Orbea TERRA H30 Review
- Price: $2,799
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: Vittoria Terreno Dry Gravel 700x38c
- Gears: 2×11
What we like about it: Equipped with three mounting points for carrying water bottles or luggage, making it convenient for long-distance rides.
What we don’t like about it: The 59mm trail provides agile handling, but it lacks the stability of a gravel bike.
Rating: (4.7/5)
To cater to people’s transportation needs on various terrains, versatile bicycles have emerged. The Orbea TERRA H30 is an excellent gravel bike that can meet the demands of different road surfaces. Therefore, I conducted a comprehensive test of this bike and had high expectations for its performance.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, main features, components, specifications, and compare it to other versions of the Orbea TERRA H30. In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it with several top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, stay tuned.
Commute Riding
I work in the heart of New York City and used to rely on public transportation for my daily commute. However, dealing with crowds in narrow spaces was quite frustrating. But everything changed when I got my hands on the Orbea TERRA H30.
My feet provided consistent power to the bike, allowing me to feel the gentle morning breeze and the peacefulness of the night. It brought a sense of relaxation and freedom.
On flat roads, I shifted the Shimano RD-RX810 rear derailleur and Shimano GRX RX810 front derailleur to the highest gear ratio and cruised along smoothly.
When facing uphill sections, I adjusted to the lowest gear ratio, exerting minimal effort for maximum power. I smoothly ascended and descended, firmly gripping the OC Gravel GR30-R handlebar, maintaining control over the bike. I had no worries about accidents during high-speed riding. The Shimano RX400 Hydraulic disc brakes helped me stop in time, eliminating any fear of danger. Instead, I rode with even more confidence, thanks to the bike’s assurance.
Leisure Touring
Weekend outings are a regular activity for me. On this occasion, I took this bike for a ride on the outskirts of New York. With its three mounting points, I was able to carry plenty of luggage and water bottles, making my trip convenient and freeing. I could bring all the essentials and stay hydrated.
Moreover, the Vittoria Terreno Dry Gravel 700x38c tires adapted well to different road conditions, from city streets to suburban routes.
The tires have a ramped center scale for fast rolling, and the progressive depth tread design provides smooth transitions. It easily glides over gravel roads, providing stability akin to riding on flat surfaces.
Notably, it comes with the Fizik Aliante R5 saddle, a comfortable and flexible endurance cycling seat. Its waved profile design ensures enduring comfort even on rough roads, making my ride incredibly relaxed. The ergonomic cutout alleviates pressure on sensitive areas, enhancing overall comfort. It’s truly a pleasant experience.
Specifications
The Orbea TERRA H30 is an outstanding gravel bike. It features an Orbea Terra Hydro disc aluminum frame, known for its robustness.
It also comes with an Orbea Terra ICR full carbon fork, providing excellent flexibility and decent shock absorption for a smooth riding experience on gravel roads.
Furthermore, it is equipped with a Shimano RD-RX810 rear derailleur and Shimano GRX RX810 front derailleur, offering reliable shifting performance and smooth gear transitions.
The Orbea TERRA H30 comes with Vittoria Terreno Dry Gravel tires, which are particularly suitable for dry terrains.
Video
Other Versions
After conducting numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is an excellent hardtail mountain bike. However, many riders have specific requirements for performance or components, so we explored similar bikes for further investigation.
Orbea TERRA H30 1X
Both bikes share the same geometry and feature an aluminum frame, carbon fork, and 700c aluminum wheels. The main difference lies in the components. The Orbea TERRA H30 1X has a 1×11 drivetrain.
Compared to the 2×10 drivetrain of the Orbea TERRA H30, the 1×11 offers smoother shifting performance. Additionally, the 1x single-chainring design effectively prevents chain drops.
Moreover, the TERRA H30 can reach a top speed of 36mph, while the TERRA H30 1X can reach up to 31mph. If you desire even smoother gear transitions and want to ensure consistent chain performance, I would recommend the Orbea TERRA H30 1X.
The TERRA H30 is $200 cheaper than the TERRA H40. If you have a limited budget and want to ride faster, the Orbea TERRA H30 would be an excellent choice.
What we like about it:
- Three mounting points for carrying water bottles or luggage, convenient for long-distance rides.
- Available in three color options, catering to various rider preferences.
- Six different sizes are available, accommodating riders of different heights.
- Excellent uphill and downhill capabilities.
What we don’t like about it:
- The 59mm trail provides agile maneuverability but lacks stability as a gravel bike.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
Both beginners and experienced riders can ride this bike.
- What is the braking system of this bike?
It features Shimano RX400 Hydraulic disc brakes.
- How many color options are available for this bike?
There are three color options: Metallic Copper Matt, Metallic Night Black (Matt-Gloss), and Mango (Gloss).
- How do I choose the right size?
