Ortlieb Care & Repair Weeks
27th October – 9th November 2025
At BicycleNation, we’re proud to support Ortlieb’s Care & Repair Weeks, a campaign that stands for something we truly believe in: looking after what you already own.
Since 2022, Care & Repair Weeks have offered a refreshing alternative to the buying frenzy of Black Friday, encouraging riders to repair, maintain, and reuse their gear instead of replacing it. It’s all about extending the life of every bag, reducing waste, and making outdoor adventures more sustainable.
Repair, Don’t Replace
Ortlieb has been repairing its waterproof bags since 1982, long before “sustainability” became a buzzword. Working alongside their UK partner, Lyon Equipment, Ortlieb continues to offer local repair services that reduce transport miles and get your gear back in action faster.
Many small issues can be fixed in-store with Ortlieb’s extensive range of spare parts, while more complex repairs are handled by Lyon’s specialist team in Tebay. Even well-travelled heritage bags can often be restored to full working order.
Simple Tips to Care for Your Ortlieb Bag
Keep your bag adventure-ready and waterproof for years with a few simple maintenance habits:
🧽 Keep it clean:
Wipe off dirt, grit, and road salt with lukewarm water and a soft sponge. Avoid harsh detergents — mild soap does the job without damaging the material.
🌞 Let it dry naturally:
After cleaning or a rainy ride, leave your bag open in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators, which can cause the fabric to warp.
🧴 Lubricate moving parts:
Apply a little silicone or PTFE spray to buckles, clips, and zips every few months to keep them smooth and easy to use.
🔧 Check and tighten:
Inspect screws, hooks, and mounting systems regularly. A quick check prevents wear and ensures your bag stays securely attached to your bike.
🚲 Make sure the wheel doesn’t rub the bag:
If your pannier isn’t sitting right, adjust its mounting position so the bottom corner clears the wheel and mudguard. Continuous rubbing can wear through the material over time – a simple adjustment can save your bag.
🩹 Repair early:
Small punctures or broken clips are best fixed straight away. The sooner you act, the easier (and cheaper) it is to repair.
Join the Care & Repair Movement
From 27th October to 9th November, Ortlieb will be sharing care tips, DIY repair hacks, and insights from brand ambassadors to inspire you to keep your kit going strong. You can even join in by posting your own repair stories or sharing your best maintenance advice. Just tag your posts and help spread the message!
If your Ortlieb bag needs some attention, we’re here to help. Visit us for advice, spare parts, or to arrange a repair. Together, we can make repairs the first choice and keep great gear on the road for longer.
Let’s Ride Sustainably
Supporting repair over replacement is good for your wallet, your gear, and the planet. Thanks for joining us, and Ortlieb, in building a more sustainable future for cycling and adventure.
💚 Need a spare part or repair advice?
Get in touch with us or drop by the shop, and we’ll help you keep your Ortlieb bag lasting longer.