The fully waterproof bikepacking bags have been revised in detail by Ortlieb. The bags are now available in slate (grey) as well as in black (black matt). Functionally, there are also some sensible innovations.
Update 2020: This test has been extensively revised in 2020 and is up to date. Here we compare the updated Ortlieb Bikepacking bags and the original Bikepacking bags. Find out what exactly has been updated and if the bikepacking bags are suitable for you.
The Ortlieb Bikepacking bags are with me now 3 years in use. During this time every opportunity was taken to test the waterproof Ortlieb Bikepacking Set on the road, the track and the trail.
In this post I have clarified all questions about the Ortlieb Bikepacking bag set for you!
Ortlieb stands, like no other manufacturer, for waterproof bike bags with quality Made in Germany. For my participation in the Tuscany Trail, I was looking for bikepacking bags.
The question was quickly answered after thorough research and I decided on the Ortlieb Bikepacking bag set!
Full equipment is offered – The tested bikepacking setup consists of:
- Frame Pack TopTube Frame Bag
- handlebar pack for the handlebar and accessories bag.
- Seat-Pack for the seat post
The bags made the perfect addition for gravel bikepacking with my Bombtrack Beyond 1. The Ortlieb Gravel Pack I also had on tours like my tour from Stuttgart to Istanbul (YouTube Link) with my Cube Cross Race pro Cyclocross. I had the Seat Pack also once on my Haibike Fully and the bag made even with strong compression a good figure and did not touch the rear wheel.
Ortlieb Bikepacking bags experience – How the bags were tested
I’ve been on several bikepacking adventures in Europe and in Asia (YouTube) with the bags. I also often had the bags on my bike on the way to work.
The bags have been through a lot of weather, from bright sunshine to pouring rain. One thing I can say already: The bags hold absolutely waterproof.
When it came to quality, I had the highest expectations from the very beginning: After all, Ortlieb is the bicycle bag market leader in Germany and I had Ortliebs as a reliable companion for years.
✅ The Good News: My high expectations were met 😉
Each bag has its own strengths
Each of the bags has its own strengths. There are often use cases that are particularly suited to a particular bag.
Due to the central centre of gravity, the Frame-Pack frame bag is particularly suitable for heavy objects, for example. On the other hand, a tent in the handlebar pack is easily accessible at all times.
I’ll now introduce you to all the bags in detail and also describe my tried and tested packing tips for each bag.
Ortlieb Bikepacking bags in the test
The bikepacking bags are made of lightweight, durable and coated nylon fabric. This material is also used in other Ortlieb bags. Glued and sewn fabrics would often leak in exactly these places.
To ensure absolute waterproofness, the bags are further processed using a special high-frequency welding process.
The bags are also designed to open and close in a dustproof and waterproof manner. To do this, the Frame-Pack frame bag is opened and closed with a waterproof zipper.
In addition, a roll closure is used for the Handlebar-Pack, Accessory-Pack and the Seat-Pack. This also allows the bags to be practically adjusted in volume.
The Frame-Pack Toptube frame bag
The Frame Pack Top Tube is a narrow frame bag and has a capacity of 4 liters. Once it is in place, it holds securely and firmly in the frame triangle. There’s nothing swinging around.
Quick overview: Ortlieb Frame Pack Toptube
What are the great features of the Ortlieb Frame Pack Toptube
✅ Plenty of room
Super look and available in two colors (gray and black)
✅ Space in the frame triangle used sensibly
✅ Fully waterproof (bikepacking bag incl. zipper)
❌ Waterproof zipper quite sluggish
❌ Optics on right side not successful
Weight (according to manufacturer): 170 grams
Volume: 4L
Origin: Made in Germany
Buy Ortlieb Frame Pack Toptube:
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The new Ortlieb Frame Pack Toptube holds securely in the frame triangle. Even during fast rides around terrain and on trails nothing wobbles here. The 4 litre volume of the Toptube frame bag is ample and is particularly suitable for storing heavy equipment such as multitools, other tools, a few snacks and items that need to be quickly accessible. The Toptube variant with 4 liters has been given some innovations with the current model:
- Zipper on the right side: When bikepacking, you often put the bike on the ground. Then, of course, not on the circuit side. The zipper is now placed so that it is then easily accessible at the top.
