Thanks for all the input. I have to put this delicately, because I have high regard for the NY Police but the fact remains that some tickets are given out that perhaps are not exactly "just" and then have to be fought in court or by detailed letters. When I mention that I've spoken with some 'representatives' of law enforcement, I'm not kidding that some have said "yes" they would ticket me - even a squad car team where one partner said he wouldn't bother me and his partner almost interrupting the first said "I would".
Not a way I want to spend my day out, having to look behind my shoulder every second on the road.
My guess is that it IS legal - given all the input here. And of course, this may only apply to parkway driving. So, I'll again check out the Sportrac which has the nice SECURE, easily removable hard cover. The Frontier is still my preference but then have the problem of not having an easily removable hard cover. Soft cover is ok but this IS New York city. And I live here so I won't be delicate in saying that security is a big issue.
Thanks again.