Ortlieb Gravel Adventure with Quick Rack & Co.

From May 21 to May 23, this year’s Tuscany Trail took place – according to the organizers, the largest bikepacking event in the world. For the first time, participants started in Campiglia Marittima on the Tuscan coast. The twist: no mass start, no time pressure, no ranking. Anyone who wanted to could set off on the route on any day within the defined time frame.

Among those at the start were Max Schrenk from the team 2RC Format Radshop Kalteis and his wife Alexa, both on their gravel bikes. Together, they tackled the 430 km loop with around 5,300 meters of elevation gain – a route that leads through the characteristic hills of Tuscany, historic cities, and picturesque villages. The official GPS track is mandatory, and shortcuts are not allowed.

Since it is a “no-race” format, participants were completely on their own. Eating, sleeping, enduring – everything was their own responsibility. Those, like Alexa and Max, who deliberately chose to forgo fixed accommodations quickly faced a serious logistical challenge: sleeping bag, tent, stove, and other gear had to be carried, but at the same time, the setup needed to be compact and absolutely waterproof.

In search of a suitable carrying system, they opted for the proven Ortlieb Quick Rack L in combination with the Gravel panniers (14.5 liters each) and the 16-liter dry pack. Inspiration came from an article on Bikeboard.at about bikepacking solutions, including the editorial team’s own homemade experiences.

This is where the first problem became apparent during preparation: Neither of the two carbon bikes – neither the Cube nor the Cannondale – had appropriate mounting options for the Quick-Rack on the dropouts. For frames made of steel, aluminum, or titanium, Ortlieb previously offered affordable adapter solutions for the seat stays, but with carbon frames, that was the end of the line.

The frame attachment, as seen here on the TREK Checkpoint, was not possible.

The solution also came from Ortlieb: The new Thru Axle M6-Connectors - special thru axles with integrated threaded mounts - allow the installation of luggage racks like the Quick Rack L or XL even on frames without traditional mounting points. And this with a load capacity of up to 26 kg (in the case of the XL). Purchased!

Bikeboard Tip: Since the mounting points on the Ortlieb thru axles are positioned lower than on conventional mounting adapters, the Quick Rack in standard size usually offers too little tire clearance. Therefore, when using thru axles, the Quick Rack L or Quick Rack XL should always be chosen - this also leaves enough space for the attachable mudguard extension.

Our plan was clear – instead of chasing best times, we wanted to do what the organizer themselves recommends: explore the region, enjoy the culinary delights, and let the landscape take its effect. We had eight days at our disposal, and we wanted to enjoy them without time pressure but with a full experience factor.

We were aware that not everything could be planned along the way. Weather changes, breakdowns, or spontaneous detours are simply part of the Tuscany Trail. That is exactly what makes up a large part of its charm and challenge.

The first breakdown didn’t take long to happen. Even before departure, Max had quickly installed a new, freshly waxed chain. The test ride was skipped due to time constraints. On the first few kilometers, it became apparent: the somewhat worn chainring was anything but thrilled with the new chain. The break-in period was tough, and the interaction remained bumpy over long stretches. Conclusion: Next time, chain and chainring will be replaced together.

Even when it came to accommodation, we wanted to play it safe. Despite good route organization, it was clear given the number of participants that hotels would not always be an option. That’s why, in addition to our bikepacking gear, we also packed a tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag. And that turned out to be a good decision.

Because already on the second day, the time had come. No lodging in sight, so off to the base camp. Of all nights, it rained continuously that night, but the setup held. The tent withstood the weather, and everything stayed dry. The next morning, we started into a sunny, dreamlike day. The equally cool and damp night was forgotten, and the adventure could continue.

The Tuscany Trail is not a wellness weekend on two wheels but an epic adventure between sweat, dust, and Chianti. From Follonica to Volterra, through Pienza, Siena, and San Gimignano – this route is as beautiful as it is brutal. The mix of legendary Strade Bianche, nasty climbs, and rough descents tests not only legs and nerves but especially the equipment. In short: Whoever makes it through here is either perfectly prepared or rides with Ortlieb.

Because our Ortlieb setup was impressive across the board. The bags swallowed everything that needed to come along – from the toothbrush to half a pharmacy. Despite tough handling, they were quickly packed, easy to mount, and – with one single exception – stayed bombproof on the bike even on the roughest terrain. No wobbling, no scraping, no compromises. And yes, they didn’t ruin the bike’s handling, which is rare enough with a fully loaded setup.

On top of that, everything stayed dry, although we only got to test this during the intensive final cleaning at the finish line. The heavy rain spared us, luckily. Instead, we got plenty of sunshine, exquisite Italian cuisine, and espresso in every village that made our hearts beat faster.

The organization? Top-notch. 6,500 people, well-distributed, zero stress. The community? Helpful, motivated, and in unbelievably good spirits. Whether it was technical assistance, a water bottle, or just a pat on the shoulder: On the Tuscany Trail, you’re never truly alone.