Orbea ORCA M30 Review
- Price: $2999
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Vittoria Zafiro V Rigid bead 700x28c
- Gear: 2 x 11
What we like about it: The wide range of color options that can meet the preferences of different riders.
What we don’t like about it: As a racing bike, the aluminum wheels may limit the speed.
Rating: (4.7/5)
Competitive sports are loved by many, and everyone desires to participate in races and achieve success. To better assist those who aspire to compete, I have discovered the Orbea ORCA M30. It is an exceptional racing bike, and I have high expectations for its performance.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Orbea ORCA M30.
In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other top bike models. If you want to read more bike reviews, stay tuned.
Riding Experience
To truly evaluate this bike’s racing capabilities, I purchased a flight through Skyscanner and booked a hotel with IHG Hotels & Resorts to participate in the Critical Mass event in Budapest. The route consisted of numerous challenging uphill and downhill sections, with steep gradients and many curves. The race was also attended by a large number of participants, which added further obstacles to my ride.
Racing Performance
I must admit, it pleasantly surprised me. The lightweight carbon fiber frame made a noticeable difference. While riding, I barely felt the weight of the bike, allowing me to focus more on my speed.
During uphill climbs, I adjusted the Shimano 105 R7000 GS rear derailleur and Shimano 105 R7000 front derailleur to the smallest gear ratio. This provided me with more power while exerting less effort, allowing me to distribute my energy efficiently on different road segments.
On downhill sections, I held onto the OC Road Performance RP31-R handlebar tightly. It achieved a perfect balance between weight, durability, and stiffness, with a compact drop that aligned well with ergonomics. The 10mm reach range further enhanced its ergonomic design.
In corners, I made full use of my experience and skill to confidently handle the OC Road Performance RP31-R. The Vittoria Zafiro V Rigid bead tires provided excellent grip, ensuring stability without any slippage during turns. The head tube angle, ranging from 71.0° to 73.2°, improved the bike’s maneuverability. I effortlessly navigated through bends of various angles.
Furthermore, with a large number of riders on the track, potential dangers were present. However, the Shimano R7070 Hydraulic Disc brakes allowed me to decelerate or stop the bike promptly when needed.
Is that all?
I felt very comfortable sitting on the Fizik Aliante R5. It has a wavy contoured design that is very comfortable and flexible. And, it supports the sit bones with a slightly wider platform that improves stability and weight distribution throughout the day’s ride.
Also, the Fizik Aliante R5 features an ergonomic cutout. This cutout helps to help relieve pressure in sensitive areas and promotes my blood flow. It gives me the right support regardless of my riding position and doesn’t create too much pressure.
Specifications
The Orbea ORCA M30 is an exceptional racing bike. Its Orbea Orca carbon OMR Disc frame is remarkably lightweight, allowing for high-speed riding. Additionally, in case of any dangerous situations, riders can rely on the Shimano R7070 Hydraulic Disc brakes for effective braking, providing enhanced safety.
Furthermore, the Vittoria Zafiro V Rigid bead 700x28c tires offer excellent grip and perform well on various roads. The bike is equipped with the Shimano 105 R7000 GS rear derailleur and Shimano 105 R7000 front derailleur, delivering smooth shifting for a more enjoyable and comfortable ride.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Three color options to meet the preferences of different riders.
- Carbon frame and fork effectively reduce weight.
- Wide range of size options to accommodate riders of different body sizes.
- Excellent uphill and downhill capabilities.
What don’t we like about it?
- As a race bike, aluminum wheels may limit the speed at which the bike can be ridden.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
Both beginners and experienced riders can ride this bike.
- What’s the braking system of this bike?
The braking system is Shimano R7070 Hydraulic Disc.
- How many color options are available for this bike?
There are three color options: Carbon Raw – Iridescent (Matte), Shark Grey (Matte), and Sulfur Yellow (Gloss) – Night Black (Matte).
