The Sight VLT has been quiet for a long time, but now Norco is back. The new Sight VLT Bosch A is positioned as a robust workhorse for technical terrain. The Canadians are taking an interesting approach here: while e-MTB manufacturers generally use the Performance Line CX when specifying a Bosch drive, Norco has opted for the Performance Line PX here - a motor that is actually intended to deliver a powerful yet balanced riding experience on a trekking bike.
Bosch Performance Line PX: affordable power pack?
The centrepiece of the new Sight VLT is the Bosch Performance Line PX drive. And the figures are impressive:
- 90 Nm torque: This means that the Norco pushes relentlessly even on nasty steep sections.
- 700 W peak power: The engine mobilises enormous reserves for a short time.
- 400 % support: At the highest level, the motor quadruples your power output.
The system is powered by a 600 Wh battery. This is a clever compromise: big enough for a decent amount of climbing, but lighter than the bulky 750cc batteries, which benefits the handling of the aluminium bike. If you want more, go for the PowerMore Range Extender (+250 Wh).
Aluminium frame & VPS chassis: Robustness meets grip
For the new model, Norco relies on a high-quality Aluminium frame. Although this makes the bike somewhat heavier (approx. 23.5 to 24 kg), it also makes it less sensitive and, above all, cheaper to buy. You can get started here for as little as USD 4799 (euro prices were not yet available at the time of publication).
The chassis utilises the proven VPS platform (Virtual Pivot Suspension) - a Horst link design, which is intended to provide plenty of grip on the rear wheel without sagging when pedalling. With 160 mm front suspension travel and 150 mm rear the Sight VLT is perfectly equipped for everything that is considered "all-mountain" - from a quick trail ride to an alpine adventure.
Mullet setup and Ride Aligned
Typical Norco: the bike comes in Mixed wheel setup (29" at the front for rollover behaviour, 27.5" at the rear for manoeuvrability). In addition, the geometry (reach and chainstays) grows with the five frame sizes (S1-S5). Thanks to the Ride Aligned Setup Guides you can get the right suspension and tyre pressure settings online based on your weight and size.
Strengths & weaknesses at a glance
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
| Powerful motor: 90 Nm provide massive propulsion uphill. | Weight: At up to 24 kg, this is no lightweight for a 600 Wh bike. |
| Size-specific geometry: perfect balance for every body size. | Aluminium finish: Fans of ultra-clean carbon looks have to make concessions. |
| Electronic shifting (A1): The top model comes directly with Shimano Di2. | Brake configuration: 180 mm rear disc seems somewhat undersized for a total weight of 24 kg. |
The three equipment variants
Norco offers the Sight VLT Bosch A in three packages (prices currently only available in USD/CDN):
- Sight VLT A1 (high-end): The top model for 6599 USD. Highlights: RockShox Lyrik Select+, Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock and the electronic Shimano Deore Di2 12-speed Gear change. Weight: 23.5 kg.
- Sight VLT A2 (The price-performance tip): For 5699 USD there is a rock-solid RockShox suspension (base level) and a mechanical Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain. Weight: 24 kg.
- Sight VLT A3 (entry-level model): For 4799 USD Norco relies on an exciting DVO chassis (Diamond/Topaz) and the new, robust Shimano CUES 11-speed Group.
The most important facts at a glance
- Frame material: Aluminium
- Wheel size: Mixed (29"/27.5")
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line PX (90 Nm, 700 W peak)
- Battery: 600 Wh (range extender compatible)
- Spring travel: 160 mm / 150 mm
- Special feature: Ride Aligned Setup Guide & lifetime frame guarantee
Our conclusion:
The Norco Sight VLT Bosch A isn't a bike for gram-fuckers, but for trail bikers looking for decent motor power in a robust chassis. The entry-level model with DVO suspension in particular could be a real insider tip for the price-conscious!
Stefan Frey
Editor
