2024 Orbea Occam SL & LT Review: Which one is better?

Today, we’re talking about the new 2024 Orbea Occam, both the SL and LT models. How much can 10mm of travel and different components make? We’re going to dive in and help you decide which one is the better option for you. We’ve also got a race against the clock in store, so stick around.

0:00 Intro
1:24 Flip-Chip Race
4:40 Uphill Occam SL
6:39 Uphill Occam LT
8:33 Downhill Occam SL
11:28 Downhill Occam LT
13:58 Comparisons
15:39 Which one should you buy?

[kevingorzny]

Great comparison. Can’t wait to get my LT from said bike shop. For those who are skeptical of headset cable routing, I’ve had it for a year and it’s not that bad. Not ideal but not a deal breaker. Don’t let it stop you from buying a bike you want. It is quiet and it’s cool how isolated the rear brake line is.

[mogulmayhem]

A few years ago I bought a bike you recommended. I still love it. Thanks again.

[nicholkid]

I think I'm an sl type guy. Fits my style perfectly. Not opposed to a black diamond but rarely do them. I swear nearly every review you post I add another bike to my wish list 😅

[chrisallen]

Always the best reviews. I'm going with the LT. Just get me to the top so I can have fun going down the trail

[ThunderStruckMTB]

Always great reviews and comparos. Good stuff.

[antonego]

Great review! Parade Rim is such a great place to test these bikes— good choice.

[hamishscott]

I have the previous generation Occam that came standard with 140mm rear travel and the option of a 140 or 150mm fork. I chose the 150. It’s a Fox 36. While I understand the SL and LT gives you more options I still think the 140 rear paired with a 150 front is the perfect all-round trail bike. For me the SL seems a little under-gunned and is too focussed on light weight and the LT is comprised by weight and it’s very close to the Rallon.

[antonego]

Great review! Parade Rim, Zen, Barrel Roll are such a great places to test these bikes.

[johnnybravo]

Stumpjumper evo and Trek fuel ex do internal frame storage on their alloy frames but it is sort of rare for sure.

[lazylearner]

Just watched this review again, your reviews are honestly the BEST in the business! Love the edits and style. Such a great shop! QQ- How would you compare the Element to the Occam SL?

[lazylearner]

I still have the Rallon, and can't believe how well it climbs! It descends incredible too, making the Farm Bike park far more enjoyable. But it's supposed to do that. Sounds like Orbea drips their magic climbing sauce on all their bikes.

[nielsschuurman]

Thanks for this review for explaining the difference

[AdventuresWithClair]

Another awesome video, love the work keep it up.

[starhead]

Love your reviews! I would like to see a Fezzari review.

[wednesdar]

Great review. Thank you. What did the LT weigh in at? Their site is fairly vague...

[phattysnow]

Got the ripley for sale for the occum sl lots of big endurance races this summer!

[jaymondhuynh]

Hey guys, great stuff! Just curious as to what trails y'all are hitting? Heading to Utah soon for a bike trip. Thanks!

[Eric.V.]

Yeah, other than the goofy ass headset cabling, nice bikes. I’m so glad that my Rallon has normal cable routing. Great reviews!

[MTW]

Great review! Thank you! I'm leaning towards the SL, but I have a question regarding sizes. I'm aware that Orbea sizes tend to run smaller than other brands, especially American ones. For someone tall like me, 1.90cm (6.2 ft), who prioritizes speed and responsiveness over stability, would it be better to opt for the "L" size and adjust the seat to the far back, and also get a 30mm raised bar, or should I go for the "XL"?

[media]

Great video. Like both bikes. What were the trails ridden in the desert parts of the video? Thanks!