Cycling enthusiasts often face the dilemma of carrying essential gear without compromising comfort or ride efficiency. Backpacks, while seemingly practical, can prove cumbersome and inconvenient, especially during long rides or when quick access to items is crucial. This review focuses on the ORTLIEB Ultimate 6 Handlebar Bag, a solution designed to address these challenges. We explore its functionality, durability, and overall performance, specifically highlighting its unique design features that prioritize quick access and on-the-go convenience. This bag's innovative approach to handlebar bag design sets it apart from the competition.This in-depth review details our experience using the ORTLIEB Ultimate 6, covering aspects such as its size options, mounting system, and internal organization. We examine the waterproof construction and the ease of use of its magnetic closure, focusing on how these elements contribute to a smoother, more efficient cycling experience. Our assessment considers whether the convenience and functionality justify the cost and whether the bag truly delivers on its promise of seamless access to essentials while riding.
Pros And Cons
- Easy access while riding
- Durable and waterproof polyester fabric
- PVC-free
- Reflector patch
- Shoulder strap
- Secure mounting system with magnets (easy to open and close)
- Various sizes available (5L, 6.5L, 7L)
- Comfortable hand placement even with the bag mounted
- Mounting system (RX and Co clip fix mount) sold separately
- Availability might be limited
Read more: 5 Must-Have Cycling Frame Bags
Why I Needed a Handlebar Bag
My recent acquisition of a drone camera for filming ride videos presented a challenge. Carrying it in a backpack, while seemingly straightforward, proved both uncomfortable (sweaty and cumbersome on hot days) and highly inconvenient.
Constantly stopping, removing the backpack, searching for the drone, and repacking it was a massive time-waster. This often led to missed filming opportunities, especially when riding with others, delaying our group rides unnecessarily.
A handlebar bag seemed the ideal solution, providing quick and easy access to my drone and other essentials without the hassle of a backpack.
Choosing the ORTLIEB Ultimate 6
The market offers a wide array of handlebar bags, each with its own design and features. Many are designed for backpacking, prioritizing secure storage over on-the-go accessibility.
My search revealed a surprising scarcity of bags allowing convenient access while riding. The ORTLIEB Ultimate 6 stood out as the only one I found that opened away from me, enabling quick access to my gear without having to stop or significantly alter my riding position.
This unique feature was critical; I needed a bag where I could easily grab snacks, spare batteries, or other small items without fully stopping.
Size, Fit, and Features
The ORTLIEB Ultimate 6 is available in various sizes (5L, 6.5L, and 7L), catering to different storage needs. I opted for the 7L version, finding it spacious enough for my drone, spare batteries, snacks, and other accessories.
It's crucial to consider the bag's dimensions relative to your handlebars and bike frame. Ensure that the bag doesn't obstruct handlebar control or rub against your front wheel. In my case (a size 53 road bike), the 7L bag fits perfectly, providing ample clearance.
Constructed from durable, waterproof polyester fabric (PVC-free), it features a reflector patch for added visibility and includes a shoulder strap (though I don't personally use it). The bag's mounting system (using a separate RX and Co. clip-on mount) is straightforward and secure.
Ease of Use and Storage
The bag's magnetic closure system is remarkably user-friendly. Two strong magnets ensure a swift and secure closure with just one hand, allowing quick access to the contents while riding.
The interior features a small zipped compartment and a plastic carabiner for securing smaller items, preventing them from getting lost. My drone, remote control, spare batteries, and other essentials fit neatly inside.
I find the ease of access while riding to be an enormous advantage, compared to my previous backpack method. This bag’s design streamlines the process of grabbing things on the go.
Conclusion: Is the ORTLIEB Ultimate 6 Worth It?
The ORTLIEB Ultimate 6 handlebar bag excels in providing quick and easy access to essential items while cycling, a feature often lacking in similar products.
Its unique opening mechanism, durable construction, and secure mounting system make it an ideal choice for riders who need convenient on-the-go access to their gear.
While the separate mount purchase adds to the cost, the overall convenience and improved riding experience make it a worthwhile investment for those with similar needs. The unique design is what sets this bag apart.