Norco Range C1 Review
- Price: $9,699
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 29 inches
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: Top-of-the-line carbon fiber frame with top-of-the-line kit for an unparalleled descending experience.
What we don’t like about it: It’s expensive and not suitable for novice riders.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Norco Range C1 is a top-tier full-suspension enduro mountain bike featuring a high-quality carbon fiber frame and top-of-the-line components.
It resembles more of a downhill and freeride bike wearing the attire of an enduro race bike, designed specifically to tackle intense descents.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Norco Range C1.
Additionally, we will compare it to several other top bicycle models in the latter part of this article. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, stay tuned!
Riding Experience
The Norco Range C1 is purpose-built for endurance races and performs exceptionally well in challenging and varied terrains.
When I first laid my eyes on this bike, the sleek black finish paired with the Kashima-coated Fox 38 front suspension fork looked incredibly impressive and won me over.
Now, I couldn’t wait to hop on it and conquer some thrilling downhill trails. To make that happen, I booked my tickets to the nearest mountain bike park through Skyscanner.
While it may not be as famous as some other bike parks, it offers the necessary jumps, berms, winding singletracks, and my favorite slightly damp mix of mud and rocky surfaces.
Climbing
Indeed, climbing with an endurance-focused full-suspension mountain bike boasting 170mm of front and rear travel is no easy feat.
Thanks to the carbon fiber frame of the Norco Range C1, the weight has been reduced, allowing me to continue pedaling instead of getting off and pushing the bike uphill.
One immediate impression I noticed was that the Norco Range C1 exhibits less pedal bob during climbing compared to similar bikes.
This is due to its high virtual pivot suspension design and the use of an idle wheel to control anti-squat, effectively transferring pedaling energy while providing a stable platform.
Moreover, the Norco Range C1 is equipped with a Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ front tire and a Maxxis Minion DHRII 2.4″ rear tire. Overall, the grip provided by the tires was quite satisfying.
They adhered well to the ground, effectively transmitting the power generated by my pedaling.
As I encountered steeper sections, the SRAM X1 32T crankset combined with the SRAM Eagle XG 1275, 10-52T freewheel, and the locked-out suspension helped me conquer the climbs.
Finally, after a while of riding, I reached the starting point atop a small hill, ready for the exhilarating descent that awaited me.
Descending
The moment I began the descent, I could feel the eager attitude of the Norco Range C1. Its quick and responsive pedaling allowed me to gain speed rapidly.
As I dropped off significant gaps, the Fox Factory 38, Grip 2 front fork, paired with the FOX DHX2 coil shock on the Norco Range C1, absorbed most of the vibrations while still providing excellent support.
During long descents, the advantage of the 29-inch wheelset on the Norco Range C1 became evident. Its strong rollover capabilities, combined with a low center of gravity and relaxed head tube angle, made me feel stable, almost like driving a tank.
The Range C1’s high pivot design, along with its integrated chain guide and the rear derailleur SRAM XO1, gave me peace of mind knowing that the chain would stay in place even under intense forces.
As I rode the Norco Range C1 through twisty and winding singletracks, the high pivot suspension design resulted in an increased wheelbase as the suspension compressed.
While it enhanced stability during descents, it also sacrificed some agility. This required me to put in more effort to initiate drifts and maintain speed through corners.
Lastly, the SRAM Code RSC brakes on the Norco Range C1, combined with front and rear SRAM Centerline 200mm rotors, provided impressive stopping power.
When faced with urgent situations requiring sudden braking, I could instantly bring the bike to a halt, significantly reducing braking distance.
Specification
The Norco Range C1 offers four frame sizes, ranging from S to XL, all constructed with carbon fiber material.
Additionally, all models feature 29-inch wheelsets, providing significant benefits in terms of rollover capabilities and stability.
From a distance, the black finish of the Norco Range C1 appears understated. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the fine paintwork and the glossy texture that adds an elegant and distinctive look.
The internal cable routing design contributes to a cleaner appearance, and the quiet operation of the cable housing ensures no noise even during intense rides.
The inclusion of a dropper post allows riders to adjust their saddle height on the go, enhancing maneuverability and control during descents. The Norco Range C1 also features a tool mount on the top tube for carrying essential tools during rides.
The bash guard on the chainring and the chain guide on the idle wheel protect against chainring impacts and chain drops. The generous TPU plate shields the down tube from loose rocks, safeguarding the lower rocker link.
Overall, I believe the Norco Range C1 is a nearly flawless full-suspension enduro mountain bike. Indeed, it excels in all aspects and achieves a level close to the top-tier performance.
Video
Other Versions
Norco Range C1 is a top-tier full-suspension endurance mountain bike. However, it comes with a high price tag and may not be suitable for riders who are trying this type of mountain bike for the first time.
To address this, we have found another full-suspension endurance mountain bike with excellent components at a more affordable price: Norco Range C3.
