Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR Review
- Price: $11,399
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 700c Carbon
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
What we like about it: A lightweight, fast, and stylish racing road bike that combines technology with ergonomic design for optimal performance.
What we didn’t like about it: The price is high, making it relatively expensive for most riders.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR is a top-tier racing road bike that delivers an exceptional riding experience. Its lightweight carbon fiber frame, coupled with the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 top-tier drivetrain components, provides excellent power transfer and efficient pedaling.
Next, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR. In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it with several other top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
The Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR draws on nearly a century of road racing design experience, striking the perfect balance between responsiveness and stability. It maximizes aerodynamics and efficiency, delivering increased power with every pedal stroke during road rides.
To test it, I took the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR to California State Route 1. I booked a hotel nearby using IHG. I rode the Big Sur to the Marina, covering a total distance of 96 kilometers. The route was mostly flat, with moderate slopes, and I enjoyed scenic views of unique pebble beach along the way.
Road Cruising
As I rode the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR, I was immediately impressed by its lightweight feel and responsive pedal response. Thanks to the lightweight carbon fiber frame and top-tier Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 drivetrain components, the bike offered perfect power transfer and smooth shifting. My riding experience was effortless and enjoyable.
On long downhill stretches, I noticed that the bike achieved an incredibly aerodynamic state. The fully internal cable routing design provided a more aerodynamic profile, reducing wind resistance. Even without pedaling, the bike maintained a high-speed momentum. Additionally, the Shimano R9270 hydraulic disc brakes delivered reliable braking power with efficient heat dissipation, ensuring consistent and effective braking performance.
During steep climbs, the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR’s well-rounded gearing options made my ride feel lightweight, enabling me to conserve energy to the maximum extent.
I was delighted that after several hours of riding, I didn’t feel fatigued. The carbon fiber frame’s slight flex absorbed most of the road vibrations, while the more upright riding position maximized my comfort.
Racing Experience
Later, I participated in a short-distance bike race with the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR at a suitable location.
I had great confidence in this race because it was the perfect course for the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR. The route featured numerous uphill segments, which played to the strengths of both myself and the bike.
Once the race began, I increased my pedaling speed, sticking closely to the front riders and waiting for the right moment to surpass them. The Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 front and rear derailleurs offered exceptional transmission efficiency. The lightweight carbon fiber frame allowed me to conserve more energy and maintain my position.
As I neared the finish line, I started to exert more effort and sprint ahead. The Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR responded quickly to my pedal strokes, propelling me forward with impressive speed. Despite feeling exhausted, I managed to cross the finish line in the first place.
Specifications
The Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR features a fully internal cable routing carbon fiber frame with exquisite paintwork, making it visually appealing.
The internal cable routing design reduces aerodynamic drag and provides a cleaner appearance. It also simplifies the cleaning process, making it more convenient.
There are two mounting points on the downtube and seattube that support full-sized water bottle installation. The excellent geometry maximizes the bike’s aerodynamics and efficiency, delivering more power with every pedal stroke. More power means higher speed.
Lastly, the endurance-oriented position makes the bike easier to ride and increases ride time. The more upright riding position maximizes rider comfort.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Available in 7 frame sizes (47-60) to accommodate riders with heights ranging from 5’1″ to 6’10”.
- The internal cable routing design throughout the bike provides a cleaner appearance and easier cleaning.
- Manufactured with the most advanced carbon fiber construction for a highly capable frame.
- Hydraulic disc brakes deliver reliable performance in all riding conditions.
- The wheel attachment using thru-axles provides a more reliable ride and reduces the chance of rotor rub during wheel removal.
- The Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 groupset offers precise and fast shifting, providing lightning-fast gear changes to maintain momentum during high-speed riding.
What don’t we like about it?
The price is high, making it relatively expensive for most riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike a climbing bike?
Yes, it is lightweight, fast, and an excellent endurance climbing bike.
- What type of terrain is this bike suitable for?
It is best suited for riding on paved roads and other smooth surfaces.
- How do I choose the right size?
