Norco Bigfoot S 1 Review
- Price: $3,199
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1 x 12
What we like about it: Swift, lightweight, and agile riding, capable of handling even the tightest turns with ease.
What we don’t like about it: Riding the fat tire bike on flat terrain requires more effort.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Norco Bigfoot S 1 performs exceptionally well in all seasons and extreme terrains, making every ride enjoyable. Its finely tuned steering geometry and massive tires provide confident and aggressive handling.
Below, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Norco Bigfoot S 1. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare several top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
The Norco Bigfoot S 1 is an aluminum alloy frame fat bike with reliable components and a rear suspension fork, a rarity in fat bikes, offering excellent control even on rough and complex terrains.
To put the Norco Bigfoot S 1 to the test, I packed it up and headed to the gravel cycling route of Barry-Roubaix, booking a nearby hotel through IHG. The route consisted mostly of sandy paths, intermittent climbs, descents, and winding trails.
Climbing
The Norco Bigfoot S 1 boasts exceptional traction while climbing. Its finely tuned steering geometry and massive tires offer confident and aggressive control when ascending.
During climbs, I locked the rear suspension fork to eliminate any loss of power from my pedal strokes. The bike’s integrated design ensured a quick and efficient uphill ride.
Furthermore, the Shimano drivetrain with its 1×12-speed setup provided precise gear shifts. This setup proved valuable when tackling steeper inclines, as I could use larger freewheels to make pedaling uphill feel lighter and reduce energy consumption.
In conclusion, climbing with the Norco Bigfoot S 1 is impressive, though it falls slightly short compared to similar carbon fiber rigid fat bikes.
Descending
During downhill rides on the Norco Bigfoot S 1, I activated the suspension fork. This absorbed all the vibrations on the gravelly terrain, making my ride comfortable. The spacious geometry combined with large tires offered enhanced stability during descents.
The bike features SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm front and rear rotors. These powerful brakes responded quickly, allowing me to control the bike’s speed effectively during descents and maintain strong braking performance during continuous use.
The substantial tread on the oversized tires ensured a firm grip on the ground while cornering, enabling me to navigate winding trails with speed and ease.
In summary, the Norco Bigfoot S 1’s performance on gravelly terrain during descents is fast and reliable—I thoroughly enjoyed its performance.
Specifications
The Norco Bigfoot S 1 features a sturdy aluminum alloy frame with 4 available sizes suitable for riders ranging from 5’0″ to 6’4″, ensuring wide-ranging adaptability. The internal cable routing contributes to a cleaner appearance, simplifying daily cleaning while minimizing noise during rides.
Equipped with the Manitou Mastodon Pro EXT fork, offering 100mm of suspension travel, this lightweight front fork effectively absorbs all road vibrations, enhancing riding comfort.
The Shimano drivetrain operates at 1×12 speed, providing smooth and responsive gear shifts. The drivetrain efficiency is commendable.
The SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes offer powerful braking performance, reliable even in challenging conditions and cold environments.
Lastly, the Vee Snow Avalanche TLR tires, boasting a width of 4.5 inches, provide excellent traction, capable of conquering all terrains.
Video
Other Versions
The Norco Bigfoot S 1 shares its aluminum alloy frame’s durability and reliability. However, there’s another version available.
Norco Bigfoot 1
Both versions share the same components and sturdy aluminum alloy frame. The Norco Bigfoot 1 stands out with its carbon fiber rigid fork, resulting in a lighter weight and higher climbing efficiency. However, it may fall slightly behind the Norco Bigfoot S 1 in terms of vibration absorption.
What do we like about it?
- 75mm wide 27.5-inch rims and frames with clearance for up to 4.6-inch tires, allowing lower pressure and greater traction for various terrain riding.
- Thru-axle wheel mounting provides stability and reliability during rides.
- Internal cable routing contributes to a cleaner appearance while reducing noise.
- Equipped with disc brakes with DOT fluid, delivering consistent braking performance across different temperatures.
- The Shimano drivetrain provides smooth and accurate gear shifts with high efficiency.
- The dropper post design maintains stability between climbing and descending, ensuring continuous riding.
What don’t we like about it?
- The weight isn’t as lightweight as desired, which might not suit some riders.
FAQ
- Where are Norco bikes manufactured?
Norco is a Canadian bicycle manufacturer based in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia. They have been producing bicycles since 1964. They currently offer over 100 models, including road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, urban bikes, children’s bikes, and BMX bikes.
- What wheelsets does this bike use?
The front wheelset is Sealed Bearing, 15x150mm, 6 Bolt, and the rear wheelset is Bear Pawls, 12x197mm, Micro Spline, 6 Bolt.
- How do I choose the right size?
