This sizing guide helps you find your ideal Orbea Orca size.
The Orca is an all-rounder race bike released in July 2023 with an updated frame design. Its aggressive geometry places you in a lower and more stretched-out position.
According to Orbea, there are five frame sizes suitable for those between 5’1″ and 6’1″ (155 to 185cm). If you’re taller than 6’1″ (185cm), I recommend exploring other brands like Specialized, Trek, or Giant, which cater to taller cyclists.
| Bike size | Rider height (in) | Rider height (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 47 | 5’1″ – 5’3″ | 155 – 160 |
| 49 | 5’3″ – 5’5″ | 160 – 166 |
| 51 | 5’6″ – 5’8″ | 167 – 172 |
| 53 | 6’2″ – 6’9″ | 173 – 179 |
| 55 | 5’11” – 6’1″ | 180 – 185 |
Other factors to consider beyond height
Here are important things to consider from my experience working at the bike shop, helping my customers determine their right bike size.
Orbea sizing vs. others
While the Orbea Orca comes in sizes 47, 49, 51, 53, and 55, it’s essential to understand that these numbers are more than just arbitrary values.
They represent the frame’s size but remember, sizing can vary between brands. For instance, a size 51 Orbea might differ from a size 51 BMC. It’s always best to delve deeper than just the surface numbers.
Stack and reach are crucial
Drawing from my own experience, I can’t stress enough the significance of the Stack and Reach measurements. If you’re currently riding a bike that feels like an extension of yourself, use its Stack and Reach as a reference.
- Stack is the vertical distance from the bottom bracket to the head tube’s top. It plays a pivotal role in determining your handlebar’s height relative to your saddle. A higher stack offers a more relaxed posture, ideal for extended rides or those who prefer a more upright position due to lower back concerns.
- Reach is the horizontal distance from the bottom bracket to the head tube’s center, Reach is crucial in determining your riding posture. A longer reach offers a more aggressive stance, while a shorter one ensures a compact, upright position.
The Stack and Reach measurements can be found in the frame geometry chart below.
What if you fall between sizes?
It’s not uncommon to find yourself torn between two sizes. From my observations at the shop, I’ve noticed many cyclists inadvertently opting for a slightly larger frame. Here’s my advice.
- Body Proportions. Those with longer legs and a shorter torso might find a smaller frame more comfortable. Conversely, if you have a shorter inseam but a longer torso, a larger frame might be more suitable.
- Flexibility. Your flexibility plays a role too. If you lean towards the less flexible side, consider a frame like the Giant Defy Advanced, designed for endurance and comfort.
Test ride before you buy
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, always test ride. Head to your nearest Orbea dealer and try out the sizes you’re considering. Most established dealers, from my experience, are more than willing to offer test rides, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Orbea Orca frame geometry (2020-2023)
The geometry chart below applies to all Orbea Orca frames from the following:
- Years: 2024 (launched July 2023)
- Models: Orbea Orca OMX, OMR, M10, M11, M20, M21, M30, M31, M35
- Frame material: Carbon
Learn more about the frame geometry measurements here.
| Frame Size | 47 | 49 | 51 | 53 | 55 | 57 | 60 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rider Height (cm) | 155 to 160 | 160 to 166 | 167 to 172 | 173 to 180 | 180 to 185 | 186 to 191 | 192 to 207 |
| Rider Height (ft) | 5’1” to 5’3″ | 5’3” to 5’5″ | 5’6” to 5’8″ | 5’8” to 5’11″ | 5’11” to 6’1″ | 6’8” to 6’3″ | 6’4” to 7’2″ |
| Stack (mm) | 370 | 375 | 380 | 385 | 391 | 398 | 404 |
| Reach (mm) | 506 | 515 | 533 | 552 | 572 | 590 | 616 |
| Top Tube, Effective (mm) | 510.3 | 522.7 | 535.9 | 548.5 | 560.4 | 576.1 | 590 |
| Seat Tube, C-T (mm) | 440 | 460 | 480 | 500 | 520 | 540 | 570 |
| Seat Tube Angle | 74.5º | 74º | 73.7º | 73.5º | 73.5º | 73.2º | 73.2º |
| Head Tube (mm) | 110.5 | 118.2 | 134.6 | 152.9 | 173.1 | 191.2 | 218.3 |
| Head Tube Angle | 71º | 71.5º | 72.2º | 72.8º | 73º | 73.2º | 73.2º |
| Chainstay (mm) | 408 | 408 | 408 | 408 | 408 | 408 | 408 |
| BB Height (mm) | 268.5 | 268.5 | 268.5 | 270.5 | 270.5 | 270.5 | 270.5 |
| BB Drop (mm) | 72 | 72 | 72 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 971.8 | 975.4 | 980 | 981.2 | 991.4 | 1001.9 | 1015.6 |
| Standover Height (mm) | 736.5 | 748.5 | 767.5 | 788.5 | 808.5 | 826.5 | 852.5 |
| Fork Length (mm) | 365 | 365 | 365 | 365 | 365 | 365 | 365 |
| Fork Offset (mm) | 48 | 48 | 48 | 43 | 43 | 43 | 43 |
| Trail (mm) | 66 | 62.8 | 58.4 | 59.9 | 58.7 | 57.4 | 57.4 |
| Crankarm Length (mm) | 170 | 170 | 170 | 170 | 172 | 172 | 175 |
| Stem Length (mm) | 80 | 90 | 90 | 100 | 100 | 110 | 120 |
| Handlebar Width (mm) | 360 | 380 | 380 | 400 | 400 | 420 | 420 |
Bernard Lu has 7+ years of experience working in a bicycle shop, overseeing the retail and workshop operations. He’s a qualified bicycle mechanic who understands a cyclist’s needs and speaks the same cycling lingo.
If you meet him at the cafe, he will happily talk to you for hours about all the intricacies of bikes and cycling tech. Just buy him a coffee next time you see him.