Among cycling’s heritage brands, few have as much character and history as Orbea. Founded in the Basque Country of Spain in the 1840s, Orbea transitioned from firearms to bicycles in the 1930s and has since become one of the most respected names in performance cycling. Today, Orbea builds everything from pro-level road and mountain bikes to stylish e-bikes for urban riders.
But what sets Orbea apart, and how does it compare to bigger names like Trek, Specialized, or Giant? This detailed review explores Orbea’s history, product lineup, innovations, and what type of rider the brand is best suited for.
- Founded: 1840s (bicycles since 1930s).
- Headquarters: Mallabia, Spain.
- Specialty: Premium road, mountain, and e-bikes with a focus on European craftsmanship.
- Heritage: Strong racing tradition, including sponsorship of pro WorldTour teams.