Here in theUK the Sun is'nt a problem-we dont get that much!!
This design seems really Cr*p whats the point of having a soft top if you cant take it off unless you have 1/2 an hour to spare.  I can see why now virtually all the pics of soft tops i've seen have still got them fixed firmly in place!
I feel its time for some modifications !!
The safari top keeps most of the rain out and (if you run into a spot of cold weather) the heater is still effective.
Does it take that much time to remove the Sammy top? I can swap tops in under 20 mins on the 'Kick, but never pulled a Sammy top.
If you are going to cut up a Sammy top, you might try putting in roll-up side windows. I did that with one of my cut 'Kick tops. (Sewed velcro on the inside & a strap to hold the window up.)