black maniks on white X
Ken,
I just installed black Manik side steps on my white X. I really like the look it gave to my X. You are right that a white X needs either the running boards or side steps to offset the white color.
It took me a while to decide on the Maniks. I'm glad I did. I didn't like the way the oem running boards fitted onto the X. I wish that they were fitted onto the vehicle like you see on Toyota 4-runners, Ford suvs, Infinity/Nissan suvs (running boards look good on these vehicles). The oem side steps are too close to the vehicle to function well as a step, but they do give the X a sleeker look than the Maniks. Another big plus was that the Maniks cost me $207 , whereas the oem ones from Tim would cost $433.
The installation on the Maniks are also easier than the oem ones. (2 supporting brackets vs. 3 supporting brackets and less nuts & bolts). But, I did have a problem with the installation. When I opened the box with the Maniks, one side step was labeled for the right side of the vehicle and the other left side. NOW, which is the left side and right side of the vehicle? Do you determine this by looking from the front or back of the vehicle? Being a novice, I did not know, therefore I called Manik tech support. The main tech person was not available, so I had to talk to his associate. This turned out to be a mistake, because he told me that each side is determined by looking at the vehicle by standing in front of the vehicle. When I installed it according to this advice, I noticed that the steps didn't seem to be aligned right , although they were still functional. I looked at other Maniks on the website and discovered that I had installed mine on the wrong sides. I was pissed....I re-installed them and think I may have slightly stripped one of the bolts or screw, it took me a while to get it off. I believe that someone else also installed their Maniks wrong also (it is difficult for a layman to tell , these Maniks look very similar to each other).
Well, I'm very happy with the way they look on my X. Black gives a good contrast to the white.
A white X without accessories does look rather bland. I also installed: rear mud guards, body side mouldings, and front hood deflector. These all made the X look better. I especially liked the addition of the BSM. I'm still thinking about adding the sunroof visor (another dark accessory).
Hope this info helps. You will love the X....what a great vehicle...(not perfect, there are some things that can be improved, but overall, it's a fun vehicle to drive)