Ortlieb Bike

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes Ortlieb panniers and bike bags 100% waterproof?

  Ortlieb achieves 100% waterproofing by using RF/high‑frequency welded seams so there are no needle holes or leak paths. Those welded seams are paired with fully waterproof fabrics—like PD620 (PVC‑coated) or PU‑coated nylon—so rain and splashes are kept out of the bag interior.
• How do the Ortlieb lines (Back‑Roller Classic, Sport‑Roller Free, Gravel/Plus, Urban, High‑Vis) differ?

  The Back‑Roller Classic uses stiff, easy‑clean PD620 PVC‑coated fabric and includes internal pockets and shoulder straps, while the Sport‑Roller Free is the PVC‑free, lighter PU‑coated version with similar features. Gravel/Plus bags use lighter PU‑coated ripstop nylon for off‑road flexibility, Urban products use PU‑laminated polyester for a textile look, and High‑Vis items use PS50CX Cordura with reflective yarn for increased night visibility.
• Which Ortlieb bags are best for long‑distance bike touring versus gravel bikepacking?

  For long‑distance touring, rear panniers such as the Back‑Roller (≈20L per bag) or rack‑top luggage are ideal for high capacity, durability, and easy organization. For gravel bikepacking, choose Gravel/Plus frame, handlebar, and saddle bags—they use lighter PU‑coated ripstop fabrics and a lower‑profile shape suited to off‑road vibration and limited packing space. Always match bag choice to your planned load, bike clearance, and whether you need quick on/off for multi‑day rides.
• How does the QL3.1 mounting system compare to Ortlieb’s quick‑release TPU mounts?

  QL3.1 is a minimalist rack‑mounted quick‑release that leaves no projecting hooks on the bag, making panniers easier to carry off the bike and well suited to commuting and daily use. Ortlieb’s quick‑release TPU mounts attach with a single‑click and are built to work with 8–16 mm rails and many touring setups, offering robust attachment for loaded touring and bikepacking. Choose QL3.1 if on/off carry and a clean bag profile matter; choose the single‑click TPU quick‑release when you need broad rail compatibility and heavier touring security.
• How do I choose the right size and ensure compatibility with my rack, saddle, and frame?

  Start by measuring your rack rail diameter (Ortlieb mounts accommodate about 8–16 mm rails) and check saddle‑rail compatibility—some saddle mounts exclude large leather rails like a Brooks B17. Rear panniers are commonly around 20 L per bag and front panniers about 12 L; frame bags come in limited sizes so confirm the frame triangle dimensions and consider Short Torso variants or shoulder straps for off‑bike carry when picking models.