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Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black
Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black

Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black

$146.68

(236 reviews)

Ortlieb - Velocity 29l Backpack Black - This courier-style backpack has been one of ORTLIEBs most popular products for many years. It is simply unbeatable when it comes to accompanying you to work, school, and play. Some of the Velocitys distinctive features include its durability, waterproof performance and rear padding that ensures excellent ventilation. The Velocitys carriage system has now been ergonomically optimized for even greater carrying comfort. The waist belt is easy to adjust and even detachable. The Velcro roll closure makes for wonderfully easy access and packing. And if the Velcro pad should ever wear out after many years of intensive use, you can return your Velocity to ORTLIEB to have it renewed, so as to give your backpack a second life. This makes the Velocity a sustainable, lifetime companion. The backpacks interior has also been given a new design. In addition to the large zippered inside pocket, both Velocity models now have a padded laptop compartment. With the 29L version you get a Velocity with quite a lot of space and an additional zipper pocket on the side.

Ortlieb - Velocity 29l Backpack Black - This courier-style backpack has been one of ORTLIEBs most popular products for many years. It is simply unbeatable when it comes to accompanying you to work, school, and play. Some of the Velocitys distinctive features include its durability, waterproof performance and rear padding that ensures excellent ventilation. The Velocitys carriage system has now been ergonomically optimized for even greater carrying comfort. The waist belt is easy to adjust and even detachable. The Velcro roll closure makes for wonderfully easy access and packing. And if the Velcro pad should ever wear out after many years of intensive use, you can return your Velocity to ORTLIEB to have it renewed, so as to give your backpack a second life. This makes the Velocity a sustainable, lifetime companion. The backpacks interior has also been given a new design. In addition to the large zippered inside pocket, both Velocity models now have a padded laptop compartment. With the 29L version you get a Velocity with quite a lot of space and an additional zipper pocket on the side.

Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black

(236 reviews)

Ortlieb - Velocity 29l Backpack Black - This courier-style backpack has been one of ORTLIEBs most popular products for many years. It is simply unbeatable when it comes to accompanying you to work, school, and play. Some of the Velocitys distinctive features include its durability, waterproof performance and rear padding that ensures excellent ventilation. The Velocitys carriage system has now been ergonomically optimized for even greater carrying comfort. The waist belt is easy to adjust and even detachable. The Velcro roll closure makes for wonderfully easy access and packing. And if the Velcro pad should ever wear out after many years of intensive use, you can return your Velocity to ORTLIEB to have it renewed, so as to give your backpack a second life. This makes the Velocity a sustainable, lifetime companion. The backpacks interior has also been given a new design. In addition to the large zippered inside pocket, both Velocity models now have a padded laptop compartment. With the 29L version you get a Velocity with quite a lot of space and an additional zipper pocket on the side.

Ortlieb - Velocity 29l Backpack Black - This courier-style backpack has been one of ORTLIEBs most popular products for many years. It is simply unbeatable when it comes to accompanying you to work, school, and play. Some of the Velocitys distinctive features include its durability, waterproof performance and rear padding that ensures excellent ventilation. The Velocitys carriage system has now been ergonomically optimized for even greater carrying comfort. The waist belt is easy to adjust and even detachable. The Velcro roll closure makes for wonderfully easy access and packing. And if the Velcro pad should ever wear out after many years of intensive use, you can return your Velocity to ORTLIEB to have it renewed, so as to give your backpack a second life. This makes the Velocity a sustainable, lifetime companion. The backpacks interior has also been given a new design. In addition to the large zippered inside pocket, both Velocity models now have a padded laptop compartment. With the 29L version you get a Velocity with quite a lot of space and an additional zipper pocket on the side.

$146.68 - $199.95

in 8 offers

The lowest price for Ortlieb Velocity 17L - petrol-black right now is $146.68 at Cicli Mattio AU, compared across 8 retailers.

The all-time low was $126.30 on 27 Feb 2026 — today's price is 16% above the lowest ever. That's a little above the best price we've seen.

