Rear mounting, these panniers are constructed from a waterproof polyester fabric, with a lid closure and features the updated, QL2.1 mounting system which fits racks up to 16mm. The QL2.1 mounting system is reliable and easy to use; the panniers can be removed from the racks by simply lifting up on the short carrying strap, yet they'll stay in place on rough roads and trails. The Ortlieb Bike Packer Classic lid has been newly designed to optimize the packing volume, and the inner dust/snow gasket is more easily accessible. Handles attached to the bags allow for easy carrying and the 3M Scotchlite reflectors on each side provide increased visiblilty.
I found the panniers easy to put on and take off my bike (once I set it up). Everything stayed dry during a few hours of rain on the trail. The straps make the panniers much easier to carry than the handles. I packed with stuff sacks and felt I could have made better use of the space in the bags - hopefully that will come with experience. I'll also look into accessories like an outside bag to quickly grab things I need when off the bike, rather than overnight.
solid gear, but not perfect
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Joel on 6/18/18
I went out for a short (1-week) tour with these, and my stuff remained quite dry, in spite of persistent, cold rain and occasional hail. Not sure I like the entry/closure method though. Two buckles plus two drawstrings plus precious little internal organization capacity equals one PITA to get to your stuff quickly or easily, and then closing them up again takes more time and fuss still. But my stuff stayed dry!!!
review
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A customer from Corvallis, Or on 8/3/11
This is my second set of Ortlieb bike packer classic panniers. The first pair were stolen along with the bicycle they were on. I do not like the handles on this model (same model as I had before but they have made some changes) as well as my last pair.
Tested them...they passed
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A customer from Hilton Head, SC on 4/17/11
I've used these panniers for several months for tours, commutes and errands. Initially I had a slight heel strike but that was remedied in less than 5 minutes with the help of the highly adjustable mounting system. I picked these bags due to the large storage compartment and Ortlieb reputation. If you like lots of nooks and crannies to organize your things...these may not be for you. The panniers vary slightly from the picture. The top handle is positioned to the inside and opens and bracket that secures the pannier to the rack. Also the adjustable straps mount about half way down the front of the bag. Neither are significant changes, but they do provide subtle improvements in my opinion. These panniers are top notch providing form, function and high quality. I highly recommend them. ACA...thanks for carrying such a solid product!
High quality, adjustable, stable and a great value...
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A customer from Pittsburgh, PA USA on 3/9/11
The Bike Packer Classics are great. They attach to the rear rack easily, the connecting hardware is highly adjustable and they are very stable on the bike. The interior has one big compartment with a zippered interior mesh pocket. The shoulder straps snap on to carry your loaded panniers when you are off the bike. I would highly recommend them if you are looking for quality panniers that are big enough to hold your stuff (gear or groceries), keep it dry and last for years.
Solid
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A customer from Austin TX USA on 10/9/10
These Ortliebs are well-built, and mount securely and conveniently. I haven't had a chance to test their rainproofing, but have no reason to doubt its effectiveness.
The one criticism that can be made against them is that they're each one big bag (there's a small, flat mesh pocket in each one, but it's located in a way that's not accessible when the whole pannier is fully packed), so you need to figure out how to organize the contents for ready access to what you'll need. No separate pockets must make them cheaper and easier to rainproof, but also less convenient.
basically, they can't be beat
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Sarah Raz on 11/18/09
if you're looking for the classic, waterproof panniers, do it. basically unbreakable, high-quality bags.
