Far from being late to the 650b party, Norco began development of their new mid-wheeled Aurum downhill bike back in 2012. Here’s the lowdown…
650b redesign
Development of the new
Aurum started three years ago, long before 650b DH bikes became fashionable. The
bike was groundup redesigned around the new wheel size, with the suspension geometry
being revised to ensure the axle path wasn’t compromised.
Race-ready suspension
The leverage curve has
been tweaked to provide more support in the mid-stroke to cope with the demands
of World Cup racing. Allied with a fairly firm base tune on the shock, this
translates into a noticeably supportive and e!cient feel.
Gravity Tune geometry
Feedback from test riders
convinced Norco that the ideal rear centre length (distance from BB to rear
axle) varies depending on the rider’s height and frame size. On the new Aurum,
the front and rear centre lengths both increase with frame size, helping different
sized riders achieve a similar weight balance.
Privateerfriendly details
External cable routing
ensures faff-free fettling, frame bearings are designed to be hard wearing and
easy to service, and a suite of frame protectors shields the carbon from harm.
Solid spec
The Aurum C1 is 7125$
with RockShox Boxxer WC fork, Cane Creek Double Barrel shock and SRAM X01 DH
kit (or 10500$ if you want ENVE wheels). The C2 and C3 use the same frame but
more affordable kit.
Price from
7125$ to 10500$
