Norco optic11/27/2023 ![]() ![]() The reality is Norco designed this bike to be something in-between. If instead your first look at the Norco Optic is a visual one, spotting the Rock Shox Super Deluxe Ulimate DH shock, a 140mm Rock Shox Pike fork and four piston brakes with 180mm rotors, you may think this is an enduro rig built for slaying down trails. If you look at the geo chart and see 125mm of rear wheel travel, you may think this is more of a pedal-minded trail bike. Those looking at the Optic may be confused as first glance. ![]() So, without further adieu, let’s get into the 2020 Norco Optic review. While that makes riders like us happy, it may alienate the die-hard lycra riders who are still looking to KOM climbs. While the Norco Optic may have been an XC pinner’s dream a few years ago, it’s now the bike aggressive, baggy short-wearing trail riders will be throwing knee pads on to ride. This is not the old school 125mm bike you are used to, it has a modern take on geometry, suspension spec, and the intended user group. The Optic C2 we reviewed has voided the decades of experience that had us boxing in what a “short travel” bike was capable of. For the complete VeloNews Buyer’s Guide, which is only available in the magazine, subscribe to VeloNews, visit your local newsstand, or buy the single issue.This year Norco has been making a lot of waves and the new Norco Optic is no exception. We hope you enjoyed this online gear selection. If you’re on the hunt for your first mountain bike, the Optic A2 is worth a long look. That means it’s rugged and affordable, but it’s also heavy at 32 pounds. While its Norco siblings capitalize on the stiffness and lighter weight of carbon, the A2’s aluminum frame keeps costs low. And the SRAM Level T brakes similarly outperformed expectations. The SRAM NX 1×11 drivetrain punches above its weight class its shifting performance rivals that of its more expensive siblings. And it will certainly feel overmatched if you enjoy catching more than small air. Riding position feels remarkably balanced.Ī 68.5-degree head tube angle is slack enough to let off the brakes on the descents, though its limits can be reached on really techy stuff. And it rides accordingly, with poise on long grinding climbs and nimbleness over steep, technical obstacles. ![]() Its suspension travel numbers position it at the tame end of the 29er trail spectrum: 110 millimeters in the rear and 120 millimeters in front courtesy of a Fox 34 Rhythm Float fork. It has a lot in common with XC bikes, and enough in common with its larger cousins, enduro bikes, to make it a competent player on rolling terrain, long climbs, and relatively tame descents. You just want to have fun on the local trails, which are generally rolling with a few tough climbs and some blue-square descents. It’s not the right choice for an enduro race, or any race for that matter. But Norco’s Optic A2 makes a spectacular case for keeping more cash in your pocket while having just as much fun out on the trails. It’s hard to get excited about a heavy aluminum bike in the era of featherweight carbon monsters. Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! ![]()
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