Originally teased at Eurobike last year, ORTLIEB’s Thru Axle M6-Connectors, Quick-Rack L, and Quick-Rack XL are now officially available in the USA and UK. Designed to bring rack-and-pannier capability to bikes without mounts, the system enables axle-based installation on everything from gravel bikes to mountain bikes. Details here…

Reported a year ago at Eurobike, ORTLIEB’s Thru Axle M6-Connectors, Quick-Rack L, and Quick-Rack XL are finally here. As of late last week, they’re officially available in the USA and UK. Designed as a system to expand compatibility with modern thru-axle bikes—particularly those lacking proper mounting eyelets—these three accessories offer the ability to add a rack and panniers, similar to the Quick Rack I reviewed, but using mounts integrated into the axle. In a nutshell, the Quick-Rack L is a slightly taller version of the original, optimized for axle mounting on gravel bikes and ATBs, and the Quick-Rack XL offers even more clearance for mountain bikes with larger tires and wider frames. Here are the details on all three components.

Ortlieb Thru Axle M6-Connector

The Thru Axle M6-Connector is Ortlieb’s solution to add a rack or trailer to about any thru-axle-equipped bike. Designed as a universal adapter, it replaces a standard rear axle and provides integrated M6 threaded mounts at both ends, enabling the attachment of racks such as the ORTLIEB Quick-Rack L or XL, as well as trailers. With an adjustable length range from 165/168mm up to 180mm and spacers included for fine-tuning fit, the axle works with a wide range of bike frames.

Made in Germany from high-quality aluminum, the M6-Connector is available in three thread pitches (1.0, 1.5, and 1.75mm) and includes two sets of M6 bolts and washers for $35 or £35. Find all the details at Ortlieb.com.

ORTLIEB Quick-Rack L

The ORTLIEB Quick-Rack L uses the brand’s “5/15” quick-release system, so it can be mounted or removed in just a few seconds, making it ideal for those who alternate between a stripped-down ride and a bikepacking or commuter setup. Once removed, the rack leaves the bike with no permanent hardware (aside from the axle). It’s compatible with carbon frames and seatposts, and Ortlieb says it’s suitable for many full-suspension bikes as well.

The Quick-Rack L offers dual mounting levels for simultaneous use of a rack bag and panniers, and it supports all ORTLIEB QL1, QL2.1, QL3.1, and Top-Lock bags. The included QL3/3.1 mounting elements can be removed when not needed, and an integrated bracket is ready for an optional rear light. The Quick-Rack L has a 20-kilogram load capacity, and Ortlieb claims it clears a 50mm (2”) tire when mounted via an adapter axle or up to 2.9“/3” when mounted directly to rack mounts or with their Seat Stay Adapter. Based on my experience with the original Quick Rack, I suspect it will have a little more clearance than what’s stated. The Quick-Rack L weighs 605 grams, sells for $130/£100, and is available at Ortlieb.com.

Quick-Rack XL left; Quick-Rack L right

ORTLIEB Quick-Rack XL

The ORTLIEB Quick-Rack XL has all the features of the L version, but it’s designed to carry loads up to 27 kilograms and supports all ORTLIEB pannier systems (QL1, QL2.1, QL3.1, and Top-Lock). Integrated mounting threads make it easy to attach QL3.1 snap-in knobs, and ORTLIEB claims it clears tire sizes up to 29×2.6” (and even wider when mounted with adapters or to rack mounts). The Quick-Rack XL weighs 700 grams and sells for $140/£119. Details at Ortlieb.com.

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