Orange Switch 6 Pro Review
- Price: $4,600
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: Improved cable routing, streamlined and efficient suspension design, handcrafted in the UK.
What we don’t like about it: Limited color options, may not appeal to everyone’s preferences.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Orange Switch 6 Pro features a long and low geometry. Combined with a front 29-inch and rear 27.5-inch wheel combination, it offers exceptional traction and agile handling.
Below, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Orange Switch 6 Pro.
In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bicycle reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
As a heavy-duty full-suspension trail bike, the Orange Switch 6 Pro surprisingly has a lighter weight compared to similar bikes in its category. Additionally, its high-quality components provide excellent capability to handle challenging terrains.
To test its performance, I took the Orange Switch 6 Pro to Deer Valley Resort Mountain Bike Park. I had booked a hotel in advance through IHG. The park offers trails for DH, AM, Trail, and XC riding, featuring natural drops, winding descents, and steep rocky sections.
Climbing
When climbing with the Orange Switch 6 Pro, the steep seat tube angle allows for a more direct power transfer during upward climbs. It helps me maintain stability by optimizing the center of gravity.
As the slope gradually steepens, I begin to feel the effort of pedaling. However, with the Shimano SLX M7100 12-speed drivetrain, which provides a wide range of gear options, I simply adjust the rear derailleur to a larger cog. Instantly, pedaling feels lighter, making my uphill riding easier and more efficient.
Moreover, the Maxxis Minion DHR II, EXO, 2.4-inch wide tires on the Orange Switch 6 Pro offer exceptional traction. They ensure the bike stays firmly planted on the ground, maximizing the efficiency of my climbing efforts without experiencing wheel slippage.
Overall, I find the climbing performance of the Orange Switch 6 Pro to be efficient. It supports my upward climbs well and helps conserve energy.
Descending
When descending, the Orange Switch 6 Pro feels like it’s purpose-built for downhill riding. Firstly, the FOX FLOAT 36 Performance fork and FOX FLOAT DPX2 Performance rear shock provide 160mm and 145mm of travel respectively. This helps absorb more impact and maintain stable landing postures when leaping from significant drops.
Additionally, when descending on rocky trails, the relaxed geometry combined with the front 29-inch wheel provides a stable riding experience similar to riding on flat terrain. Small bumps and irregularities on the trail are easily ignored, and I don’t feel excessive vibrations.
As I transition onto winding singletrack, the powerful SRAM Guide RE brakes, paired with 200mm front and 180mm rear rotors, offer strong braking power, allowing me to quickly and efficiently reduce speed. The 27.5-inch rear wheel provides enhanced maneuverability on tight singletrack sections.
Overall, the Orange Switch 6 Pro delivers an exceptional riding experience with its downhill capabilities and responsive handling.
Specifications
The Orange Switch 6 Pro is available in three frame sizes (M-XL) with internal cable routing. It is suitable for riders with heights ranging from 5’4″ to 6’6″, making it versatile in terms of rider compatibility. The aluminum frame with internal cable routing offers a clean and tidy appearance, and it’s easier to clean during regular maintenance.
The combination of a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel ensures excellent traction and maneuverability during downhill riding while maintaining agility on narrow trails.
Additionally, the dropper post design allows riders to adjust their riding position and center of gravity between climbs and descents, further enhancing riding efficiency.
Lastly, the reinforced top and seat tube areas ensure a stronger frame with increased reliability.
Video
Other Versions
The Orange Switch 6 Pro is built with a sturdy and durable aluminum alloy frame, along with precision components, offering excellent all-around riding capabilities.
However, this bike also has a more high-end version, which is suitable for riders with a more generous budget and advanced riding skills.
Orange Switch 6 XTR
Introducing the Orange Switch 6 XTR, featuring the same aluminum alloy frame with internal cable routing and a combination of a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel. It is equipped with even higher-grade components.
For suspension, it incorporates the FOX FLOAT 36 Factory fork and FOX FLOAT X2 Factory rear shock, providing enhanced support. The Kashima coating ensures smoother operation of this suspension system, offering a silky-smooth feel.
