Cross-country is the trend: After the new Specialized Epic (reviewed here) and the new edition of Canyon Lux (reviewed here) Orbea will also be presenting a completely newly developed bike for marathon and XC racing: the latest generation of the Oiz is said to be even stiffer and sprintier than before and remains at 29 inches. An aluminium version is available from 2499 euros.
Orbea has clearly defined the central development goal: more stiffness without increasing weight. In order to fulfil this seemingly contradictory requirement, the engineering team spent three years meticulously analysing every frame element. Using modern finite element analyses, the riding behaviour is said to have been precisely tuned even before the first test rides.
A prime example of the consistent optimisation is the bottom bracket area: refined manufacturing processes, including the connections of the frame elements and the layup, have made it lighter without sacrificing stability and stiffness. The tube shapes have been completely redesigned and hard transitions have been eliminated. This should enable the carbon to be compacted more efficiently: Less epoxy resin and a better stiffness-to-weight ratio are the result.
The centrepiece of the new development is the revised deflection: more compact, significantly stiffer and 30 percent lighter than the previous version. Forged aluminium with strategically placed cavities is now used instead of carbon. A new bridge provides additional support for the seat stays and keeps the rear triangle precisely aligned even under high loads.
The top tube has been moulded a little flatter. Especially where the shock runs into the frame. This should improve the lateral stiffness and therefore the acceleration and handling of the frame. The engineers have also tweaked details such as the seat stays and chainstays, which means that the entire frame has been redesigned from the ground up. The chassis including shock should weigh 1700 grams. Top models weigh from 9.6 kilograms.
The new Oiz continues to offer 120 millimetres of travel front and rear. The patented kinematics and a degressive characteristic curve are designed to maximise pedalling efficiency, while the Squidlock system allows the suspension fork, shock and seatpost to be operated simultaneously.
The carbon frames feature OMR technology (Orbea Monocoque Race) and rely on fibre link construction for optimum power distribution. All models are equipped with the SIC system (Stealth Internal Cable), which ensures clean cable routing inside the frame. A steering stop prevents damage to the cables and frame in the event of a fall.
Orbea offers the new Oiz in two frame materials and various equipment variants with Sram and Shimano groupsets and Fox or Rockshox suspension. The cheaper carbon models are based on the OMR frame, while the lightest OMX carbon frame is available from the M-Pro upwards.

Editor