Most of the major bike brands have something to offer women in the form of standard models tweaked to fit the female form: Orange mountain bikes are no different. The hardcore mountain bikers still don’t seem to have reached a consensus on whether there is even a need for these bikes, known as women specific designs. Until relatively recently, the girls by and large managed with standard models. But you can’t argue with Orange mountain bikes when they point out there are some clear differences between girls and boys and that if a bike reflects the differences, it’ll be more comfortable.

In designing their bikes for women, Orange mountain bikes identified that women are generally that little bit smaller than men and tend to have less variation in the size of their bodies. Because of all that, the Diva by Orange mountain bikes is sized slightly differently with slightly different geometry to the men’s standard model so that it better fits the female body and is more comfortable to ride.

Most women need bikes that are a little shorter and lower, as well as benefitting from lightweight models. Lucky then that the Orange Five Diva can deliver all of this. The majority of mountain bikers will know the Orange mountain bikes’ Five, which is a classic amongst mountain bikes. They dominate trails wherever you go. Perhaps you’ll even see a few Diva Fives about. But are they worth it?

Orange mountain bikes’ Diva Five comes in two sizes, either short or long. They’re both based on the standard Five model. The biggest difference is in the build kit: the Diva used 16mm cranks as opposed to the 175mm ones on the standard. There is also the obligatory women’s saddle.

The bike is very lightweight, thanks in part to the air suspension it features on both the front and back. Narrower handlebars, women’s saddle and shorter cranks also make it a comfortable bike to ride. Despite the comfort factor, Hope breaks and Shimano gears ensure it is still a strong ride.

In all, you can’t argue that Orange mountain bikes have done quite a good job on the Diva Five. It was never going to be a bad plan to take a classis design and alter it to work better for women. If what you’re looking for is a good quality women’s trail bike then you’ve got it.

1. The Diva by Orange Mountain Bikes
2. Women’s Bikes by Orange Mountain Bikes
3. Women’s Bikes by Orange Mountain Bikes
4. Orange Mountain Bikes’ All Round Range
5. Who Are Orange Mountain Bikes?

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