Orbea Avant M10D (2014)
Flagship endurance bike from Spain
Pros
- Versatile frame design
- All weather performance
Cons
- Disc brakes add weight
Review
From the heart of Spain comes the Orbea Avant M10D, a beautiful full carbon racing bike, targeted at endurance riders looking for a versatile bike. The frame is specifically an Orbea Monocoque Performance Carbon frameset, with electronic or mechanical shifting compatibility. The fork matches the frame in quality and materials used. Versatility comes in the the ability to specify electronic or mechanical gears, disc or rim brakes, wide tires and to mount mud guards and racks.
A standard pair of Shimano RX-31 wheels are fitted, well suited to rough roads and unforgiving terrain. Known for their performance and durability, you'll be on these wheels for quite a while! Orbea have fitted a set of Vittoria Diamante 25c wide tires, for added grip and comfort. Slightly wider than your stock standard 23c tires.
The bike comes fitted with Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, with the same performance as the Dura Ace Di2 model, only less refined in appearance. The cassette is now an 11 speed 11-28 ratio, with a matching Ultegra 50/34 compact crankset. An assortment of Selle Italia, FSA and Shimano finish off the remaining components, from saddle through to seatpost and handlebars to stem.
The brake set is a Shimano BR785 Hydraulic Disc system. It seems this brake model is the benchmark for a newly evolving sector of the market, so it will be interesting to see which other major manufacturers really come to the party. Beyond the benefits of excellent all-weather power and modulation the new disc brakes suffer from excess weight at the moment. This is probably in relation to the frame and hub mounting additions to cater for the disc calipers and rotors.
The Avant M10D is the top of the range in Orbea's endurance line-up. It features all the qualities we come to expect from an all-day ride and would suit a cyclist looking for a bike to ride epic road adventures in any weather conceivable.
The Avant M10D is the flagship of Orbea's endurance road bikes. This long-distance lover is perfect for those riders who like epic all-day adventures in the saddle. The bike features a lightweight, comfortable carbon frame and fork. Shimano's Ultegra Di2 components take care of shifting, and add the confident braking of hydraulic discs to the equation. Parts from FSA, Vittoria, and Selle Italia add even more performance, and a Shimano factory wheelset finishes things off.