Prototype OOLab Orbea Oiz XC Bike Raced At Nove Mesto World Cup Looks Pretty Epic!

Orbea has been spotted testing a new prototype cross-country race bike at the Nove Mesto World Cup, signalling a potential update to their popular Oiz model. The prototype retains the core single-pivot suspension layout of the current 120mm travel Oiz but introduces a significant design change by repositioning the rear shock inside the lower half of the top tube. This integration creates a sleeker, more lightweight appearance, marking a departure from the traditional shock placement seen on previous models. Unlike the openly displayed new Spark from Scott-SRAM Racing, Orbea’s prototype was more discreetly presented, with some frames concealed under custom wraps bearing the official Orbea Factory Team livery. This suggests the bike is nearing production readiness, although some raw carbon versions still appeared unfinished. While a few riders tested the new design, most of the team continued to race on the existing Oiz, indicating the prototype is still in the evaluation phase. The design of the prototype bears a striking resemblance to the Specialized Epic World Cup, particularly in the toptube-mounted shock and the short linkage system that connects to the seatstays. Although travel specifications remain unconfirmed, the longer silver link observed hints at a travel figure closer to 120mm, aligning with current trends favouring more aggressive XC race setups. The frame also appears to maintain key features such as a threaded bottom bracket, Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) dropouts, and fully integrated cable routing. The timing of the new Oiz’s official launch remains uncertain. The presence of a team-painted prototype suggests a release could be imminent, yet the unfinished raw frames hint that further development is ongoing. Orbea’s approach indicates a careful refinement process, balancing innovation with proven design elements to deliver a competitive race bike for the upcoming seasons. Enthusiasts and competitors alike will be watching closely for official announcements and detailed specifications in the near future.