Orbea Orca Aero M21e LTD

Orbea Orca Aero M21 eLTD – The Orca Aero with wireless SRAM Force AXS 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.

As an alternative to Shimano, the Orca Aero M21 eLTD comes fitted with the precise SRAM Force AXS groupset. Components from the US manufacturer have long been established in the professional circuit and are 100 per cent reliable. Shift commands are transmitted wirelessly to the rear derailleur and front derailleur via the eTap brake levers. The powerful Force AXS disc brakes are also part of the SRAM groupset. Another highlight is the crankset with one-piece milled chainrings in a lattice structure. Ambitious riders will appreciate the provision for the Quarq power metre system for power measurement. Lightweight Oquo Road Performance wheels with carbon rims round off this aero machine perfectly.

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.