This year Norco has been making a lot of waves and the new Norco Optic is no exception. The Optic C2 we reviewed has voided the decades of experience that had us boxing in what a “short travel” bike was capable of. This is not the old school 125mm bike you are used to, it has a modern take on geometry, suspension spec, and the intended user group. While the Norco Optic may have been an XC pinner’s dream a few years ago, it’s now the bike aggressive, baggy short-wearing trail riders will be throwing knee pads on to ride. While that makes riders like us happy, it may alienate the die-hard lycra riders who are still looking to KOM climbs. So, without further adieu, let’s get into the 2020 Norco Optic review.
Those looking at the Optic may be confused as first glance. If you look at the geo chart and see 125mm of rear wheel travel, you may think this is more of a pedal-minded trail bike. If instead your first look at the Norco Optic is a visual one, spotting the Rock Shox Super Deluxe Ulimate DH shock, a 140mm Rock Shox Pike fork and four piston brakes with 180mm rotors, you may think this is an enduro rig built for slaying down trails.
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From The Loam Wolf
The Loam Wolf has been watching from the woods and mountains above, waiting for the right time to attack the status quo. We have descended, hell-bent and heaven-sent to reignite the stoke in riders around the world. Our pack has been growing and we smell blood. The passion, wildness, and grassroots love for our sport will no longer go without a voice. The Wolf Pack is here, and we will do our best to unite photographers, industry friends, athletes and mountain bikers of all kinds while giving them a voice and place to remember why they fell in love with riding bikes.
