[Coolhand]

2006 Orbea Opal, anyone know anything about it?

I just got the 2006 Orbea catalog, however the shop knew nothing about the Opal, its 50g lighter than a Orca, and slots inbetween a Orca and Onix in the range, however they didn't know the price or anything else about it

Anyone have any more info?

Talked to Orbea about it. Price is a little less then the Orca. Built with 100% high modulus carbon fiber- which makes it a little lighter and alot stiffer then the Orca, maybe a little too stiff for non-hardcore racers who prize stiffness above all else. Does not ride as sweet as the Orca does. It is basically very close to the Orca, just with a trade-off on comfort vs stiffness. If you are not a hard-core racer who prizes stiffness, then the Orca is probably still the better bike. First availability will be in mid to late September, but I imagine the first ones will be snapped up fast.

The Onix is going to be cheaper and heavier this year- mated to the new Shimano 105 ten-speed its going to be priced rather attractively.

How about the full carbon TT frame- the Ordu. Man, was that thing hot.

 

[Coolhand]

I was looking at the Opal too, but decided to put in an order for a red 2005 Orca. Should be here later this week.

The rep at Orbea wouldn't divuldge the pricing, but did say prices were going up. He also said 60cm frames are the last to be available and I didn't feel like waiting that long.

I had a red 60cm Orca this year- it was a really great riding bike. You are going to love yours. Material costs on carbon fiber bikes has shot up- so bike pricing should be up to match. Getting an 05 bike was a smart move- especially seeing they did not change the Orca I believe.

 

[Coolhand]

I just ordered a silver 60cm Opal today. Availability is getting pretty good on the Opals for those interested in one. My conversion today with Orbea-USA confirmed that it is a much stiffer, less comfortable riding bike then the Orca (which has a sweet ride), priced pretty close to the Orca. Also note it does NOT come with the SL fork, but the heavier and stiffer FCM full carbon fork (due to the stiffness is key approach- it will be a racer's and sprinter's delight). You can get the SL, but the paint wouldn't match.

For me, the stiffer fork was worth a few extra grams, seeing I wanted the Opal for its stiffness anyway.

 

[Coolhand]

From Orbea's main (euro based) website, not the USA one.

http://www.orbea.com/ingles/cuadros.php?tipo=1&familia=1&cuadro=3

The experience acquired in recent years with composites like carbon fibre today allows us to present a wider range of carbon frames, each with their own mark of exclusivity and personality. Amongst these the OPAL personifies competition in its pure state. Designed for high level competition and maximum pedalling efficiency it shares the monocoque manufacturing technology of other Orbea frames. Monocoque technology has demonstrated with its growth that it is suitable to manufacture highly durable and fatigue resistant frames, without the type of deterioration in comparison to other available technologies. The selection of materials and the tube design has been directed in search of the maximum pedalling stiffness. Integrally constructed in high module M30 carbon fibre it increases by 20% stiffness in respect of other frames, without any increse in weight. The 45 degree orientation of the exterior carbon fibre sheets produces a modern and attractive style, something that contributes without doubt to guarentee a lateral structural stiffness capable of responding to the needs of the most demanding bike racer. The frame transforms all of the pedalling force and converts it into immediate acceleration. Pure Efficiency.

Two photo's of the silver frame built up, and the geometry chart too.

 

[Coolhand]

Hmm, missed one.

 

[Coolhand]

Got my Opal frame today- should have it built up and on the road soon.



Will post photo's and ride impressions then.

 

[Coolhand]

Got my Opal frame today- should have it built up and on the road soon.



Will post photo's and ride impressions then.

 

[Coolhand]

Got my Opal frame today- should have it built up and on the road soon.



Will post photo's and ride impressions then.

Frame is built up, and I have one ride in. Very stiff drivetrain. Same high head tube as the Orca. Doesn't ride quite as nice. Stiffer though. Very fetching frame with the broad CF weave. Still need to fiddle with my set-up a bit.

Pict's soon.