Introducing the BunduTrail, the revolutionary camping trailer from South Africa that promises to transform your outdoor excursions. Thanks to its smart design, setting up camp has never been easier, taking less than 5 minutes, and giving you more time to enjoy the great outdoors. The BunduTrail boasts a fully 12v system powered by an onboard Lithium battery. Complete with a 380-watt roof solar package for optimal long-term use. Its compact design is complemented by the renowned All-Electric BunduTop. Which offers ample space for your adventure gear and effortless towing. The BunduTrail is available in two axle designs: the 1,650 LBS springs or the 1.1T 2,200 LBS air ride, both with 16” tires and surge brakes with an articulating coupler for added safety.
But the BunduTrail is more than just practical; it’s also indulgent. It features the BunduAwn and Bundu Suite, which provide maximum protection from the rain and heat. The 360 BunduAwn features 2 LED lights over a fully equipped pullout kitchen and pullout dual zone fridge/freezer. The BunduTrail comes with an 18-gal water tank and on-demand water pump. This supplies the front kitchen area and the exterior shower. The BunduSuite offers complete privacy for any private matter. From the midnight potty to the daily shower, and includes roof coverage for added protection.
The BunduTrail is packed with features, including a rear fold-away spare tire mount and storage box. Once out of the way, it provides complete access to a large pull-out storage door with multiple bins for additional gear, plus an in-drawer folding table storage area.
Further specifications that make the BunduTrail stand out include a dry weight of 1,765 pounds, a dry hitch weight of 208 pounds, overall length of 98”, overall width of 76”, travel height of 64”, and in-use height of 94”. Moreover, the BunduTrail offers additional add-ons, including a second BunduTop mounted to increase sleeping capacity from 2 to 4, an awning panel set for those looking to increase the separation from the elements, a BunduSuite floor, or even a cover for storage!
With its thoughtful design and features, the BunduTrail promises the ultimate convenience and comfort of camping. Embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure without the hassle and enjoy all that the great outdoors has to offer!
Editors Note: The video unfortunately has a lot of background noise. However, it is a great walkthrough and feature call out so worth persevering with.
2023 Fall/Winter Overland Gear Guide: As the temperature gradually cools and nature’s canvas transforms with the vibrant colors of autumn, it signals the much-anticipated arrival of the annual Fall/Winter Overland Gear Guide by TAP. We are showcasing our commitment to adventure enthusiasts with this exciting release, offering them a carefully curated selection of gear and equipment perfectly tailored for their off-road expeditions during the upcoming colder months. Get ready to #TAPintoAdventure
Renegade GTX Mid:Recommended for: Overland Adventure, Cold weather hiking, everyday walking on snowy, icy sidewalks and trails.
We took the fit and function of the best-selling Renegade GTX Mid, added warm and waterproof GORE-TEX Panda fleece insulation, a wool cuff trim and VIBRAM®’s super-grippy Evo Icetrek® outsole (safe for indoor floors!) to create an incredibly versatile cold weather boot. It’s ideal for from chilly fall hikes, snowy trails, to walking around the city in winter conditions with ease and style. Available in men’s & women’s-specific sizes.
The 23 Zero Royal series of sleeping bagsare designed for hard wearing, all-round use. Built using a water resistant, 100% cotton canvas outer shell and a soft cotton flannel lining, the Royal series sleeping bag will provide comfort and warmth throughout a diverse range of climates. The dual layer construction minimizes cold spots ensuring body heat is retained within the sleeping bag. Featuring a left and right zippered entry with an additional zip opening at the toe, internal valuable storage pocket and shaped hood with a 3D collar.
The Royal series of sleeping bags has a 25° Fahrenheit rating, and each one includes a matching flannel-lined pillow. You can open them completely to create a large blanket, or you can zip together any two of the same size to form one massive sleeping bag. Great for use in our lineup of roof-top tents and Aussie swags!
There are three sizes within the Royal series – Earl (78 inches x 36 inches), Duke (78 inches x 44 inches and Queen (78 inches x 62 inches) , weigh approximately 7.5lbs each and easily stored in their own 100% cotton canvas compression carry bag.
