Are you choosing a bicycle pannier but don't know where to start? One of the most important aspects to consider is undoubtedly how you will attach the bag to your bike. Products from ORTLIEB are equipped with two types of sophisticated mounting systems that can be easily attached to most bicycle racks. But are they suitable for your bike? You will find out in the following lines.
QL mounting systems on ORTLIEB panniers allow for quick and secure mounting directly onto the bicycle rack. The mounting systems are universal and can be adjusted to fit most available racks.
ORTLIEB mounting systems are also referred to as self-locking. When you grab the bag by the handle, the rear hooks open, and the luggage can be simply clicked onto the rack. As soon as you release the handle, the hooks automatically lock, and the pannier remains securely attached. In case of damage to the mounting system, all components can be easily replaced.
QL2.1 mounting system
The QL2.1 mounting system is based on the proven QL2 system. However, several key elements have been improved, especially for compatibility with racks currently on the market.
LOCK AND RELEASE
Automatic closing and opening of the hooks by lifting the handle is very simple. As soon as you lift the bag, the hooks on the back open, and you can hang the bag on the rack. When you release the handle, both hooks close on the rack, and the bag is securely locked.
Top rail
The QL2.1 system with 16 mm hooks and anti-scratch reduction inserts is suitable for racks with a diameter of 8, 10, and 12 mm (12 mm size, e.g., for Racktime racks). In the QL2.1 system, the reduction inserts are inserted from the sides, so there is no risk of losing them. 20 mm hooks are also available, suitable for racks with a diameter of 17 to 20 mm, often used on e-bikes.
For better stability, the top rail is made of a single piece. Additionally, Office-Bag and Downtown models can be adjusted to the right or left side of the rack. The mounting system uses extremely flat nuts on the inside, so the surface remains smooth, and there is no risk of damaging the carried contents. For maximum security, an anti-theft cable can also be purchased for the top rail.
Bottom rail
The bottom hook is made of a two-component synthetic material resistant to abrasion, which prevents damage to metal tubes. The hook is height-adjustable and rotatable by 15°. All hooks are adjustable to different rack sizes without the need for tools and can be easily replaced.
QL3.1 mounting system
This system is specially developed for office and city bags. The secret of the QL3.1 mounting system lies in the fact that the main mounting elements remain fixed to the rack. The result is a smooth back of the bag without unnecessary protruding hooks, which ensures maximum comfort when carrying it off the bike.
The QL3.1 mounting system allows for very simple and quick attachment to the rack. The bag is inserted into the bottom mounting part, and by moving it towards the rack, the top hooks are secured into the upper part of the rack with a left-to-right movement. Removing the bag is just as fast: simply grab the bag by the handle, move it to the right or left, and the bag is released.
QL3.1 system features
- convenient one-handed operation
- automatic closing and opening of hooks by lifting the bag handle
- the mounting rail can be mounted on the left or right side, or on horizontal or vertical rack bars (up to 10 mm diameter)
- on Rack1 and Rack2 racks, the bag can be attached directly (without the need for a rail) using the QL3/QL3.1 mounting system
- sufficient legroom thanks to adjustable angle and height
- the bottom hook is rotatable in a 360° range (24 rotations of 15°) for individual adjustment to various racks with a diameter of up to 14 mm
- the top part of the rack remains free for placing a basket, other bags, etc.
- additional mounting kits are available for attaching bags to other bikes
- option to purchase a set of mounts for tubes with a diameter of 11 to 14 mm as additional accessories
- compatible with bags featuring QL1, QL2, and QL2.1 mounting systems
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You can find our entire range of ORTLIEB products on our e-shop.
However, if you are not sure whether a bicycle pannier is the right choice for you, we recommend paying attention to cycling backpacks as well. We will be happy to help you with choosing the right one.
