This could change with the Fluid model, which has been adapted to the 27.5-inch format. The bike rolls cool and confidently to the test in a bright colour, the frame has some modern details and is one of the lighter ones. And as soon as you sit on it, you can feel that the geometry is right. The four-bar rear triangle remains stable under chain tension, and you can cope with the slight pedal kickback. Anyone expecting a super tourer should wait and see what we have to say. Very heavy wheels brake uphill, the brakes have neither a defined pressure point nor excessive power. However, the tyres stick well on Lake Garda terrain, and the fun and agile handling left every rider with a grin on their face at the end of the test lap.
ConclusionThe Norco is fun to ride on the trail - despite its weak spec. Of course, the Fluid is the cheapest bike in the test group.
PLUS Five frame sizes, lifetime warranty, good geometry
MINUS Heavy wheels, 160 mm brake discs, seat post cannot be lowered far enough, no Shadow Plus rear derailleur
The alternative
Fans of twentyniners will find the Fluid 9.1 the perfect bike for them. It has identical equipment, identical suspension - just the larger wheels. And at the same price: 2249 euros.