In terms of drivetrain, it features the Shimano XTR M9100, Shimano’s top-tier mountain bike drivetrain. It is not only lighter in weight but also provides the best shifting experience available.
Lastly, the braking system also utilizes the top-of-the-line Shimano XTR brakes, delivering powerful and efficient stopping power with linear and lightweight operation. The design of the brake levers is something that I appreciate.
Below, we will provide a detailed list of specific parameters for the Orange Switch 6 Pro, as well as some other brands’ full-suspension mountain bikes that are similar in price, for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- Hydraulic disc brakes that deliver reliable performance in any conditions.
- Internal cable routing design for a cleaner appearance and easier maintenance.
- Combination of a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel, balancing stability and agility during descents.
- Shimano SLX M7100 drivetrain, offering smooth shifting and efficient power transfer.
- Dropper post design for optimal positioning between climbs and descents.
- Long and low geometry combined with a steep seat tube angle for impressive all-around performance.
What don’t we like about it?
- Limited color options that may not appeal to everyone.
FAQ
- What wheelset does this bike use?
The front wheelset is Strange Pro, 110x15mm Boost front, and the rear wheelset is 148x12mm Boost rear with MICRO SPLINE driver.
- What type of rider is this bike suitable for?
It is a versatile full-suspension mountain bike that performs reliably for both climbs and descents, making it suitable for riders of all levels.
- How do I choose the right size?
We provide a size chart for your reference. However, it’s not necessary to strictly follow this standard. The best way to find the right size is to try it out for yourself.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’4″ – 5’10” | M |
| 5’8″ – 6’3″ | L |
| 6’0″ – 6’6″ | XL |
Orange Switch 6 Pro Specs
Build
| Frame | Aluminum |
| Fork | FOX FLOAT 36 Performance, 42mm offset, Option: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate |
| Rear Shock | FOX FLOAT DPX2 Performance, 210mm x 55mm, Options: FOX FLOAT X2 Factory, RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate |
| Bottom Bracket | Race Face, 73mm |
| Headset | Cane Creek, ZS49/28.6 upper, EC49/40 lower |
| Stem | Burgtec Enduro, 42.5mm length |
| Handlebar | Burgtec RideWide Enduro, 800mm width |
| Saddle | WTB Silverado Comp |
| Seatpost | SDG Tellis dropper, 150mm drop, Option: FOX Transfer Performance Elite dropper, 175mm drop |
| Pedals | None, Option: Burgtec Penthouse Flat MK5 |
| Grips | Strange Grappler, lock-on |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed |
| Front Derailleur | None |
| Crank | Race Face Aeffect |
| Shifters | Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed |
| Cassette | Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed, 10-51 tooth |
| Chain | KMC, 12-speed |
| Chain Guide | None, Option: OneUp upper slider |
| Brakes | SRAM Guide RE, 4-piston, 200mm front rotor, 180mm rear rotor, Option: Shimano Deore XT Trail, 4-piston, 203mm front rotor, 180mm rear rotor, Option. Shimano SLX Trail, 4-piston, 203mm front rotor, 180mm rear rotor |
| Brake Levers | SRAM Guide RE, Option: Shimano Deore XT Trail, Option: Shimano SLX Trail |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB ST Light i30, 30mm internal width, Option: e*thirteen TRS, 30mm width |
| Tires | Strange Pro, 110x15mm Boost front, 148x12mm Boost rear with MICRO SPLINE driver, Option: Hope Tech Pro 4 |
| Rear Hub | Strange Pro, 110x15mm Boost front, 148x12mm Boost rear with MICRO SPLINE driver, Option: Hope Tech Pro 4 |
| Tires | Maxxis Minion DHR II, EXO, 2.4″ |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Travel | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Trek Top Fuel 9.7 | Click View | 120mm rear, 120mm front | Carbon | Shimano M6120 | 1 × 12 |
| YT Industries Izzo CORE 4 29 | Click View | 130mm rear, 130mm front | Carbon | SRAM G2 RSC | 1 × 12 Electronic |
| Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 | Click View | SRAM G2 RSC | Carbon | SRAM Guide R | 1 × 12 |
| Ibis Ripmo AF SLX | Click View | 147mm rear, 160mm front | Aluminum | Shimano SLX M7120 | 1 × 12 |
Orange Switch 6 Pro vs Trek Top Fuel 9.7
When comparing these two bikes, the front suspension of the former features the FOX FLOAT 36 Performance fork, while the rear suspension has the FOX FLOAT DPX2 Performance shock, providing 160mm and 145mm of travel respectively. On the other hand, the latter is equipped with the Fox Rhythm 34 fork and Fox Performance Float DPS rear shock, offering 120mm of travel both front and rear. The former has longer travel and thicker stanchions, making it better suited for handling challenging terrain.
