The Norco Optic 9.1 looks like a cool bike. Even in the inconspicuous matt silver paintwork, it still stands out. First of all, the suspension is made entirely by Fox. This is almost a novelty for us, as our previous Norco test bikes were always equipped with Rock Shox forks. The XMC 1200 carbon wheels from DT Swiss are also striking. These fit perfectly into the concept of the Optic. The same goes for the cockpit, consisting of a 60-millimeter stem and 760 mm handlebars, which provide sufficient control. Of course, the Optic doesn't miss the scales either. The stated 10.95 kilograms for the 27.5-inch model without pedals corresponds well with the 11.5 kilograms weighed on the Twentyniner with pedals.

There's not much time - let's go riding

There's not much time to adjust the bike precisely. Set the saddle to the right height, adjust the air pressure in the suspension elements and tires, put the pedals on and off we go. The brakes aren't even set yet as we turn into the first trail. The bike feels great from the first meter and really encourages you to play. No wave is left out for the Optic to take off.

Despite its playful character, the bike conveys a lot of confidence. Even fast descents are no problem. Even if it rumbles a little. Despite the short travel of 110 and 120 millimetres at the rear and front, the bike doesn't reach its limit so quickly - the travel feels like a bit more. Nevertheless, we don't ride the really rough trails - for reasons of time. We now wind our way through a winding single trail with short and crisp climbs and descents as well as flowing sections in between. In the meantime, we forget that we have a Twentyniner under our butts. The Optic 9.1 rides as agile as a bike with small wheels.

On the steep uphill ramps, you can feel the liveliness of the trail bike, which is a testament to its stiffness and low weight. Meanwhile, the traction is good - but we don't get involved in special traction tests. The fact that the bike retains traction so well downhill is also thanks to the suspension. Even if this has only been tuned provisionally, the new Fox suspension elements make a really good impression.

Unfortunately, the short time was not enough to give the Optic a longer test ride. We take the 20-minute climb back to the starting point. Not enough time to test the bike's endurance. Nevertheless, the ascent is easy. The riding position is comfortable. It's quite possible that this won't change on long climbs either.

Conclusion

Even though the test ride was short and there was hardly any time to get used to the bike, three words come to mind: sit on it, feel comfortable, have fun. The Norco Optic 9.1 really does offer everything a top trail bike should have, from the spec to the character. Let's hope that the feeling remains even after long tours and several uses.

Article from the Optic presentation