Norco Optic A9.1 on test

Stefan Frey

· 14.04.2017

Photo: Hersteller

Norco Optic A9.1 on test

Visually, the Norco doesn't quite live up to its name. Colour and design are a matter of taste. But you don't really want to see carelessly laid cables and thick welding beads for over 3000 euros.

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As soon as you sit in the saddle, however, the first impression fades and the grin on your face widens the longer the undulating trail winds through the spruce forest. Norco integrates the rider in the centre of the bike and creates a riding experience that makes it hard to imagine a 29er underneath. The balance between smoothness and manoeuvrability is pleasing and suits the range of use perfectly. The firm suspension craves speed and is easy to push through corners - until the Schwalbe performance tyres lose grip. Which unfortunately happens far too soon. The Sram coasting brake also lacks bite. Nevertheless, the Norco makes you want to pedal right back to the start of the trail. No problem, the relaxed riding position takes the fear out of even long climbs. Only the high weight requires a little strength in the legs. Conclusion: modern 29er with a pronounced playfulness and sporty, balanced suspension. Perfect for trail tours.

The alternative The Optic C9.3 with a slightly lighter carbon frame is available in the shop for 3599 euros. This can serve as the basis for a weight-optimised and fun trail bike. The add-on parts are identical except for the fork and brakes.

The Avid DB3 on the Norco is discontinued and not particularly snappy. Otherwise, only the groupless Shimano brakes on the Kona were similarly weak in the test.

Photo: BIKE Magazin The Avid DB3 on the Norco is discontinued and not particularly snappy. Otherwise, only the groupless Shimano brakes on the Kona were similarly weak in the test.

Little attention to detail: Although there is no option to install an additional cable on the Norco, a clunky double clamp is used. The weld seams are also somewhat irregular and bulging.

Photo: Georg Grieshaber Little attention to detail: Although there is no option to install an additional cable on the Norco, a clunky double clamp is used. The weld seams are also somewhat irregular and bulging.

On the Kona (pictured) and Norco, bikers have to make do with 100 millimetres of travel on the dropper post. No problem on undulating trails. However, if the descent becomes very steep, you would be happy to have a little more adjustment range.

Photo: Georg Grieshaber On the Kona (pictured) and Norco, bikers have to make do with 100 millimetres of travel on the dropper post. No problem on undulating trails. However, if the descent becomes very steep, you would be happy to have a little more adjustment range.

Norco Optic A9.1 - Characteristics: Even if the rear suspension becomes a little more progressive at the rear, the rather firm suspension elements fit together well in terms of character.

Photo: BIKE Magazin Norco Optic A9.1 - Characteristics: Even if the rear suspension becomes a little more progressive at the rear, the rather firm suspension elements fit together well in terms of character.

Photo: BIKE Magazin Norco Optic A9.1

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Photo: BIKE Magazin Norco Optic A9.1

Stefan Frey

Editor

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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Norco Optic A9.1 on test

Stefan Frey

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