- Position of the Velcro fasteners on the top tube can be changed, e.g. to have space for a top tube bag
Scope of delivery
The Ortlieb Frame Packtoptube is delivered including the necessary mounting material:
Ortlieb Frame Pack Toptube
3 x Velcro fastening straps for attachment to the top tube
2 x velcro straps for secure fixation on the seat tube and the head tube
The waterproof zipper has moved from the left to the right side. A good decision! When bikepacking, you often put the bike on the ground. To protect the rear derailleur, the bike is naturally placed on the non-drive side. In the current version of the Ortlieb Frame Pack Toptube, the zipper is now on the top and therefore easily accessible.
On the opposite side there is a continuous velcro strap. The fixing straps on the top tube can be moved a little backwards and forwards and therefore a continuous Velcro strap makes perfect sense.
Why not two zippers? Other bikepacking bag manufacturers install zippers on both sides. Ortlieb manufactures its bags entirely in Germany (Made in Germany), which logically drives up costs. Ortlieb also uses a fully waterproof zipper (TIZIP zipper). This makes the bag waterproof according to IP67, i.e. the bag is completely dustproof and protected against temporary submersion.
In practice, the zipper on one side is completely sufficient. I have had many bikepacking bags with zippers on both sides. I only use the zipper on the other side in absolutely exceptional cases.
This fits in
The volume of the Frame Pack Toptube is 4 liters. Doesn’t sound like much at first but the Frame Pack Toptube can be described as a real space miracle.
There is 4L of space in the frame pack, as mentioned earlier. This is very ample and the bag can almost pass as a space miracle.
The following usually finds a place in the bag:
- Wallet
- Tools incl. Multitool and pump
- Spare parts
- Food and snacks
- Powerbank and cable
- Bike lock
- Castle
- Replacement hose
- Handkerchiefs and more
The bag is very robust and durable. Also, the waterproof zipper on the left side seems like it will last for many years to come. It could run a little smoother but I’m complaining at a very high level here.
Mounting
Fixing the Frame-Pack frame bag is easy:
- On the top tube with three large Velcro fastening straps
- Additionally at the seat tube and the head tube with two smaller velcro fasteners
If the bag is fixed in this way, it sits securely in the frame triangle and does not teeter to the left or right. Successfully mounted, the bag is then very close to the Oberrhor. Just the way it’s supposed to be. Even when fully loaded, the bag holds its shape and does not bulge. So I still have enough legroom when pedaling and do not drag on the bag. I like the bag so much that I actually always leave it mounted on the bike.
Ortlieb has reworked the already very good fastening in detail: The secure hold has remained. Added to this is more flexibility in the mounting options. The Bikepacking frame bag is attached at the front and back with Velcro fasteners. The mounting points are predetermined and should fit most bike frames.
There are a total of five mounting positions on the top tube for the three wide Velcro fastening straps. This allows for more flexibility.
At the back of the top tube, the Velcro fastening strap can be fixed a little further back or forward. The same applies to the front: The Velcro fastening strap can also be fastened further back or further forward at the front of the top tube. Especially for the additional mounting of a bikepacking top tube bag you have more flexibility.
Practice
Please note: Like almost all bikepacking bags, the Ortliebs might leave abrasion marks on the frame. I therefore recommend using a paint protection film for small money*. The look of the Frame-Pack Toptube I find very successful and it fits well, of course, to the other bags of the Ortlieb Bikepacking series. Like all bags of the Ortlieb Bikepacking bags series, the Frame Pack Toptube in slate (grey) is also available in black (black matt). The waterproof TIZIP zipper on the right side also adds interesting accents.
Of course, the Frame Pack Toptube also wants to be placed in the frame triangle. This space is then no longer available for other items such as bottles. With the product care Ortlieb has designed the bag not quite as high. This means that there is more space available for water bottles in the frame triangle. For most bike frames, that means:
- In medium to large frames 1x or 2x drinking bottles with 700ml volume find place
- there is still no room for a water bottle in combination with the Frame-Pack Toptube in small bicycle frames
Good
✅ 4 liters is an amazing amount of space
✅ chic look
✅ available in two colours: slate (grey) also in black (black matt)
Frame bag is fully waterproof according to IP67 (fully dustproof and protected against temporary submersion).
Bad
❌ waterproof zipper requires a little more force than expected
Conclusion
The Frame-Pack Toptube is my favorite in the Ortlieb Bikepacking bag set! The bag is super practical and offers a large volume. Therefore, I have them now permanently with me on the bike! Four liters of volume is a good choice for most applications.
