Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD Review
- Price: $10899
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Vittoria Corsa Competition G2.0 TLR 700x25c
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
What we like about it: The stunning aesthetics that ignite the passion for cycling.
What we don’t like about it: The high price.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD offers top-tier aerodynamic performance to every rider, delivering unmatched speed and performance in races, enabling you to conquer every race track.
Below, we delve into the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD. In the latter part of this article, we’ve also selected a few bikes for comparison. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Racing
On a crisp morning, I hopped on the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD, preparing to embrace an exciting cycling challenge. Its lightweight build and exceptional aerodynamic performance filled me with confidence for the upcoming race.
As the race kicked off, I swiftly accelerated, savoring the thrill and speed provided by the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD. Every pedal stroke generated substantial power, allowing me to maneuver through the race track like the wind.
The remarkable aerodynamic prowess helped me reduce resistance during the race, facilitating rapid sprints. I hunched down close to the frame, minimizing aerodynamic drag and pursuing even greater speeds.
Throughout the race, I fiercely competed alongside fellow riders. The high-performance Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 rear derailleur and Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 front derailleur ensured efficient transmission and lightweight performance, keeping me in fierce and passionate competition with others.
Sprinting
En route, I experienced challenges and determination. The racecourse featured undulating inclines and winding bends, yet the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD’s exceptional handling allowed me to handle them with ease, conquering each challenging section.
Amid intense and competitive racing, I felt the pounding of my heart and the beads of sweat. The bike delivered an intense physical experience, immersing me fully in the race.
On the day of the finish line, I gave it my all in the sprint. The Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD’s outstanding aerodynamic performance enabled me to cross the finish line at the fastest speed. The sense of victory and joy at that moment made me realize the value of all the hard work and effort.
As the race concluded, I felt fatigued yet brimming with satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. The Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD proved to be my ultimate companion, providing me with unwavering strength and confidence throughout the race.
Specifications
The Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD is an outstanding aerodynamic bicycle. It is equipped with the Orbea Orca Aero Carbon OMX disc frame, designed for aerodynamics to provide the bike with increased speed. Additionally, the Orbea Orca Aero OMX ICR offers excellent cushioning. This bike features a 2×12 Electronic drivetrain composed of the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 rear derailleur and Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 front derailleur. The electronic shifting is highly efficient and precise, requiring only periodic charging and minimal maintenance.
Notably, this bicycle is fitted with Vittoria Corsa Competition G2.0 TLR tires. They are lightweight, have low rolling resistance, and are easy to install. These tires offer optimal comfort for longer, slower rides. However, they come at a higher cost and are prone to quicker wear and tear, resulting in lower durability. Despite their solid build, they tend to leave marks on the tires quite easily.
Other Versions
After numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike, confirming its exceptional qualities.
However, many riders have unique requirements for performance and components. Therefore, we conducted further investigations by comparing this model with similar bikes.
Orbea ORCA M40
The Dura-Ace Di2 components on the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD far surpass the tiagra components of the Orbea ORCA M40. Moreover, the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD features a 2×12 Electronic drivetrain, which offers a wider gear range and smoother shifting compared to the Orbea ORCA M40’s 2×10 gears. Electronic shifting is highly precise and less prone to mis-shifts, requiring minimal maintenance. However, in adverse conditions, mechanical shifters may offer better adaptability.
The Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD boasts a higher speed than the Orbea ORCA M40, with a speed advantage of 41 mph. Yet, the Orbea ORCA M40 features a relatively milder geometry with a stack/reach ratio of 1.46. The gentler geometry allows riders to maintain an upright posture, open their chest for better breathing, and enhance pedaling efficiency. On the other hand, a more aggressive geometry sacrifices some comfort for increased power during pedaling.
What do we like about it?
- Striking aesthetics that ignite a passion for cycling.
- Premium Dura-Ace Di2 components offer outstanding performance.
- Customization options within a given price range.
- Free shipping within the continental United States, excluding Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Alaska.
What don’t we like about it?
- Expensive.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How many color options are available for this bike?
It is available in five color options: Wine Red Carbon View (Gloss) – Carbon Raw (Matt), Silvergreen (Gloss) – Black (Matt), Borealis Blue – Carbon Raw (Gloss), Euskadi, and Wnt.
- Can this bike be customized?
You can freely choose components on the official website.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are general guidelines, and the most effective way to find your size is through a test ride, as the right fit may vary from person to person.
