Review - Ortlieb Bike-Box

The Ortlieb Bike-Box is a rack-top bag with a capacity of 11l. It scores over other rack packs by being somewhat bigger, and completely waterproof (although things in the flap pocket may get damp). It comes with a quick-release system and a sturdy strap, and Ortlieb's roll-top closure.

Good points are the size (it really is bigger than you think, I can get my tool pack, sandwich box, a pair fo trousers, a pair of shoes, a shirt and a waterproof in there), the quick-release system and the waterproof material. It also has a very sturdy hook for a rear blinkie, and a good quality shoulder strap with a sensible system for removing it. There is a large mesh zip pocket in the flap which will hold keys, money, phone, credit cards and a standard sized OS map; although this is not guaranteed waterproof, it is good enough. The design is simple, which bodes well for a long life, and the fixings are well made. The loops (for light and for retaining strap) are on hard plastic plates screwed through and with waterproof seals - these Ortlieb folks take things very seriously, obviously! It has a hard plastic liner from the top of the front to the top of the back (so excluding the sides, which need to be soft to make it fit awkward shapes). This is a Good Thing as it stops it flopping around like some trunk bags do, and also helps prevent things poking through the corners.

Less good points are the lack of side pockets (part of what makes it waterproof, I guess) and the colour. Why are bike products always black? I've stuck two large reflective triangles on mine. It's also fiddly to roll the closure up while mounted on the bike, as the saddle gets in the way - or at least mine does. My saddle is higher than most and my rack is tucked well forward, so your mileage may vary.

The Bike-Box definitely passes the "would I buy another" test, and I rate it 8/10 for usability (mainly the fiddle of rolling the closure in the bike) and 10/10 for quality and fitness for purpose. It's very well made indeed, and I've seen plenty of Ortlieb bags of various types which are twenty years old or more and still waterproof.