Prices last updated 13 May 2026.

Size:

23 L

Price comparison

Price data powered by pricesAPI.io

Last updated at 13/05/2026 17:25:57

Please note: price history and price alerts are not available for some stores, including Amazon.com.au.
https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=ciclimattio.com&sz=64Cicli Mattio AU

$146.68

ORTLIEB - Velocity Petrol/Black 17L

Delivery $50

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=pushys.com.au&sz=64Pushys

$163.99

Ortlieb Velocity 2020 Petrol-Black 17L

Free delivery between Fri – Wed

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=bikebug.com&sz=64Bikebug

$163.99

Ortlieb Velocity 2020 Petrol-Black 17L

Free delivery between Fri – Wed

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=bicyclestore.com.au&sz=64Bicycle Store

$166.21

Ortlieb 17L Velocity Backpack - Petrol/Black

Free delivery between 19–21 May

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=velogear.com.au&sz=64Velogear

$166.21

Ortlieb 17L Velocity Backpack - Petrol/Black

Free delivery between 19–27 May

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=crooze.com.au&sz=64Crooze

$174.99

ORTLIEB VELOCITY BACKPACK R4302 - 17L

Free delivery between 18–21 May

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=bogong.com.au&sz=64Bogong Equipment

$199.95

ORTLIEB VELOCITY 17L

Free delivery between 18–21 May

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=aus.ortlieb.com&sz=64Ortlieb Australia

$199.95

Velocity petrol / 17 L

Delivery between 22–25 May $20

Price history

Price history

Please note: price history and price alerts are not available for some stores, including Amazon.com.au.

Reviews

Comfortable, robust and waterproof
6 April 2021Steve

originally posted on sigmasports.com

Purchased purely to carry my work laptop and iPad when commuting to the office, so my main requirement was for it to be waterproof. The thick material and roll top certainly do combine to keep the heaviest of rain out, and would also offer substantial protection against damage in a crash methinks. The bag feels secure on my back, doesn't move around at all, and must be comfortable as I stop noticing it very soon after setting off. There is plenty of capacity, and I could easily fit all of my work day needs in there if I didn't prefer to have those in a saddle pack. The roll top is quite wide, so always creeps in to my line of vision when glancing back over my shoulder, but it's not restrictive (visually), and the bag was never meant to be aero anyway. That said, I'd ... MorePurchased purely to carry my work laptop and iPad when commuting to the office, so my main requirement was for it to be waterproof. The thick material and roll top certainly do combine to keep the heaviest of rain out, and would also offer substantial protection against damage in a crash methinks. The bag feels secure on my back, doesn't move around at all, and must be comfortable as I stop noticing it very soon after setting off. There is plenty of capacity, and I could easily fit all of my work day needs in there if I didn't prefer to have those in a saddle pack. The roll top is quite wide, so always creeps in to my line of vision when glancing back over my shoulder, but it's not restrictive (visually), and the bag was never meant to be aero anyway. That said, I'd probably opt for something a little more shaped and narrower at the top if was using it for touring or similar, but it was bought for commuting and ticks all of the boxes for that purpose.

Good bag but has shortcomings for the commute
20 September 2018grandmasterg

originally posted on evanscycles.com

Firstly I would say if you are looking for a completely waterproof bag with plenty of space and can live with some design flaws then this is for you. Ortlieb should definitely address the following in future iterations of the product however:1) The internal bag is far too small to fit in everything required for a regular commute (inner tube, pump etc). There is also no separate area for housing for a laptop / water carrier.2) Due to the fold down method of locking bag the top has two bits which stick out on either side (see product image on this page). When you look over your shoulder when pulling out this somewhat obscures your view.3) The fabric around the velcro strap sticks to it and pulls meaning that within days this area of the bag looks scruffy.4) ... MoreFirstly I would say if you are looking for a completely waterproof bag with plenty of space and can live with some design flaws then this is for you. Ortlieb should definitely address the following in future iterations of the product however:1) The internal bag is far too small to fit in everything required for a regular commute (inner tube, pump etc). There is also no separate area for housing for a laptop / water carrier.2) Due to the fold down method of locking bag the top has two bits which stick out on either side (see product image on this page). When you look over your shoulder when pulling out this somewhat obscures your view.3) The fabric around the velcro strap sticks to it and pulls meaning that within days this area of the bag looks scruffy.4) There is no external pocket so every time you need something from the bag you have to open it up in its entirety.