Norco Range C3
Both Norco Range C1 and Norco Range C3 feature the same carbon fiber frame and rear suspension, with identical geometry. However, there is a price difference of $3,900 between the two. The components used in the Norco Range C3 are also of high quality.
In terms of suspension, the RockShox ZEB Charger R with 170mm travel on the Norco Range C3, while not being the top-tier RockShox ZEB, still offers good initial sensitivity and decent support.
However, there is indeed a difference compared to the Fox 38 on the Norco Range C1. But the price gap between the two is significant.
Moving on to the drivetrain, the SRAM X01 on the Norco Range C1 is impeccable. The Norco Range C3, on the other hand, uses the SRAM SX, which is capable of handling the riding conditions.
Moreover, the frame’s stable chainstay design eliminates concerns about the tension of the SRAM SX rear derailleur.
As for brake selection, the Norco Range C3 features the SRAM Code R, 4 Piston brakes with 200mm front and rear SRAM Centerline rotors.
While the braking power may not be as aggressive as the SRAM Code RSC on the Norco Range C1, it is sufficient for beginners or riders with some experience.
Therefore, if you’re looking to try a full-suspension endurance mountain bike without spending a lot of money, I would recommend the Norco Range C3.
Its excellent frame allows for significant upgrades in the future. If budget is not a concern, then you can directly opt for the Norco Range C1.
Next, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the specific specifications of the Norco Range C1 and offer some other brands’ full-suspension mountain bikes for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- It features a high virtual pivot design instead of a fixed pivot point on the frame.
- Offers tremendous stability and precise handling during descents.
- Top-tier components that maximize the potential of this bike.
- Dropper post design allows for on-the-go changes in riding position during descents.
- Integrated chain guide and chainring bash guard design to prevent chain drops and protect the chainring during aggressive riding.
- Relaxed head tube angle and extremely low center of gravity for more aggressive descents.
What don’t we like about it?
- Expensive price tag, not suitable for beginners.
FAQ
- What kind of wheelset does this bike use?
The front wheelset is Industry 9 Hydra, 15x110mm Boost, 6 Bolt and the rear wheelset is Industry 9 Hydra, 12x148mm Boost, XD, 6 Bolt.
- What kind of people is this bike suitable for riding?
It is suitable for riders with a certain level of biking experience and good bike handling skills to fully maximize its performance.
- How to choose the right size?
We provide a sizing chart for reference. However, it’s always best to try out different sizes to find the most suitable one for you.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″-5’5″ | S |
| 5’4″- 5’9″ | M |
| 5’8″- 6’0″ | L |
| 5’11”- 6’4″ | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Full Carbon, 170mm Travel, Ride Aligned™BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press FitColor: Black / Silver |
| Fork | Fox Factory 38, Grip 2, FLOAT, 170mm Travel, 44mm Offset |
| Rear Shock | FOX DHX2 Factory Coil, HSC/LSC, HSR/LSR, Custom Tune, 205×62.5mm Trunnion, 400lb/in (S), 450lb/in (M), 500lb/in (L), 550lb/in (XL) |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB PF92 |
| Headset | Cane Creek Internal Sealed Bearing |
| Stem | Alloy, 40mm Length, 35mm Clamp |
| Handlebar | Deity Skywire Carbon, 800mm, 25mm Rise |
| Saddle | Ergon SM10 Enduro Comp |
| Seatpost | OneUp Adjustable Dropper, 34.9mm, 150mm (S), 180mm (M), 210mm (L, XL) |
| Grips | DMR DeathGrip Soft, Thin (S, M), Thick (L,XL) |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM XO1 Eagle |
| Crank | SRAM X1 Eagle Carbon, DUB, 32T, 170mm |
| Shifters | SRAM X0 Eagle |
| Cassette | SRAM Eagle XG 1275, 10-52T |
| Chain | SRAM Eagle |
| Chain Guide | Custom MRP SXg |
| Brakes | SRAM Code RSC, Metallic Pads |
Wheels
| Rims | We Are One Union Enduro 29″ Carbon Wheelset |
| Front Hub | Industry 9 Hydra, 15x110mm Boost, 6 Bolt |
| Rear Hub | Industry 9 Hydra, 12x148mm Boost, XD, 6 Bolt |
| Tires | Maxxis Assegai 2.5″, DD, 3C MaxxGrip, TR |
| Disk Rotors | SRAM Centerline, 200mm |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click to view | Drivetrain | Frame material | Brake Type | Travel |
| Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Pro | Click view | 1 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 150mm rear, 160mm front |
| YT Industries Capra Uncaged 6 29 | Click view | 1 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 165mm rear, 170mm front |
| 2024 Santa Cruz BRONSON X0 AXS RSV / Carbon CC | Click view | 1 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 150mm rear, 160mm front |
| Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition | Click view | 1 × 12 | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 160mm rear, 170mm front |
Norco Range C1 vs Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Pro
Norco Range C1 and Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Pro are both top-tier full-suspension enduro bikes.