MSRP: $149 – $189 (Three sizes available) BUY HERE
Meet the IBEX Truck Bed Rack from Küat. This groundbreaking bed rack effortlessly handles substantial loads both on and off the grid. An impressive 1200 pounds static weight, 600 pounds dynamic weight, and 300 pounds off-road. Constructed from lightweight yet durable aluminum, it boasts a ballistic black powder coat made for all the nature you can throw at it. Available in five different frame sizes (a sixth Gladiator-sized SKU to come Q4) to accommodate most truck models and equipped with telescoping crossbars, numerous T-channels, and versatile full and mid-height configurations.
The IBEX truck bed rack is just the beginning of an ecosystem of adventure possibilities. Check out a few of the accessories you can add:
Antenna Mount. Our stainless-steel antenna mount is compatible with most antennas that mount in a 10mm hole and includes all hardware. Elevate your antenna game!
Bottle Opener. Probably the most used accessory. Compatible with all full-height IBEX™ SKUs, made from billet machined aluminum, and covered in a sweet black anodized finish. Cheers!
Crossbar Kit. When you need additional support. Available in long or short lengths and coated with a premium matte black powder coat.
Crossbar Risers. Get additional AND adjustable 2.75 inches to 4.5 inches of height to meet the look you want and the aerodynamics you need.
Grab Handle. Make easy work out of reaching for gear from the roof or the back of the truck with this all-aluminum bad boy. Compatible with all IBEX SKUs in the full-height configuration and in the rear vertical T-Channel location. You can handle it.
Jack Mount. Compatible with all IBEX SKUs and mounted on the inside of the rack’s T-channels. This mount works with most lift jacks that fit a 10mm bolt.
The Ibex Truck Bed Rack: MSRP: $1489-1589 BUY HERE
100% made in America: Extreme conditions call for easy solutions. ActionTrax are made in the USA and built to work quickly and safely. Whatever you’re towing, finding a launch and recovery area just got easier.
Our multi-purpose Recovery Trax have a new, improved design with input from elite military units and winning Baja 1000 racers.
Metal teeth: Our ready-to-go extreme version of ActionTrax provides a greater “grab” on the tire – perfect for Heavy Duty use.
ActionTrax manufacture their products in the USA from high-performing DuPont material and unconditionally guarantee them against all defects except burnt teeth from excessive wheel spin.
With 15 Watts of GMRS power, the MXT275 brings clear and reliable communication adventurers can rely on. Whether it’s caravanning to the campsite, hitting the trails, spotting an obstacle, conducting a recovery, or responding to an emergency, the MXT275 will keep users connected along any adventure. Pair the MXT275J with any of Midland’s FRS and GMRS two-way radios for seamless communication in and out of the vehicle.
Midland’s MXT275J includes the Fully-Integrated Control Microphone, meaning all controls are on the mic and users can hide the radio unit away to save dashboard space. The microphone features the Jeep Iconic Seven-Slot Grille for adventurers looking to show their love for the leading off-road vehicle manufacturer.
Adventurers can prioritize safety with the MXT275J, which also offers NOAA Weather Scan + Alert, delivering the latest information directly from the National Weather Service. This feature enables off-roaders to seek shelter if severe weather is approaching their location.
Other features include multiple LCD display colors, USB-C to bring the fastest charge time for devices, eight repeater channels, split tone capability, and more.
The MXT275J is the perfect gift for any adventurer and the perfect product to be featured in the 2023 Fall/Winter Overland Gear Guide.
1. Cutting-Edge Manufacturing: Featuring the JLRailTM, 4xeRailTM, and GladiatorRailTM, these mounts are crafted with the latest in Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology. Lightweight yet robust, their nylon base shares its DNA with the advanced materials of the 2016 ‘Bikini Bottom’ iPad holders.
2. Unrivaled Customization: With the patented Series 55TM rail system, mount various devices securely using the anti-rotation 20mm trackballs. Paired with the Pro Series arms and device holders, this system offers endless creativity and adaptability.
3. Seamless Upgrade Path: Loyal to 67 Designs? Transitioning to the new gear is a breeze. The company’s forward-thinking approach allows users to adapt previously bought arms and holders to the 2024+ Jeep models with ease.
4. Expert Opinion: Pedro from 67 Designs states, “Having blazed the trail in 2015 with the first-ever Jeep-specific mounts, we’re exhilarated to now set a new standard with the Pro Series ArmsTM for the 2024+ models.”
