Vario Lite

Single bag

10 reviews

A lightweight hybrid of a backpack and a bicycle bag for maximum versatility.

Color: petrol

Material:

Nylon PS33

SKU: F7760

In stock – Shipping Time: 1-3 business days

at checkout

$195

Tax excluded.

5 year

5-Year Warranty

ORTLIEB Manufacturer's Warranty for End Customers – 5 Years

This voluntary manufacturer's warranty ("Warranty") grants additional rights and does not affect the statutory warranty rights against the seller. The exercise of statutory rights is free of charge and independent of this Warranty.

Warrantor is ORTLIEB Sportartikel GmbH, Rainstraße 6, 91560 Heilsbronn, Germany ("ORTLIEB"), email: customerservice@ortlieb.de.

1. Subject matter and scope of the Warranty

ORTLIEB warrants that the product is free from material and workmanship defects under normal use. The Warranty applies worldwide to ORTLIEB products purchased from authorized retailers or online dealers or directly from the ORTLIEB web shop. It is limited to the first purchaser and is not transferable.

2. Warranty period

The warranty period is 5 years from the date of first purchase from a retailer or online dealer or directly from ORTLIEB by the end customer. The end customer is the customer who first purchased the ORTLIEB product for their own use — not for resale — from a retailer or online dealer or directly from the ORTLIEB web shop. The invoice or delivery date of the first purchase is decisive. Proof is provided exclusively by the purchase receipt or invoice. A repair or replacement does not extend or renew the warranty period; the date of the first delivery remains decisive.

3. Scope of warranty performance

In the event of a warranty claim, ORTLIEB will, free of charge:

repair the product itself; or
replace the product with an equivalent product if repair is impossible or uneconomical.

No further claims arise from this Warranty. Statutory claims remain unaffected.

4. Exclusions

The Warranty does not cover in particular:

normal wear and age-related changes (e.g., wear of surfaces, zippers, buckles),
damage resulting from improper use, overloading, or failure to observe assembly/care instructions,
damage due to third-party interventions, modifications, or the use of non-approved spare parts/accessories,
damage due to improper transport, storage, cleaning, or care,
chafing marks, holes, and tears caused by the user's own fault.

These exclusions apply exclusively to this Warranty. Statutory rights for defects remain unaffected.

5. Making a warranty claim

The first point of contact in warranty cases is generally the retailer or online dealer with whom the purchase contract was concluded. A direct claim to ORTLIEB is possible at any time and is not dependent on prior involvement of the dealer. To make a claim, please provide:

a brief description of the defect and, if possible, meaningful photos,
the product designation (and any identification/serial information),
a copy of the proof of purchase (invoice/delivery note showing the date of first delivery),
your sender/contact details for queries and return shipment.

ORTLIEB will confirm receipt and inform you about the further process. Processing will take place within a reasonable period after receipt of the complete documents. Contact for warranty processing: customerservice@ortliebusa.com

6. Transport and shipping costs

Within the European Union, ORTLIEB bears the reasonable outbound and return shipping costs of the warranty processing. Outside the EU, ORTLIEB will assume the costs upon prior written approval. Please contact us before dispatch and await the return instructions. Unapproved chargeable express or special services will not be reimbursed.

7. Applicable law

This Warranty is governed by the law of the Federal Republic of Germany. Mandatory consumer protection provisions of the state in which the consumer has their habitual residence remain unaffected.

As of: September 2026

30 days

Refund policy

If you are not happy with your purchase, you have the right to return it within 30 days of receipt. Any returned items must be unused, in new condition, with tags attached, and in the original, undamaged packaging.

For more information about the return-process please visit our returns page.

You will be responsible for the return shipping costs unless the product is faulty. Refunds will be issued to your original payment method once the return has been processed. Items that do not meet our return conditions may be subject to a restocking fee or denied a refund.

Conditions

No in-person returns – Our distribution center is not open to the public.
Products that are used, damaged, altered, or missing parts/accessories are not refundable.
Returns without a Return Authorization Number (RA#) may be subject to a $9.99 fee and a 20% restocking fee.
Returns outside the 30-day window will be refused and sent back to the customer.
Exchanges: We do not offer direct exchanges. To replace an item, return the unwanted product and place a new order separately.
Warranty Claims: If your product has a manufacturer defect, please check our warranty section for return instructions.
Damaged in Shipping: If your product was damaged in transit, contact the shipping carrier immediately to report the issue, then reach out to our Customer Service team. ORTLIEB USA LLC is not responsible for damages caused during shipping.
Pro-Deal Purchases: Items bought through professional courtesy sales (Pro-Deals) are not eligible for return. If purchased via ExpertVoice, please contact support@expertvoice.com for assistance.

For further questions, reach out to our Customer Service team at customerservice@ortliebusa.com.

