Installing Ortlieb Anti-Theft Cables
I installed Ortlieb's anti-theft cables on my new panniers.
Two weeks ago I purchased a pair of sun yellow Ortlieb Sport-Roller Classic panniers for my Trek Valencia hybrid bicycle. I rarely leave the bike unattended, but I might want to briefly go into a coffee shop or use a port-a-john without having someone lift the panniers off my bike rack. (I carry a U-lock and cable and always lock my bicycle since bicycle theft is common where I live and ride.)
I purchased and installed Ortlieb’s anti-theft cables. These are stainless steel cables that you attach to the back rail of the pannier and secure with a bicycle lock.
The instruction sheet, which can be downloaded from the product page, is pretty clear, except it doesn’t specify that a T15 screwdriver is required.
The trickiest part of the installation is feeding the loop at the end of the cable through the tiny slot in the rail. Here is a photo showing the installed cable.
See the instruction sheet for how to pull the cable out and secure it using a lock. These cables won’t deter a determined thief, but they will prevent casual theft by a passer-by.