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Impressions of the Ortlieb Frame Pack TopTube
Ortlieb Seat-Pack saddle bag (16,5 and 11 litres)
I want to warn you: this bag is one of the biggest seat packs on the market! With a volume of 16.5 liters, it is huge! The following photo shows the original Ortlieb saddle bag with 16.5 liters. In the meantime, both the large 16.5 litre version and the small 11 litre version have been revised. I will go into detail about the new features in this review.
For shorter tours with minimal luggage there is the 11 liter version of the Ortlieb saddle bag.
Quick overview: Ortlieb Seat Pack Bikepacking Saddle Bag
What are the special features of the Ortlieb Seat-Pack?
✅ Saddle bag holds stable and hardly swings
✅ Large amount of space with the 16.5 litre variant
✅ practical valve allows maximum compression
❌ A future harness solution would be ideal
Weight (according to manufacturer): 456 grams in size L and 325 grams in size M
Volume: 16.5L in size L and 11L in size M
Origin: Made in Germany
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Buy Ortlieb Seat Pack M with 11 litres:
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Scope of delivery
Only the Ortlieb Seat Pack is delivered. You are ready to go: The velcro fasteners and straps are attached directly to the Bikepacking saddle bag.
This fits in
The Seat-Pack is ideally suited for clothes and other voluminous items with quite little weight. If you have less with you, you can also fill the seat pack with about half the volume:
- The Ortlieb Seat Pack L for actually 16.5 liters can thus be loaded with about 8 liters of volume still good.
- The smaller saddle bag Ortlieb Seat Pack M for actually 11 liters, can also be loaded with about 6 liters volume still good and tighten.
With significantly less luggage or completely empty, a bikepacking saddlebag can still be attached perfectly to the back of the saddle. However, the bag then looks a bit haggard i.e. the optics suffers.
Mounting
Attaching the bag is unusual at first glance. After a short practice then but also done within a few seconds.
If the bag is loaded correctly, then it holds firmly to the seat post. Even in the cradle or in technical terrain.
Such large saddlebags tend to teeter from time to time. Ortlieb has come up with a clever solution here: The top strap of the bag is reinforced. This has a positive effect on the riding characteristics and makes the bag one of the most stable saddlebags on the market.
A clever feature is the built-in valve: With it, excess air can easily be let out of the seat pack after closing. to be able to release excess air after closing.
Practice
Another handy feature is the elastic band attached to the top of the bag. For a short time you can transport a few small things with the elastic band:
- With the Ortlieb Seat Pack L with 16.5 liters, the elastic falls out very large. Experienced drivers can fix e.g. a complete banana tree (with approx. 5 bananas) relatively safely even over longer distances. Of course, smaller objects can also be attached.
- The Ortlieb Seat Pack M with 11 liters has a slightly smaller elastic band. The elastic is ideal, for example, for fastening a soiled rain jacket or for drying wet towels.
Good
✅ Stable hold: reinforced side plate ensures minimal swinging
✅ enormous amount of space with the 16.5 litre bikepacking saddle bag
✅ Maximum possible compression through valve
✅ practical net with large and small saddle bag
Bad
❌ 16.5 litre saddle bag must be well braced so as not to sag
❌ Harnes solution would provide more convenient loading and unloading
When packing the bag, make sure that you do not load it too heavily: otherwise this saddle bag can also teeter.
When packing the bag, make sure that you do not overload it, because this can also cause the aforementioned rocking. I’m sure you’ll get the hang of this quickly and have a lot of fun with the bag.
Conclusion
The Ortlieb Seat-Pack is one of the largest bikepacking saddlebags on the market. The valve ensures good compressibility and the built-in reinforcement means nothing bobs or wobbles. In summary, the bag is one of the most stable solutions on the market and I would buy it again anytime (if I didn’t already have it since 2017 🙂 ).
To the detailed Ortlieb Seat-Pack practical test
Impressions of the Ortlieb Seat Pack saddle bag
Ortlieb Handlebar-Pack Bikepacking handlebar bag (15L and 9L)
The handlebar bag is a waterproof bag (Drybag) with openings on both sides. With a capacity of 15 liters, there is also enough space for various items. Even large equipment like a tent can be stored in the Ortlieb Handlebar Pack. Especially suitable for tours with less luggage is the smaller Handelbar Pack with 9 liters volume..
