Orbea introduced the new Orca Aero, a new generation aero bicycle. It is developed seeking aerodynamic advantages for the bike and components as one system. Considering everyday conditions, like wind impact from all possible angles.
Extensive windtunnel tests showed the high-impact zones to be optimized…
Head tube: a thinner headtube to reduce frontal area impact. And lowered thanks to the lower bottom bracket position.
Fork: an updated fork design that optimizes the airflow between fork and downtube. Without compromising on oversized fork details and ensuring sufficient tyre clearance.
Downtube: a wider downtube to manage airflows efficiently, particularly at 5–20° yaw angles, the most real-world crosswind conditions.
Bottom bracket keel: a further extension of the bottom bracket keel versus its predecessor to enhance aerodynamic contribution.
Seat tube and seat post: moving the Di2 battery to the lower part of the frame allows for a slimmer profile for both seat tube and seat post.
Seat stays: slimmer seat stays with lower junction points to optimise stiffness and weight.
Dropout: a minimal dropout design to optimize integration and reduce weight.
All these aerodynamic improvements and a lower postioned center of gravity resulted in savings of a significant 21W over the previous bike. A low stack and long reach create a performance-focused riding position and stability at speed.
The overall stiffness to weight ratio went up with 27,5% weighing 900 grams with 93 Nmº stiffness. However, comfort is still ensured thanks to special shaping of the rear triangle and a longer seatpost exposure.
Top of the range are the Orca Aero M10i LTD (with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2) and the Orca Aero M11e LTD (with SRAM RED AXS) models. These include a pair of OQUO Road Aero RA57LTD wheels with carbon spokes and an OC-SH-RA10 carbon cockpit. And an integrated Service Box. For just in case…
Price*: € 10.999
More information: www.orbea.com
*Manufacturer price, this could vary by country, pls check your local supplier
Images/video: Orbea