Good but flawed
14 October 2019AndleBarr

originally posted on evanscycles.com

I use this for general walking and hiking when the weather is going to be bad. The quality is the usual Orltieb excellence. Fabrics are very robust and durable and the bag is totally waterproof. However there are potentially several issues I have found. Firstly the back length is quite long, so if you are a shorty or of a smaller frame the bag will sit on the top of your behind and after some time could be uncomfortable and or cause rubbing if it is fully loaded and heavy. The back length is not adjustable. Secondly I tried cycling with it at first, but found that seeing what was coming from behind was impossible as the roll top corners of the bag stick out and obscure your rear view. And thirdly I am not so keen on the velcro fastener. It is large and currently ... MoreI use this for general walking and hiking when the weather is going to be bad. The quality is the usual Orltieb excellence. Fabrics are very robust and durable and the bag is totally waterproof. However there are potentially several issues I have found. Firstly the back length is quite long, so if you are a shorty or of a smaller frame the bag will sit on the top of your behind and after some time could be uncomfortable and or cause rubbing if it is fully loaded and heavy. The back length is not adjustable. Secondly I tried cycling with it at first, but found that seeing what was coming from behind was impossible as the roll top corners of the bag stick out and obscure your rear view. And thirdly I am not so keen on the velcro fastener. It is large and currently super easy to open and close, perhaps too easy, but although it hasn't happened yet I feel it could too easily come open the bag is fuller and heavier or certainly if the Velcro is older and worn after time. As someone else noted, Ortlieb should have had a roll top closure with buckles just like their Roller Classic bike panniers which would be far more secure and likely not obscure your rear view when looking behind for approaching traffic which is seriously bad and why I don't wear it for cycling, but only walking and hiking.

Specification

Capacity17 liters
Warranty60 month(s)
Country of originGermany

Price comparison

Updated 5 months ago
Please note: price history and price alerts are not available for some stores, including Amazon.com.au.
https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=ciclimattio.com&sz=64
Cicli Mattio AU

$146.68

ORTLIEB - Velocity Petrol/Black 17L

Delivery $50

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=pushys.com.au&sz=64
Pushys

$163.99

Ortlieb Velocity 2020 Petrol-Black 17L

Free delivery between Fri – Wed

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=bikebug.com&sz=64
Bikebug

$163.99

Ortlieb Velocity 2020 Petrol-Black 17L

Free delivery between Fri – Wed

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=bicyclestore.com.au&sz=64
Bicycle Store

$166.21

Ortlieb 17L Velocity Backpack - Petrol/Black

Free delivery between 19–21 May

https://www.google.com/s2/favicons?domain=velogear.com.au&sz=64
Velogear

$166.21

Ortlieb 17L Velocity Backpack - Petrol/Black

Free delivery between 19–27 May

Price history

Price history

Please note: price history and price alerts are not available for some stores, including Amazon.com.au.

