Canadian manufacturer Norco presents the Revolver 2026, a completely new development of its cross-country full-suspension bike. The new model replaces its predecessor, which has remained unchanged since 2019, and has been specially designed to meet the increased demands of the modern XC sector. Weighing 450 grams less than its predecessor, the new frame is the lightest full-suspension frame Norco has ever built.
The centrepiece of the new Revolver is the Flex-Pivot suspension system, which works without a classic rear triangle. Instead, Norco uses the natural flexibility of the carbon seat stays to realise the suspension function. This system should not only save weight, but also improve the performance of the inline air shocks. According to Colin Ryan, Suspension Engineer at Norco, the elimination of a link not only reduces weight, but also allows the flex characteristics of the rear triangle to be precisely tuned for each platform. The result is more efficient pedalling without sacrificing sensitivity or traction on technical climbs and descents.
The new Norco Revolver is available in two suspension travel variants that cover different areas of use. The Revolver 120, with 120 millimetres of travel at the front and 115 millimetres at the rear and a head tube angle of 66.5 degrees, is the thoroughbred modern XC version. For this model, Norco has worked closely with Rockshox to develop a special SID Luxe set-up. This is intended to improve the sensitivity of the shock and optimise the riding characteristics in technical terrain. According to Norco, a well-designed XC bike does not need hard compression damping to work efficiently.
The second version, the Norco Revolver 130, offers 130 millimetres of travel at the front and 120 millimetres at the rear as well as a 0.5 degree slacker steering angle for more reserves for demanding terrain. This version was developed in collaboration with Fox and features a specially tuned Float SL damper with three positions. This means that the 130 covers demanding XC races as well as fast trail rides
Both Revolver variants have a modern geometry that is tailored to the requirements of contemporary cross-country sport. The chainstays grow proportionally to the frame size to ensure a balanced weight distribution across all sizes. In addition, the carbon layup has been individually optimised for each frame size to achieve a balanced ratio of stiffness and compliance. Frame sizes 2 to 5 offer space for two water bottles in the main frame, and all sizes are designed for long dropper seat posts.
Norco has optimised numerous details on the new Revolver to save weight without compromising durability. For example, a clear coat frame coating is used that weighs only half as much as conventional paint. Titanium bolts, compact double-row enduro bearings and compact rocker arms contribute to the weight reduction and are also intended to improve durability and precision. Product Manager Jim Jamieson emphasises that the new Revolver is about more than just weight reduction. The aim was to develop a bike that meets the actual requirements of modern XC riders who are not just chasing seconds, but also kilometres, terrain and challenges.
The Revolver 2026 is available in both suspension travel variants, each with three different equipment levels. In addition, Norco offers a frame kit for both platforms that fulfils individual set-up requirements. All models are compatible with Norco's Ride Aligned setup guide, which enables optimum set-up and suspension adjustment. The new models should be available for the 2026 season.