Name: ORTLIEB Back-Roller
Brand: ORTLIEB
Rating: 96 (517 reviews)

96/100

BikeRide Score

Users (500 ratings)

Experts (5 reviews)

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the ORTLIEB Back-Roller. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

8 reasons to buy

The 10 variations of the Back-Roller come in a range of fabrics and three capacities: 20L, 23L, or 35L.
An expert’s Back-Roller has held up over a decade, and many long-term owners attest to the bag's durability.
Owners and testers confirm that the Back-Roller is fully waterproof.
The Quick-Lock quick-release mounting makes it easy to attach and remove the bag.
Most say the mounting system keeps the bag stable over rough terrain.
The Plus and Plus Urban versions have a higher 27.6lb load capacity and a 4.1L roll-top front pocket.
The black Back-Roller High-Vis “lights up like a flashlight,” according to a reviewer.
ORTLIEB sells replacement parts for the mounting system and buckles.

7 reasons not to buy

Some owners say the bottom hook on the QL2.1 system occasionally detaches while riding.
Several buyers report the plastic mounting hooks on the QL2.1 breaking after little use.
The visual instructions are difficult to interpret, according to owners.
Some owners are disappointed by the lack of pockets for organizing items.
A 15" laptop won't fit into the inner mesh sleeve of the 20L or 23L Back-Rollers.
At over 2lb per bag, the Back-Roller Classic and XL versions are heavy.
ORTLIEB's Back-Roller range is pricey.

Bottom line

There are 10 variants of ORTLIEB's Back-Roller panniers. Fabrics, sizes, weight, load capacities, and rack compatibility vary. Bags are equipped with one of three Quick-Lock systems for easy mounting and removal. All bags are praised for their ruggedness, long-term durability, and effective waterproofing. Some report broken plastic mount components (QL2.1) after little use, but replacement parts are available. Commuters should note that internal pockets probably won't accommodate 15" laptops. Overall, the time-tested ORTLIEB Back-Roller is a top choice among tourers and commuters, and most feel it merits the high price tag.

Where to buy

$172.00 Amazon See it $199.99 Mike's Bikes See it $199.99 Campfire Cycling See it $200.00 Jenson USA See it $200.00 Trek See it $200.00 Propel See it $200.00 Performance Bicycle See it $200.00 eBay See it $215.00 Backcountry See it $215.00 Competitive Cyclist See it $220.00 ORTLIEB See it $220.00 REI.com See it

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Facts

Bag Type

Pannier

Brand

ORTLIEB

Bike Type

Adventure, Bikepacking, Commuting, Electric, Mountain, Road, Touring

Capacity

20, 23, 35 Liters

Features

Quick Release

Water Resistance Level

Waterproof

Weight

1.81, 2.22, 2.64 lb

Color

Black, Red, Orange, Yellow, White, Olive, Blue, Gray, Rose, Hi-Vis Yellow, Teal

Material

Cordura, PU-coated Cordura , PU-laminated Cordura, PVC-coated Polyester, PU-laminated Polyester

Expert Reviews

84/100 based on 5 rated expert reviews

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Road.cc

Level 5 expert