Reviews

Comfortable, robust and waterproof
6 April 2021

Purchased purely to carry my work laptop and iPad when commuting to the office, so my main requirement was for it to be waterproof. The thick material and roll top certainly do combine to keep the heaviest of rain out, and would also offer substantial protection against damage in a crash methinks. The bag feels secure on my back, doesn't move around at all, and must be comfortable as I stop noticing it very soon after setting off. There is plenty of capacity, and I could easily fit all of my work day needs in there if I didn't prefer to have those in a saddle pack. The roll top is quite wide, so always creeps in to my line of vision when glancing back over my shoulder, but it's not restrictive (visually), and the bag was never meant to be aero anyway. That said, I'd ... MorePurchased purely to carry my work laptop and iPad when commuting to the office, so my main requirement was for it to be waterproof. The thick material and roll top certainly do combine to keep the heaviest of rain out, and would also offer substantial protection against damage in a crash methinks. The bag feels secure on my back, doesn't move around at all, and must be comfortable as I stop noticing it very soon after setting off. There is plenty of capacity, and I could easily fit all of my work day needs in there if I didn't prefer to have those in a saddle pack. The roll top is quite wide, so always creeps in to my line of vision when glancing back over my shoulder, but it's not restrictive (visually), and the bag was never meant to be aero anyway. That said, I'd probably opt for something a little more shaped and narrower at the top if was using it for touring or similar, but it was bought for commuting and ticks all of the boxes for that purpose.

Steve originally posted on sigmasports.com
Good bag but has shortcomings for the commute
20 September 2018

Firstly I would say if you are looking for a completely waterproof bag with plenty of space and can live with some design flaws then this is for you. Ortlieb should definitely address the following in future iterations of the product however:1) The internal bag is far too small to fit in everything required for a regular commute (inner tube, pump etc). There is also no separate area for housing for a laptop / water carrier.2) Due to the fold down method of locking bag the top has two bits which stick out on either side (see product image on this page). When you look over your shoulder when pulling out this somewhat obscures your view.3) The fabric around the velcro strap sticks to it and pulls meaning that within days this area of the bag looks scruffy.4) ... MoreFirstly I would say if you are looking for a completely waterproof bag with plenty of space and can live with some design flaws then this is for you. Ortlieb should definitely address the following in future iterations of the product however:1) The internal bag is far too small to fit in everything required for a regular commute (inner tube, pump etc). There is also no separate area for housing for a laptop / water carrier.2) Due to the fold down method of locking bag the top has two bits which stick out on either side (see product image on this page). When you look over your shoulder when pulling out this somewhat obscures your view.3) The fabric around the velcro strap sticks to it and pulls meaning that within days this area of the bag looks scruffy.4) There is no external pocket so every time you need something from the bag you have to open it up in its entirety.

grandmasterg originally posted on evanscycles.com
Good but flawed
14 October 2019

I use this for general walking and hiking when the weather is going to be bad. The quality is the usual Orltieb excellence. Fabrics are very robust and durable and the bag is totally waterproof. However there are potentially several issues I have found. Firstly the back length is quite long, so if you are a shorty or of a smaller frame the bag will sit on the top of your behind and after some time could be uncomfortable and or cause rubbing if it is fully loaded and heavy. The back length is not adjustable. Secondly I tried cycling with it at first, but found that seeing what was coming from behind was impossible as the roll top corners of the bag stick out and obscure your rear view. And thirdly I am not so keen on the velcro fastener. It is large and currently ... MoreI use this for general walking and hiking when the weather is going to be bad. The quality is the usual Orltieb excellence. Fabrics are very robust and durable and the bag is totally waterproof. However there are potentially several issues I have found. Firstly the back length is quite long, so if you are a shorty or of a smaller frame the bag will sit on the top of your behind and after some time could be uncomfortable and or cause rubbing if it is fully loaded and heavy. The back length is not adjustable. Secondly I tried cycling with it at first, but found that seeing what was coming from behind was impossible as the roll top corners of the bag stick out and obscure your rear view. And thirdly I am not so keen on the velcro fastener. It is large and currently super easy to open and close, perhaps too easy, but although it hasn't happened yet I feel it could too easily come open the bag is fuller and heavier or certainly if the Velcro is older and worn after time. As someone else noted, Ortlieb should have had a roll top closure with buckles just like their Roller Classic bike panniers which would be far more secure and likely not obscure your rear view when looking behind for approaching traffic which is seriously bad and why I don't wear it for cycling, but only walking and hiking.

