Basil City Shopper vs Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic
Comparison 2026 — Bike Bags
VS
Our verdict
Based on our weighted scoring, the Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic edges out the Basil City Shopper with an overall score of 94/100 against 68/100. It scores particularly well on waterproofing (100/100) and capacity (90/100), making it the better all-round pick in Bike Bags.
The Basil City Shopper remains a sensible alternative if price is your main concern — it lands at €39.95 versus €134.95.
Waterproofing winner
Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic
50% higher than its rival
Value winner
Basil City Shopper
14% better value for money
Specifications
| Specification | Basil City Shopper | Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €39.95+238% | €134.95 |
| Rating | ★4.2 (1,680) | ★4.7 (4,200) |
| Overall | 68/100 | 94/100+38% |
| Capacity | ||
| Volume | 16 L | 20 L per tas (set van 2)+25% |
| Dimensions | 35 × 31 × 15 cm | 42 × 32 × 17 cm+20% |
| Load capacity | — | 9 kg per tas |
| Material | ||
| Main material | Polyester dubbelwandig | PU-gecoat Cordura nylon |
| Waterproof | Nee (waterafstotend) | IP64, gelaste naden + rolsluiting |
| Weight | 500 g+86% | 930 g per tas |
| Mount | ||
| System | Haken voor bagagedrager | QL2.1 Quick-Lock |
Pros and cons
Basil City Shopper
Pros
- Double-walled design keeps the bag open for easy loading
- Budget price — the cheapest decent bike bag in this list
- Universal hooks fit almost any rear rack
- Reflective details for visibility in the dark
Cons
- Not waterproof — you'll need a rain cover when it pours
- Hooks are basic, nowhere near as solid as Ortlieb's QL2.1
Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic
Pros
- 100% waterproof thanks to welded seams and roll closure — proven over years of touring
- QL2.1 mount: one-handed click-on and click-off, fits any rear rack
- 20 litres per bag (set of 2 = 40 litres)
- 5-year warranty, Made in Germany, repair service available
Cons
- Premium price for a set of two bags
- Roll closure is less convenient than a zip for grabbing things quickly