Primarily known for their excellent range of offroad machines, Orange have been quietly working away on odd tarmac projects for nearly thirty years now. Back in the 90s the Orange Dynamo was raced at the top level, while a brief dabble with the Carb-O in 2012 kept the company's hand in.
The RX9 is still one of our favourite gravel bikes, so it was a happy day when we got wind of this pure, unadulterated road bike from the fruity stable, marking what seems like a more focussed re-entry into the road department.
With a beautifully constructed all-carbon frame, the R9 oozes long range speed straight out the box - the geometry and ride has been tuned to distance and comfort rather than all out sprint potential, but make no mistake, this is a rapid machine.
Shimano Ultegra 8000 is specced throughout, from the superb disc brakes to the innovative Di2 electronic gear shift system, so you know the components couldn't be a whole lot better in terms of function. Other finishing kit is from the Easton EC70 range, lending yet more carbon to what is an enviable line up, and Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheels, which are proven to be reliable and fast.
Verdict: A beautiful bike for the money if you're prepared to think outside the box when it comes to road bike brands.