In terms of the drivetrain, the latter comes with a Shimano XT mixed with Shimano SLX components, which provides some advantages over the Shimano SLX drivetrain found on the former. Both bikes feature powerful brakes, with the former offering a more aggressive and direct braking feel, while the latter provides a more nuanced braking experience.
Overall, between these two full-suspension trail bikes, I would recommend the Orange Switch 6 Pro. It is better equipped to handle more complex riding conditions.
Learn More: Is Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT Worth Buying ? [Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT Review]
Orange Switch 6 Pro vs YT Industries Izzo CORE 4 29
These two bikes represent the flagship full-suspension trail bikes of their respective brands.
However, the latter features a carbon fiber frame, providing a lighter and more agile riding experience. On the other hand, the former offers longer suspension travel, making it better suited for tackling challenging terrain.
In terms of drivetrain, the former is equipped with the Shimano SLX M7100 groupset, known for its smooth and lightweight shifting. The latter uses the SRAM X01 EAGLE AXS drivetrain, which offers crisper shifting and the convenience of electronic gear adjustments.
When it comes to brakes, both bikes feature reliable SRAM brakes that offer consistent stopping power even in harsh conditions.
Therefore, if you enjoy taking on rugged and aggressive descents, the Orange Switch 6 Pro would be a better choice. If you prioritize a lighter riding experience, the YT Industries Izzo CORE 4 29 would be more suitable.
Orange Switch 6 Pro vs Cannondale Habit Carbon 3
Between these, the former is equipped with the FOX FLOAT 36 Performance fork, which has a thicker diameter and a larger air chamber compared to the Fox Performance Float 34 on the latter. It also offers longer travel, providing better support during high-impact landings.
In terms of drivetrain, the former features the Shimano SLX M7100 groupset, known for its lightweight and reliable shifting. The latter uses a mix of SRAM GX and SRAM NX components, which offer a crisper and more robust shifting experience.
Both bikes use SRAM Guide-level brakes, ensuring powerful braking performance and a responsive feel. Undoubtedly, they provide reliable stopping power.
Ultimately, the Orange Switch 6 Pro excels in downhill riding capabilities, while the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 offers a more balanced overall performance.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Worth Buying? [2022 Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Review]
Orange Switch 6 Pro vs Ibis Ripmo AF SLX
They are two very similar full-suspension mountain bikes, both featuring aluminum frames and nearly identical front and rear suspension travel.
In terms of fork selection, the former is equipped with the FOX FLOAT 36 Performance, while the latter uses the Marzocchi Bomber Z1. Both forks provide excellent support, but the former offers more options for rebound adjustment.
For the drivetrain, both bikes use the Shimano SLX M7100 components. This is a reliable and efficient shifting system with excellent power transfer. In terms of brakes, the former is equipped with the SRAM Guide RE, which offers a direct and aggressive feel, while the latter uses the Shimano SLX M7120 brakes, known for their linear response and lightweight feel.
Overall, these two bikes have similar capabilities in all aspects, and either choice would be a good decision.
Learn More: Is Ibis Ripmo AF GX Worth Buying? – [Ibis Ripmo AF GX Review ]
Summary
Above is my riding review of the Orange Switch 6 Pro. In our opinion, it is a sturdy and reliable full-suspension mountain bike with impressive downhill performance. That’s why we gave it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in learning about other full-suspension mountain bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes at various price points, and we find them equally interesting. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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