Orange consider the Patriot to be one of their most versatile bike ranges as it can be built up as a lightweight trail machine or specced for heavy duty Alpine action. Upgrades for this year include a folded section downtube that increases frame strength and a CNC'd shock mount to distribute forces more evenly. The top tube has been lowered and the rear drop out features Maxle compatibility allowing the use of a 12mm bolt through rear axle for rigidity.
The XCEL is designed to be a lighter weight build than other Patriots in the range, giving it a wider appeal to riders. In keeping with this philosophy it has a multi adjustable Fox 36 TALAS R with 160mm travel and a Manitou Evolver X4 rear shock. Smooth, reliable shifting is courtesy of Shimano XT shifters and rear derailleur with a Race Face Atlas crankset. Dependable Hope hubs are mated to WTB Duty Duty FR rims forming a very tough wheelset.
To keep things under control, Hope Mono M4 hydraulic disc brakes give downhill confidence and the package is finished off with a Thomson Elite seatpost and matching stem and the supremely comfortable SDG Bel Air saddle.
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