Helinox Cot Lite

One of my favorite things about adventure motorcycling is that we get to use the latest outdoor gear without being too concerned about weight or size, unlike those traveling by foot, pedal or paddle. The Helinox Cot Lite is just such a piece of high comfort outdoor technology—heavier and bulkier than the ultralight gear I’d typically ride with, but with major improvement in comfort.

The biggest advantage of the Helinox Cot is there’s no huffing and puffing required to set up at night. The cot assembles easily in seconds, and will never be subject to a flat should you happen to set camp on sharp rocks, thorns or cactus barbs. Plus, as it can’t be over- or under-inflated, the tension is just right every time.



To make sure, we tested the Helinox Cot with a wide range of riders. I drafted a 250 lb. man with a bad back, who expressed a general disdain for cots. He slept for two nights on the bed of a motorcycle race support truck in 38°F weather, using the cot without an air mattress with great success. The cot was quiet, and best of all, it held his weight and never touched the ground even when he sat on it. It was slightly narrow for his wide frame but no more so than his air mattress. The length was good for his six-foot span and he didn’t feel at all cold during the night. In extreme cold, others have used reflective survival blankets that reflect heat beneath the cot. An impressive level of performance.

I represent the opposite end of the spectrum, being 100 lbs. lighter and much narrower, and my experience with the cot was slightly different. I found the cot’s length and width perfect without even a minor quibble. I particularly liked that the edges of the cot were just barely enough to keep me from rolling off. I found the cot extremely flexible and giving, with a spring-like quality that allowed comfortable side sleeping.



I’ll definitely use this cot for future adventure rides, in situations where I don’t mind riding with it secured to my back rack. Helinox also makes some amazingly comfortable chairs and they've done equally well with the Helinox Cot Lite. MSRP: $249.95 Helinox.com

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