Quick overview: Ortlieb Handlebar Pack Bikepacking handlebar bag
What are the great features of the Ortlieb Handlebar Pack Bikepacking handlebar bag?
✅ With a little practice quickly and securely attachable to handlebars
✅ Fits well on flare bars and straight handlebars
✅ Very robust and with a secure hold
Ideally remains attached to the handlebars for loading and unloading
Weight (according to manufacturer): 420 grams in size M and 375 grams in size S
Volume: 15L in size M and 9L in size S
Origin: Made in Germany
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*
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Buy Ortlieb Handlebar Pack 9 litres:
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This is new: Ortlieb has also revised the Handlebar Pack: The current product variant now has a more reliable fastening mechanism and a bleed valve
Scope of delivery
Included with the Ortlieb Handlebar Pack is the bikepacking handlebar bag itself and mounting hardware:
- Ortlieb Handlebar Pack with 15 litre or 9 litre volume (pictured is the 9 litre handlebar bag)
- 4 spacers for the handlebar
- 1 Spacer and strap for the head tube
Of course, instructions for assembly are also included.
The Handlebar Pack handlebar roll looks like a waterproof pannier with roll-top openings on both sides. There are also straps and elastics for attaching the handlebar bag itself and for accessories. There is a valve on the back to compress the packed handlebar bag.
This fits in
My favorite thing to stash in my handlebar bag is this:
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Camping mat
- Gaiters
- Sleepwear
Reading Tip: Ultimate Bikepacking Gear and Packing List for Bikepacking and Offroad Bike Trips.
The Handlebar Pack can be opened quickly at both ends via roll closures. So I can get to the items quickly. This is practical when I need something from the handlebar roll during the day and the night camp is also quickly set up.
The large handlebar pack with its 15 liters is really voluminous. The best way to attach the large Ortlieb handlebar roller to a straight MTB handlebar. By rolling up the two sides you can adjust the size. With the above items, the caster still fits between my flare bar on the Bombtrack Beyond 1.
The smaller 9 liter Handel bar pack is best suited for mounting on a road bike handlebar or flare bar. All grip options are retained even with these narrow handlebars if the bag is packed sensibly.
Even with the Handlebar-Pack filled to the brim, there is still enough space between the bag and the wheel. Please note that this type of bag is specially designed for bikes with a rigid fork. Bikes with a suspension fork may need to have the suspension travel reduced.
Ortlieb Handlebar-Pack Assembly
The handlebar roll is very easy to attach: By means of very strong velcro and strap clips, the bag is attached to the handlebar. The assembly seems complicated at first sight. After a few times attaching the fixation to the bike then goes quickly by hand. Here Ortlieb has thought with you.
Let’s look at the steps for assembly and the specifics of the Handlebar Pack in detail.
First, the handlebar roller is attached to the handlebar with the Velcro fasteners. Then the bag is lashed to the handlebars. To do this, simply pull firmly on the orange straps and then fix them with the plastic clips. The properly fixed bag sits firmly on the handlebars and does not wobble – Ortlieb, very thoughtful!
Ortlieb has reworked the fuse and made the fastening straps a little narrower. Overall, I really like the improvements.
The included foam spacers secure the bag to the head tube and provide enough space on the handlebar. Through this clever mechanism, the handlebar bag fits almost any handlebar.
Even when using the spacer on the head tube, the brake and shift cables are pressed together somewhat. The paint on the cables has been scraped a bit on me over the years as a result. This can also be seen well in the photo. Functionally, I see no risk here. The contact points on the bicycle should best be covered with paint protection film for protection.
New is the compression valve on the Handlebar Pack: With it, the packed handlebar bag can be compressed again extra and the last remaining air can escape. This allows the caster to be packed even more compactly.
A luggage net is attached to the front: In addition, this also allows you to transport small items such as a jacket or a Gorilla Pod on the Ortlieb handlebar roll. If you need even more space, the Accessory Pack can be attached as an additional pocket. Then, of course, the luggage net is covered.
Orlieb has also improved the hooks and attachment for the accessory pack. In the past, the Accessory Pack has sometimes slipped out of its attachment on wild descents. That should now be a thing of the past with the new attachment 😉
Of course, the 100% waterproofness of the Handlebar-Pack also ensures a clear conscience. I could already convince myself of this several times 😉
Practice
For traditional, narrow road bike handlebars there is a smaller version from Ortlieb, that Handlebar-Pack S with 9 liters volume.
