N
NorcoOptic
3500–8500 EUR
01
Origin
The Optic is Norco's short-travel trail / down-country platform, launched mid-2010s by the Canadian brand. For the 2024 generation Norco took a radical step, applying the high-pivot VPS-HP suspension it had developed on its Aurum DH and Range enduro bikes to a 125 mm-travel trail bike. The idea was to bring downhill-grade rear-wheel tracking and a rearward axle path into a lightweight short-travel package — an unusual concept for the category.
02
Specifications
- Frame
- Carbon fiber front and rear triangles (C-series); co-molded shuttle guard, lower down tube, seatstay & chainstay protection. Aluminium A-series also offered.
- Weight
- kg
- Drivetrain
- SRAM Eagle X0 Transmission, 1×12 (C1); GX/Shimano XT on lower builds
- Brakes
- SRAM Level Silver Stealth hydraulic disc, 200/180 mm rotors (front/rear)
- Wheels
- 29", We Are One Union carbon rims, Industry Nine Hydra hubs (C1)
03
The verdict
+Strengths
- High-pivot VPS-HP rear suspension absorbs bumps and tracks far above its 125 mm travel class
- Outstanding descending capability and composure on rough, choppy terrain
- Aggressive long-reach geometry (65° head angle, low BB) gives confident high-speed cornering
- Premium spec on C1: Fox Factory suspension, We Are One carbon wheels, SRAM X0 Transmission
- Excellent standover, clean cable routing and size-specific chainstays across all frame sizes
−Weaknesses
- Sluggish climbing and reduced pedaling efficiency — climbs more like an enduro bike than a down-country one
- Heavy for the segment (~14–15 kg), undercutting the short-travel versatility promise
- SRAM Level brakes are underpowered for the bike's descending ability
- Idler/high-pivot system adds drivetrain drag, chain rumble and occasional squeaks
- Very long reach demands careful sizing; premium builds are expensive (~€7,800 / ~$9,099)
04
Who it’s for
Down-country / progressive XC / short-travel trail
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