AndleBarr originally posted on evanscycles.com
Good quality, reliable and versatile
8 April 2016

I bought this backpack mainly for commuting to work in Glasgow (Scotland), so needed something rainproof and reliable in terms of material and make - I have been using it for about three weeks now and am really pleased so far.I was also looking for a backpack spacious enough to carry documents and folders without bent edges (so at least A4), as well as additional bits and pieces, a change of clothes, etc.At the same time, I didn't want something too bulky on days when I didn't have that much to carry and this backpack really was the perfect choice as you can simply roll it down further when it's not that full.Obviously it is a bit more on the pricey side but I am hoping it will be worth the money in the long term. All in all would definitely recommend!P.s. ... MoreI bought this backpack mainly for commuting to work in Glasgow (Scotland), so needed something rainproof and reliable in terms of material and make - I have been using it for about three weeks now and am really pleased so far.I was also looking for a backpack spacious enough to carry documents and folders without bent edges (so at least A4), as well as additional bits and pieces, a change of clothes, etc.At the same time, I didn't want something too bulky on days when I didn't have that much to carry and this backpack really was the perfect choice as you can simply roll it down further when it's not that full.Obviously it is a bit more on the pricey side but I am hoping it will be worth the money in the long term. All in all would definitely recommend!P.s. Even though this wasn't necessarily decisive when I bought it - the backpack actually also looks quite stylish in its simplicity.

Fran1 originally posted on evanscycles.com
Quality that will stand the test of time
15 May 2018

Only just started using this, so this is based on first impressions rather than a long-term review. However, having used Ortlieb panniers of similar construction for the last 5 years, I am completely confident that this bag will have the same incredible quality and durability. The bag has one large waterproof compartment, plus a removable internal pouch with a zip pocket for valuables and a couple of other slots for pen / phone etc. Unlike some other reviewers, I have found the straps and back system well placed and comfortable.My only slight gripes are about the design of the roll-top closure. First, unlike Ortlieb's back roller plus panniers (whose size can be adjusted to some extent by choosing how much of the pannier you roll over before securing the ... MoreOnly just started using this, so this is based on first impressions rather than a long-term review. However, having used Ortlieb panniers of similar construction for the last 5 years, I am completely confident that this bag will have the same incredible quality and durability. The bag has one large waterproof compartment, plus a removable internal pouch with a zip pocket for valuables and a couple of other slots for pen / phone etc. Unlike some other reviewers, I have found the straps and back system well placed and comfortable.My only slight gripes are about the design of the roll-top closure. First, unlike Ortlieb's back roller plus panniers (whose size can be adjusted to some extent by choosing how much of the pannier you roll over before securing the adjustable retaining strap) this bag can effectively only be one size if you want the velcro closure closed. If you want to overfill it, the top will need to stay open. It would be nice if the closure system had a bit more adjustability built in like the panniers.Secondly, unlike the panniers, whose sides can fold inwards before rolling the top closed, the rigid roll top closure on this bag is wider than the main body of the bag (it spans the width of the gusset too). This means that, when closed, the top of the bag is wider (see product pictures). For me this means that the wider top of the bag obscures my view when checking over my shoulder for traffic, creating a large blind spot. Finally (and this is a really tiny detail) it would be nice if there was a second piece of velcro to retain the velcro closing strip when the bag is open, to stop the velcro closing strip sticking to / abrading other parts of the bag and clothing. None of these warrant deducting a star though - a brilliant bag.