5. User Tip: Make the most of the Pro Series trackballs, arms and holders for the Series 55TM system. Their flexibility allows you to experiment, resulting in a setup that’s just right for you.
6. Final Thoughts: For those in search of state-of-the-art mounting solutions for their Jeep, the JLRailTM, 4xeRailTM and GladiatorRailTM by 67 Designs emerges as the top offering in the marker. Marrying innovation with practicality, it’s a must-have for the tech-savvy adventurer.
A set of world class tools tailored to each vehicle, a spot for each tool, furnished with tools you’ll need, and none that you won’t.
Tools are chosen based on their reputations with people who use their tools for a living. Tools from brands that put quality above all else and are made in the USA and Germany. These tools are often rebranded and found on tool trucks for twice the price.
Steadfast Systems stocks kits for a variety vehicles and custom kits for those who have a unique vehicle.
Supporting yourself on the road is part of overlanding and vehicle supported adventure. The time for top quality tools is on the road, not sitting in a toolbox a world away.
Each bag is sewn in-house by Steadfast Systems in Montana, featuring US made materials, down to the thread.
Steadfast Systems is here to save you time, money, and get you on the road faster, knowing you have the right tools for the job.
“Lifetime tools for adventures of a lifetime”
MSRP: $790 Standard Kit, $990 Heavy Duty Kit BUY HERE
Sea to Summit introduces their Evac Dry Bag series. Keep your compressible gear dry- air squeezes out, water can’t get in. The Evac Dry Bag utilizes a bluesign-approved recycled 70D nylon waterproof main body fabric and a 70D eVent® waterproof but air-permeable base. You can push air out while still keeping your contents dry inside, resulting in more efficient space utilization.
DWR finishes on both fabrics are C0 non-PFC. Pack your compressible items- sleeping bags and insulated clothing into the Evac Dry Bag, roll the roll-top closure down, then squeeze the bag to push the air out. This function allows you to fit items into your pack or travel bag more effectively. The Evac Dry Bag series features an oval base, ideal for backpack contours, with double-stitched and tape-sealed seams.Pro-tip: sitting on a packed Evac Dry Bag is the best way to squeeze the air out. Then pack the dry bag into a tight space in your bag, or pack so it does not draw itself full of air again.
Top Features include:
Double-stitched and fully taped waterproof seams
Light-reflecting white interior for better visibility of gear
bluesign® APPROVED recycled 70D nylon main body fabric uses a PFC-free DWR finish
D-ring attachment point at buckle for securing to boats, bikes, kayaks
MSRP: $26.95 – $49.95 comes in 3L, 5L 8L, 13L 20L and 35L sizesCLICK HERE
Keystone Outdoor Gear is proud to introduce TakTable®. Whether weeks off-grid or a day at the beach, this portable table ensures outdoor comfort, making it feel like home!
TakTable® packs down to just 5” x 5” x 39” allowing it to be stowed anywhere, even the trunk of a Mini Cooper. In just seconds it deploys into a 30” tall, 18” x 39” sturdy table suitable for cooking, dining, work, outdoor sports, or games.
It weighs just 11 pounds and supports over 270 thanks to the patent pending construction including an aluminum top, coated steel legs, and reinforced nylon injection molded plastic parts. The moving parts of this portable table, pinned with brass and steel, ensure a lifetime of reliable use, unlike some tables held together with bungee cords or plastic pins.
Custom stainless steel spring clips hold the base and top tightly together. The base quickly and easily glides between positions. Specially designed basket feet are suitable for any surface like sand, rock, gravel, and pavement. You can use the incorporated foot holes with the included stakes to pin it to the ground for added security. Windy day? The unique leg geometry creates turbulence in the wind, resulting in downforce that keeps the table put. Weatherproof and virtually fireproof, it can take some extreme use and maintain its integrity.
The Ozpig Portable Wood Fire Stove is the perfect year-round outdoor entertainer. In the warmer months, take advantage of cooking over charcoal with the oven smoker, rotisserie, and chargrill attachments (sold separately). When the weather starts to cool down, it comes into its own as a safe fire for heat and entertainment. Enjoy the warmth and ambience of the fully contained wood fire which is safe and efficient so your firewood lasts longer. No need to hide this BBQ in the corner you’ll want it front and centre!
