Review: ORTLIEB's bikepacking bags
I used Germany's rainy, cold summer to try out the bags from the German bike bag expert ORTLIEB.
After setting up my Salsa Fargo, I found myself in the fortunate position to have an ORTLIEB Bikepacking set available for testing. The Frame-Pack, the Handlebar-Pack for the handlebars, the Seat-Pack for the seat post, and an Accessory Bag are the perfect addition for gravel bikepacking with my ORTLIEB's made-in-Germany panniers, and I was not disappointed this time either.
Related articles
The forest was wet and muddy, perfect conditions for the bag test.
The orange accents fit well with my Fargo.
Here is all the gear I pack, not including food.
No mater the weather, Ortlieb's bags can take it.
Ortlieb Bikepacking Series - the info
Just like other ORTLIEB bags, the bikepacking bags are made from lightweight, durable nylon fabric that is then coated with a thermoplastic process to ensure waterproofness. Later, the fabric is processed into bags using a special high-frequency welding process, a technique far superior to gluing and sewing and once again ensuring absolute waterproofness. The Handlebar-Pack, Accessory-Pack, and Seat-Pack are equipped with a water- and dust-proof roll closure, which also makes the practical and easy volume adjustment of the bags possible. The Frame-Pack has a waterproof zipper.
Each bag has its own purpose
Each pack has its individual strengths and it's very important that you pay attention to how you pack it. For example, it's not a good idea to store too heavy items in the Seat-Pack as it would unnecessarily sway. Also, you shouldn't store the tent at the bottom of the Frame-Pack since you need it daily, and unpacking everything especially in the rain is inconvenient. In the following, I'll go through each bag individually and also tell you how I packed them.
The Frame-Pack Frame Bag
With six liters of packing volume in the largest variant, the Frame-Pack is ideal for heavy and larger items. I've stored things like food, water, an espresso pot, and even a lock when needed. The advantage is that the weight stays close to the bike's center of gravity. Moreover, the bag has a robust, waterproof zipper and rubberized fastening straps, so they won't slip.
The attachment in the frame triangle was very easy, and the pack did exactly what it was supposed to do. Water never got in, and handling was intuitive. A handy little Velcro strip on the inside also ensures that the walls are held together and don't bulge unnecessarily and rub against the knees. Of course, you shouldn't overload the bag, as this would have the same effect.
The Frame-Pack is perfect for storing the heavy stuff.
The Seat-Pack Saddle Bag
I must warn you, this bag is huge. It can be loaded from eight liters up to 16.5 liters. Therefore, it's ideal for clothes and other bulky items. The lower load limit is necessary because if it's loaded less than that, it becomes impossible to secure it tightly with the straps, leading to the Seat-Pack swaying and the contents flying around. ORTLIEB has also ingeniously included a small valve in the bag to let out excess air after closing. It works great. Even with the saddle bag, I had only joy and my things stayed dry even after days of rain.
Another nice feature is the elastic bungee cord on the bag, perfect for a dirty rain jacket or similar. However, you should be careful not to overload the bag to avoid the already mentioned swaying. But don't worry, my learning curve was steep and you'll get the hang of packing quickly too.
With 16.5 litres, the Seat-Pack is a great place to store clothing and other lightweight gear.
The Handlebar-Pack Handlebar Bag
With a capacity of 15 liters, the Handlebar-Pack also has plenty of space for various items. It makes sense to store things like tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad together so that everything is at hand when setting up camp. This is exactly what I used the Handlebar-Pack for. You can quickly access everything as it can be opened from both sides and it's also great for storing all sorts of small items that you need. A great feature are the foam spacers that keep the handlebar space free for your hands. Well thought out, ORTLIEB!
When using drop bars, you have to snug down the bag well, or it might lead to problems operating the shift levers. This reduces the 15 liters volume a bit, and it wasn't easy to add and remove items around the handlebar. A small inconvenience, which is quickly forgotten when your belongings stay dry and the bag doesn't wobble. ORTLIEB is also planning to address the drop bar issue next year with a smaller version for these handlebars.
I use the Handlebar-Pack for my tent and sleeping bag.
The Accessory-Pack
Now let's talk about my favorite from the set, the Accessory-Pack. The small bag is just so handy for little things like valuables that you always want to have quick access to. In my case, that included my phone, bars, a power bank, my small rain jacket, gloves etc. With the help of ORTLIEB's buckle system, this little all-rounder is easily attached to the handlebar bag. Plus, you can also use the bag separately. That's awesome for short rides when you only need to take the essentials. Of course, the Accessory-Pack is also waterproof.
It’s super accessible! I use the Accessory-Pack for things like my phone and wallet.
A well-thought-out bikepacking set
I was really satisfied with the ORTLIEB bags for bikepacking. They are super practical and easy to handle, and also waterproof and dustproof. Little details like the Velcro strap in the Frame-Pack and the venting valve in the Seat-Pack make a small difference and testify to ORTLIEB's long-standing experience. The rainy German summer was truly a pleasure for me, and I can highly recommend these bags for your next bikepacking trip.
More about Bikepacking
On the Road with bc: The ORTLIEB Factory Tour. ...
Andi visited the bicycle bag specialist ORTLIEB in Heilsbronn. A factory tour and a bike overnighter were on the agenda.
Bikepacking Sleeping Bags: Sleep Like a Mummy
There are some things to consider when buying a sleeping bag. Low weight, comfortable temperature, synthetic fibres or down. An overview of sleeping bags.
Camping Mats for Bikepacking: "You made your be...
A light and compact camping mat is indispensable for bikepacking. An overview of common technologies and tips on what you need for tours.
The Best Tents for Bikepacking and Cycling Tour...
A tent allows you to carry your home with you when bikepacking. Small pack size or low weight? Here’s what matters when choosing a tent for cycling tours.
Shifters & Derailleurs for your Gravel Bike - A...
Gearing for gravel bikes needs to meet specific demands. By now, there's a wide selection of gravel gearings on the market. Here's an overview for you.
The Right Bags for Your Bikepacking Adventures
Get on your bike and go! With the right bag setup, nothing stands in the way of a bikepacking adventure. Here’s what you need to know.
Bikepacking with Kids: Interview with Bikepacki...
What could be better than sharing your love of bikepacking with your own children? And what is the best way to do that? A talk with Gunnar Fehlau.
Bikepacking? Of course – but be considerate!
Being respectful of nature is a quintessential aspect of bikepacking. Here’s the code of conduct every adventurer and nature lover should abide by.
6 Months Bikepacking: Packing properly for a bi...
Whether a one-week bicycle tour through France or an extended adventure through South America lasting several months, the question is: What do I pack?
Review: ORTLIEB Gravel-Pack - the truly waterproof pannier
Looking for a bike bag for long bikepacking tours that really put you to the test? Then you’re going to love the Ortlieb Gravel-Pack.
