Listen to the Pod!
Bikepack Adventures
In an effort to streamline his bikepacking setup, Serge picked up a pair of Ortlieb Fork-Pack Plus bags to see if these quick-release fork bags would get the job done.
In this bike gear review, Serge shares his experience of using the Fork Pack Plus to streamline his bikepacking setup, appreciating its quick-release feature and stable mounting system. Despite initial concerns about the plastic fork mounts, the bags proved to be secure and reliable, even on a carbon fork. The waterproof, PVC-free nylon construction and the ample storage capacity of the larger 5.8L bags were able to hold all his necessary gear. While some stretchier material at the top of the bag would allow for easier closure, particularly when stocking up at the store, it certainly doesn't deter from the praciticality and usefullness of the bag. Overall, the Ortlieb Fork Pack Plus is recommended for its functionality and ease of use, making it a valuable addition to any bikepacking gear setup.
In the spring of 2023, I won a Panorama Anticosti Gravel Bike frame and fork at the Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit. I received it in mid-August and, of course, immediately started to plan for a first adventure. On my previous bike, an Opus Legato, I was using lowrider panniers at the front. I knew I wanted something smaller that would force me to streamline what I carry with me, while reducing weight. Having already had a great experience using Ortlieb Panniers and their handlebar ‘lunchbox’', the Fork-Pack came as a logical choice. Even better, my birthday was coming at the beginning of September, and my fabulous wife was looking for something to spoil me with.
Ortlieb is a renowned name in the world of bag making, celebrated for their exceptional quality and innovation. Founded in 1982, the company has built a stellar reputation for producing durable, waterproof bags that cater to cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurers alike. Their commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship is evident in their manufacturing processes, all of which take place in their state-of-the-art facility in Heilsbronn, Germany. Ortlieb's bags are not only designed to withstand the harshest conditions but also to last a lifetime, making them a trusted choice for those who demand reliability and performance from their gear. With a focus on functionality and environmental responsibility, Ortlieb continues to set the standard in the industry, ensuring that every product reflects their dedication to excellence.
With two different sizes available, the Fork-Pack comes in either 5.8 L or 4.1 L. I knew there would be a significant drop in storage capacity, and I wanted to make sure that I could fit my cooking system on one side and food on the other. Typically, I pack my Jetboil, AeroPress, ramen and oatmeal in one bag, while dehydrated meals, cutlery and bowl, snacks and of course, a flask for an evening drink, go in the other bag. After searching for advice on Facebook and checking with measurements from the website, I decided to go with the 5.8 litre bags, happy to see everything could fit exactly how I had envisioned it. Initially, I was a bit worried that the mount would look silly on the bike when the bags are removed, but that only lasted a maximum of 5 minutes. The fact that you can pop the bags on and off in just seconds, quickly leaves your worries about looking cool by the wayside.
Initially I was worried about the plastic fork mounts that are used to keep the bag securely attached to the forks. I was afraid it would be wobbly and would either make noise or be unreliable. I should also mention that it is my first time owning a carbon fork, which I didn’t want to damage, for obvious reasons. The mounts connected to the forks of the Anticosti were solid and I used a torque wrench to make sure I had the Fork-Pack mounts safely attached. I was pleasantly surprised by how stable everything was. The bags don’t move on their support, and you quickly forget that they are even there. Since I carry my kitchen and food at the front, the quick release is an amazing asset: I get to a picnic table or bench, take them off, and within seconds I am cooking. This allows me to eat quickly, be organized and pack-up faster. Â
The QLSÂ adaptor (Quick-Lock Small) weighs only 85 g, keeping the total weight of the Fork-Pack Plus (5.8 litres) at a paltry 315 g, including the adaptor. The adaptor can be mounted on any fork using a 3-bolt mounting system but also comes with mounting hardware for bikes that don't have the mounting bolts. Be aware that these adaptors shouldn't be mounted on carbon forks that don't have a 3-bolt mounting system and that they can only be mounted on forks that are untapered and between 30 and 42mm in diameter.
The Fork-Packs are fully waterproof and constructed of PVC-free nylon fabric which are sustainably produced in Germany. Using Ortlieb's tried and tested roll-top closure, you can be certain that water won't find a way in. The packs are available in two colour options: dark sand and black. I opted to get the black bags to keep them matching the rest of my setup.
At the end of September 2023, I set off on my first ride, a route heavily inspired by Gab Batailleur and Jonathan B. Roy. It was a mix of city, gravel, rail trail, and mountain biking. It was also my first time stealth camping on a loop I did from home, making the most of the beautiful autumn weather in the Ottawa/Gatineau region. The bags quickly proved to be what I was looking for and I really liked the streamlined approach to my setup for bike travel. I found the Fork-Packs to be much easier to find what I am looking for when searching for something, and also less complicated to get organized and packed quickly. The material is durable and very resistant to wear. My only suggestion would be for Ortlieb to use a stretchier fabric at the top of the bag, so as to allow the bag to close more easily. This would be especially useful when you come out of the grocery store with a bag full of food and snacks.
Fast forward to summer of 2024, I completed the Log Driver’s Waltz, an 800km gravel route in the same neighborhood as my first ride, using the same setup and was once again super happy with they performed. No rain or dust ever made its way inside and they still look brand new. The only downside I noticed, is that over time, dust collects inside the quick release mechanism, and it makes it a bit stiff to snap on and off. This is easily solved with a good cleaning. While I did find a very good bag option for my fork, I still have to look at my rear panniers in the future to reduce weight and space, but this comes with a price; I may not be able to bring my folding chair and my jeans… All in all, I do recommend the Ortlieb Fork-Packs as they are reliable, solid and practical bags for bikepacking. One piece of advice to help differentiate the left from the right bag, is to place a small piece of tape on the inside mount of one of the bags, so that you always know which bag belongs on which side.
