Orbea Occam SL

85/100
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Users (0 ratings)
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Experts (3 reviews)
81
Orbea Occam SL
Where to buy
$2,999.00 Con­tender Bicycles See it
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Facts

Gender
Men, Women
Type
Mountain, Trail, Non-Electric
Release Year
2024
Brand
Orbea
Wheel Size
29”
Number of Gears
12 (1x12)
Gearing Type
External Derailleur
Weight
27.12, 25.23 lb
Suspension
Full
Brake Type
Disc: Hydraulic
Frame Material
Carbon Fiber, Aluminum

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Orbea Occam SL. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

12 reasons to buy

  • The Occam SL is available in three carbon-framed builds (M-LTD, M10, M30) and two aluminum (H10, H30).
  • Testers say the balanced riding position is well-suited to both climbing and descending.
  • The Occam SL's efficiency and comfort make it ideal for long rides.
  • Testers relish the bike's ability to hold speed, especially in corners.
  • The Occam SL’s precise steering and intuitive handling impress experts.
  • Some reviewers feel the supportive rear suspension doesn’t need to be locked out while climbing.
  • Testers say the bike’s low weight contributes to the lively ride feel.
  • Experts praise the Occam SL for its ability to handle technical climbs, highlighting the efficient rear suspension, low weight, and stiff frame.
  • The frame has integrated storage and space for a 230mm dropper.
  • Cables can be run through the headset (stock) or head tube.
  • Carbon frames receive vinyl frame protection and include three-position headset angle cups.
  • Orbea frames have a lifetime warranty for the original registered owner.

8 reasons not to buy

  • A reviewer finds the long wheelbase compromises maneuverability in tight, twisty trails.
  • The aluminum frames don't come with the head angle adjustment cups.
  • An expert reports that the 180mm brake rotors overheat on long descents.
  • Testers are disappointed by the FOX Transfer SL Factory dropper post (M-LTD), which only has two positions.
  • Experts advise replacing the lightweight, shallow-tread Schwalbe Wicked Will tires (carbon builds) for serious trail riding.
  • One tester finds the Occam M-LTD’s suspension difficult to set up.
  • A reviewer says the OC MC10 Carbon bars and Ergon GXR grips are harsh and uncomfortable.
  • The Squidlock remote lockout limits suspension upgrade options, and some find it unintuitive to use.

Bottom line

Orbea's Occam SL is the shorter-travel (140mm front and back) "super-light" version of the bike. The beefier Occam LT has 160mm front and 150mm rear. The five builds include carbon and aluminum frames. Reviewers highlight the bike's impressively efficient pedaling and acceleration, direct handling, and supportive suspension that can be locked out for covering longer miles. Despite falling into the trail category, testers agree the Occam SL is better suited to less aggressive terrain. The M10 build is considered the best value, and overall, experts recommend the efficient Occam SL for flow trails and all-day expeditions.

Expert Reviews

81/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews
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86
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This review has been given a score. Read more here
ENDURO Mountainbike Magazine
Level 5 expert

New 2024 Orbea Occam First Ride Review – Exciting Double Bill for Orbea’s Brand New Trail All-Rounder

Level 5 expert

Both bikes are strong all-rounders that skillfully combine touring suitability, comfort, and trail performance.

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74
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This review has been given a score. Read more here
Singletrack
Level 5 expert

Orbea Occam SL M-LTD Review

Level 5 expert

I have no doubt that there are people who will love the Orbea Occam SL, complete with Squidlock and little-bitty dropper lever. But I think that a small change in the build options would make this bike attractive to a lot more people.

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83
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This review has been given a score. Read more here
ESMTB.com
Level 5 expert

Orbea Occam SL 2024 Test, Competition to the Oiz? [Spanish]

Level 5 expert

In short, the Orbea Occam SL is a surprising bike that’s closer than ever to being a bike capable of doing everything well.

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The Loam Wolf
Level 5 expert

The New Orbea Occam SL + LT

Level 5 expert

Starting with the Orbea Occam SL, it’s a really energetic feeling bike with agile handling and great pedaling manners.

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Vital MTB
Level 5 expert

First Ride – Orbea’s New Occam Trail Models

Level 5 expert

The SL works best for the trail rider who wants an efficient, lightweight steed for long pedals that is still playful and can handle uncertain terrain.

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Eric Olsen
Level 1 expert

Orbea Occam SL/LT – Long Term Review

Level 1 expert

[The] geo is just very sorted, and it allows you to play from borderline enduro bike all the way to XC bike.

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Pinkbike
Level 5 expert

First Ride: Orbea Occam SL & LT

Level 5 expert

I’m sure there are plenty of riders who will enjoy the blend of stability and sportiness that results from the longer wheelbase and moderate head angle, combined with the ability to lock the fork and shock out for maximum efficiency.

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brujulabike
Level 5 expert

We Tested the New Orbea Occam SL: Performance and Versatility in an Outstanding MTB [Spanish Video]

Level 5 expert

A bike like the Occam is the right choice for the vast majority, even if we ever put on a [race] bib, because we can enjoy, without limitations, that adventurous version of MTB that made the sport great.

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MTB-News.de
Level 5 expert

New Orbea Occam Trail Bike in the First Test [German]

Level 5 expert

…[the] suspension and stiffness could be a bit more forgiving for pure trail fun. However, if you look at the overall picture, you’re getting a very fun, all-round trail bike that’s well-equipped for both extended tours and technical trails.

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MtbCult
Level 3 expert

Video Test – Orbea Occam SL: From XC to Enduro with Ease [Italian]

Level 3 expert

It is very versatile, a true “do-it-all” MTB, the ideal compromise for those looking for a bike that can have fun everywhere, from XC courses to not-too-extreme enduro races, including mountain outings and local rides.

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User Ratings

0/100 based on 0 ratings
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Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#48 Best Trail Bike
Bottom 50%
#87 Best Mountain Bike
Bottom 50%
#11 Best Orbea Bike
Bottom 30%
#441 Best of All Bikes
Top 50%

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Trail bikes with the highest BikeRide Scores
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Bike Comparison

Orbea Occam SL in comparison to averages
Orbea Occam SL
85
Average All Bikes
84
Average Orbea Bike
88
Average Trail Bike
87

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