DYNAMIC STRUCTURE
STIFFNESS
The large majority of torsional and lateral loads are handled by the lower spine of the frame. The headtube, downtube and chainstays resist twisting and transmit power to the rear wheel. There is no doubt about it, resistance to flex in the bottom of the frame translates directly to more watts to the wheel and a sensation that power transfer is instantaneous.
SMOOTHNESS
Studying the way the frame behaves under a rider’s weight is critical to tuning the way vibrations are transmitted through the upper structure of the frame. The seat stays of the new Alma are thinner, the cross-sections and diameters reduced to provide graceful support for the seat tube and nothing more. The top tube is robust at the head tube where it contributes to torsional stiffness, but quickly tapers to eliminate unnecessary material. The natural flex patterns created by the carbon layup and minimal bulk of the top tube and seat stays deliver a dynamic, smooth ride that feels like floating over rough terrain. The sensation is subtle – but it is noticeable and can be tested. And at the end of a grueling ride it could make the difference between the podium and the consolation prize.
MATERIALS
OMX
When the constant hunt for improvement in our carbon manufacturing yields results that barely resemble those from a few short years ago, it’s time to change the way we talk about carbon. With the introduction of OMX we are showing riders everywhere the direction of our lightest and stiffest performance racing frames. We don’t claim that OMX is a secret-sauce, it’s more straightforward than that – OMX is the pinnacle of carbon fiber bicycle manufacturing.
830G (Medium)
OMR
Orbea Monocoque Race (OMR) fames add high modulus and high strength fibers to a standard layup to improve stiffness-to-weight ratios. Bladder molding with EPS forms and PU headtube and bottom bracket inserts stop wrinkling and unconformities in critical zones, allowing less carbon to be used while maintaining strength.
1100G (Medium)
HYDROFORMED ALUMINIUM
We manipulate the shapes and wall-thickness of our aluminum tubing to increase strength and resistance to unwanted flex. Many of the tubes are butted to save weight in the middle of the tubes, away from the stress of the joints and the weld zones. Using aluminum technologies as advanced as our carbon manufacturing ensures our aluminum bikes are never second-best.
1650G (Medium)
DESIGN INTEGRATION
ICR
Internal Cable Routing is carefully guided along the best path with no rub or rattle, and is optimized for both traditional and electronic shifting systems.
FLAT MOUNT
The lowest profile brake mount provides the cleanest, stiffest and lightest caliper integration available.
CHAIN SECURITY
With modern 1X drivetrains, dropping a chain is largely a thing of the past. Alma’s Chain Security system offers you the added peace of mind knowing your chain is never going to end up around your bottom bracket shell, or you can remove the guide with no weight penalty of alloy insert frame mounts.
BLOCKLOCK HEADSET
The Acros Blocklock 164º steering limiter system prevents frame damage due to handlebar or fork impacts. We’ve worked closely with Acros to reduce stack height and improve cockpit integration with our Alma monocoque models..
OC COCKPIT
The Orbea XC Family sports an all-new integrated look with a completely unique OC headset/spacer/stem design. The system includes an optional computer mount that is compatible with all major brands using standard adapters. OC component collaboration is a detail that completes the high-end feel of our modern XC bikes.
GEOMETRY
ORBEA WORLD CUP GEOMETRY
Alma’s World Cup Geometry is born from years of designing world-class XC bikes. The position is aggressive, comfortable and fast. Unlike trail geometry that sacrifices some precison for endurance, XC geometry is precise and intuitive for maximum power transfer. Angles and dimensions are considered carefully across a range of sizes, maximizing power by increasing efficiency.
• HEAD ANGLE – 68º • SEAT ANGLE – 74.5º • REACH – 426mm MEDIUM
SPECIFICATIONS
ALMA FEATURES
TIRE CLEARANCE
Even the most weight-conscious XC riders appreciate the increased traction, comfort, durability and speed offered by wider tires.
UDH HANGER
A Universal Derailleur Hanger will eventually make finding a replacement a snap, as more and more bikes adopt this simple technology.
PF92
The wide press-fit shell ensures optimal stiffness and larger bearings with better seals offer increased durability, reduced maintenance and friction.
RACE DROPPER
A 27.2mm OC 2 Dropper Post brings added control and comfort to the racing hardtail.
WHO IS ALMA FOR?
Alma is the choice of elite racers or riders who want the lightest bike with the best performance. Alma is for purists who don’t want or need full suspension and other complexities.
BEST XC PLATFORM
The best XC racing bike is not just light, stiff, or comfortable. We believe it’s a combination of all of those things. Alma blends these elements to maximize power transfer and speed in all conditions because the most efficient bike will make you faster. They say it’s the rider and not the bike. While this pearl of wisdom is true to an extent, it denies the fact that not all XC hardtails are created equally. Among competitive riders with similar fitness, just a tiny advantage can mean the difference between winning and losing. Alma exploits the smallest of gains to put you ahead of the competition, whether you’re sprinting for the win or out-climbing your friends for bragging rights.