Note: I have also had the large 15 liter version (Handlebar Pack M) on my cyclocross with narrow road handlebars. Completely filled with all the above items! Because of my road shifters I had to lash the bag well together but in the end I was on tour with it for 2 months and I would do it again and again.
The handlebar bag is fixed to the handlebar tube with an orange velcro strap and a spacer. Even in demanding terrain, the bag thus remains safe and close to the bike. Basically a good idea.
However, the spacer slips very quickly. The security is still in place. However, the spacer loses its raison d’être to a large extent. I use the bag mostly with the orange strap and without the spacer and have done very well with it so far.
Good
✅ Short training necessary – then quickly attachable
✅ small 9 litre variant ideally suited for road bike handlebars and flare bars. Large 15 liter variant fits best on straight handlebars
Holds bombproof on the handlebar – no wobbling
Bad
❌ should remain attached to the handlebars for loading and unloading. Otherwise fiddly.
Conclusion
The Handlebar Pack is basically a funny bag: at first glance, the assembly seems very complex and confusing. Once you have attached it a few times, even the sceptic knows: This bag can be attached and removed quickly, takes some large objects and is also still top processed.
Another well thought out bag from front to back from the Ortlieb Bikepacking Set!
Ortlieb Handlebar Pack impressions
Ortlieb Accessory Pack
Even with reduced bikepacking there are always little things that need to be stowed away. This is where the Accessory Pack shows its strength: It can be hooked onto the handlebar pack in a flash. The handlebar bag then sits there securely and does not wobble. The small bag is particularly suitable for items that need to be quickly at hand.
Quick overview: Ortlieb Accessory Pack Bikepacking handlebar bag
What are the great features of the Ortlieb Accessory Pack Bikepacking handlebar bag?
✅ Practical and useful bag for quick access of snacks, smartphone etc.
✅ Fully waterproof
Weight (according to manufacturer): 204 grams
Volume: 3.5L
Origin: Made in Germany
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Scope of delivery
Delivered is the Accessory Pack and some accessories for the independent assembly, as well as the transport:
- Ortlieb Accessory Pack handlebar bag
- Orange tape and foam spacer for stand-alone installation
- grey strap for use as a hip bag
A quick reference guide is also included.
This fits in
The bag is already really big, which the first look does not suggest at all. A volume of 3.5 liters is specified. The bag can be closed by a roll closure with hook. Like all bikepaking bags from Ortlieb, the Accessory Pack is of course waterproof.
The practical bag is best suited for storing the following accessories:
- Smartphone
- Sunglasses
- Gloves
- Snacks
- Powerbank and cable
and other accessories that should be quickly at hand.
Mounting
The Accessory Pack can either be attached independently to the handlebar or is fixed to the front of the Ortlieb handlebar pulley. It can be attached to both the 15 litre handlebar castor and the 9 litre handlebar castor. This is how the assembly works:
- There are four sturdy aluminium hooks on the Ortlieb handlebar pulley.
- These are hooked into the four eyelets on the back of the Accessorry Pack. Now the Accessory Pack is attached, but still hangs down a bit.
- The Accessory Pack is then tightened upwards on the black fixing straps of the handlebar pulley and held securely in position with plastic clips.
Practice
If no Handlebar-Pack is attached to the handlebar then the Accessory-Pack can also be attached to the handlebar individually. Practical for shorter trips. The necessary mounting material is included in the scope of delivery. If you want to carry the Accessory Pack around with you, the handlebar bag can also be converted into a hip bag. The fastening strap is also included in the scope of delivery. A very practical solution, even if carrying it on the hip with the narrow strap is not very comfortable.
Good
✅ voluminous space extension for the handlebar bag
✅ Important items quickly within reach
✅ completely waterproof
Bad
❌ The Accessory Pack covers (logically) the net at the front of the Ortlieb handlebar pulley. This means that a jacket or similar can no longer be attached there. This must then be stowed in the Accessory Pack itself, for example. Luckily there is enough space there 😉
Conclusion
You wouldn’t guess it from the outside at first: the bag is really big and you get quite a bit in. It also offers quick access to many small items that you like to have with you during the ride. Due to the roll closure with hooks, the bag is quickly closed, opened again and also waterproof.
A useful and thoughtful addition that makes sense on longer trips.
Impressions of the Ortlieb Accessory Pack
Ortlieb Gravel Pack
A small bike bag especially for off-road use is the Gravel Pack.