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are only general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size the best way is to try it on.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’4″ | 47cm |
| 5’2″ – 5’7″ | 49cm |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | 51cm |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | 53cm |
| 5’10” – 6’2″ | 55cm |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | 57cm |
| 6’2″ – 6’10” | 60cm |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Orbea Orca carbon OMR Disc, monocoque construction, HS 1,5″, BB 386mm, powermeter compatible, Rear Thru Axle 12x142mm, thread M12x2 P1, Speed release compatible dropout, Internal Cable Routing, EC/DC compatible BB Standard: 386EVO, 86mm, Press Fit Colors: Carbon Raw – Iridescent (Matt); Shark Grey (Matt); Sulfur Yellow (Gloss)- Night Black (Matt) |
| Fork | Orbea carbon fork 2021, 1-1/8″ – 1,5″ tappered head tube compatible, Thru axle 12x100mm, thread M12x2 P1, Speed release compatible dropout. |
| Bottom Bracket | 386EVO, 86mm, press-fit |
| Headset | Acros Alloy 1-1/2″ Internal Cable Routing |
| Stem | OC Road Performance RP21, -6º |
| Handlebar | OC Road Perfornace RP31-R, Rise 15, Reach 70, Drop 125 |
| Saddle | Fizik Aliante R5 |
| Seatpost | Carbon, 27.2mm, Setback 20 |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000 GS |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000 |
| Crank | Shimano 105 R7000 34x50t |
| Shifters | Shimano ST-7020 |
| Cassette | Shimano 105 R7000 11-30t 11-Speed |
| Chain | KMC X11-EL |
| Brakes | Shimano R7070 Hydraulic Disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Alloy, Tubeless, 700c, 19c, 28H |
| Tires | Vittoria Zafiro V Rigid bead 700x28c |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Specialized Tarmac SL6 | Click View | Turbo Pro | 2 x 10 | Carbon | Shimano Tiagra |
| Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7 | Click View | Vittoria Zaffiro Pro 25mm | 2 x 11 | Carbon | Shimano 105 |
| BMC Teammachine ALR TWO | Click View | Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick, 700 x 25c | 2 x 11 | Aluminum | Shimano 105 |
| Cannondale CAAD13 105 | Click View | Continental Grand Prix 5000 | 2 x 11 | Aluminum | Shimano 105, FSA |
Orbea ORCA M30 vs Specialized Tarmac SL6
The Orbea ORCA M30 is equipped with a Shimano 105 R7000 GS rear derailleur and Shimano 105 R7000 front derailleur, offering a 2×11-speed drivetrain.
On the other hand, the Specialized Tarmac SL6 features a Shimano Tiagra rear derailleur and front derailleur. The 2×11-speed drivetrain of the Orbea ORCA M30 provides smoother shifting and a wider gear range.
While other components of these bikes are similar, their geometries differ. The Orbea ORCA M30 has a stack/reach ratio of 1.4, which is greater than the stack/reach ratio of the Specialized Tarmac SL6 (1.37), offering riders more comfort.
Therefore, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, I would recommend the Specialized Tarmac SL6. If you prefer smoother shifting and a wider gear range, the Orbea ORCA M30 would be an excellent choice.
Orbea ORCA M30 vs Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7
The Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7 offers two wheel size options: 700c and 650c. The 700c wheels provide better rolling capability, while the 650c wheels offer greater maneuverability. Having both wheel size options gives riders more choices.
Furthermore, the Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7 can reach a top speed of 41mph, making it faster than the Orbea ORCA M30, which can reach a top speed of 39mph. However, the Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7 has 25mm wide tires, while the Orbea ORCA M30 has 28c tires, which are wider and can accommodate a greater variety of road surfaces.
In summary, if you prefer wider tires, the Orbea ORCA M30 would be a great choice. If you prioritize faster speeds and more size options for the wheel, the Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7 would better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is Canyon Ultimate CF SL 8 Aero Worth Buying? [Canyon Ultimate CF SL 8 Aero Review]
Orbea ORCA M30 vs BMC Teammachine ALR TWO
The BMC Teammachine ALR TWO features an aluminum frame, which weighs slightly more than the carbon frame of the Orbea ORCA M30. A lighter frame allows the bike to ride faster. However, when facing side impacts, the aluminum frame is more robust and less prone to breakage compared to the carbon frame.
Additionally, the BMC Teammachine ALR TWO has a stack/reach ratio of 1.44, which is slightly larger than the Orbea ORCA M30 (1.43). A greater stack/reach ratio provides a more comfortable riding position and allows riders to have a better extension. However, the Orbea ORCA M30 has a larger head tube angle compared to the BMC Teammachine ALR TWO, resulting in more agility when steering.
Therefore, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, the BMC Teammachine ALR TWO would better suit your needs. If you desire more agile steering, I would recommend the Orbea ORCA M30.
Learn More: Is BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Worth Buying? [BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Review]
Orbea ORCA M30 vs Cannondale CAAD13 105
The Cannondale CAAD13 105 features a heavier but more durable aluminum frame. However, it comes with Shimano 105 direct mount rim brakes. While these brakes are lightweight and easy to maintain, they tend to generate excessive heat during braking, which can compromise their performance and potentially lead to accidents with prolonged use.
On the other hand, the Orbea ORCA M30 is equipped with Hydraulic Disc brakes, which offer excellent responsiveness and braking performance. However, they are heavier and can be more challenging to maintain.
Additionally, the Orbea ORCA M30 has a larger stack/reach ratio and a greater head tube angle. This provides a more comfortable riding experience and enhances maneuverability.
In summary, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, the Orbea ORCA M30 is a great choice. If you desire a lighter weight, the Cannondale CAAD13 105 would better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is Cannondale CAADX 1 A Good Bike? [Cannondale CAADX 1 Review]
Conclusion
This is our review of the Orbea ORCA M30. This exceptional racing bike can help riders achieve excellent results in competitions. Considering all the factors, we have awarded it a high rating of 4.7. If you would like to explore more bike information, please check out our other reviews.
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