Bicycles #8171217

the orbea alma m15 29 features the same lightweight carbon frame as the alma m-ltd model but at a lower price. a sram gx eagle groupset lowers the price, giving you reliable shifting for a great value. still, this version of the alma remains very light and is one of the better climbing cross-country bikes out there. most orbea pros choose to use the alma when a race stage calls for a lot of climbing, so it is sure to suit your uphill needs.

thanks to orbeas 4x4 dynamic structure, this is a very compliant hardtail. the headtube flexes naturally to dissipate some vibration and impact energy that would typically get in the way of a fast and enjoyable ride. this dynamic structure gives you all the compliance you need without sacrificing valuable speed. larger 29-inch wheels are used on this model to add to the efficiency of each pedal stroke, so you can comfortably keep up your speed all day. overall, orbea estimates that this version of the alma is 10 percent more comfortable than previous iterations.

The Bianchi Oltre XR4 is your key to aerodynamic performance on the road. With a balance of aerodynamic features and lightweight climbing ability, this bike nestles into the aero road bike category without losing the qualities that make it a great climber. This is Bianchis most aerodynamic frame to date and was created using Computational Fluid Dynamic software to consider various iterations of geometry and tube shape. The wind tunnel was utilized to finally settle on what became the Oltre XR4. As a result, this bike can require 20 watts of power less to hit the same speeds as the XR2. With a new fork profile and headtube shaping, there is no question that Bianchi is making moves in the aero world.

A huge bright spot on Bianchis top bikes is their Countervail integrated vibration cancelling system. This patented viscoelastic material is incorporated within the carbon and cancels up to 80 percent of vibrations you would typically experience on the road. The cancellation of these vibrations will keep your muscles from fatiguing for longer so you can keep your best pace mile after mile. Less vibration also means that you will have the maximum stiffness through the frame and fork of your Oltre XR4 so you can reap the full benefits of its aerodynamic design.