After completing the cooking, load up the fire, kick back, and relax with family and friends. The extension legs are designed for safety because they raise the fire and cooking surface. This prevents any materials from combusting beneath the unit. A solid bottom captures ash, preventing ground debris, while the mesh door and chimney spark arrestor curb embers and spot fires.
10 Barrel Brewing Co. is launching its new HopBurst Family! An elevated collection of four flagship IPAs—APOC, Cloud Mentality, All Ways Down, and a new addition for 2024.
What makes HopBurst a family? All four beers are now uniquely amplified with “hopbursting”. Which is technique that involves dumping loads of hops into each batch at the end of the hopbursting process to enhance flavor and aroma. In addition, each member of the new HopBurst Family offers the same delicious taste as before, but with enlightened hops, less bitterness and a whole new look!
Editors Note: It’s our favorite product in the Fall/Winter Overland Gear Guide and after a long day on the trail.
Electric adventure Vehicle company, UBCO, has launched the first-ever, limited run of 2X2 Hunt Edition bikes. The Hunt Edition is a collaborative project with Shane Dorian. Dorian is a hunter and pro surfer, that focuses on utility and function for sportspeople at all levels.
The designers in New Zealand built the bikes to handle any terrain! From mud, to sand, steep inclines, and dirt tracks! Importantly, the bikes are whisper quiet and carry no spark flash. This makes accessing isolated areas with minimal disturbance to wildlife easy with reduced fire risk. With the latest performance features of the classic UBCO 2X2, the Hunt Edition comes outfitted to carry more with the addition of cargo decks, molle panels and plenty of carry capacity (335lbs).
Shane Dorian has been involved in the bike’s design from the beginning. He states, “The UBCO Electric Adventure Vehicle – Hunt Edition is a hunter’s dream bike. With a 75-mile range, AWD, and full suspension, I can get me everywhere I need to hunt with only the twist of a throttle. The 335 lb weight capacity allows me to extend my hunts and bring home more meat. The experience of using a silent, electric AWD vehicle to hunt, especially one as tough as the UBCO is unbeatable.”
Additionally, new features of the bike include: Peak Design Phone Mount, Molle Panels for extra storage, Barebones LivingJapanese Nata Tool, waterproof center carry all, UBCO front and rear cargo decks, Giant Loop Proghorn straps and a free 3 month OnX Hunt Elite membership.
“We want to make adventure more accessible. Here we combine the durability UBCO is known for with increased functionality for hunters.” Says Phill Harrison, UBCO’s SVP of Marketing and Corporate Development. The idea of this bike is to help bridge the gap between utility and recreation. By providing a tool for hunters to get where they need to, using a lighter and more agile form factor, while still being able to pack out effectively. People are becoming more interested in gathering their own food in sustainable and ethical ways. We hope this bike can help fuel this movement.
UBCO designs its AWD bikes and batteries in New Zealand and assembles them in the USA. They create the bikes to have the lightest touch on the environment while building them to last, never disposable.
UBCO provides test rides for anyone looking for a hands-on experience, connecting customers with their nearest dealer, office or upcoming event. From October 1, customers can purchase the UBCO Electric Adventure Vehicle – Hunt Edition from $6,499 including tax via UBCO’s website or any UBCO dealer with a range of finance options available.
Elk City Idaho is a small community – much smaller than our hometown of Sisters Oregon. The population, as of 2020, is 170. Good things come in small packages! It was once a boom town when gold was discovered in 1861. When mining played out 80 years later, timber harvesting took over and is still an economic mainstay. Elk City is less known, as a gateway for the Southern Nez Perce Trail – now commonly referred to as the Magruder Corridor. The Magruder is a 120 mile primitive route over the Bitterroot Mountains that connects Idaho to Montana. It is wild, raw and scenic for overlanders.
Although a rough trail had existed through the Bitterroots since the 18th century, the current road was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1930. Fifty years later, the corridor became an official national treasure when the Central Idaho Wilderness Act was passed. It was named after Lloyd Magruder, a miner and respected businessman of the mid-1880’s, who was robbed and murdered by fellow travelers along the route. Lloyd would want us to remember to choose your travel companions wisely!
