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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.

T15 ScrewdriverT15 Screwdriver

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.

Installed Security CableInstalled Security 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.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.