We’ve provided a size chart for your reference. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to follow this standard. The best way to find the perfect fit is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’0″ – 5’6″ | S |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | M |
| 5’7″ – 6’1″ | L |
| 5’11” – 6’4″ | XL |
Norco Bigfoot S 1 Specs
Build
| Frame | Butted X6 AluminumBB Standard: BSA, 100mm, ThreadedColor: Blue / Chrome |
| Fork | Manitou Mastodon Pro EXT, 100mm, 15x150mm |
| Bottom Bracket | Praxis M30, BSA Threaded |
| Headset | Sealed Bearing, Tapered |
| Stem | 6061 Alloy, 50mm Length, 35mm Clamp |
| Handlebar | Butted 6061 Alloy, 780mm, 20mm Rise |
| Saddle | Fizik Alpaca Terra, Wingflex |
| Seatpost | X-Fusion Manic Dropper, 31.6mm, 125mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L, XL) |
| Pedals | Nylon Flat |
| Grips | DMR Deathgrip |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano XT RD-M8100 |
| Crank | Praxis Cadet M30, 30T, 170mm (S), 175mm (M, L, XL) |
| Shifters | Shimano SLX SL-M7100-IR |
| Cassette | Shimano SLX, 10/51, 12 Speed |
| Chain | Shimano Deore |
| Brakes | SRAM Level, Organic Pads |
| Brake Levers | SRAM Level |
Wheels
| Rims | Sun Ringlé Mulefut SL, 27.5″, 32H |
| Front Hub | Sealed Bearing, 15x150mm, 6 Bolt |
| Rear Hub | Bear Pawls, 12x197mm, Micro Spline, 6 Bolt |
| Tires | Vee Snow Avalanche, TLR, 4.5″, 120 TPI, Studdable |
| Disk Rotors | Avid G2, 180mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Wheelset | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 | Click View | 26″ Aluminum | Aluminum | SRAM Level | 1 × 11 |
| Rocky Mountain Blizzard Carbon 50 | Click View | 27.5″ Aluminum | Carbon | Shimano MT4120 | 1 × 12 |
| Giant Yukon 1 | Click View | 27.5″ Aluminum | Aluminum | SRAM Level T | 1 × 12 |
| Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 | Click View | 27.5″ Aluminum | Carbon | Tektro HD-M275 | 1 × 11 |
Norco Bigfoot S 1 vs. Salsa Mukluk Deore 11
Both bikes feature aluminum alloy frames. However, the former is equipped with a 100mm suspension fork, providing smoother rides on bumpy terrain.
Regarding the drivetrain, both bikes utilize Shimano components. However, the drivetrain on the former has a higher level, lighter weight, a wider range of gear ratios, and offers smoother gear shifts, resulting in enhanced performance.
In terms of braking components, both fat tire bikes are equipped with SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring reliable and excellent braking capabilities.
Ultimately, between these two fat tire bikes, I would highly recommend the Norco Bigfoot S 1. Its performance is superior, boasting advanced components, and it provides a more comfortable riding experience.
Learn More: Is Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 A Good Bike? [2023 Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 Review]
Norco Bigfoot S 1 vs. Rocky Mountain Blizzard Carbon 50
When comparing these two bikes, the latter is equipped with a carbon fiber frame and fork, making it lighter in weight. Additionally, the rigid carbon fork enhances climbing performance, making it quicker and more effortless. On the other hand, the former features a suspension fork design, capable of handling rougher riding conditions and absorbing road vibrations.
Furthermore, both bikes incorporate dropper post designs, allowing for quick adjustments of riding posture and ensuring a seamless riding experience.
In terms of the drivetrain, both bicycles are equipped with Shimano components that offer similar performance. The drivetrain efficiency is high, ensuring precise gear shifts. As for the braking components, the hydraulic disc brakes on this bike deliver reliable and trustworthy performance.
In conclusion, both of these fat tire bikes are exceptional options. Your choice can depend on your specific terrain preferences and priorities.
Learn More: Is Rocky Mountain Blizzard Alloy 10 A Perfect Selection? – [Rocky Mountain Blizzard Alloy 10 Review]
Norco Bigfoot S 1 vs. Giant Yukon 1
Both of these bikes feature aluminum alloy frames. However, the front suspension fork on the former provides a more comfortable riding experience, while the latter is slightly lighter in weight.
In terms of geometry, the former has a more relaxed geometry, coupled with the front suspension fork, which enhances its downhill performance. On the other hand, the latter has a more upright geometry, making it better for climbing.
Regarding the drivetrain, the Shimano components on the former provide a smoother and lighter operation. On the other hand, the SRAM NX drivetrain components on the latter offer a crisper performance.
Therefore, between these two bicycles, if you’re looking for a better downhill riding experience, the Norco Bigfoot S 1 would be more suitable. Conversely, the Giant Yukon 1 excels more in climbing capability.
Learn More: Is Giant Yukon 2 Worth Buying? [2022 Giant Yukon 2 Review]
Norco Bigfoot S 1 vs. Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11
When comparing these two bikes, the latter benefits from a lighter carbon fiber frame. On the other hand, the former’s aluminum alloy frame offers enhanced durability. Additionally, the inclusion of a front suspension fork in the former improves stability during downhill rides. The presence of a dropper post design further aids in maintaining a stable balance for smoother and more continuous riding.
In terms of drivetrain components, while both bikes utilize Shimano components, the former boasts a higher-grade setup. Consequently, it delivers better overall performance and increased transmission efficiency.
As for the braking systems, both bikes rely on dependable hydraulic disc brakes. Regardless of challenging conditions, they both offer reliable braking power.
In conclusion, I have a preference for the Norco Bigfoot S 1 among these two bicycles. Its ability to handle more intense riding environments is a standout feature.
Learn More: Is Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 Worth Buying? [2022 Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 Review]
Summary
Above is my review of the Norco Bigfoot S 1. In our estimation, it stands as a robust and dependable hardtail fat tire bike, providing comfortable rides and the capability to tackle various terrains. This is why we award it a rating of 4.8.
Of course, if you’re interested in exploring other hardtail fat tire bikes, we are continually evaluating a diverse range of bikes across various price points. Feel free to check out our other reviews as well.
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