Preparation:
In the past, we have always traveled from Oregon to Montana via Lolo Pass or Salmon Idaho. Either route would take us near Darby Montana – an area rich with recreation. So when a good friend decided to hold a rendezvous at his newly acquired Montana ranch, we started looking for a new scenic byway. We had heard of the Magruder Corridor but knew little. That was about to change. After a few phone calls, we had a small group of three couples and rigs to explore. The plan was simple. We agreed to meet near Lewiston Idaho and head north to Grangeville. From there, we took a winding Hwy 14, along the South Fork of the Clearwater River, until the pavement ended in Elk City. The ranger station gave us the latest road conditions and weather report and provided us with useful information. The Guide to the Historic Magruder was an especially helpful pamphlet as it identified, by milepost, lookouts, campgrounds and other points of interest.
It is important to note that the Magruder Corridor weaves through some of the most remote wilderness in the United States. Although much of the route is easily managed by a high clearance vehicle, there are sections and side trips that require 4WD and low range to navigate the rock-strewed shelf road sections and deep ruts. Trailers are not recommended due to several very tight switchback sections. Carrying tow and extraction gear is encouraged in addition to radio communications between rigs. A breakdown halfway through the corridor would cost a small fortune in tow services. Needless to say, make sure your rig has been recently maintained and travel with a friend… hopefully a trustworthy one!
Before leaving Grangeville, be sure to fuel up and resupply as Elk City has limited services. Plan to take several days to complete the trip. (We took just two days and felt rushed.) Focus on the journey, not the destination. There is a lot to see including fire lookouts, old Ranger Stations and century old bridges. You will also find numerous trailheads ranging from short hikes leading to vantage points or to high mountain lakes. Just be sure to bring along some bear spray or another means of protection.
The Rigs:
On this trip, there was an EarthCruiser EXP, A Tundra/FourWheelCamper Hawk and a Dodge Ram/FWC Hawk Flatbed. All of the vehicles have spent plenty of time off-road. Both the Tundra and Dodge Ram had modified suspensions, oversized tires, air compressors and winches – all standard equipment on the very capable EarthCruiser. Each rig was also equipped with tools, tire repair kits, extraction gear, Ham radios (for short and long distance communication). Fortunately, the vehicles performed exceptionally well – a testament to their capabilities, maintenance and drivers skill. Our co-pilots also did a great job of navigating!
Magruder Corridor – Day 1:
The official start of the Magruder is several miles southwest of Elk City. We passed green pastures and grazing cattle at the forefront of hills loosely shrouded by low lying clouds. A few homesteads parted the tree line. Bitter cold winters and hard work have a way of sparsely populating an area.
Upon leaving the pavement, we were promptly greeted by a welcome sign citing mileage and a travel warning. Darby Montana was only 90 miles away on dirt that could be muddy or heavily rutted by rain. As a group, we took the time to air-down. Our bodies and rigs would certainly benefit from the softer ride. After only a few miles it was necessary to engage 4WD as the wet (and sometimes slick) road began a long ascent. It had rained just a few hours earlier. We were quickly engulfed in a dense and healthy forest with ‘peek-a-boo’ views at random intervals. Radios between the three rigs were constantly keyed up. Each of the couples were seeing something the others had missed. Then surprisingly, the trees would then take a step back to expose an inviting meadow. A prelude of what would come. One of the first primitive campsites along the corridor is aptly named Mountain Meadows. The expansive meadow of green, yellow and orange tugged on us to stay and make camp. But the afternoon was still young and the lure of Magruder came pulling us further down the road.
Shortly after passing Granite Springs Campground (located atop an exposed mountain saddle) we took a detour up Elk Mountain Road to the first of several lookout towers. The 4 mile long road was a little rough and required 4WD but the short hop was worth the 360 degree view from Green Mountain. Like contrasting segments of a pie, some sections bore the limbless white ghosts from fires within the last two decades. Adjacent sections of forest displayed multiple shades of green. Fireweed provided a sprinkle of bright color at our feet. After a few photo opportunities, we turned the vehicles around with happy-hour in mind.
The next ten miles offered vistas that alternated from the north and south side of the road. We were so busy taking in the early evening layers of mountains and clouds that we hardly noticed the steep descent into Poet Creek Campground. Not until we got our rigs positioned for the evening did I notice the smell of brakes. It was a timely reminder to take the grades slow, gear down or use 4WD low to help brake the vehicle.
