We debated the flat-bed / stake truck Vs. step side for my AD for a long time. We went back and forth, back and forth.
Eventually we selected the step side bed because we liked the look (Note: I have an AD).
My truck started as a stake-truck and the bed was 10 feet, so going to a 9 foot made my truck shorter.
Personally I like the step side (But I did not have dual wheels.) With dual wheels I think I would have made it a stake struck. Good Luck and let us know what you decide
