Thread: Tent info
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Old 11-24-12, 08:29 AM
  #18  
BigBlueToe
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I have some opinions about suitable tents for bike touring.
  • Light weight is HIGHLY desirable, but you also need to be moderately comfortable.
  • If I want to be comfortable it seems I need a tent rated for one more person than will actually be using it. When it's just me, I want a 2-person model. When I go with my wife we want a 3 person tent.
  • Freestanding is desireable, but not a deal breaker. My favorite tent is not freestanding, but I've never had a problem putting it up. I'm very careful about exact positioning so that I won't have to move it once it's up.
  • It absolutely must not leak, not even in a long, extended downpour.


I'm also 6' 4". I've tried various tents. I like an 8' length. 7'6" works, but is a bit confining when I want to stretch out.

REI is a good company that stands behind its products. So does L. L. Bean. L. L. Bean will fix or replace their products for free, even many years down the road. Eureka makes good quality tents for quite a bit less than other companies. I'd also trust Sierra Designs, based on personal experience and experiences of people I've known.

Those plus size tents from REI look good.

Good luck!
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