With a name like Alpine you’d expect this bike to excel in alpine conditions, and that’s exactly what it does. With a bit more meat to it than the Enduro and a bit less than the Commencal, it kind of sits in a middle ground, but it’s a particularly good middle ground. As well as being at home on long alpine descents it’s also perfect for UK uplifts, especially when you shell out the extra wedge on a Cane Creek rear shock, which takes the bike into a whole other league in terms of suspension. The bike will climb too, but its heart most definitely lies in descending. Combine this level of performance with such simplicity and reliability and you’ve got a winner every time.
Price: £2999.99 (+ £400 for ccdb shock)
Orange bikes 01422 311 113
www.Orangebikes.co.uk
