The Alpine Evo is hard to classify, it isn’t an out and out Enduro bike, it’s more versatile than that, but given a chance it will dominate any trail bike in challenging and aggressive terrain. This new addition to the range is an ‘Alpine’ model in every sense of the word, but we have updated the geometry to perform in more varied situations and focused on the bike’s ride quality rather than the suspension’s travel numbers.
The 160mm front and 155mm of rear suspension strikes a balance between too much and too little. Structural and layout changes to the frame allow this model to have the most progressive suspension of any Alpine model to date, making the bike more playful and agile while providing more support through the entire range of travel.
The signature Orange Evo geometry with its longer swingarm, steeper seat tube angle and roomier front centre all lead to a longer wheel base and stability at speed. The Alpine Evo has an eagerness to jump and pop but doesn’t shy away from steep technically terrain.
CONSTRUCTION
With over two decades of fabricating and refining our own custom formed aluminium monocoque frames under our belts, Orange has developed the ideal balance of pedalling efficiency and shock performance whilst maintaining the compliance to ensure optimal grip whilst cornering. This new design has allowed us to achieve these traits by using thinner, lighter cross sectioned tubes all manufactured in house. The swingarm now better resists twisting under pedal loads whilst maintaining the lateral flex that gives grip when the bike is leant over.
FEA (finite element analysis) has been used extensively throughout this frame’s development. Significant structural design features in the swingarm meant we needed to be sure of the chassis’ integral strength. The new design form has allowed us to fine-tune the lateral and longitudinal stiffness beyond the levels that we have achieved before.
The result of lowering the non-drive-side chainstay, with better integration of the bearing housings, along with revised tube thicknesses, has resulted in a 20% increase in longitudinal stiffness and a 15% increase in overall strength compared tor previous construction methods. This improved stiffness ratio aids pedal efficiency through a reduction in twisting and enhances shock performance, all without increasing weight.
The frame’s asymmetric bearing housing means we can use a neutral pivot location with less drivetrain/suspension interaction, allowing the bike to pedal smoothly through the choppiest of terrain.
SUMMARY
For all its ‘alpine’ capability, this Evo model never feels like you are over-biked, It’s ready for anything whether that’s a quick local spin or a tough week in the Alps. The combination of great geometry with refined kinematics and structural design enhancements means you’ll keep going back for more time and time again.
Features:
- Frame: 6061-T6 Monocoque UK Formed Custom Aluminium Tubing. Wheel Size: 27.5. Rear wheel travel: 155.
- Fork: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate 160mm.
- Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 230×65.
- Drivetrain: Shimano XT 12spd.
- Brakes: Shimano XT Trail 203/180.
- Cranks: Hope Black / Black 32t.
- Bottom Bracket: Hope 30mm Black.
- Headset: Cane Creek 49mm for Tapered Steerer.
- Wheelset: E13 TRS 30mm 27.5 (Grey) + Hope Pro 4 (Black).
- Handlebars: Renthal FatBar M35 800mm.
- Stem: Hope M35 x 35mm Black.
- Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5 3C Exo / DHR II 2.4 Exo 27.5.
- Dropper Post: SDG Tellis 150mm.
- Seat: SDG Strange Bel Air III.
