Orbea Orca Aero: A fast and versatile bike

2023-08-18 13:05:13

A personalized assembly thanks to the MyO configurator

For this test, we had the chance to go through the Orbea MyO configurator to build a 2023 M30ILTD, the price of which starts at €4,599. For our configuration, we started by choosing a dominant color closest to velo101 for the wink and a more original secondary color. We detail the assembly here:

Cadre : Orbea Orca Aero Carbon OMX disc, monocoque construction, HS 1,5″, BB 386, powermeter compatible, Thru Axle 12mm x 142mm rear, thread M12x2 P1, Speed release compatible, internal cable routing, EC/DC compatible.
Fork : Orbea Orca Aero OMX ICR, full carbon, 1-1/8″ – 1,5″ tappered head tube compatible, Thru axle 12x100mm, thread M12x2 P1, Speed release compatible dropout.
Direction : FSA 1-1/2″ Integrated Aluminium Cup
Hanger : OC Road Aero RA11 Carbon, Reach 80, Drop 125
Stem : OC Road Performance RP10, -8o
Joysticks : Shimano Di2 R7170
Brakes : Shimano R7170 Hydraulic Disc
Rear derailleur : Shimano 105 Di2 R7150
Front derailleur : Shimano 105 Di2 R7150
Chain : Shimano M7100
Very cool : Orbea Orca Aero OMX, SB0/25, w/Micro tilt adjustment
Guidoline :  Orbea Anti-Slippery/Shock Proof
Can : OC Aero Bottle + Cage RA10
wheels : Vision 40 SC Disc Carbon TLR CL
tires : Vittoria Corsa Competition G2.0 TLR 700x28c
Pedalboard : Shimano 105 R7100 34x50T with left side 4iiii Powermeter Mavic
Front Lockout :  Speed Release 12x100mm M12x2P1.0
Rear Blockage : Mavic Speed Release 12x142mm M12x2P1.0
Cassette : Shimano 105 R7100 11-36t 12-Speed
This : Prologo Scratch-M5 Pas T2.0 size 140mm

Everything for aero without compromising versatility

The Orca Aero is, as its name suggests, the aero model of the Spanish brand. It is constructed from OMX carbon fiber. The OMX configuration is the lightest and also offers the best balance between stiffness and comfort. The frame of the Orca Aero is designed to be aerodynamic and has several features that help reduce drag. We have a downtube shape in Kammtail virtual foil, an integrated areo seat post, the integration of cables in the cockpit, and, on our assembly, Vision Wheels with a 40mm profile.

There is a profiled bottle in the proprietary format which is not the most practical to reposition and for which, in the event of replacement, it will be necessary to go through Orbea. Under the diagonal tube there is a storage compartment which allows you to carry tools, supplies or other keys. Remember to put a small cloth at the bottom if you take metal parts under penalty of having the noise of the vibrations. Beyond the practical aspect, these two elements have been designed to promote aerodynamics as much as possible. On the other hand, we have a visual aspect that is a bit busy for my taste and everyone will think that you are riding an e-bike.

The frame is also lightweight, weighing just 860 grams. The Orca Aero fork is designed to complement the aerodynamic properties of the frame with a weight of 370 grams. The Orca Aero is designed to reduce aerodynamic drag by up to 10% compared to other road bikes. This can save a rider up to 15 watts at 40 km/h and 28 watts at 50 km/h.

I’ve had the pleasure of riding the Orbea Orca Aero for the past few months. I must say that I was surprised by its versatility, which is not the main feature that comes to mind when looking at the bike!


On the road

In view of its aerodynamic design, one can ask the question. Thus, on the flat, efficiency is the key word, even with a headwind, you feel that the bike works well and you easily pick up and keep speed. As soon as you press the pedals, the answer is there with a very good overall rigidity, but not exaggerated.

Downhill, the Orca Aero is a real pleasure to ride. Its aerodynamic design helps keep the bike in line, even at high speeds. I felt very confident descending fast with the Orca Aero and never felt like I might lose control of the bike. The lightweight frame and fork also help make the bike responsive and agile, even when braking hard or cornering at speed.

Uphill, the Orca Aero has nothing to be ashamed of. It’s not the most efficient bike on this playing field, but it doesn’t let us down and stays quick and efficient uphill. I was able to keep up with the group on the climbs and even managed to get ahead on a few occasions. The Orca Aero is also a very versatile bike. It is ideal for competition with its aero, dynamic and rigid side, but it will not hesitate to take you for long distance rides, because the level of comfort is very good. The roughness of the road is well filtered and the hanger allows you to position yourself comfortably.


Strengths of the Orca Aero:

Speed ​​and stability downhill Responsiveness and agility uphill Riding comfort Aerodynamic design Lightweight frame and fork Clearance for wide tires 28 configuration options Stem / Handlebar on the MyO configurator Customizable colors and equipment on MyO Attractive price positioning compared to the competition

Orca Aero Weaknesses:

Can be a bit rough on bumpy roads Not the most efficient climber A bit heavy

Overall, the Orca Aero is a capable bike both downhill and uphill. It’s a fast and efficient bike on all types of terrain, and it’s also comfortable. If you’re looking for a do-it-all bike with a penchant for aero, the Orca Aero is a great choice. If you are looking for a pure climber’s bike, Orbea very recently unveiled the 2023 version of the Orca, which I invite you to discover.

Inveterate climber? Prefer the Orca

Orbéa unveils the new Orca: Lightness and performance on the climber’s program

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