The Orbea Occam LT seems as if it was purpose-built for my natural riding style. I prefer a bike that can climb efficiently up steep terrain while also providing plenty of stability for the ride down, so the travel ranges of most modern trail or all-mountain bikes really appeals to me. The Occam LT falls happily in this category, with 150 millimeters of rear-wheel travel and a 160-millimeter fork up front—making it an ideal choice for riders who want a balanced mix of climbing efficiency and descending prowess. In addition, its sensible geometry and smart array of components make for a bike that can be both stable and lively when the situation demands.

As with many 150-millimeter-travel bikes, the Occam LT is an efficient climber. Its 77-degree seat tube angle (with the shock in the low setting) and 440-millimeter chainstay work in harmony to place the rider in a balanced but forward-oriented position, which is crucial to maintaining balance on steep, technical ascents. The rear suspension platform is supportive yet lively, ensuring that pedal strokes are efficiently translated into forward momentum. Overall, the rear suspension lies on the stiff end of the spectrum, providing more pedaling support than all-out compliance and traction. When going uphill, the bike feels surprisingly light, making climbing an enjoyable part of the ride.

When it comes to descending, the Occam LT has some distinct characteristics. Its longer wheelbase, together with a slack 64-degree head angle (with the shock in the low setting), provides ample stability when going downhill—practically inviting one to stay off the brakes and go faster. Yet this stability doesn’t come at the cost of playfulness; the Occam LT generally remains responsive and agile, especially when it comes to pumping off-trail doubles. The rear suspension platform feels more race-driven, rewarding an active rider who is more adept at steering into clean lines. It’s a bike that begs to be pushed harder by riders who routinely make savvy line choices.

Admittedly, it’s hard not to love a mountain bike with the impressive array of components featured on the Occam LT M-Team model that I tested. The SRAM Transmission X0 Eagle drivetrain delivers measured and solid shifts, while the Fox Transfer Factory Kashima Dropper post worked great with its satisfying clunk at the top of the stroke. The amazing fork, a 160-millimeter Fox 36 Float Factory with a Grip2 damper and Kashima coating felt stiff and race-driven. And the two-position, Fox Float X Factory shock stayed very active, with a less-damped feel that kept the bike super poppy. The tire choices were perfect for the conditions in which I was riding, with a fast-rolling Maxxis Dissector 3C MaxTerra in the rear and the tried-and-true Maxxis DHF 3C MaxTerra up front. I also appreciated the comfortable Ergon SM Enduro Comp saddle, with a stiffness I felt helped me to pedal more efficiently.

All in all, the Orbea Occam LT M-Team is a high-end machine that strikes a sensible balance between climbing efficiency and sniper-like descending. It’s a good match for riders who gravitate toward long, challenging climbs, but don’t necessarily need a magic carpet ride back to the bottom.

Learn More: https://www.orbea.com/us-en/bicycles/mountain/occam-lt/cat/occam-lt-m-team