Here is a size chart:
These sizes are general guidelines, and the most accurate way to find the right size is to try it out in person.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’7″ | XS |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | SM |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | MD |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | LG |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | XL |
| 6’2″ – 6’10” | XXL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Orbea Terra Hydro disc, hydroformed triple butted aluminium, HS 1,5″, PF, Thru Axle 12mm x 142mm rear, thread M12x2 P1, DT internal cable routing, 27,2mm seat tube, MMS systemColors: Metallic Copper Matt; Metallic Night Black (Matt-Gloss); Mango (Gloss) |
| Fork | Orbea Terra ICR, full carbon, 1-1/8″ – 1,5″ tappered head tube compatible, Thru axle 12x100mm, thread M12x2 P1 |
| Headset | FSA 1-1/2″ Integrated Aluminium Cup |
| Stem | OC Road Performance RP21, -6º |
| Handlebar | OC Gravel GR30-R, Rise 15, Reach 70, Drop 125 |
| Saddle | Fizik Aliante R5 |
| Seatpost | Carbon, 27.2mm, Setback 20 |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano RD-RX810 |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano GRX RX810 |
| Crank | Alloy forged 30x46t |
| Shifters | Shimano ST-RX600 |
| Cassette | Shimano 105 R7000 11—34t 11-Speed |
| Chain | Shimano HG 601 |
| Brakes | Shimano RX400 Hydraulic disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Alloy, Tubeless, 700c, 21c |
| Tires | Vittoria Terreno Dry Gravel 700x38c |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click View | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Materials | Groupset |
| Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 | Click View | Bontrager GR1 Team Issue | 2×11 | Aluminum | SRAM GRX 800,GRX 600 |
| Canyon Grail CF SL 8 | Click View | Schwalbe G-One R | 2×11 | Carbon | SRAM GRX 800,Rotor |
| Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 | Click View | WTB Riddler TCS Light, 700x37c | 2×11 | Carbon | SRAM GRX 800,GRX 600 |
| Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c | Click View | Teravail Washburn, 700c x 38 mm | 1×11 | Carbon | SRAM GRX 800 |
Orbea TERRA H30 vs Trek Checkpoint ALR 5
Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is equipped with an aluminum frame and carbon fork, both featuring 700c aluminum wheels. However, it has a tire clearance of 45c, allowing for larger tires. In comparison, the Orbea TERRA H30 has 38c tires, while the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 can accommodate wider tires, making it suitable for a variety of road conditions.
Furthermore, the Orbea TERRA H30 has a Stack/Reach Ratio of 1.5, which is larger than the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5’s 1.45. This means the Orbea TERRA H30 offers more extension and a more comfortable riding experience.
Therefore, if you prioritize comfort, I would recommend the Orbea TERRA H30. If you prefer the option to fit wider tires, the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 would be an excellent choice.
Learn More: Is Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 A Good Bike? [Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review]
Orbea TERRA H30 vs Canyon Grail CF SL 8
The Orbea TERRA H30 features an aluminum frame and 700c wheel size, while the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 has a lighter carbon frame and more wheel size options.
Carbon frames are lighter, but they are more prone to breakage when subjected to lateral impacts compared to the sturdiness of the aluminum frame of the Orbea TERRA H30.
Furthermore, the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 can reach a top speed of 38mph, while the Orbea TERRA H30 can reach up to 36mph. So, if you prioritize a more robust bike, the Orbea TERRA H30 is a great fit. If you prefer a lighter bike, the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 would be a better choice.
Learn More: Is Canyon Grail 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Grail 7 Review]
Orbea TERRA H30 vs Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5
The Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 features a lighter carbon frame and fork, with 700c aluminum wheels. It has a tire clearance of 40c, allowing for wider tires.
Additionally, it has a Stack/Reach Ratio of 1.55, slightly larger than the 1.5 Stack/Reach Ratio of the Orbea TERRA H30, providing enhanced extension for a more comfortable riding experience.
Moreover, the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 has a larger 71.2° head tube angle, offering greater agility and maneuverability.
If you prioritize a more robust bike, the Orbea TERRA H30 would better suit your needs. If you desire a more comfortable ride, the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 would be a better choice for you.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Topstone 3 A Good Bike? [Cannondale Topstone 3 Review]
Orbea TERRA H30 vs Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c features a 1×11 drivetrain, offering effective chain retention to prevent chain drops. It has a carbon frame and can accommodate tires as wide as 50c. Despite its lightweight, it can handle a wide range of terrains. However, its riding speed is slightly slower, reaching only 31mph.
Furthermore, the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c provides a more comfortable ride. This is due to its larger 1.52 Stack/Reach Ratio, and it offers a smoother riding experience. The Orbea TERRA H30 has a greater head tube angle, making its ride more aggressive.
Therefore, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c is a great fit. If you want faster speed, the Orbea TERRA H30 would be a better choice.
Learn More: Is Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Worth Buying? [Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Review]
Summary
Above is our complete review of the Orbea TERRA H30. It is an excellent gravel bike that provides a highly comfortable riding experience.
Based on our evaluation, we give it a high rating of 4.7. If you want to get more bike-related information, feel free to check out our other tests.
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