quifff originally posted on evanscycles.com
Review van Roadcc
30 November 2019

Waterproof backpacks are a must for the regular bike commuter – you never know when the heavens will open and you'll need to protect perhaps important documents and other valuables from the elements. Waterproofing is the Ortlieb Velocity's headline feature, and for that reason alone it's worthy of consideration, but it does have its flaws.The hardwearing pack is constructed of a mix of tough plastics and nylon fabrics on the underside, and meets IP64 waterproofing standards with a fold-over top to seal the contents. I commuted on my bike during a few rain showers that would otherwise have seen me consigned to the train, and not one drop made it through the backpack.The fold-over top is sealed using a seriously grippy Velcro tab. Even with the backpack absolutely ... MoreWaterproof backpacks are a must for the regular bike commuter – you never know when the heavens will open and you'll need to protect perhaps important documents and other valuables from the elements. Waterproofing is the Ortlieb Velocity's headline feature, and for that reason alone it's worthy of consideration, but it does have its flaws.The hardwearing pack is constructed of a mix of tough plastics and nylon fabrics on the underside, and meets IP64 waterproofing standards with a fold-over top to seal the contents. I commuted on my bike during a few rain showers that would otherwise have seen me consigned to the train, and not one drop made it through the backpack.The fold-over top is sealed using a seriously grippy Velcro tab. Even with the backpack absolutely full, the tab held on with only a quarter of the surfaces touching. I imagine even NASA, inventor of Velcro, would be impressed with this level of adhesion.Capacity is a sizeable 24 litres, which in reality feels more cavernous thanks to the lack of 'furniture' internally. I'm in a mixed mind about this – either you like having one big area to throw stuff in, or you prefer more organisation with pockets and compartments at the cost of real estate.The backpack does come with a fabric 'pocket' that attaches by four tough poppers at the top of the semi-solid back. This has a zipped section big enough for a wallet, a larger section for documents and a couple of other smaller slots, presumably for pens and other stationary. Unfortunately, I found the largest slot a touch tight for A4 documents, and too short for full coverage and protection.I also couldn't fit my 13-inch Macbook Pro into this pocket, and even when placed in a protective neoprene casing it moved around in the backpack unless I had other bits and pieces surrounding it. Ortlieb sells notebook sleeve 'addons' for carrying a laptop safely – but they'll cost you another £20-30 depending on size. In my view, the Velocity is crying out for at least one structured built-in compartment designed to hold and protect documents and a mid-size laptop.Despite weighing 1.22kg, the backpack is very comfortable even when that weight is multiplied by a full load. The straps are well padded and positioned, while the semi-solid foam pads on the back do well to ventilate you. To compare, I own an Osprey backpack with a technical and complicated-looking back ventilation system – it was one of the features that attracted me to it – but if I'm honest this simpler system works just as well.Support and retention on the back is also helped by a large waist belt and a chest strap. The chest strap is a little small, while the waist belt is a little generous – but adjustments were easy to make (albeit only when off the bike), so this is a small niggle.While riding at speed, I found the Velocity slightly distracting. While the side profile isn't too wide, which helps to minimise susceptibility to crosswinds (a real plus point), the square shape of the backpack means that when you turn your head, the periphery of your vision is interrupted by the fold of the top.You get used to this, but the whistling noise created by turbulent air is another matter. The problem I found was that even as you acclimatised to the rushing wind, you always have to double check that it isn't in fact a car coming up behind you, because the noises are remarkably similar. Although it wasn't dangerous, it meant I was either being surprised by cars or continually looking back down the road.The Velocity comes in a range of colours. I had this bright yellow on test, which although not high-visibility certainly helped me stand out. As it wasn't high-vis, though, I'd probably opt for the more stylish redcurrant or black instead, given the choice. You can also go with two blue hues, green or white if you prefer.This bag is a mixed affair, then. On the one hand you have great capacity, which offers with it great 'stuffability', a solid performing ventilation system, and toughness and a level of waterproofing that will see it through anything except submersion. On the other, it's not particularly structured in its storage, lacks a dedicated laptop and sturdy document holder, and can be distracting if you like to commute at higher speeds.

