I'm sorry if this is stupid question but

How on earth do you close these panniers?

I know it is obvious for some but I still can't figure it out!

Tx

Corsaire

Oddly enough, I got my first pair of yellow Ortliebs in the mail today as well, and have the same question. I understand roughly how they're supposed to work, and I have them closed up empty, but they seem like they'd be happier fully loaded.

- Let the plastic strips at the top lie flat against each other
- Roll down 2-3 times
- Fold the clips on each side up and in. Clip them together.

That's all you need. If you want you can attach the shoulder straps to the clip at the bottom to keep it out of the way.

Here's a picture of the front roller plus but it closes just like the back rollers do and here's a link to a larger closeup.

The photo above shows the panniers with the carrying straps attached. Most people I know don't use the straps but roll as before and then bring the tabs together and clip.

I highly suggest using the carrying strap while on tour.
1) The bags close more securely when you do it properly like in the photo above, especially when less than full.
2) You can use the carrying strap for.... carrying the bags! Especially great for food shopping and airports.
3) You can remove the carrying straps and use them as compression straps for everything from strapping extra gear to your bike to tying your bike down on the roof of a chicken bus to keeping your pants around your waist after you lose fifteen pounds
Ride on!

Never needed them and I've cycled thousands of miles with these panniers.
As for your suggestion for using these straps to carry the panniers......that'll never work.

My wife and I both use our rollers for shopping and such and the straps work excellently. They are very useful when using as a shoulder bag.

While touring we use the straps only on the rear bags. We find it easyer to open the front bags (for things needed during the day) without the straps.