We protect 1 m² of rainforest for orders over $160.

Vario Lite

$195

Clever, reversible Powernet flap for quick switching between backpack and bike bag mode

Equipped with the robust Quick-Lock2.1 system, the Vario Lite fits almost any luggage rack.

Outer pocket in the flap for quick access to frequently used items

Well-designed interior including a laptop compartment

Protection class IP64 – dustproof and protected against splashing water from all directions

The Vario Lite seamlessly combines a waterproof backpack and a practical bicycle bag, offering ultimate flexibility and functionality. With its innovative roll-top closure and Quick-Lock mounting system, it's the perfect choice for commuters, touring cyclists, and everyday adventurers.

Featuring a clever, reversible Powernet flap, the Vario Lite allows you to switch between backpack and bike bag modes in seconds. Both the shoulder straps and Quick-Lock system are fully covered, maintaining a clean and streamlined design in any configuration.
This lightweight version of the proven Vario stands out with its tear- and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric, ergonomic carrying system, and thoughtfully designed interior, including a padded laptop compartment.

Built for those who demand versatility, comfort, and durability, the Vario Lite ensures you're always ready—whether on your bike or on your back. Like all ORTLIEB products, it is proudly manufactured in Germany with the highest standards of quality and reparability.

Specifications

Height

19.3 in

Width

12.6 in

Depth

9.4 in

Volume

22 L

Load

19.8 lb

Weight

41.6 oz

SKU

F7760

Waterproof

Yes ()

IP Ratings

The IP rating is an international standard that indicates how well a product is protected against dust and water.

The Vario Lite meets the IP64 protection rating:

Even in very heavy rain and splashing water, the contents stay perfectly dry. The Vario Lite is therefore ideal for longer outdoor adventures in stormy conditions.

All protection ratings at a glance

IP67

The product is dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion (up to 1 m for 30 min.).

IP64

The product is dust-tight and protected against splashing water from all directions.

IP54

The product is dust-protected and protected against splashing water from all directions.

IP53

The product is dust-protected and protected against spraying water up to 60° from vertical.

Material

PU-coated nylon (ps33)

Mounting System

Quick-Lock2.1

Downloads

Instruction
Datasheet

Scope of delivery

1x pannier/backpack-hybrid with QL2.1 mounting system
1x set of reduction inserts (8 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm; one pair each)

Spare parts

Bike-rack abrasion guards

QL2.1 Mounting Hooks

Inserts for QL2.1 hooks

Semi-elliptical bracket for lower QL2.1 anchoring hook

Screw set

QL2.2 Hooks

QL1/ 2/ 2.1/ 2.2 Anchoring Hook

Repair Ladderlock

Warnings and safety information

Risk of injury due to incorrectly attached products! Before riding, check that the product is securely fastened.
Risk of injury due to loose straps! Secure loose straps before driving off.
Risk of injury due to loose components on the product. Screws can loosen over time due to vibrations. Therefore, check the screws after 100 km, 500 km, 1000 km and 1500 km and retighten them if necessary.
Risk of injury due to material breakage if overloaded! Do not exceed the maximum payload of 9 kg. If necessary, weigh your load to ensure that you do not exceed the maximum payload.

Care and usage instructions

Wipe clean with a damp cloth or clean with warm water and a mild soap solution. Remove heavier soiling carefully using a soft brush and gall soap.
Allow the bag to dry completely before storage.
To achieve protection class IP64 (6 = dust-tight, 4 = protected against water splashes from all directions), the closure must be rolled down 3–4 times and secured downward.
Keep free of coarse dirt.
Do not store the bag rolled up or folded, as this may cause the coating to crack.
Store protected from UV radiation to prevent the material from fading.
Reproofing is not necessary. The fabrics have a waterproof coating and therefore do not require any additional chemical treatment.
As signs of wear cannot be completely ruled out, it is recommended to protect all contact points between the bag mounting system and the luggage rack or bicycle frame with paint protection film.

Manufacturer information

ORTLIEB Sportartikel GmbH
Rainstraße 6
91560 Heilsbronn
Germany
deinservice@ortlieb.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How easy is it to switch between backpack and bike bag?

Switching takes just a few simple steps and only seconds. Thanks to the reversible flap that covers either the Quick-Lock system or the carrying system, the Vario can be converted from a bike bag to a backpack in no time. Shoulder straps and hooks are completely covered in each mode, ensuring comfort and a clean look.

Which mounting system is right for me?

That depends on how you want to use your bag.
All ORTLIEB mounting systems sit securely on the bike and can be operated comfortably with one hand.

The Quick-Lock2 systems are ideal if you frequently attach your bag to different luggage racks. The hooks lock securely onto the rack tube and hold reliably. The Quick-Lock2.2 system also offers higher load capacity and can be flexibly adjusted to different tube diameters.

