At first glance it’s clear that Orbea’s new Rallon X-Team is built for speed. With its beefy rear linkage, aggressive stance, and top flight BOS suspension, the bike looks like it’s begging to be ridden downhill.
For all of its descending innuendos, when I actually got the Rallon on
the trail it was a surprisingly capable climber. With the anti squat
characteristics of the rear linkage, power to the pedals delivered a responsive
snappy feel. The BOS Kirk rear shock’s piggyback reservoir plus high-and
low-speed compression knobs indicate a downhill bias, but it has provisions for
climbing as well. The lockout lever and tuning designed to balance pedaling
support and bump sensitivity allowed the Rallon to maintain traction while
powering up some of the most technical climbs on my local trails.
As predicted the descending prowess of the bike was its defining
feature. With adjustable geometry via a 2-position forward shock mount, the
bottom bracket can sit as low as 13.3 inches with a 66 degree head angle. This,
with the short 16.5-inch chainstays, and the Rallon exhibited some really
playful, and capable ride characteristics.
Our size large test bike had a roomy 25-inch toptube, giving it a
stable wheelbase despite the short rear end. It really excelled at high speed,
and gave me the confidence to push hard through chunky technical sections.
Adding to my confidence was the BOS Deville 160 fork. It offered great mid
stroke and big hit support without making any concessions on small bump
compliance, as well as plenty of adjustment range with independent high- and
low-speed compression.
A hydroformed aluminum frame may not have the flash appeal that some of
its carbon competitors do, but does offer some key features that any seasoned
rider can appreciate. I prefer the smart external routing on the Rallon to
increasingly popular internal affairs. Only what’s necessary, the Rock Shox
Reverb Stealth, is internal. It’s also a rare treat to see a threaded bottom
bracket, rather than a temperamental press fit. I also loved the integrated
downtube and chainstay protection, that round out a clean, easy to work on
package.
The Rallon is a strong climber and even better descender. With three
models to choose from our top shelf X-Team model offers a smart component spec
that complement the bike’s burly characteristics. No matter where I was on the
trail, the Rallon was up for the challenge.
PRICE 6299$
