Originally Posted by briscoelab
Agreed, the Opal is stiffer, lighter, and cheaper than the Orca. Just because it's stiff doens't mean that it isn't comfortable!
That being said, the Onix is likely the better choice for you as a rec rider. I'd choose it just for the Campy components.
While stiff doesn't necessarly mean less comfortable, Orbea's web site even touts that the Orca is more comfortable and the Onix is more comfortable. Also if you are going to tout that the Opal is lighter than the Orca then you truely are a weight weinee as it is only 20 grams lighter. At least you recognized that since he says he is a rec rider that his needs may be different than a racer. Many others think that everyone needs the most hardcore race bike regardless of how they ride.