Quick overview: Ortlieb Gravel Pack
What are the great features of the Ortlieb Gravel Pack waterproof bike bags?
✅ light weight: 1160 grams weighs the pair of bike bags. For small bike bags, this is very easy.
✅ fast & comfortable attachment: QL 2.1 from Ortlieb comes into play. Can be attached and removed with one hand.
✅ Secure hold: Sits securely on the bike with two hooks (and the QL 2.1 system)
Flexible: Can be used as a bike bag in the front and a bike bag in the back, i.e. on the lowrider or on the luggage carrier.
❌ no organization possibilities inside the bike bag
Weight (according to manufacturer): 1160 grams for the bike bag pair.
Volume: 12.5 liters per bike bag, 25 liters for the pair
Origin: Made in Germany
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The Ortlieb Gravel Packs are ideally used for off-road bike tours, when the volume of bikepacking bags is no longer sufficient. Despite the light weight, you hardly have to sacrifice comfort here. Thanks to the QL 2.1 mechanism, the bike bag is hooked onto the luggage carrier or lowrider from above. The assembly is therefore done within seconds and can also be done one-handed. Compared to the Sport Roller Classic, there are no organisational options inside, but you save a whole 430 grams in weight.
The Ortlieb Gravel Packs are quite excellent bike bags for bike travelers with light luggage and bike packers at the same time.
To the detailed Ortlieb Gravel Pack practical test
Ortlieb Fork-Pack
The Ortlieb Fork-Pack is a bikepacking fork bag for bikes with and without mounting eyelets on the bike. The volume is 4.1 liters and as usual from Ortlieb, the bag is completely waterproof (IP64). Ortlieb’s Quick-Lock S (QLS) mechanism is integrated for easy handling. This allows the fork pocket to be attached and removed in a matter of seconds. During the ride, the bikepacking bag remains securely locked.
Quick overview: Ortlieb Fork-Pack
What are the great features of the waterproof Ortlieb Fork-Pack bike fork bags?
✅ 4.1 litres of additional storage space on the bike fork
✅ easy handling: Hooking in and taking off done within seconds
✅ with enclosed adapter compatible with bicycle forks with screw thread and without screw thread
✅ Fully waterproof (IP64)
❌ no simultaneous attachment of a bottle cage to the fork possible
Weight (according to manufacturer): 205 grams per fork-pack, 85 grams per bracket.
Volume: approx. 4.1 liters per Fork Pack
Maximum payload: 3 Kg
Origin: Made in Germany
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The Fork-Pack is a rear-reinforced, waterproof pack sack and can be easily attached to the bike fork with an adapter plate. The QLS (Quick Lock S) system makes it easy to attach and detach the fork pack in a matter of seconds.
The Fork-Pack is a pack sack made of PU-coated nylon fabric in black (black matt) or grey (slate). Thus, the Fork Pack fits perfectly to the Bikepacking bag set from Ortlieb.
A version made of PU coated Cordura will also be available in the future. Of course, the material is PVC-free.
Scope of delivery
Included in delivery is the Ortlieb Fork-Pack, as well as mounting hardware:
- Ortlieb Fork-Pack bike fork bag
- Quick-Lock S (QLS) adapter plate
- Mounting accessories (2x metal band, washers, paint protection)
This fits in
The volume of the fork pack is 4.1 litres. Just the right size for a bike fork bag, I think. You can carry significant accessories without the fork bag being too bulky.
The following equipment can be carried comfortably in a fork pack:
- long merino top
- Merino T-Shirt
- Boxer shorts or swimming trunks or small outdoor towel
Mounting
How is the Ortlieab Fork-Pack attached to the bike? To which bicycle forks can the Fork-Pack be attached? How is the handling of the Fork-Pack in practice and with which bags is the fork bag comparable?
Exciting Ortlieb has solved the assembly and handling of the fork pack. The adapter plate is screwed directly onto bicycle forks with threaded eyelets. Mounting accessories are included for bicycle forks without threaded eyelets.
Ortlieb Fork Pack on bike fork with threaded eyelets: The easiest way to mount it is on bike forks with existing threaded eyelets. The Quick-Lock S (QLS) adapter plate can be easily screwed onto the bicycle fork.
Ortlieb Fork-Pack mounting on bike fork without eyelets: Your bike has no mounting eyelets on the bike fork? Mounting accessories are integrated in the scope of delivery. This allows the Ortlieb Fork-Pack to be attached to many forks without existing threaded eyelets. For this purpose, the mounting plate is screwed to the bicycle fork with the enclosed metal straps.
