Stubby and Full-Width configurations. The latter is seen here with the optional tubular HD Over-Rider. Source: Rugged Ridge

Featuring a simple bolt-on installation, requiring no drilling or cutting, the new HD Stubby Front Bumper, Full-Width bumper, and Rear Bumper are all backed by Rugged Ridge’s limited 5-year warranty.

Part No. Description
11540.32 HD Bumper, Stubby, Front; 07-18 JK, 18-19 JL
11540.31 HD Bumper, Full-Width, Front; 07-18 JK, 18-19 JL
11540.36 HD Bumper, Rear; 18-19 JL
11540.61 HD X-Striker; 07-18 JK, 18-19 JL
11540.62 HD Over-Rider Bar; 07-18 JK, 18-19 JL
Looking for a great place to show off your new Jeep mods?

Running August 29-September 1 is Sheriff’s JeepFest in Jasper, Georgia. “A Jeep event like no other,” this three-day annual Jeep festival offers obstacles, trails, mud, concerts, rides, food, and much more. And the best part? All proceeds go on to help kids in and around the local community. Rugged Ridge is a title sponsor this year, so head on down to the Peach State and show your generosity—and your sweetly styled new rig.

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