Review originally posted on rat-bikes.com
Review van Wired Magazine
30 November 2019

The Ortlieb Velocity is a summer-travelin', bike-friendly backpack. It's also a shoulder-saving solution, a sack to shuttle a computer, a camera and a bunch of lenses around without inducing a permanent sideways slouch. How's that for a geek-friendly man-bag?The idea idea came, as ever, from the Lady. Last week, I was walking around Rome with a Nikon D700 slung over my shoulder, plus a couple lenses in a bag. The body alone weighs a kilogram, or around 2.2 lbs. I was starting to wish I’d brought something lighter along. The solution?A backpack.The problem is that I hate them. Backpacks are usually dorky looking, they're difficult to access quickly and they make your back sweaty. TheLady suggested I find a cool backpack. Maybe like my bike panniers.And here ... MoreThe Ortlieb Velocity is a summer-travelin', bike-friendly backpack. It's also a shoulder-saving solution, a sack to shuttle a computer, a camera and a bunch of lenses around without inducing a permanent sideways slouch. How's that for a geek-friendly man-bag?The idea idea came, as ever, from the Lady. Last week, I was walking around Rome with a Nikon D700 slung over my shoulder, plus a couple lenses in a bag. The body alone weighs a kilogram, or around 2.2 lbs. I was starting to wish I’d brought something lighter along. The solution?A backpack.The problem is that I hate them. Backpacks are usually dorky looking, they're difficult to access quickly and they make your back sweaty. TheLady suggested I find a cool backpack. Maybe like my bike panniers.And here it is, the Ortlieb Velocity, a 20 liter (5.3 gallon)roll-top back pack with enough neat features to keep a gadget-freak happy, and cool enough looking for the fashionista. Here’s a closer look.First, the outside. The Velocity is made of the same stuff as the Back Roller panniers, called Proofed Performance Fabric. It’s just that, a waterproof, gloss finished material welded to a more fabric-like section, also plastic and also waterproof.The bag also shares the same roll-top closure — the whole opening is rolled down and kept straight with a thin plastic bar. A few rolls is enough to keep out the worst rainstorm and certain models can even be submerged and keep the contents dry. That’s good news if you’re carrying electronic gear.Round the back we start to see the technical bits. The first thing that strikes you is the skeleton-like layout of the padding. It is designed to both keep things comfy (there is a thin, semi-rigid sheet inside the bag, but things could still poke you in the back) and cool. Those pads let the air circulate and therefore stop your back from getting sweaty.It works. I was hot after cycling uptown to buy the bag. Coming back is downhill and my back was damp and getting cold. I decided to wear the bag empty to keep my back warm — it failed. The air kept flowing.The straps are comfortable and as sturdy as you’d expect from Ortlieb. The sternum straps in particular keep things in the right place and the main weight on top of your shoulders. The waist strap is also very comfortable, but you don’t always need it — when walking around town with a light load, for example. In this case, even when tucked away, the straps dangle and get annoying. On a bike they could even reach the spokes.The shoulder straps also have a couple of D-rings for dangling extra kit, and Ortlieb will sell you a cellphone bag which clips on. Fastenings and adjustments are all easy and sure. The only real problem is that the down-part of the shoulder straps, the non-padded section, can rub on your ribcage. It only seems to happen with an empty bag, though.Finally, two of the bottom corners are rigid plastic, giving a firm base to stand on and protection against wear.Inside there is almost nothing, giving you access to the full 20 liters. It’s easily big enough for a weekend away, clothes and all, and if you pack it too tight you can use a supplementary Velcro strap to close it. Of course, Ortlieb will sell you one, or you could just use any old strip you have laying around.

