The new Optic is Norco's answer to the growing demand for the perfect trail bike, and doubly so. Because every Optic model is available with 27.5 and 29-inch wheels. Norco's engineers have taken great care to ensure that both platforms offer the same riding characteristics, but take full advantage of the benefits of each wheel size. The two platforms also differ slightly in terms of suspension travel and geometry. The 27.5-inch versions offer 120 millimetres at the rear and 130 millimetres of travel at the front. The Twentyniner, on the other hand, comes with 110 and 120 millimetres of suspension travel.

The difference in geometry is also small. A steering angle of 68 degrees on the 27.5 and 0.5 degrees steeper on the Twentyniner is evidence of the engineers' intention to design the bikes with identical riding characteristics. On the other hand, the low bottom bracket on the 29-inch Optic is striking: 39 millimeters below the wheel axles is really low. It is interesting that Norco allows the chainstay length to increase with the frame size on both platforms. A very clever approach, because as the frame size increases, a bike loses its balance while the chainstay length remains the same. By increasing the length of the stays, Norco ensures that each frame size is well balanced.

The area of application

As a premium trail bike, the Optic lies between the "Revolver" cross-country full suspension bike with 100 millimetres of travel and the "Sight" all-mountain model with 140 millimetres. Thanks to the propulsion of a cross-country machine and the playfulness of an all-mountain bike, Norco sees the Optic as the ideal bike for flowing single trails, single trail tours or even marathon races.
Not a bad idea from Norco. Because if you like to ride the occasional marathon race in addition to touring, but don't feel like slogging over the trails on a hardtail, the Optic should be the perfect choice. After all, according to the manufacturer, the weight is less than eleven kilograms.

Norco's five-point system

1. Carbon frame: Light, stiff and robust Mid-Modulous carbon frame with modern trail geometry. Also available in a more affordable aluminum version.
2. A.R.T. suspension: According to Norco, the special trail tune offers the perfect balance between traction and efficiency uphill and maximum control downhill.
3. Two wheel sizes: The choice between 27.5- and 29-inch wheels with a correspondingly designed frame.
4. Boost 148 rear triangle: Short chainstays for both wheel sizes, plenty of tire clearance and a stiffer, more robust wheel are the advantages of the Boost standard.
5. Removable front derailleur mount: Tidy appearance and the option of either mounting a side-swing front derailleur or riding with just one chainring.

www.norco.com/optic