Orbea Avant

The Orbea Avant is a road bike that has carved itself a niche in the endurance segment of the cycling world. Positioned as a comfortable yet performance-oriented option, the Avant is designed to handle long-distance rides with ease. It's not a racing thoroughbred, but rather a bike that balances speed with comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy sportive events or leisurely long rides. The Avant sits in Orbea's lineup as a versatile road bike, ideal for those who want to enjoy the open road without the aggressive posture of a pure race bike.

Riding the Orbea Avant on UK roads gives you an immediate sense of its comfort-focused design. The geometry is more relaxed compared to a racing bike, which allows for a more upright riding position. This is ideal for reducing fatigue over long distances, especially on the varying surfaces of UK country roads. The carbon models in particular do a great job of dampening vibrations, offering a smooth ride even on rougher tarmac. The handling is stable rather than twitchy, which is exactly what you want when you're spending hours in the saddle.

When comparing the Avant to its rivals, such as the Specialized Roubaix or the Trek Domane, it holds its own with a competitive spec for the price. The Avant often undercuts these competitors on price while offering similar levels of comfort and performance. Some models, particularly those from the mid-range to high-end, feature hydraulic disc brakes and carbon frames, which are now becoming standard in this category. Where it might fall short is in the weight department, as some models can be slightly heavier than their rivals, which might be a consideration for those who are particularly weight-conscious.

In the used market, the Orbea Avant is a solid buy, especially for those looking for a reliable endurance road bike without breaking the bank. Models from around 2018 onwards often come with modern features like disc brakes and wider tyres, which are desirable for comfort and versatility. The entry-level models offer excellent value, especially those equipped with Shimano 105 groupsets, which strike a good balance between performance and affordability. As with any used bike, it's wise to check for signs of wear, especially on the drivetrain and braking components.

Known issues with the Avant are not widespread, but potential buyers should check the condition of the frame for any signs of damage, particularly if the bike has been used extensively. Additionally, ensure that the wheels are true and the bearings are in good condition, as these can be points of wear over time. Overall, the Orbea Avant is a dependable choice for those seeking a balance of comfort and performance in their road cycling adventures.

What it's like to ride

Riding the Orbea Avant on UK roads is a pleasant experience, thanks to its comfortable geometry and vibration-dampening capabilities. The upright position reduces strain on your back and shoulders, making it ideal for long rides on varied terrain. The handling is stable, which is reassuring on winding roads or when descending hills. While not the lightest option out there, the Avant still maintains a good speed and is responsive enough for most endurance riders.

Who it's for

The Orbea Avant is perfect for cyclists who prioritise comfort over outright speed. It's an ideal choice for those who enjoy long rides and sportive events. It's also suitable for riders who are starting to venture into road cycling and want a reliable, well-rounded bike.

Models from 2018 onwards offer the best value due to modern features like disc brakes. Older models can still be a good buy if they have been well maintained and are priced attractively.