First ride review: Orbea Orca 2024
The sixth-generation Basque-built road bike from Orbea sees a number of small changes that bring the handling and versatility of prior bikes we loved so much.
Author
David Everett
Originally hailing from the English Lake District, and now living in one of Europe’s cycling heartlands, the Basque region. Dave, or Shoddy as he is known in some circles (that’s a story for another time), would have classed himself as a pure roadie. Now, though, with two kids and great gravel on his doorstep, he has expanded beyond hardcore road rider and racer and loves cargo and chunky wheeled bikes.
Brought up in the back of his dad’s bike shop, Dave lives cycling. He has worked on the media side of the sport since 2011 but raced in Europe for 15 years before that.
The video is Dave’s domain. Catching everything from tech at races to in-depth interviews.
My Stories
Tour de France tech: Intermarché-Circus-Wanty’s Cube bikes and a chat with Andre Greipel
Hidden valves, upgraded derailleur pulleys, Rotor cranksets, and other goodies on the bikes of Biniam Girmay and Rui Costa.
John Degenkolb at the Tour de France: Haribo, heroes and panini stickers
German superstar sits down for an unconventional Shoddy interview.
Has Phil Liggett ever told you about the time his car got bombed in the Basque Country?
A legend of cycling broadcasting recounts his memories of the Tour in the Basque Country.
The Basque Country: Why it’s going to be the ultimate grand depart
Shoddy Dave explores the culture of the Basque Country ahead of the Tour de France.
Video: Lidl-Trek’s Giulio Ciccone seriously overpays for tinned tuna
This is not your usual pre-Tour interview.
Orbea joins the wheel market with Oquo road and gravel wheels
There's a wide range of wheels in the lineup and they're designed in-house.
Where rim brakes thrive: Itzulia Women tech 2023
Smaller teams with lesser known gear sponsors makes Itzulia Women a treasure trove of tech delight.