Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026: Test Review, Pros Cons Problems Performance Opinions Everything you need to know (really)

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026: Test Review, Pros Cons Problems Performance Opinions Everything you need to know (really)

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Build Quality

The Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 has a fairly high cost, but everything is top-notch, or almost; nothing has been left to chance, and ultimately, it is an excellent full-suspension XC mountain bike. A bike that is competitive in its category and is a valid alternative to other brands. It’s a shame that the economic advantage that Orbea bicycles once had is almost completely lost.

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Frame

The frame of the Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 is very well made, with modern geometries and truly valid construction quality. It is important to note, however, a certain overall complexity of the bicycle, which will affect maintenance and management costs in the long run. But this is a secondary aspect on a top-of-the-range bike. With these mountain bikes and this technology, the high purchase price is only the beginning of the expense... The weight is very competitive, about 10 kg.

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Assembly

The range of assemblies for the Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 is complete. The price-quality ratio is good. However, it is not a bargain.

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Comfort

Although it is not the ultimate in riding comfort, as an XC mountain bike, it is more than adequate. Clearly, it remains a stiff frame, but the suspension work is excellent. A good compromise for those looking for an XC mountain bike but still with good riding comfort. That being said, the riding comfort is valid.

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Handling

The Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 is a very intuitive, manageable, and high-performance bike. It is a stiff, reactive, fast bike, but it also requires commitment and experience in handling to manage its reactions. The dynamic behavior highlights valid stability and optimal weight distribution, which allows for climbing even technically difficult trails with extreme ease, with intuitive control, and excellent rear-wheel traction. The contained weight, moreover, facilitates the most difficult and technical ascents. The rear suspension works well, as does the fork, both sensitive to adjustments. Stability and safety on the descent are good, where performance is excellent in absolute terms. Easy to ride on the flat, where one appreciates the riding comfort, but above all, its high performance. A perfect frame for fast trails with hard and compact surfaces. The braking is excellent, and, as mentioned, so are the suspensions. A mountain bike suitable for every trail, excellent on descents, on the flat, and on climbs. A true race bike, competitive on every course.

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Performance

The overall performance of the Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 is very high, and it could not be otherwise. Reduced weight, stiff frame, excellent suspension, top components... There is not a single element that can be criticized. Consequently, its performance is excellent. There is no element in which it can be considered inferior to its competitors; it is always and in any case fast. Then, one needs to have the "legs" and riding ability to fully exploit this frame. Because, like all high-performance mountain bikes, the stiffer, more reactive, and faster a frame is, the more it demands commitment and riding ability. It costs a lot but repays with high performance.

Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 Test Review Pros and Cons

The Orbea OIZ M LTD SRAM XX AXS 2026 proves to be a mountain bike with very high performance and excellent overall quality. It has an excellent frame; it is light, stiff, and fast. It is not cheap—this is its real flaw. The management costs also remain high. An excellent bicycle, but expensive to buy and manage, just like other competing models.

For more information, write to: salvatelliluca @ hotmail.com

Note: The photo is indicative and does not refer to the specific bike tested.