If you prefer a bag without visible hooks on the back, the Quick-Lock3.1 system is the right choice. The bag clicks into special mounting points on the rack or into a permanently installed bracket and locks securely in place.

You can find more information and an overview of all systems on our Quick-Lock overview page.

To the Quick-Lock overvi

Is the Vario Lite waterproof?

The Vario Lite is waterproof according to protection class IP64. This rating indicates:

The product is dust-tight and protected against splashing water from all directions. Even in very heavy rain and splashing water, the contents stay perfectly dry. The Vario Lite is therefore ideal for longer outdoor adventures in stormy conditions.

More about waterproofness

Can the Vario Lite be locked securely to the bike?

That depends on the mounting system used. Our Quick-Lock2.1 and Quick-Lock2.2 bags can be secured directly to the luggage rack using the optional QL2-Lock. The lock is attached to the upper rail of the mounting system and reliably secures the bag to the bike. However, the bag itself is not locked.

With Quick-Lock3.1, locking the bag is not possible.

To the QL2-Lock

Does my laptop fit into the bag?

The Vario Lite has a laptop compartment measuring 36 cm × 24.5 cm × 2.5 cm, so you can safely transport your laptop.

How comfortable is the Vario to wear as a backpack?

The Vario offers high wearing comfort. Padded shoulder straps, a chest strap and the ergonomically shaped back panel ensure a pleasant carrying experience even on longer routes. Thanks to even weight distribution and breathable material, the backpack remains comfortable even on warm days.

Where is the Vario Lite manufactured?

The Vario Lite is manufactured in Heilsbronn, Germany, standing for genuine “Made in Germany” quality. Every production step, from material cutting to final inspection, takes place in our own facilities. Materials are sourced locally, regionally, or internationally according to strict requirements. Our high standards for raw materials extend the product’s lifespan and conserve resources.

More about Made in Germany

How long is my warranty?

The Vario Lite is designed for longevity and often accompanies you for decades. To give you peace of mind regarding durability, we offer a five-year warranty on materials and workmanship. If the Vario Lite does get damaged, almost every component from straps to buckles can be repaired. Even if a model is no longer produced, spare parts remain available for at least ten years.

Our warranty terms
How ORTLIEB products can be repaired

Is the Vario Lite worth the price?

ORTLIEB products stand for durability and repairability. The Vario Lite is manufactured in our factory in Heilsbronn, Germany. We source materials locally, regionally, or internationally depending on what meets our high standards. We invest time in development to ensure the functionality of every detail.

Thanks to long-lasting materials, the bag is a reliable companion. Its lifespan puts the purchase price into perspective, especially since we offer a five-year warranty on our products. A wide range of repair and upgrade options further improves the price-performance ratio.

Repair before replacement: Every product is designed to be easy to repair and can, in most cases, be serviced by our Customer Service team in Heilsbronn. This extends its lifespan and conserves resources.

Our mounting systems compared

The QL mounting systems on ORTLIEB panniers allow fast and secure mounting on racks. They are referred to as self-locking fixing systems, for the panniers provided with this system can be mounted to the racks in an easy and safe manner. In case of damage all components can be replaced easily.

To the detailed overview of the mounting systems

Current product Current productQuick-Lock2.1

Quick-Lock2.2

Quick-Lock3.1

ORTLIEB’s most proven mounting system, trusted by millions of satisfied cyclists.

The evolution of the QL2.1 system, with higher payload and quick switching between different bikes.

The QL3.1 system secures the bag to the rack particularly quickly and easily and offers excellent carrying comfort away from the bike.

Feature

Tool-free adjustment

Quick, tool-free adjustment without reducer inserts

Back of bag is free of protruding hooks

Maximum load

9 kg

12.5 kg

9 kg

Compatible racks

Compatible with all conventional luggage racks

For racks with QL3.1-compatible mounting points. Can also be retrofitted with the QL3.1 Mounting Set.

Compatible tube diameters

8–20 mm

8–16 mm (with QL3.1 Mounting Set)

The 16 mm hooks can be adjusted to 8, 10 and 12 mm using the included reducer inserts. With the QL2.1 hooks and anchoring hooks, 18 or 20 mm tubes can also be used.

The hooks can be adjusted tool-free between 10 and 16 mm in 1 mm increments. With the QL2.1 hooks, 18 or 20 mm tubes can also be used.

The QL3.1 Mounting Set can be attached to racks with a tube diameter of up to 16 mm. For tube diameters from 11 to 16 mm, the adapter clamps are also required.

More features

Lockable

with the QL2-Lock or the anti-theft device

(not included)

with the QL2-Lock or the anti-theft device

(not included)

—

One-handed operation possible

Mounting components

On the bag

On the rack

Anti-scratch coating