The aluminium predecessor of the Rallon was already a great success and was able to fully convince with its playful handling. We were therefore eagerly awaiting the successor to the Spaniard. Would it be just a small update or a completely new design? Orbea let the cat out of the bag and left no screw unturned. The new Rallon was given a stylish carbon frame and, as one of the first bikes in the enduro segment, 29er wheels and an optional steel spring shock. At 2666 grams, the full carbon frame is sufficiently light and is a real eye-catcher thanks to the asymmetrical main frame with exposed shock. Solid rockers and large bearing shafts ensure a high stiffness of 58 N/mm. The weight is also impressive: In the version we tested for 7999 euros, the Rallon in size L weighs just 13.2 kilos. With an air shock, the Enduro would be around 400 grams lighter. A nice detail for individualists: using the MyO configurator, the frame and lettering colour of the top models can be freely selected at no extra charge. But can the new Rallon match the performance of its predecessor?
For the optimum setup, we first had to change to a softer 400 mm steel spring for a rider weight of 75 kilos. It is not possible to simply deflate a steel spring shock. Despite the size L, the riding position is very compact. The steep seat angle and short stem reinforce the effect. This is one reason why Orbea recommends frame size XL from a height of 1.80 metres. Although the XL frame would be 30 millimetres longer, the seat tube would also grow by a full 40 millimetres, which in turn restricts the length of the dropper post. With the 437 mm chainstays, the new Rallon is still agile, but no longer quite as playful as its predecessor with smaller wheels. The steel-sprung rear suspension responds sensitively and is also very stable on rough trails. However, the setup still provides a firm ride feel, which is why the expected "wow" effect of the steel shock failed to materialise and we would have liked to try the lighter air version. The rear suspension remains very stable when pedalling and only bobs a little. In combination with the lightweight carbon wheels, the Rallon accelerates and steers effortlessly. Due to the short position and the rather flat cockpit, it lacks confidence on steep terrain.
CONCLUSION by Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager
The beautiful carbon frame, the well thought-out details and the option to customise make the Orbea Rallon a special enduro bike. As the bike is compact, you should go for the larger frame if in doubt. The steel spring rear suspension was not entirely convincing.
TECHNICAL DATA ORBEA RALLON 29"
Price (frame) 7999 Euro (3499 Euro)
available in specialised shops
Front / rear suspension travel 157 mm / 155 mm
Material / Sizes Carbon / S / M / L / XL (44.5 cm)
Weight o. P. / frame 13.22 kg / 2666 g (without damper)
Fork / damper Fox 36 Float 29 Factory / Fox DHX2 Factory
Cranks / gears Sram XX1 Eagle / Sram XX1 Eagle 1 x 12
Gear ratio / handlebar width 32; 10-50 / 790 mm
Brake system / Disc Sram Guide RSC / 200 mm / 180 mm
Telescopic support / stroke / ø Race Face Turbine / 150 mm / 31.6 mm
Impellers DT Swiss XMC 1200 system wheels; Maxxis Minion DHF / Aggressor 29 x 2.5/2.3 tyres
Reach / Stack / BB-Offset 445-454 / 629 mm / -29 mm
BIKE JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD
*The BIKE judgement reflects the laboratory measurements and the subjective impression of the test riders. The BIKE judgement is independent of price.
BIKE judgements: super (250-205 P.), very good (204.75-170 P.), good (169.75-140 P.), satisfactory (139.75-100 P.), with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