Our stay at Poet Creek Campground was lyrical. The soft babbling creek seemed to wash away the stress that comes from a long day on the road. Three rigs, four campsites, a pit toilet, plenty of elbow room, a trailhead and no fees. We had the campsite to ourselves. The forest service does such a very good job maintaining small primitive campsites. Even though we prefer dispersed camping, they are hard to pass up. (Every site we came across was either on a creek or meadow or had an incredible view.)
After a short hike to stretch the legs, the drinks, appetizers and stories started to flow faster than the creek – and continued around a campfire. It was a perfect evening with good friends. Gretchen and I have known Brent and Cheryl for several years. We have traveled around the Southwestern states with them including a trip to Baja Mexico. They savor the journey and are one of the few EarthCruiser owners that actually use their vehicle for extensive overland trips. More recently, we met Mike and Karen at a FourWheelCamper rally in California. Their combined wit and humor keeps the fun on any trip. Best of all, they are capable traveling companions that have your back and are excellent at spotting potential obstacles.
Magruder Corridor – Day 2:
Our small group left Poet Creek filled with anticipation. The road began to climb steadily and slowly deteriorated (and narrowed) over the next 10 miles when we finally approached Dry Saddle Trailhead. At an elevation of 7900’, it is the highest point on the Magruder and a good spot to take a break. The vistas were simply stunning. We could see layers upon layers of mountains, each getting darker than the preceding range. This is the halfway point in this vast wilderness. Like flipping a light switch, the road turned from bad to worse within a few hundred yards. The narrow and rocky shelf road descended for about 8 miles and then climbed back up for the same distance. It is not a section where you would want to meet any approaching vehicles. We had to stop and let 9 adventure bikes pass. Anything larger would have required some tricky maneuvering. Except for a single SUV much further down the trail, these were the only vehicles we saw the entire day! All of us moved slowly along in 4WD low. It took 2.5 hours to travel 9 miles – a little faster than a fast walk. We found the views at Sabe Mountain to be breathtaking. Nature was busy at work after a devastating fire 15 years ago. We found ourselves surrounded by black and gray limbless trees in front of mountains of granite. A perfect black and white painting that would be worthy of Ansel Adams.
Our next stop was Horse Heaven Saddle – aptly named for the plentiful gazing area. Just a stone throw from the road is the Horse Heaven Cabin. Built in 1930 by the CCC, this one room cabin, complete with wood stove, can be rented through Recreation.gov. At Observation Point we got a 270 degree view of the Bitterroot Mountains. It was humbling to trace the road, a thin cut-line in the mountains, from where we came and then see where we were heading. Like dragging an endless string up and down mountains and around bends.
The final 30 miles vanished under our 35 inch tires too quickly. The roads slowly began to smooth out as we dropped elevation and traded out shelf rock for dirt and gravel. We welcomed a brief rain shower as it eliminated all dust and made the lush forest and ferns pop with color. On the backside of the route, we passed a placard depicting the Magruder Massacre Site, descended further into the Selway river drainage and then crossed over a bridge of the same namesake. One by one, our vehicles weaved around corners under a canopy of firs and pines. The fresh smell was intoxicating.
If you opt to travel the Corridor, take the time to visit the Magruder Ranger Station. We spent nearly an hour walking the grounds and peering through windows. Constructed in 1936, again by the CCC, it is a classic example of a station from a simpler time. A shop, storage building and barn compliment the main structure. There is another cabin, larger than that at Horse Heaven, which can also be reserved and rented.
We took a short lunch break at Deep Creek Campground before passing the remnants of the original CCC camp. There, the road alternated between pavement, dirt and gravel. Hold off from airing up until you have passed Fales Flat Campground. The last few miles along the Bitterroot River served as a gradual transition into Darby Montana.
Would we drive the Magruder again? We already did! After the rendezvous in Helena Montana, a couple of friends wanted to experience what we did just a week ago. Over the years, we have learned that you always see something new a second time through – especially when traveling in the opposite direction. And, we would be traveling with friends… something the Magruder taught us that help makes for a successful trip.