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 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. BB Standard: 386EVO, 86mm, Press Fit Colors: Wine Red Carbon View (Gloss) – Carbon Raw (Matt); Silvergreen (Gloss) – Black (Matt); Borealis Blue – Carbon Raw (Gloss); Euskadi; Wnt |
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. |
Bottom Bracket | 386EVO, 86mm, press-fit |
Headset | FSA 1-1/2″ Integrated Aluminium Cup |
Stem | OC Road Performance RP10, -8º |
Handlebar | OC Road Aero RA11 Carbon, Reach 80, Drop 125 |
Saddle | Prologo Dimension T4.0 size143 mm |
Seatpost | OC Road Aero RA10 Carbon, SB0/25, w/Micro tilt adjustment |
Groupset
Rear Derailleur | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 |
Front Derailleur | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 |
Crank | Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 36x52t |
Shifters | Shimano R9270 |
Cassette | Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 11-30t 12-Speed |
Chain | Shimano CN-9100 |
Brakes | Shimano R9270 Hydraulic Disc |
Wheels
Rims | Shimano R9270 C50 Disc Carbon TL CL |
Tires | Vittoria Corsa Competition G2.0 TLR 700x25c |
Comparison Table
Bikes | Click view | Power Meter | transmission system | Frame Material | Groupset |
Trek Madone SLR 7 AXS Gen 7 | Click View | Force AXS | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap |
Canyon Aeroad CFR Disc LTD | Click View | Rotor INspider ALDHU | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 |
Scott Foil RC Pro | Click View | None | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 |
Factor Ostro Gravel SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS w/Power Meter | Click View | Red AXS | 1×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM RED XPLR eTap |
Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD vs. Trek Madone SLR 7 AXS Gen 7
These two bikes both feature carbon frames, forks, and 700c wheels. However, the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD has 25c-wide tires. While the Trek Madone SLR 7 AXS Gen 7 also has 25c-wide tires, it boasts a 28c tire clearance, allowing for wider tire customization. Wider tires provide stronger support and are suitable for riding on softer road surfaces.
The Trek Madone SLR 7 AXS Gen 7 is equipped with a Force AXS power meter, which enhances a rider’s training efficiency. However, both of these bikes share the same speed capabilities, with a top speed of 41 mph. Furthermore, the Trek Madone SLR 7 AXS Gen 7 has a larger stack/reach ratio compared to the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD. A greater stack/reach ratio offers a more comfortable riding experience, while a smaller stack/reach ratio results in a more aggressive geometry, sacrificing some comfort for increased efficiency.
Learn More: Is Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Gen 7 Worth Buying? [Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Gen 7 Review]
Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD vs. Canyon Aeroad CFR Disc LTD
The Canyon Aeroad CFR Disc LTD features a Rotor INspider ALDHU power meter. It quantifies pedaling data, allowing riders to understand how much effort they are putting into propelling the bike forward. Therefore, with this power meter, riders can receive accurate feedback on their capabilities during daily training. This enables riders to engage in scientific training based on different power zones, rapidly improving their cycling abilities.
Furthermore, the Canyon Aeroad CFR Disc LTD has 25mm-wide tires, and it comes with two different wheel diameters, namely 27.5″ and 28″. In contrast, the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD has 700c wheels with 25mm tires. The Canyon Aeroad CFR Disc LTD provides riders with more options. Smaller wheels offer excellent flexibility, while larger wheels provide enhanced rideability.
Learn More: Is Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc Worth Buying? [ Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc Review]
Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD vs. Scott Foil RC Pro
The Scott Foil RC Pro is equipped with aluminum wheels, while the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD features carbon wheels. Aluminum wheels are more budget-friendly but are prone to breakage at welding points, making them brittle. In contrast, carbon wheels are lightweight and offer strong rigidity, but they come at a higher cost and are susceptible to fracturing upon impact with sharp objects.
The Scott Foil RC Pro has 26c-wide tires, while the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD has slightly narrower 25c tires. Narrower tires provide greater flexibility, while wider tires offer better support on soft road surfaces. Additionally, the stack/reach ratio of the Scott Foil RC Pro is larger than that of the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD, resulting in a more comfortable riding experience for cyclists.
Learn More: Is Scott Foil RC 10 a Perfect Selection? – [Scott Foil RC 10 Review]
Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD vs. Factor Ostro Gravel SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS w/Power Meter
The Factor Ostro Gravel SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS w/Power Meter features 1×12 Electronic gearing. Compared to the 2×12 Electronic gearing of the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD, the 1×12 Electronic gearing comes with a single derailleur design, effectively preventing chain drops. Furthermore, the Factor Ostro Gravel SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS w/Power Meter has heavier aluminum wheels. However, it boasts a tire clearance of 45c, allowing for the installation of very wide tires, and providing optimal support in sandy and snowy conditions.
Additionally, the Factor Ostro Gravel SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS w/Power Meter is equipped with a Red AXS power meter, which helps riders identify their strengths and weaknesses. It’s worth mentioning that the Factor Ostro Gravel SRAM RED XPLR eTap AXS w/Power Meter features RED XPLR eTap, while the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD is equipped with Dura-Ace Di2. Both are 12-speed and fully electronic, with wireless communication between the shifters and derailleurs, and they can be programmed via built-in Bluetooth. However, Dura-Ace Di2 is nearly 100g lighter.
Learn More: FACTOR OSTRO VAM SRAM FORCE ETAP AXS W POWER METER Review
Summary
This is our review of the Orbea ORCA AERO M10iLTD. It is an outstanding aero bike that can deliver impressive results for riders in races. Considering all aspects, we have given it a high rating of 4.9. If you’re looking for more information about bikes, please feel free to check out our other reviews.
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