Orbea Occam: versatile trail MTB review

Orbea Occam: the Basque trail bike that gets it right

Orbea is a Basque (Spanish) brand with over 180 years of history. The Occam is their full-suspension trail bike, positioned between the Oiz (XC) and the Rallon (enduro). It's a bike that aims for absolute versatility.

The OMR carbon frame

The frame uses OMR (Orbea Monocoque Race) technology: a monocoque carbon frame moulded in one piece for an excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio. The front triangle and chainstays form a single unit.

The result is a remarkably light trail frame: about 2.2 kg for the frame alone, placing the Occam among the lightest trail bikes on the market.

140 mm rear, 150 mm front

The Occam offers 140 mm rear travel and 150 mm front (Fox 36). This is the sweet spot of modern trail riding: enough travel for technical descents, enough pedalling efficiency for long climbs.

The kinematics are smooth and progressive. The bike doesn't bottom out harshly even on big hits, and the suspension stays active through small bumps. Anti-squat is well calibrated for efficient pedalling without excessive bobbing.

MyO: total customisation

This is one of Orbea's key advantages. The MyO (My Orbea) programme lets you customise your bike:

• Frame colour (dozens of options)
• Components (fork, shock, wheels, groupset, dropper post)
• Mullet configuration (29/27.5) or full 29

You configure online, and it's assembled at Orbea's Basque Country factory. Lead time is about 3-4 weeks.

Mullet option

The Occam can be configured as a mullet: 29" front wheel and 27.5" rear. The benefit? A stable, fast-rolling front (29") with a more playful, agile rear (27.5"). This is particularly interesting for smaller riders or those who want a very nimble bike.

The verdict

The Orbea Occam is a formidable trail bike. Lightweight, well-suspended, customisable, and made in Europe. If you're looking for a versatile trail MTB that pedals well uphill and rips downhill, it deserves a spot on your shortlist.

For pivot axle torque specs, recommended suspension settings, or Orbea component compatibilities, ask L'Atelier.