Contributor Gary Matos: After spending decades in the high tech industry, Gary and Gretchen stepped out of work and into the outdoors. They reside in Sisters Oregon and when not splitting or stacking wood they enjoy backpacking, kayaking and motorcycle riding. Over the years, they have owned several pop-up campers and have made over 30 trips to Bajaexico. Their favorite western states for overlanding are Montana, Idaho and Utah. They currently have a Ram 3500 equipped with a Four Wheel Hawk Flatbed camper which they custom built.
The 23Zero Armadillo A2 is a premium rooftop tent with features that augment the camping experience. With its durable aluminum hard-shell enclosure, it can withstand heavy weather and brush off low hanging branches with ease. The A2 is intended for 2, but could easily fit the additional dog or child. Its compact size makes it easy to deploy and it’s middle-weight heft has little effect on off-road handling.
23Zero offers the A2 in right and left side deployment and the trail-hardened finish of the fully welded aluminum shell offers great protection from weather and road grime. After several nights in the A2, I can appreciate 23Zero’s Light Suppression Technology fabric, making the RTT nearly opaque and allowing me to regulate light with either side window or the skylight in the roof of the tent. The fabric is made with a UV treatment with an advanced polyurethane coating that offers darkness until you decide it’s time to get up. The effect is wonderful and I’ve had some very long, deep sleeps in this comfy cocoon.
The mattress has a premium feel, wrapped in a quilted breathable topper in a nice olive color. The quilted cover continues up and under the aluminum shell, acting as a very comforting and warm headliner. The 2” memory foam mattress is comfortable, but some might wish for a little cushier, especially side sleepers.
Deploying is easy and quick, requiring only a few minutes for a complete setup. The spring rods are sturdy and they hold up nicely in strong winds. The interior boasts several pockets for small items and an LED light bar (rechargeable battery required).
Outside, the rainfly does a fantastic job of keeping out the drips, and it certainly boosts the interior warmth on chilly nights. There are also some ingenious little storage pouches that hang off each side of the ladder for wet shoes and the like. While 23Zero says you can keep bedding in the closed RTT, I found I could only fit a light blanket and small pillows kept me from closing the lid.
The Armadillo A2 is a quality product and the construction reflects 23Zero’s commitment to durability. At approximately 195 lbs., it has little to no effect on the road manners of my stock Tacoma. I lost a couple of mpg’s, but that’s to be expected with the weight of the RTT and bed rack combined. It sits atop the sturdy new Kuat Ibex bed rack, which offers the option to ride mid-height for better aerodynamics and lower center of gravity. I’m running it in the high position and it still behaves nicely off-road. I also prefer to retain my view out the rear view mirror.
The Armadillo A2 retails for $3795 and the build quality reflects the premium price tag. If you have the opportunity to visit any of the overland expos, I suggest taking a firsthand look at the A2 and its competitors before committing to a purchase.
I’ve had the opportunity to sleep in the A2 comfortably in heavy rain, strong winds, and chilly nights. It has made my outside adventures far more comfortable and leaving me wanting more. I look forward to experiencing a Winter night in the Armadillo A2 to see if it meets the high expectations generated by 23Zero’s design. I’m confident it will perform as expected.
To Learn More About The 23ZERO Armadillo A2 CLICK HERE
To Learn More About The KUAT Ibex Bed Rack Shown CLICK HERE
In-Field Contributor: Bill Freeman – 2017 SR5 Tacoma 4×4
Bill is a native Californian and has been shooting outdoor activities for over 30 years. Spending most weekends climbing in Joshua Tree in the 80’s, he began his photo career shooting the classic environment that only J-Tree has to offer. Expanding his subject matter into skiing and mountain biking, the camera was brought on most every adventure. Bill and his dog, Leica, now live in Southwest Colorado to take advantage of the epic outdoor adventures… on two wheels or four.
For many of us engineering has been a fascination since we were young, and the Kuat Ibex Bed Rack allows us to connect with that aspect of our interests. I may be giving away my age here, but many of us built models, spent hours with erector sets, and let our imaginations run wild with Legos and the like. It inspired problem solving and the interest matured with each digit added on our birthdays. Fast forward many years and we’re building homes, trucks, and motorcycles, solving problems that rise from those projects.
With the growth of vehicle supported adventuring, some very creative minds have been busy solving the problem of how to maximize our gear space in style. I’ve been a passionate cyclist and outdoorsman for decades and Kuat has always had a reputation for designing functional, durable, and beautiful bicycle racks. Well, now they’ve dipped their toes into the overlanding waters with the new Ibex truck bed rack and they have lived up to their reputation with this unique and modern design.
