Bikepacking bags from Ortlieb put to the test: Waterproof, well thought-out, ready for adventure
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Ortlieb, the German bike bag pioneer, also proves its strengths in the bikepacking segment. The set of four consisting of Seat Pack, Frame Pack, Fuel Pack and Velo Sling offers a convincing package with a total volume of 19 litres and a total weight of just one kilogram. The set price of 420 euros is fairly calculated and plays in a similar league to the competition from Evoc - with the decisive advantage that Ortlieb protects the contents slightly better against moisture thanks to perfect roll closures. The frame bag and top tube bag show some minor weaknesses, with a slight drop in handling and grip. The Set grade is 1.6.
The bags in detail
1. Ortlieb Seat-Pack 11 L - Grade 1.4
The saddle bag is the centrepiece of the set and impresses across the board.
| Price | 155 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 11 litres |
| Weight | 375 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,0 |
| Equipment | 1,5 |
| Mounting / Hold | 1,5 |
| Handling | 1,5 |
| Overall grade | 1,4 |
Strengths
- Click and Velcro fasteners ensure a secure, wobble-free hold
- Sophisticated equipment with cords, compression valve and reflective material
- Outstanding water resistance
Weaknesses
- Velcro strap around the seatpost relatively short
2. Ortlieb Frame Pack RC Toptube 4 L - Grade 1.9
The frame bag skilfully fills the frame triangle, but has some weaknesses.
| Price | 115 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 4 litres |
| Weight | 223 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,0 |
| Equipment | 2,0 |
| Mounting / Hold | 2,0 |
| Handling | 2,5 |
| Grade | 1,9 |
Strengths
- Roll closure enables quick and easy loading
- Good water resistance
Weaknesses
- No interior: No dividers or organiser
- Very flexible material makes the bag round quickly
- Can rub against the knees when pedalling
3. Ortlieb Fuel Pack - Grade 1.9
The compact top tube bag is designed for quick access on the move.
| Price | 65 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 1 litre |
| Weight | 168 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,5 |
| Equipment | 1,5 |
| Mounting / Hold | 2,0 |
| Handling | 2,5 |
| Grade | 1,9 |
Strengths
- Surprisingly large storage space for the compact design
- Easily accessible when stationary
Weaknesses
- Lid operation during the journey takes some getting used to
- Wobbles noticeably when fully loaded
4. Ortlieb Velo Sling - Grade 1.6
The small handlebar bag rounds off the set in a compact and practical way.
| Price | 85 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 3 litres |
| Weight | 282 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,0 |
| Equipment | 2,0 |
| Mounting / Hold | 1,5 |
| Handling | 2,0 |
| Grade | 1,6 |
Strengths
- Quick to fit and wobble-free when driving
- Two additional straps in the lower section for more transport options
Weaknesses
- A little tight for longer tours
Overview of all bags
| Seat-Pack 11L | Frame Pack RC 4L | Fuel Pack | Velo Sling | |
| Price | 155 Euro >> available here | 115 Euro >> available here | 65 Euro >> available here | 85 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 11 litres | 4 litres | 1 litre | 3 litres |
| Weight | 375 grammes | 223 grammes | 168 grammes | 282 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,0 | 1,0 | 1,5 | 1,0 |
| Equipment | 1,5 | 2,0 | 1,5 | 2,0 |
| Mounting / Hold | 1,5 | 2,0 | 2,0 | 1,5 |
| Handling | 1,5 | 2,5 | 2,5 | 2,0 |
| Grade | 1,4 | 1,9 | 1,9 | 1,6 |
Set price: 420 Euro | Total volume: 19 litres | Total weight: 1 kg | Set grade: 1.6
Matthias Borchers
Editor