However, the former has longer front and rear suspension travel and utilizes the beefier Fox 38 fork compared to the Fox 36 used on the latter.
This gives the Norco Range C1 better support on surfaces with significant drops.
Furthermore, the Norco Range C1 features a slacker head tube angle than the Stumpjumper EVO Pro, paired with the FOX DHX2 Factory Coil rear shock.
This setup allows the rear of the bike to stay more glued to the ground during descents compared to the Stumpjumper.
Both bikes use the same SRAM Code RSC brakes, but the Stumpjumper EVO Pro offers the added convenience of SRAM XO1 electronic shifting.
Additionally, the 2.5-inch tires on the Norco Range C1 provide better traction on mountainous terrain compared to the 2.3-inch tires on the Stumpjumper.
When comparing these two bikes, I prefer the Norco Range C1 as it allows me to descend at a faster pace. However, the Stumpjumper EVO Pro offers better overall performance for both climbing and descending.
Norco Range C1 vs YT Industries Capra Uncaged 6 29
When it comes to the Norco Range C1 and the YT Industries Capra Uncaged 6 29, the latter has a stronger sense of technology.
The bike features electronic controls for the front fork, rear shock, dropper post, and shifting, giving it a sleeker appearance.
However, endurance full-suspension mountain bikes are not solely about looks.
In the case of the YT Industries Capra with RockShox full set of fork and rear shock, the ZEB fork’s sensitivity performs better on small bumps during descents.
The Fox 38 fork equipped on Norco Range C1 offers superior end support, resulting in a better feel when hitting jumps.
When using the same brake system and identical tires, the braking performance of both bikes is similar.
In terms of the drivetrain comparison, the SRAM X01 EAGLE AXS on YT, with its electronic shifting, is more convenient to use than the non-electronic version of SRAM X01 found on the Norco Range C1.
Considering these two top-tier endurance full-suspension mountain bikes with similar prices, if you prefer a tech-oriented feel, I would recommend the YT Industries Capra Uncaged 6 29.
However, if you desire a more authentic experience, then choosing the Norco Range C1 would be the way to go.
Norco Range C1 vs Santa Cruz BRONSON X0 AXS RSV / Carbon CC
Norco Range C1 and Santa Cruz BRONSON X0 AXS RSV/Carbon CC are flagship endurance full-suspension mountain bikes from their respective brands.
Compared to the front and rear 29-inch wheels equipped on the Norco Range C1, the BRONSON features an interesting mix of 29-inch front and 27.5-inch rear wheels, ensuring stability during descents while maintaining good maneuverability.
However, when it comes to suspension selection, the Norco Range C1 is preferable to the Santa Cruz BRONSON.
For riders who enjoy jumping and landing, the Fox 38 equipped on the former provides more reliable support than the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate on the latter.
Additionally, the FOX DHX2 coil shock on the Norco Range C1 offers better absorption of landing impacts compared to the RockShox Super Deluxe, ensuring better ground contact as well.
In terms of drivetrain, the Santa Cruz BRONSON’s SRAM X0 Eagle AXS T-Type rear derailleur can be installed without a derailleur hanger, which is not the case with the Range C1’s SRAM XO1 Eagle that requires a hanger.
Therefore, the BRONSON is less susceptible to external interference.
Both bikes offer excellent braking performance, with little difference between them.
Therefore, the choice between these two bikes ultimately depends on personal preference, as they are both truly outstanding options.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz BRONSON XX1 A Good Bike? [Santa Cruz BRONSON XX1 Review]
Norco Range C1 vs Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition
Norco Range C1 and Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition, which one to choose? Let’s take a look at their similarities and differences.
Firstly, both bikes have similar front and rear suspension travel and utilize the Fox 38 fork, providing excellent suspension support for both.
The Norco Range C1 has a slacker head tube angle compared to the Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition, offering more stability during downhill riding. However, it may not perform as well as the Rocky Mountain on flat terrain and climbs.
In terms of drivetrain, the Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition features Shimano’s top-tier XTR groupset, but I prefer the SRAM X01 on the Range C1. I enjoy the crisp, precise, and rugged shifting sound of SRAM drivetrains.
Lastly, when it comes to brakes, I like the Shimano XTR 4 Piston brakes on the Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition.
Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes depends on your primary riding style. If you prioritize downhill riding, the Norco Range C1 would be a great choice. For more varied terrain, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 Rally Edition would be a solid option.
Learn more : Is Rocky Mountain Slayer Alloy 30 A Good Choice? -[Rocky Mountain Slayer Alloy 30 Review]
Summary
Above is our riding review of the Norco Range C1. In our opinion, it is an endurance full-suspension mountain bike with unlimited potential for downhill riding.
It features a top-notch frame, high-quality components, and excellent suspension tuning. That’s why we give it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other endurance full-suspension mountain bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes at different price points, making it an interesting read. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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