To survive on the Canadian trails, you need solid material. That's why the bikes from Vancouver are generally very robust. The Range also impresses with the highest stiffness in the test, but fortunately paired with a low frame weight. The tapered head tube and X-12 thru-axle are effective. At 760 millimetres, the Range has the widest antlers in the test and sends a clear signal: There are no compromises downhill here. However, a little more offset would not harm the ergonomics of the straight handlebars. In direct comparison to the Commençal, the handling of the Norco with its high bottom bracket is a little more sluggish and not quite as playful. The top tube is rather long for a size M bike. When the going gets rough on the descents, the Norco's rear suspension absorbs big hits, but could be a bit more plush on fast, smaller obstacles. The Monarch RT3 feels a little over-damped here. Uphill, the short 43 mm seat tube limits the maximum extension height. If you want to use the Range as a touring enduro bike, you'll need a longer seatpost. There is no dropper post or chain guide, but the rest of the equipment is fine.
PLUS High rigidity, good STW
MINUS Very short seat tube, high bottom bracket, slightly overdamped rear triangle
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