Please always follow the instructions in the Fork-Pack data sheet for assembly.
Fork Pack Handling: The Fork Pack is simply hooked into the adapter plate from above. The locking mechanism makes itself felt by a clearly audible click. To remove, push the latch upwards. The fork pack can then simply be pulled upwards. The mounting mechanism is called Quick Lock S (QLS) and it works great.
Difference to existing bikepacking fork bags: Here we have the great advantage and the unique selling point of the Ortlieb Fork Pack! The Fork Pack is pushed from above into the holder and holds there bombproof. The mounting is very fast and the fork holder is always fixed in the right position. Previous bikepacking fork bags usually consist of a waterproof pack sack that is strapped to a fork mount with packing straps. These bag solutions are usually stable and the volume is quite comparable with the Ortlieb Fork-Packs. However, the lashing of the panniers takes longer and is associated with more work than the attachment of the Ortlieb Fork Pack. Here Ortlieb has thought along and brought a small innovation to the market.
Practice
The Fork-Pack can be quickly clicked onto the fork, holds securely and is just as quickly clicked off again. What else is there to consider in practice?
The holder of the Fork-Pack can be mounted on bicycle forks with existing eyelets or with the supplied adapter. Some forks already have mounting eyelets, but these are directed to the front or to the rear. Likewise with my Bombtrack Beyond Gravelbike. Then the mounted fork packs are turned forward and quite close to the front wheel. The bracket can be ideally mounted if the mounting eyes are directed 90 degrees outwards (in relation to the front wheel). On my test drive, the stability of the Fork Packs was excellent. For the first long tour with the fork bags, however, I will also mount the bags with the mounting accessories.
Good
✅ Additional storage space on the bike fork
✅ Within seconds plugged and unplugged.
✅ 4.1 liters volume sensibly chosen
✅ Compatible with many bike forks.
✅ completely waterproof (IP64), when rolled up 3 to 4 times.
Bad
❌ Bottle cage and fork pack mounting not possible at the same time.
❌ Mounting possible on many bike forks but not on all.
Conclusion
The Ortlieb Fork-Packs are quickly attached to the bike fork, hold securely and can be removed just as quickly. The handling is really well thought out and a step ahead of comparable products. Ortlieb lets its years of experience from the bike bag sector play here! Many mounting options are offered and thus the Fork-Pack is compatible with a large number of bicycle forks with threaded eyelets and with the mounting accessories from the scope of delivery also with many bicycle forks without threaded eyelets. However, not all possibilities can be covered. The 4.1 litre volume is sensibly sized and the bag is suitable for bikepackers who want some extra storage space and bike travellers who want to travel light alike.
Ortlieb Atrack BP Bikepacking Backpack
Quick overview: Ortlieb Atrack BP Bikepacking Backpack
What are the big features of the Ortlieb Atrack BP waterproof bikepacking backpack?
✅ waterproof bikepacking backpack
✅ much overview and easily accessible through large zipper on the back
✅ plenty of volume: 25 litres as a useful addition to the bikepacking bag set or for an overnighter
❌ high price
Weight (according to manufacturer): approx. 1300 grams
Volume: 25 liters
Origin: Made in Germany
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To the detailed Ortlieb Atrack BP practical test
Conclusion: Well thought out and robust – Ortlieb Bikepacking bag set
I am more than satisfied with the Ortlieb bags for bikepacking. Thoughtful details like the vent valve on the Seat Pack make all the difference! Here you notice that the development of the bags was worked together with bike packers.
Ortlieb uses all its knowledge in the construction of lightweight and waterproof bags.
Overall, the bags are very practical and well thought out in handling. As you would expect from Ortlieb, they are waterproof and dustproof.
Together, the bikepacking bags offer almost 40 liters of volume. That’s a lot and quite sufficient for tours of several weeks. I have not yet included any stem bags or cargo cages in this calculation.
Meanwhile I use the bags more than 2 years and I am still very satisfied with them. Even though I have put the quality of the bags to the test several times, they hardly show any signs of wear.
Even when it gets really rough, the bags do not wobble and sit very firmly on the wheel. The assembly requires a short familiarization, but is quickly learned and thought out.
The rides with the Ortlieb Bikepacking bags are every time a real pleasure for me and therefore I can highly recommend the bags for your next bikepacking adventure.
