An honest review of Ortlieb Unisex Cycling Backpack after 3 years of use. I go into detail about the durability and features of this sturdy messenger bag and review how this popular commuter model measures up to our expectations.
As lockdown is easing in Europe and many of us have to return to work, cycling has rapidly grown into popularity as a contact free way of commuting. I see neighbours leaving their homes on shiny new bikes, as they are adjusting to the changing world. New accessories and kit appears slowly as they are getting to grips to this new method of commuting.
Therefore it seems like a great time to review this classic Ortlieb Velicity 24l bag. Watch the video for a full review or continue reading for bullet points and addition highlights. If you are planning to purchase this bag, please consider supporting this page by using one of the affiliate links at the bottom of the article. It costs nothing extra to you, but I may receive a small referee bonus that helps to keep this page going.
Key features:
- ~ £100
- 5 year warranty
- Volume – 24l = 5.3 gallons
- 15cm x 28cm x 47cm (6inch x 11inch x 18.5 inch)
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Unisex design
- Roll down top with a velcro fix
- Adjustable chest and waist strap
- Inbuilt back support
- Improved breathability padding
- Detachable pouch with a zipper for small items
- Bottom is protected by abrasion protectors at corners and bottom feet
- Fixing for bike light or helmet
So is it truly commuter friendly?
I have had this bag for three years and have been using it for commuting (7-13 miles in each direction), as an airplane carry on, as a hiking day bag and as a simple backpack on rainy days. Basically I have tested this rucksack to its limits and am here to tell you that it is indeed a darn good commuter backpack.
What about the size?
The 24l volume gives you ample room for a laptop, change of clothes, lunchbox and more. You can even fit two large binders with some room to spear. The design of the bag allows you to flatten the top when closing and wont feel uncomfortable when empty.
If you are interested in seeing me stuff this bag full of items, see the video in my “pack with me” blog post where I pack for a winter trip. Skip to 7:03 to see the relevant bit.
Is it comfortable?
The chest clip prevents the arm straps from cutting into your armpits even with a heavy bag and the waist clip provides additional support to keep the backpack from moving when you are cycling. The back padding allows extra air circulation and minimises sweating. Of course you may still get sweaty where the foam touches your back, this isn’t magic after all. However this is a top of the line solution for a cycling bag.
Inbuilt back support is slightly flexible and firm enough that you can safely carry your laptop (we tried an old 17inch chunk and it fit without a problem). The firm layer of plastic helps to keep the bag uniform and prevents that pesky corner of your lunch box poking into your spine when you are busy navigating the streets.
What you have here is a good combination of back support, comfort and breathability without restricting your range of motion.
Waterproof? Durable?
The automatic 5 year warranty immediately encourages us to put our confidence into this backpack as a good long term investment. And it really does meet that expectation. After three years of ware (that included carrying of some messy materials, saws, paints etc) it is still functional, still waterproof and dustproof and no part has broken. I predict that at the 5 year mark the velcro fixing might finally give up on me, but other than that I can’t see this bag breaking without intentional involvement of aggressive garden shears. Due to this incredible lifespan, I do encourage you to consider buying a used bag to reduce waste and save some money. (just ask them about the velcro)
I hope that this review has been helpful to you and your journey into commuter cycling. Please feel free to write any additional questions in the comments. And if you are set on buying this Ortlieb Velocity messenger bag and want to support the blog, please consider using one of the affiliate links bellow.
Links for buyers:
You can also find amazing designs and used bags on Ebay for much cheaper and get yourself not only a good deal, but get the brownie points for reducing waste 🙂 just follow the link bellow and see who is selling:
Anta Azure 