Norco have a bright future for 2016

Norco have just presented their line up of bikes for 2016, and it’s one great looking set of bikes. While some bikes have already been shown, and others have just had some updates, what really stuck out was how they have a really complete line up of bikes – especially their full-suspension line. What’s unique with their full-suspension bikes is how they are tailored to each frame size. While many brands use the one set of swing arms for each bike model, Norco tune things like chain stay length, so the largest bike has a longer chain stay than the smallest bike. Tubing profiles are also customised for each bike size. This way, bikes will ride the same way, no matter what size is being ridden.

Their full-suspension frames are designed around their ART system – Advanced Ride Technology. It’s a four bar linkage, and it has a slight rearward axle path. This is really good for soaking up square edged hits, as it doesn’t slow the progress of the wheel down too much. If you  ride rocky trails – this is something you will really notice. Their suspension is progressive, to allow a supple stroke whether you’re on a 100 or 200mm travel bike, and brake mounts are on the chainstay to lessen brake jack and stay out of the way.

Norco did have a new XC bike to show off, the Revolver FS. We don’t have complete details – but this XC bike has been in development for two years, is super light, and really rounds out the line up from Norco. We’ll have full details later in the month.

Fat bikes

Norco have a number of fat bikes, and are working on a new Torrent, a 27+ hardtail with a 130mm fork, dropper post and Boost spacing to keep the handling tight and the bike ripping. We’re looking forward to seeing this one in Australia – the 27+ tyres should be amazing in some of the drier Australian terrain. Pea-gravel may be conquered!

Alloy Aurum

While the new Aurum was released earlier this year, there’s now an aluminium version to keep costs down. Many of the features stay the same, including the World Cup tested geometry and suspension.

Quality Range

The Range has had a new carbon lay up on the carbon models, and a revised parts spec, with all models coming with 170mm travel forks to complement the 160mm travel rear. These are really targeted at all-mountain riding and Enduro racing. While only about 150g heavier than a Sight frame, the Range will take a piggyback shock, and is beefier around the head tube and downtube.

The Sight

We love the Sight – which is probably why we want to give you one – and it’s also had a new carbon layup. There are 5 models for Australia, all running 150mm travel forsk with 140mm travel out back. We really think this is one of the best trail bike platforms around. And you know the bike has actually won some awards in the USA that say the very same thing.

Fluid Family

As a 120mm travel bike, the aluminium Fluid range is popular – especially now with 24″ and 20″ wheel models available. Australian families haven’t had lots of choices on good bikes for kids, but they’re getting more – and we like it.

This is just an overview, as Norco also have a great range of alloy hardtails, plus their carbon Revolver, and plenty of cyclocross bikes too. But if you want more details, get in touch with your local Norco dealer. Full details of the range should be on the Norco website by September.

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