For the same price as Focus, you get slightly less gearing here due to the high-quality frame: "Only" the "X1" is installed. Apart from the heavier aluminium cranks, this is not a real disadvantage. However, the "Elixir 7 Trail" brakes and the in-house Kore parts for the steering centre and wheels are pretty basic. Nevertheless, the Norco is light: 12.8 kilos. Here too, the geometry is modern, long and low, but not quite as extreme as on the "Sam". You sit comfortably in the centre and Ines Thoma in particular felt at home on the bike straight away.
We had to interrupt the first descent with 30 per cent sag at the rear and fill more air into the shock, as the rear suspension tended to sag and pumped heavily on climbs. With 25 per cent sag, it was a much better match for the fork. Nevertheless, the Norco is not quite as stable in the travel. Racers found it too spongy at high speeds on berms, even with little sag. Uphill you should activate the compression damping to calm the bobbing - if you have the time. In short, the Norco lacks a bit of race character - if you want to race. All-rounders looking for a fun bike for long tours and use on all terrains are much better served by the "Range 7.1", as the handling is pleasant and balanced.
ConclusionThe "Range 7.1" has all the attributes of a race enduro bike in terms of geometry and frame. The weight is also low. However, the rear end is not quite as stable in its stroke, needs to be tuned very precisely to avoid sagging, and bobs a little when pedalling out of the saddle. However, recreational bikers will get on very well with the stylish Canadian. A great all-rounder!
StrengthsComfort, handling, finish
Weaknessesslightly sagging rear triangle
Max Schumann (26): "I felt very comfortable on the handy bike. It feels fast and lively, but lacked safety at high speeds."
Ines Thoma (24): "I lacked the confidence to race on the Norco. It rides well, no question, but not as safely as longer bikes in the test, for example the Focus."
Manufacturer information
Distribution LTP Sportsgroup Inc. www.norco.com
Material/sizes Aluminium/S,M,L
Price/weight without pedals 4999 Euro/ 12.8 kg
Measurement data
Front/rear suspension travel 160 mm/160 mm
Rear suspension system Four-bar linkage
Reach 421 mm
Stack 601 mm
BB-Drop -9 mm
Equipment
Fork/damper RockShox Pike RC/RockShox Monarch Plus RC3
Cranks/gears SRAM X1/SRAM X1
Brake system Avid Elixir 7 Trail
Impellers Kore system wheelset, Maxxis Highroller II 27.5 x 2.3 tyres (standard)
