Evaluation of Big Agnes' Tiger Wall UL2 Tent, ideally suited for bikepacking expeditions
The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 and its bikepacking counterpart share many similarities, but there are key differences that make each tent suitable for different outdoor adventures.
Both tents boast the same dimensions and core design, but the Bikepack version offers a handlebar-bag-specific stuffsack and pole sections optimized for bike setup. This makes it an ideal choice for cyclists embarking on long journeys. On the other hand, the original Tiger Wall UL2 saves you 7 ounces and approximately $20, while still being compact enough to fit into frame bags for bikepacking. It also uses longer poles, which can be strapped to a bike frame without issue.
One feature unique to the Tiger Wall is its use of Big Agnes's proprietary tent corner construction. This includes TipLok Tent Buckles and a horizontal spreader bar, which increases headroom. The Tiger Wall is also semi-freestanding, requiring staking at the foot and relying on large rocks to hold the corners in place in rocky areas.
The Tiger Wall's handlebar bag doubles as a heavy-duty bag for bike handlebars, but it is not preferred for use due to its size and weight. Interestingly, you can fit the original Tiger Wall in frame bags (especially split between two people), so you won't miss the included handlebar-bag-stuffsack.
The Tiger Wall's set-up is intuitive and fast, taking just a few minutes to pitch. It can also fit in a 3.35L Salsa Anything Cage fork bag, saving 3.4oz by ditching the tent bag.
Comparatively, the Copper Spur UL2 bikepack version also comes with the 12-inch ShortStik pole set and additional daisy chain webbing on the fly. It adds an extra square foot of interior space compared to the Tiger Wall, and all four corners can be staked, making it more versatile for camping on hard surfaces.
Lastly, the Tiger Wall 3 Platinum version stands out with a super thin 7-denier ripstop nylon and a weight of just 2 pounds 9 ounces, offering 38 feet of interior space.
In summary, the original Tiger Wall UL2 might be the better choice if you want to use the tent for both backpacking and bikepacking. It is a bit lighter, less expensive, and still compact enough to fit bike frame bags. The Bikepack version adds specialized bikepacking convenience features but at slightly more weight and cost. For those seeking more interior space and all-surface staking capabilities, the Copper Spur UL2 could be a more suitable option.
- The Tiger Wall UL2 can fit into frame bags for both backpacking and bikepacking, making it a versatile choice for outdoor adventurers.
- The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 tents are suitable for various lifestyles, including camping, backpacking, and even bikepacking.
- The Copper Spur UL2 bikepack version offers an extra square foot of interior space and all-surface staking capabilities, ideal for camping on diverse terrains.
- Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts may find the Tiger Wall UL2's compact size a perfect accompaniment for their travel wardrobe, while home-and-garden lovers might appreciate its simplicity in setting up and packing away.
- Technology buffs might find the Copper Spur UL2's additional daisy chain webbing on the fly useful for attaching portable chargers or other tech gadgets during their adventures.
- Sports enthusiasts looking for an edge in their outdoor pursuits might prefer the Copper Spur UL2 for its more versatile staking capabilities and larger interior space, perfect for storing sports gear and equipment.