Review originally posted on rat-bikes.com
Well built, suspect Velcro closer
31 March 2019

I bought this to use as a totally dry laptop and paperwork bag for my commute. I can fit an entire laptop bag inside (I take this home a lot for travelling) and is the perfect size.Fits well with wide shoulder pads that spread the load and keep it comfy.Roll top does NOT obscure my rear vision, I suspect those that have this issue are either sitting it too high, are a smaller build or perhaps not turning their head sufficiently.Is definitely, totally waterproof.Small pop in bag for wallet, keys, security pass and phone...everything else sits in the main bag.Only fault, and it’s quite a big fault unfortunately... I just do not trust the Velcro seal. It has a huge contact area that should work well but once rolled up only about 20% of the contact area works, ... MoreI bought this to use as a totally dry laptop and paperwork bag for my commute. I can fit an entire laptop bag inside (I take this home a lot for travelling) and is the perfect size.Fits well with wide shoulder pads that spread the load and keep it comfy.Roll top does NOT obscure my rear vision, I suspect those that have this issue are either sitting it too high, are a smaller build or perhaps not turning their head sufficiently.Is definitely, totally waterproof.Small pop in bag for wallet, keys, security pass and phone...everything else sits in the main bag.Only fault, and it’s quite a big fault unfortunately... I just do not trust the Velcro seal. It has a huge contact area that should work well but once rolled up only about 20% of the contact area works, mine has popped open twice when fiddling about to put the bag on my back, once I spotted it, the other time I didn’t and could have been a disaster if it had rained.Should have fitted a clip and buckle.

Evansnicknam originally posted on evanscycles.com
Well designed, good quality
7 May 2017

The bag is a little bulky but the straps and padding make it comfortable to ride with, even over longer distances (I regularly use of for a 30 mile commute).There's a handy inside zip pocket so important items don't get lost at the bottom of the bag.There's a stiff board on the inside that keeps the side against your back quite rigid. This stops pointy items sticking in your back and the exterior padding keeps it comfortable. This also makes it useful for carrying a 15" laptop comfortably.I really appreciate the buckles that keep the various straps in place and out of the way of the legs while riding; a small detail that makes it much better for riding with than other bags I've tried.The material and Velcro fastening are both very tough.Overall a great bag.

SparklePony originally posted on evanscycles.com
Well-made product, but how secure is the velcrose?
27 February 2019

This is a very well-made bag and although it hasn't rained in the 3 weeks I have been using it for my daily commute I can fully imagine that it will be waterproof given the materials from which it is constructed.It is comfortable to wear, with chest and hip straps to stop it bouncing around.As previous reviewers have mentioned, the fold-down closing produces rigid protrusions at the top which require a little more diligence when looking over the shoulder to check on traffic as they partially obscure the view. Similarly, whilst not mentioned in many reviews, I have noticed some wind noise whilst riding which can easily be mistaken for approaching traffic. Again, a reason for additional diligence / concentration.My only real query with regard to the bag's ... MoreThis is a very well-made bag and although it hasn't rained in the 3 weeks I have been using it for my daily commute I can fully imagine that it will be waterproof given the materials from which it is constructed.It is comfortable to wear, with chest and hip straps to stop it bouncing around.As previous reviewers have mentioned, the fold-down closing produces rigid protrusions at the top which require a little more diligence when looking over the shoulder to check on traffic as they partially obscure the view. Similarly, whilst not mentioned in many reviews, I have noticed some wind noise whilst riding which can easily be mistaken for approaching traffic. Again, a reason for additional diligence / concentration.My only real query with regard to the bag's construction is in respect of the velcrose closure. When the bag is quite full, I am a little concerned that the pressure from within the bag may force the velcrose to unpeal, leaving one vulnerable either to losing something or for rain to get inside. But so far, so good, and no incidents of this nature. (This could probably be resolved with the addition of an adjustable strap and clip built into the bag's webbing/fabric of the bag).The interior zipped pocket is good for holding small items, keys, etc, as otherwise the bag is fairly cavernous and rumaging around for something small which has dropped to the bottom is a bit tedious.This is a fairly expensive item although if its lifespan is as long as one anticipates it should be, then this should mitigate this aspect.Overall I am very happy with this bag over the 3 weeks I have been using it and hope to continue using it for many years to come. Thus I am certainly happy to recommend it.

Stuart92 originally posted on evanscycles.com

Specification

Capacity17 liters
Warranty60 month(s)
Country of originGermany