It was first spotted at Eurobike last September, and now it will be hitting the trails as production versions of Orange Bikes new 29er are unveiled.

Called the Gyro (see what they’ve done there) the new model is the result of much testing by the Halifax-based company, who instead of rushing to join the 29er party took their time in adapting their iconic design for the bigger wheels.

It looks very much like a supercharged Five doesn’t it, and that’s because it uses the same folded aluminium chassis technology and construction and single pivot suspension platform. Geometry has been penned to “retain our characteristic handling agility and matching it with mile devouring poise and efficiency,” says Orange.

The important geometry numbers are; 69.5 degree head angle, 73.5 degree seat angle, 456mm chainstays, 1130mm wheelbase and 110mm head tube.

The suspension will deliver 110mm of rear wheel travel and is partnered with a 120mm fork. A 49mm head tube and 34.9mm seat tube give stiffness where needed.

Here’s the official statement from Orange: “It’s no secret we’ve been playing with both 29er full suspension and hardtail design for some time now. We had to. When the industry pushes one way we often end up wielding a weighty cynic stick as we get dizzy bludgeoning the pointlessness of it all but we still have to test, test and test again and convince ourselves its more than just marketing speak. That takes time but once the testing is done and we have convinced ourselves of the pros and cons we’ll push on in our own way.”

Just 50 bikes will be built for starters, with Factory Fox forks, Avid Elixir brakes, Maxle axles and Shimano drivetrains. The Gyro Black Gold is shipping now and can be found at Orange Bikes Dealers. It’ll cost £2,799.99

www.orangebikes.co.uk/bikes/gyro_black-gold/