We provide a size chart for your reference. However, it’s always best to try different sizes to find the one that fits you best.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’4″ | 47 |
| 5’2″ – 5’7″ | 49 |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | 51 |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | 53 |
| 5’10” – 6’2″ | 55 |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | 57 |
| 6’2″ – 6’10” | 60 |
Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR Specs
Build
| Frame | Orbea Orca carbon OMX Disc, monocoque construction, HS 1,5″, BB 386mm, powermeter compatible, Rear Thru Axle 12x142mm, thread M12x2 P1, internal cable routing, EC/DC compatible, OMX specific seat tube. BB Standard: 386EVO, 86mm, Press Fit Colors: Glitter Anthracite – Blue Carbon (Gloss); White Chic – Black (Gloss); Red Wine (Gloss) – Carbon Raw (Matt); Euskadi; Wnt |
| Fork | Orbea Orca OMX ICR fork 2020, 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 | Acros Alloy 1-1/2″ Internal Cable Routing, Stainless Steel Bearing |
| Stem | OC Road Performance RP10, -8º |
| Handlebar | OC Road Performance RP10 Carbon, Reach 80, Drop 12 |
| Saddle | Selle Italia SLR Boost SuperFlow L Carbon Rail Ø7×9 mm |
| Seatpost | OC RP10 Road Performance, SB0/25, w/micro tilt adj |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 |
| Crank | Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 Powermeter 36x52t |
| Power Meter | Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 Powermeter 36x52t |
| Shifters | Shimano R9270 |
| Cassette | Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 11-30t 12-Speed |
| Chain | Shimano CN-9100 |
| Brakes | Shimano R9270 Hydraulic Disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Vision 40 SC Disc Carbon TLR CL |
| Tires | Vittoria Corsa Competition G2.0 TLR 700x25c |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Wheelset | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 – SRAM Red eTap AXS | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM Red eTAP AXS | 2 × 12 Electronic |
| BMC Teammachine SLR01 ONE | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM RED eTap AXS HRD | 2 × 12 Electronic |
| Scott Addict RC Ultimate | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM RED eTap AXS HRD | 2 × 12 Electronic |
| Cervélo R5 Red eTap AXS | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM Red | 2 × 12 Electronic |
Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR vs Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 – SRAM Red eTap AXS
These two bikes are both top-tier endurance climbing bikes.
They both feature high-end lightweight carbon fiber frames and utilize internal cable routing, giving them a clean and sleek appearance.
The major difference between these two bikes lies in the drivetrain components. The former utilizes the top-of-the-line Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 drivetrain, which offers smoother operation. The latter, on the other hand, features the equally high-end SRAM RED eTAP AXS drivetrain. However, when it comes to road bike components, I prefer the feel of Shimano components.
In conclusion, between these two bikes, I would lean towards the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR. Apart from brand considerations, I simply prefer its component selection.
Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR vs BMC Teammachine SLR01 ONE
They are both excellent racing bikes, and I like their paint jobs.
In terms of drivetrain and braking components, the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR utilizes the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 level components, which offer smoother and lighter shifting. Its braking performance is also more linear, providing powerful braking with just a light press of the shift lever.
On the other hand, the BMC Teammachine SLR01 ONE features the SRAM RED eTap AXS level drivetrain and braking components, which deliver crisper shifting and a more direct braking experience. Overall, it has a slightly more robust feel.
Both bikes are top-tier road bikes and are closely matched in terms of capabilities. However, I would recommend the slightly lower-priced Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR.
Learn More: Is BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Worth Buying? [2022 BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Review]
Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR vs Scott Addict RC Ultimate
They are both top-tier bicycle brands with a wide fan base in the cycling community.
In terms of drivetrain components, they each use the top-level Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 electronic shifting and SRAM RED eTap AXS electronic shifting, respectively.
Both have powerful drivetrain efficiency, with the main difference lying in the feel of the shifting operation. The former is smoother, while the latter has a more robust feel.
However, in terms of geometry, it can be observed that the former offers better handling and riding comfort, while the latter has a more aggressive riding position.
In conclusion, if you prefer climbing or a more comfortable ride, the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR would be a better choice. On the other hand, the Scott Addict RC Ultimate is more suitable for riders who seek higher riding speeds.
Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR vs Cervelo R5 Red eTap AXS
These two bikes are both ultra-lightweight endurance road bicycles with powerful climbing performance.
The former utilizes Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 top-tier drivetrain and braking components, offering a slightly smoother operation. The latter is equipped with SRAM RED eTap AXS top-tier drivetrain and braking components, providing a more robust feel. They are two distinct sets of components, each with its characteristics. However, in the realm of road bikes, I would consider Shimano components to be superior. The shifting is more refined and smooth, contributing to better rhythm and cadence during rides.
Therefore, both of these competitive road bikes can deliver swift riding speeds and comfortable riding positions for cyclists. However, I prefer the components of the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR, which make me lean toward it.
Learn More: Is Cervelo R5 Ultegra Di2 Worth Buying? [2022 Cervelo R5 Ultegra Di2 Review]
Summary
Above is my ride review of the Orbea ORCA M10i LTD PWR. In our opinion, this is a top-tier competition-level road bike, featuring a top-level lightweight carbon fiber frame and equally top-tier components that unleash the strongest performance. This is why we gave it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other competition bikes, we also review a variety of bikes at different price points, all of which are quite fascinating. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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