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I am interested in the Ortlieb Handlebar Bags, the Ultimate 5 Plus, but I am not sure which size to get. Can those that have them give your thoughts on the sizes and what type of stuff you can get in them? I am slowly preparing for my first long distance ride and what to make sure I have enough stuff with me, but of course overkill isn't needed either. Thanks for your help and advice. :)
Thats been my topic of discussion for a few days now.
I use an ortlieb bag Ultimate 5 plus (the smaller size.)
Ill be honest the ortlieb bag is well made, has a very good mount system , keeps the rain out
on the down side 1) capacity during spring and fall riding I need more room up front than the ortlieb can provide .
2) the ultimate 5 plus with not much in it bounces quite a bit and can cause front end wobble as it mounts a little high on the bars.
3) not enough pockets for me for commutes and long rides
Im going to a front rack/larger bag as I need the space ,the better stability will be a plus.
it also depends on what you want to carry !! if your only going to put wallet ,keys, phone , sunglasses and a few granola bars , and perhaps your gloves the ortlieb will work fine.
if you get the larger size and realy stuff it I do belive bike handling will suffer.
again depends on the load my situation calls for different rear bags depending on weather and where im going (panniers or a carradice) I also have a cable lock for commutes, a CLICK stand, a hefty tool kit, mini pump a first aid kit, small back up bike light, spare blinkie and an extra pair of reading glasses (forget good ones at times)
I get tired of transfering all that stuff into the different rear bags and sometimes stuff gets left behind .
the other issue is like today I started off wearing winter layers , it was cold this morning But half way through the commute I took off the hat , lined gloves, one T shirt, and the helmet cover
I would have liked to stuff it all in a large front bag while on the bike but I didnt have room in the ortlieb so I had to stop ,park the bike and open/RE pack the panniers.
On long rides when not transporting work clothes it would be nice to have the rain gear up front .
thats my take.
"John"