BGD Tigra: A Lightweight EN-C Built for Competitive XC and Serious Hike-and-Fly Adventures
BGD has launched the Tigra — a lightweight EN-C two-liner engineered for competition cross-country flying as well as demanding hike-and-fly missions. At just 3.8kg in size S, the brand describes it as delivering “lightweight agility with the performance and stability needed for all-out XC flying.”
Like BGD’s Cure 3, the Tigra has 70 cells and an aspect ratio of 6.7 — but the arc, internal structure and material mix are entirely new developments, purpose-built for lightweight high-performance flying.
“We designed the Tigra as a dedicated tool, not simply a lighter version of an existing wing,” BGD explained in their designer notes. “Lightweight equipment changes the way pilots move through the mountains. We wanted the Tigra to feel efficient, agile and enjoyable from the first step of the hike to the final glide home.”
The BGD Tigra: lightweight EN-C for serious XC and hike-and-fly pursuits
The sail uses Porcher Skytex 27 II on the top surface and Dominico D10 on the underside. Internally, a hybrid mix of nitinol and plastic rods balances durability, packability and structural precision. Risers are Kevlar-reinforced nylon, with the heavily loaded A-riser at 12mm and the back riser at 7mm. Softlinks are standard, and an AR3 maillon allows pilots to make trim adjustments if needed.
“The Tigra has a slightly flatter arc than the Cure 3 with an aerodynamic profile optimised for glide performance. The planform is clean and the tips give the Tigra an efficient balance between handling and speed,” the brand states. The wing launches easily, climbs efficiently and delivers “playful, confidence-inspiring handling with excellent glide and coordinated turning behaviour.” Four sizes cover weight ranges from 65kg to 115kg.
“Paired with the Tuna harness you have a complete lightweight racing and XC setup, ready for big adventures,” BGD adds.
For pilots heading to remote launch sites with their kit, a compressible fast packing bag makes carrying the Tigra and harness over long ascents far more manageable.
Source: Cross Country Magazine