Orbea Orca Aero M20i LTD

Orbea Orca Aero M20 iLTD – The Orca Aero with electronic Ultegra Di2 groupset

The start of the world’s biggest cycle races was the perfect moment for Orbea to unveil the new generation of the Orca Aero series. After all, in a race like this, every second counts. So it’s all the better when you’re practically gifted those seconds thanks to sophisticated aerodynamics. The Spanish manufacturer calls its concept ‘Aero 360’, which forms the basis of the completely redesigned frame. It focuses on the interplay between the frame, the cockpit and the rider’s position, under realistic wind angles. After all, headwinds rarely come directly from the front. Thanks to a low bottom bracket position and other details such as the widened down tube, the developers were able to achieve a reduction in pedalling power of up to 21 watts compared to the previous model. The Orca Aero was designed exclusively for electronic groupsets and the Oquo Road Performance Carbon wheelsets. Together with the wing-like handlebars, it is a prime example of seamless integration.

The Aero M20 iLTD version of the Orca comes fitted with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset. Shimano’s top-of-the-range components guarantee outstanding performance in all conditions. Precise and lightning-fast gear changes can give you an edge, particularly during races. The Ultegra groupset also includes hydraulic disc brakes: Stable, responsive and easy to maintain. With their elegant black finishes, the Ultegra components also look the part. Further aerodynamically shaped carbon parts round off the cohesive design perfectly. These include the handlebar/stem assembly, the seatpost and the lightweight Oquo Road Performance RP50 LTD carbon wheelset.

OMX carbon frames with improved aerodynamics

Lightweight, stiff and aerodynamic – these three factors can only be achieved in frame construction using the so-called monocoque construction method. With this method, each frame is essentially made from a single piece. The carbon sheets are laser-cut to fit the respective frame size with millimetre precision. The aim – particularly with the OMX quality grade – is to minimise overlaps as much as possible. This makes the OMX frames around 300 grams lighter than the more affordable OMR variant. All in all, depending on the frame size, they weigh between around 750 and 900 grams. Absolutely impressive! Before the frames go into production, they are put through their paces at Orbea. And not just in the laboratory, but also under real-world conditions on the road.