Kuat offers the Ibex bed rack in 7 sizes from mid-size truck beds to full-size long beds, as well as the Jeep Gladiator. With its substantial aluminum structure, the Ibex offers a very impressive 1,200 pounds static weight, 600 pounds dynamic weight, and 300 pounds off-road. I’m running a stock Tacoma with 31’s and a 195 pound RTT and the Ibex has been sturdy on and off the highway. With very little flex, the Ibex offers confidence and stability we all need from our rigs. The Ibex can be set up to cab-height or mid-height by removing the center struts between the upper and lower frame elements. I opted for the full height, leaving more space for cargo under the RTT and keeping a clear view out the back window, but the lower setting is a good option to lower the center of gravity and for better aerodynamics on the highway. The curved edges and very refined look separate the Kuat Ibex Bed Rack from other industrial-style racks, and the ballistic black powder coat will augment the appearance of any rig.
The Ibex shipped from Kuat in very protective packaging with not a scratch on the products. Even the design of the packaging reflected the design cues Kuat is known for. The first thing you see when you open the box is a QR code for instructions and it takes you right to some comprehensive videos to guide you through the process. Specialty tools are provided along with all the necessary hardware, although the tools seem rather delicate and a few t-nuts wanted to cross-thread. Once assembled, be sure to have another person around to help you lift it on the truck bed. At approximately 80 lbs, it could be a handful getting it up there. Saying that, the heft offers some serious muscle when it comes to loading it up with gear, and Kuat backs up their design with a No Worries Limited Warranty.
Kuat knows their market and offers an array of options for the Ibex. Full and half Molle panels that are compatible with products from DMOS Shovels,Rotopax and Maxtrax, a bottle opener, a grab handle, an antenna mount, an ax/shovel holder, an additional cross-bar, a Hi-Lift jack mount, and an adjustable height cross-bar kit. Kuat took their successful bike rack design and applied it to the Piston SRmount, which sits alongside the bed rack. With its CNC’d mounts and heavy duty hardware, the Piston SR holds today’s valuable bikes with security and protection. It even has an integrated lock that stows away when not in use, and the Kashima coated pistons are enough to make any bike geek swoon. Just be careful of RTT clearance with a bike on the rack. I found it necessary to remove my IBIS bike before deploying my 23Zero Armadillo A2clamshell RTT but wedge style tents should clear it.
After installing the Ibex frame, my imagination ran away with aftermarket ideas. Looking at the empty frame, the first thing I thought of was a soft canvas shell to stretch over the frame (think Softopper). The option to mount Rotopax, etc. could remain on the inside of the cover but the canvas would keep the contents of the bed out of the sun. Perhaps a screen rear door so the dogs could safely have a good time on the trail. Then I installed the Molle panels and thought of a matching hinged Molle panel as a rear lift gate would be an incredible addition. Again, dogs would be safe and happy romping around the bed, and it could lock to protect the contents of the bed. Perhaps a stamped aluminum ‘roof’ to top it all off.
Bravo, Kuat, for another product of brilliant design. I have had several people comment about the system while on the road and it certainly turns heads at the trailhead. If you plan to add a RTT in the high position, you might look into some bed struts to support the weight a little better. There’s very little flex in the truck bed, but it could add up with off-road miles. One thing I like about the Kuat Ibex Bed Rack is it allows me to still use my truck as a truck.
The Ibex is relatively easy to assemble, offers tons of versatility, and it is strong as an ox. Now, about that canvas…
To Learn More About The KUAT Ibex Bed Rack CLICK HERE
To Learn More About The 23Zero Armadillo A2 RTT Shown CLICK HERE
In-Field Contributor: Bill Freeman – 2017 SR5 Tacoma 4×4
Bill is a native Californian and has been shooting outdoor activities for over 30 years. Spending most weekends climbing in Joshua Tree in the 80’s, he began his photo career shooting the classic environment that only J-Tree has to offer. Expanding his subject matter into skiing and mountain biking, the camera was brought on most every adventure. Bill and his dog, Leica, now live in Southwest Colorado to take advantage of the epic outdoor adventures… on two wheels or four.
