Quick-Release Fork Packs: A Review Roundup

Fork packs, sometimes called micro panniers or even rack packs, are an intriguing cargo solution for bikepacking. These days, several models that offer unique quick-release attachment systems are gaining popularity. But why might you want to use them? Let’s take a closer look at their benefits and four of the available options, including the brand-new Old Man Mountain Hemlock. Watch the video below, and read on for details and pros/cons for each one.

It’s common to hear claims that bikepacking is just a rebranded version of traditional touring. The reality, however, is that modern bikepacking gear is specifically designed for rougher terrain. While some designs may draw inspiration from past products or other industries, the core philosophy of bikepacking differs from traditional touring. It emphasizes an off-road, lightweight, and minimalist approach—encouraging riders to venture away from cars, crowds, and into expansive, untamed landscapes filled with wildlife and diverse ecosystems. This shift in mindset has fundamentally changed how cyclists think about carrying cargo. The innovations in bikepacking gear aren’t just about creating new products for the sake of it; they aim to enhance the riding experience. That’s something worth appreciating.

What Are Quick-release Fork Packs?

Fork packs come in various styles, with many designed to work with existing cargo cages on the market. These setups are particularly effective when paired with systems like the Salsa Anything Cage, King Cage Manything Cage, and others, creating a solid and reliable cargo-carrying solution. While rack makers like Salsa and King Cage have played a key role in this space, a wide range of cargo cages and bags are now available, and we’ve compiled a comprehensive Gear Index on our site to cover them all, which you can find linked at the bottom of this post.

Here, however, the focus is on fork packs that come with their own unique mounting systems. While fewer in number, these setups stand out for their innovative designs. Most feature waterproof or welded construction, incorporate a quick-release mounting system, and are compatible with racks or forks equipped with three-pack mounts. Some can even be used on forks without mounts—a feature that expands their versatility. With the growing prevalence of three-pack mounts, manufacturers have seized the opportunity to develop specialized cargo systems to fit them.

Like cargo cages, dry bags, and straps, these solutions help maximize carrying capacity, whether for riders on smaller bikes with limited space or those simply looking for extra room. While there are countless creative ways to haul gear—including many DIY hacks we’ve covered—these quick-release fork packs offer a convenient, off-the-shelf alternative.

That said, extra weight on the fork has its drawbacks, particularly in how it affects maneuverability and front-end handling. Given the choice, I generally prefer to carry weight on the rear of the bike rather than the front. However, there are scenarios where fork-mounted storage makes sense, especially when carrying extra water. And while these systems are primarily designed for forks, many work just as well for rear storage, offering a versatile solution for expanding cargo capacity.

Old Man Mountain Hemlock and Flip-cage Review

Old Man Mountain officially launched the Hemlock today, a system first teased in the summer of 2023 with a 3D-printed prototype cage and bag. Based on the production model, the final design remains largely unchanged.

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The Hemlock bag is designed to integrate with OMM’s FLiP Cages, which are included with the Hemlock or available separately. OMM claims this is the first fork pack mount and cargo cage combined into a single system. They’ve also expressed openness to other brands developing bags compatible with the FLiP Cage, which stands for Fast Lock in Place—a feature the system executes well.

The seven-liter Hemlock bag is constructed from fully welded, PFAS/PFC-free waterproof ripstop nylon with Hypalon reinforcement in high-wear areas for added durability and structure. It features injection-molded hardware, a bottom hook, and an oversized top lever that pivots for easy mounting.

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The FLiP Cage itself is made from glass-reinforced, injection-molded nylon and attaches using three-pack mounts. Installing the bag is straightforward. Hook the lower bag hooks into the cage, press the upper part of the bag flush against it, and turn the lever 90 degrees in either direction to lock it in place. Old Man Mountain notes that when used without a FLiP-compatible bag, the cages include an optional cargo foot and slots for Voilé straps, functioning like a standard cargo cage. This added versatility suggests more options may be on the way.

After a few months of testing the Hemlock as rear cargo storage on a commuter bike, it has proven to be quiet, durable, and reliable. A more in-depth review is planned for later this year.

• Actual Weight (cage and bag): 483 grams (17 oz) per side
• Max Weight Capacity: 4.5 kilograms (9.9 lbs) per pack
• Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
• Price: $175 per pair with FLiP cage
• Manufacturer’s Details: Old Man Mountain

Tailfin Fork Pack

The Tailfin Fork Pack is another system introduced in late 2023, available in 5- and 10-liter sizes. Both versions are constructed from welded Hypalon and PU-coated ripstop nylon, ensuring they are fully waterproof when properly sealed.

