Vario Lite

Single bag

12 reviews

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

Color: petrol

Material:

Nylon PS33

SKU: F7760

In stock – Delivery time: 2-3 business days

at checkout

£155

Tax included.

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: ortlieb@lyon.co.uk

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

30 Day ‘no quibble’ Returns

We want you to be totally happy with your purchases from ORTLIEB and offer a 30 day, no quibble returns policy. If, you are unhappy with your purchase you have the right to return it to us. Any products returned should be in new and unused condition, with labels attached and in undamaged, original packaging.

Please email ortlieb@lyon.co.uk with your order information and reason for return before returning product(s) to us. We will provide you with a pre-authorised returns reference. Please do not return items to us without a returns reference.

You will be responsible for the return postage costs for any product return (unless the product is faulty). We recommend you use an appropriate insured service and obtain proof of postage to cover you against loss or damage in transit.

Refunds will be processed within 14-days on receipt of the package. After the refund is processed, it can take an additional 3 to 5 working days for the funds to reach your back account.

Product Exchanges

Unfortunately, we cannot exchange or swap unwanted items. For exchanges please return the unused product to us and place a new order. A refund will be issued on receipt of the returned item. We aim to process your refund (less any shipping charges) back to your original payment card as quickly as we can, and will notify you upon receipt of the goods.

Warranty Returns

If you feel your product has developed a fault under the manufacturer’s warranty, please contact us at ortlieb@lyon.co.uk with your order information and description of the warranty claim. Please also provide photos of the issue, if possible. We will then advise you of the appropriate course of action.

Vario Lite

£155

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

49 cm

Width

32 cm

Depth

24 cm

Volume

22 L

Load

9 kg

Weight

1180 g

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

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-Lock3.1

Quick-Lock2.2

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

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

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

Feature

Tool-free adjustment

Back of bag is free of protruding hooks

Quick, tool-free adjustment without reducer inserts

Maximum load

9 kg

12.5 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 with all conventional luggage racks

Compatible tube diameters

8–20 mm

8–16 mm (with QL3.1 Mounting Set)

8–20 mm

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 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.

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.

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

On the bag

Anti-scratch coating

On inserts (upper hooks) & lower hook rail

Not required

On upper hooks, lower hook & lower hook rail

All individual parts available as spare parts

View all Quick-Lock2.1 products

View all Quick-Lock3.1 products

View all Quick-Lock2.2 products

Compare similar products

Compare all backpacks

QL2.2

A lightweight hybrid of a backpack and a bicycle bag

Hybrid of backpack and pannier, intuitively and flexibly convertible

Messenger-style laptop backpack for everyday use, university and work

£155

192 – £240

105 – £155

Single/Pair Bag

Single bag

—

Volume

22 L

26 L

17 L, 23 L, 29 L

Mounting System

Quick-Lock2.1

Quick-Lock2.1
Quick-Lock3.1
Quick-Lock2.2

—

Weight

1180 g

1480 – 1620 g

730 – 1070 g

Material

Nylon PS33

Nylon PS33, Plus, High-Vis

TIDURA® strong, Classic, Nylon PS33, High-Vis

Weather protection & closure

Closure

Roll-top closure

Roll-top with hook-and-loop fastener

Waterproof

100 % Waterproof

IP Rating

IP64
The product is dust-tight and protected against splashing water from all directions.

Mounting and carrying options

2-in-1 Bag

Bike bag and Backpack

Mounted on

Rear rack

Rear rack

—

Carry Options

Handle
Backpack straps

Handle
Backpack straps

Backpack straps
Handle

Back Padding

TPU padding

Foam padding

Chest Strap

Waist Strap

Self-Standing

Storage & organization

Inner Pockets

Laptop Compartment

36 cm × 24.5 cm × 2.5 cm

External Pockets

Zip pocket

Zip pocket

—

Clear Pocket

Features & adjustment

External Attachment Points

—

Attachment loops

Compression Options

—

Hydration Tube Port

Reflective Elements

Dimensions

Height

49 cm

47 cm

45 – 50 cm

Width

32 cm

31 – 35 cm

28 – 33 cm

Depth

24 cm

22 – 26 cm

14 – 21 cm

Diameter

—

Length

—

Max. Load

9 kg

9 – 12.5 kg

10 kg

View product page

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.