The latest generation is formally tidier than its predecessors. In terms of measurements, the frame in the middle quality level - the lightest Orca frame is said to weigh less than 900 grams - is not a high-flyer. However, light to medium-weight riders will have no problems riding a clean line. There is praise for the high level of suspension comfort on the saddle and at least seven sizes. The equipment with a complete Ultegra groupset and good Mavic wheels is beyond reproach. The testers had the impression that the new Mavic tyres manufactured by Hutchinson in France rolled more easily than the old Mavic tyres produced in Thailand.
CONCLUSION Straightforward racing machine without any weaknesses, but also without any particular strengths. Pleasant riding characteristics.
Reference/Info www.orbea.com
Price 2,999 Euro
Weight 7.5 kilos
available in specialised shops
MEASURED DATA
Frame/fork/steering bearing weight 1,119/459/76 grammes
Frame sizes 47, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 60 cm
Seat/steering angle 73°/72,5°
Seat/top tube/head tube 515/565/165 mm plus 16 mm headset cap
Wheelbase/caster 995/61 mm
Stack/Reach/STR 572/391 mm/1.46
EQUIPMENT
Steering bearing FSA, top 1-1/8, bottom 1.5 inch
Brakes/gears/bottom bracket Shimano Ultegra 6800 (50/34 t, Press-Fit BB86)
Wheels/tyres Mavic Ksyrium Équipe S/Mavic Yksion Comp 23C
Handlebar/stem FSA Energy Compact/FSA Energy
Saddle/post Prologo Scratch 2/FSA SL-K (27.2 mm)
*The frame set accounts for 40 per cent and the equipment for 60 per cent of the overall grade. The grades are calculated with all decimal places up to the final grade; however, for the sake of clarity, all grades are given with rounded decimal places.
**Weighed weights.
***Manufacturer's specification, test size bold.
****Stack/Reach: projected vertical/horizontal measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; STR (Stack to Reach): 1.36 means a very stretched, 1.60 an upright riding position.