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Like OMM, Tailfin employs a separate cross-shaped aluminum mount that bolts to three-pack mounts on forks or other locations, including compatibility with their Suspension Fork Mounts (SFM), which are available separately for $40 per pair. The Fork Pack includes the bag, mount, and all necessary hardware for installation.

The system attaches via Tailfin’s X-Clamp mechanism, a miniaturized version of the one used on their panniers, featuring 10mm clamps instead of 16mm. This keeps the bag closer to the bike, improving weight distribution and maneuverability. However, the smaller X-Clamp is only compatible with the included aluminum mount and doesn’t work with other racks. That said, Tailfin’s pannier hardware is compatible with these bags, allowing them to be used on a standard rack with the purchase of the pannier upper and lower spares.

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Installation is straightforward, and the compact mount maintains a clean aesthetic when the bags are removed. As with all Tailfin products, the design prioritizes a low-profile appearance, user-friendly functionality, a secure fit, and minimal weight.

Weight capacity is 1.5 kilograms per mounting point, meaning a total of 4.5 kilograms if all three points are used, similar to the OMM system. Also, find our full review of this system here.

• Actual Weight (5L bag + Mount): 376 grams (13.3 oz)
• Actual Weight (10L bag + Mount): 460 grams (16.2 oz)
• Place of Manufacture: China
• Max Weight Capacity: 4.5 kilograms (9.9 lbs) per pack
• Price (5L Pack + Mount): £80/$100/€95
• Price (10L Pack + Mount): £100/$125/€115
• Manufacturer’s Details: Tailfin

Ortlieb Fork Pack

Released in 2020, the Ortlieb Fork Pack system is available in two sizes: 4.1L and 5.8L. Like the OMM and Tailfin bags, it features a fully welded, roll-top design made from poly-coated nylon, ensuring gear stays dry and secure. A plastic stiffener on the back helps the bag maintain its shape.

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The bag attaches using a spring-loaded mechanism that locks into Ortlieb’s lightweight composite mounting bracket, which is designed for forks with three-pack mounts. One key advantage of this system is its versatility. Ortlieb includes an additional mounting system that allows installation on straight-gauge tubing, meaning it can be used on suspension forks or steel forks without dedicated mounts.

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Attaching the bag is straightforward: the bottom teeth hook in first, followed by the upper teeth, which slide into place with a definitive click. Its square shape resembles the OMM design, but both the 4.1L and 5.8L versions are smaller and arguably better proportioned for fork-mounted storage. You can find a more detailed review of the Ortlieb Fork Pack here.

• Actual Weight (4.1L): 264 grams (9.3 oz)
• Actual Weight (5.8L): 315 grams (11.11 oz)
• Place of Manufacture: Germany
• Weight Capacity: 3kg (6.6 lbs)
• Price (4.1L): $65 per pack
• Price (5.8L): $75 per pack
• Manufacturer’s Details: Ortlieb

Gramm Tourpacking Micro Panniers

This is the only fork pack in this lineup that we haven’t tested firsthand, so its performance remains unverified. However, based on available details and our other experiences with the innovative Berlin brand, the Gramm Tourpacking Micro Panniers appear to be a well-thought-out system. Unlike the rigid mounting solutions from Ortlieb, Tailfin, and OMM, these soft bags attach to an Allygn heat-treated 6061 aluminum rack using a Fidlock system with an additional Loxx fastener inside for added security.

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Sold in pairs, the Micro Panniers offer a 3L capacity per bag, making them a compact alternative to larger fork packs. They also feature expandable overflow space via exterior bungees. Available in three fabric options—X-Pac RX36, Ultra 200X Black Magic, or UltraGrid—they differ from most fork packs by utilizing a coil zipper closure instead of a roll-top design. Notably, these bags are not waterproof.

The accompanying rack mounts to forks or rear racks using a three-pack mounting system. The Fidlock mechanism secures the bags, while the Loxx fastener ensures they stay in place. Additionally, the rack includes strap slots, allowing it to be used with a dry bag instead of the Micro Panniers if needed.

• Weight: 790 grams (27.9 oz) per side
• Place of Manufacture: Portugal/Germany
• Price: $300 per pair
• Manufacturer’s Details: place

What are your thoughts on quick-release fork packs? Do you have a favorite or another suggestion? Let us know in the conversation below!

Further Reading

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