Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person Review

First Impressions of Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person

The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is a purpose-built shelter designed for cyclists who venture into the backcountry. Big Agnes has taken their popular Blacktail series and adapted it specifically for the unique needs of bikepackers, focusing on packability, durability, and convenient features. The shortened pole set and bike-friendly compression sack immediately signal its intended use, promising a comfortable and efficient shelter for two-wheeled adventures.

I was seeking a tent that could easily attach to my bike for long-distance, multi-day trips without compromising on space or weather protection. My primary need was a tent that packed down small and could handle unexpected storms. I’ve historically struggled with fitting standard backpacking tents onto my bike, so a dedicated bikepacking model was very appealing.

Unboxing the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the materials and the thoughtful design. The tent feels robust and well-constructed, despite its relatively light weight. The included compression sack, with its daisy chain webbing, seemed like a practical solution for securing the tent to my bike.

I considered the MSR Hubba Hubba NX and the Nemo Hornet Elite 2P, both popular lightweight backpacking tents. Ultimately, I chose the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person because of its bikepacking-specific features, such as the Shortstik poles and the bike attachment system. The extended vestibule was also a major selling point.

My first impression was excitement; I was eager to test its performance on the trail. The tent’s design suggests a well-thought-out balance of weight, durability, and functionality. I couldn’t wait to see how it would perform during my upcoming bikepacking trip.

Real-World Testing: Putting Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person on a three-day bikepacking trip in the Deschutes National Forest in Oregon. The trip involved a mix of gravel roads and singletrack trails, with overnight temperatures dipping into the low 40s and a brief but intense rainstorm on the second night. Setting up the tent was straightforward, even in the dark, thanks to the color-coded clips and intuitive design.

The tent performed admirably in the rain, keeping me completely dry. Condensation was minimal, thanks to the good ventilation provided by the mesh body and vestibule vents. The extended vestibule was a game-changer, offering ample space for storing my bike helmet, wet gear, and cooking supplies.

The only minor issue I encountered was the limited headroom when sitting up inside the tent; it’s definitely designed more for sleeping than lounging. However, this is a common trade-off in lightweight tents. Otherwise, the first use was a resounding success.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and over 200 miles of bikepacking, the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person has proven to be a reliable and durable shelter. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being packed and unpacked multiple times. The polyester fabrics are holding up well to abrasion from the bike and ground.

Maintaining the tent has been easy; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each trip and occasionally use a tent-specific cleaner to remove any stubborn dirt. The zippers are smooth and snag-free. Overall, it’s proving to be a low-maintenance and robust piece of kit.

Compared to my previous experiences with budget-friendly backpacking tents, the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is a significant upgrade in terms of durability, weather protection, and ease of use. It definitely outperforms my expectations. The added convenience of the bikepacking-specific features makes it an ideal choice for cycle touring.

Breaking Down the Features of Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person

Specifications

• The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is a three-season, freestanding tent designed for two people. Its packed size is 21 x 7 inches, making it easy to fit into panniers or attach to a bike frame.
• The minimum weight is 5.56 lb, and the packed weight is 6.12 lb, which is a reasonable weight for a two-person tent with an extended vestibule. The tent type is backpacking, but specifically designed for bikepacking applications.
• The body material is polyester, while the floor and rainfly are made of polyester with a 1500mm waterproof polyurethane coating. This coating provides reliable waterproofness in wet conditions.
• The internal length is 90 inches, the internal width is 52 inches, and the internal height is 42 inches, offering adequate space for two people to sleep comfortably. The extended vestibule area is 28 sq. ft, in addition to a smaller 9 sq ft vestibule, providing ample storage.
• It has two doors for easy entry and exit, with aluminum tent poles for a lightweight and durable frame. The tent footprint is sold separately.

Performance & Functionality

The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person excels at providing a comfortable and protected shelter for bikepacking adventures. Its greatest strength lies in its combination of packability, weather resistance, and user-friendly design. The extended vestibule offers invaluable storage space, especially in inclement weather.

The tent’s freestanding design makes setup easy on various terrains, and the rainfly provides excellent waterproofness. One minor weakness is the limited headroom, which may be an issue for taller individuals or those who prefer a more spacious interior. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a bikepacking tent.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-stitched, and the zippers operate smoothly. The tent’s color-coded clips and intuitive pole design make setup quick and easy, even in low light conditions.

The design is user-friendly, with thoughtful features like media pockets, gear loops, and reflective guylines. There is minimal learning curve, even for first-time tent users. The included Shortstik poleset is a key design element, allowing for a compact packed size that fits easily on a bike.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is designed to last for many years of bikepacking adventures. The polyester fabrics are resistant to abrasion and UV damage. The waterproof polyurethane coating provides long-lasting weather protection.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional seam sealing will help to prolong the tent’s lifespan. Repairs can be easily made with a tent repair kit. The tent is designed with durable components that will resist wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person comes with a custom-fitted compression sack with daisy-chain webbing for easy attachment to a bike. It also includes lightweight Dirt Dagger UL Tent Stakes. A footprint is available separately to protect the tent floor from abrasion and extend its lifespan.

There are limited customization options beyond the footprint. However, the tent is compatible with Big Agnes gear lofts and mtnGLO® Tent & Camp Lights, which can enhance the interior space and lighting. The tent design readily accommodates standard tent accessories.

Pros and Cons of Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person

Who Should Buy Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person?

The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is perfect for bikepackers, cycle tourers, and anyone who needs a lightweight and packable tent for two people. It is ideal for those who prioritize weather protection and ample storage space. It’s particularly well-suited for multi-day trips where gear storage is a concern.

Those who should skip this product are car campers or backpackers who prioritize maximum interior space and headroom. If you’re primarily camping in established campgrounds and don’t need to carry the tent on a bike, a larger, more spacious tent might be a better option. Also, those on a very tight budget might find cheaper alternatives, though they may sacrifice quality and features.

A must-have accessory is the Big Agnes footprint to protect the tent floor from abrasion. Gear lofts and mtnGLO® Tent & Camp Lights can also enhance the overall camping experience. Consider also purchasing a high-quality sleeping pad for added comfort.

Conclusion on Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person

The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person is an outstanding tent designed specifically for the needs of bikepackers. It combines packability, durability, weather protection, and user-friendly design into a single, well-thought-out package. While it’s not the cheapest tent on the market, its performance and features justify the price for serious bikepackers.

The value proposition is excellent if you need a tent specifically for cycle touring. It’s not just a backpacking tent adapted for bikes; it’s designed from the ground up with bikepacking in mind. The extended vestibule is a game-changer.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Hotel Bikepack Tent, 2 Person to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable shelter for their bikepacking adventures. Invest in your comfort and safety; get out there and explore!