Norco Shore 1 Review
- Price: $6199
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5 inches
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: Has a downhill-focused geometry and specifications that allow me to fly down winding trails.
What we don’t like about it: It’s good for aggressive riding, not for rookie riding.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The frame of Norco Shore 1 is specifically designed for challenging trails and freestyle riding, which aligns perfectly with my preferences. I hope this beast with its generous travel can fulfill my desire for exhilarating rides.
Now, let’s analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Norco Shore 1.
In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other top bike models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, make sure to follow us.
Riding Experience
As soon as I got my hands on the Norco Shore 1, I couldn’t wait to hop on and ride. I have to say, the 180mm suspension travel and the lower riding position are genuinely comfortable.
Excited about the bike, I immediately booked a ticket on Skyscanner and took the Norco Shore 1 to a forest in the State of Oregon.
I’ve been here before for riding. The trails here are muddy, filled with tangled tree roots, exposed rocks, and plenty of jumps.
Now, I can’t wait to conquer this terrain with the Norco Shore 1.
Climbing
As a full-suspension mountain bike with 180mm travel both in the front and rear, I don’t expect exceptional climbing capabilities from the Norco Shore 1.
So, as I climbed uphill on Norco Shore 1, I decided to lock the front and rear suspensions to save energy.
Moreover, during the ascent to the mountaintop, the SRAM 10-52T freewheel, combined with a 34T chainring up front, proved to handle most gradients. If a climb is too steep for this gear ratio, it would be challenging for any bike.
Additionally, the 2.5-inch Maxxis Assegai tires provided satisfactory traction on soft soil. Although, I feel they lack the stickiness of SCHWALBE tires on various surfaces, they still get the job done.
Descending
After a considerable amount of climbing, I finally reached the mountaintop. Now comes the part I’ve been eagerly anticipating—the descent. After all, this is a monster with 180mm travel front and rear.
As I descended down the winding trails, I could truly feel the immense agility that the Norco Shore 1 provides. This is attributed to its lower riding position, slack head tube angle, and 27.5-inch wheels.
However, there were instances of insufficient steering response during high-speed sharp turns. Skilled riders can compensate by using their skills to drift and maneuver quickly.
When I launched off a dirt slope, the Norco Shore 1 maintained a stable mid-air posture.
The FOX 38 GRIP 2 fork and Fox Factory DHX2 rear suspension absorbed most of the impact upon landing, making me want to go higher and higher. However, I did encounter a small incident.
During one big jump, the chainring, unfortunately, hit a rock. Fortunately, the Norco Shore 1’s chainring guard protected it, saving me from having to pay for a replacement chainring.
Furthermore, the SRAM GX rear derailleur with its high-pulley design ensured the chain stayed in place during rapid downhill sections.
The SRAM Code RSC, 4-piston brakes still provided excellent stopping power, allowing me to quickly reduce speed when encountering tight corners.
While riding the Norco Shore 1 downhill, I didn’t rely on the dropper post most of the time, but having the TranzX dropper post is always better than not having one at all.
Specification
The Norco Shore 1 boasts 180mm of travel in both the front and rear. It comes equipped with high-end FOX front fork and rear shock. Honestly, I prefer the Fox Factory DHX2 coil shock as it provides better ground contact for the Shore 1.
The Shore 1 is available in three frame sizes, from S to L, suitable for riders with heights ranging from 5’1″ to 6’0″.
Combined with the relaxed 63° head tube angle and a long wheelbase, the Shore 1 feels like a tank. If you find yourself deciding between two sizes, we recommend going with the smaller one.
Furthermore, the Norco Shore 1 features internal cable routing, giving the bike a clean and clutter-free appearance while minimizing any noisy distractions. The downtube protection also safeguards the frame from any damage caused by knocks or bumps.
Finally, the sturdy Deity Ridgeline 35 handlebar paired with a CNC Alloy stem provides excellent control and maneuverability.
The 800mm width allows room for riders who prefer shorter handlebars to trim them down if desired.
Video
Other Versions
The Norco Shore 1 is a bike that offers an aggressive riding experience, conquering various terrains and unknowingly making you ride faster on descents.
Of course, the Norco Shore 1 comes with a hefty price tag. We’ve also found the Norco Shore 2 with a similar frame, and we’ll introduce the Norco Shore 2 full-suspension enduro bike below.
Norco Shore 2
The Norco Shore 2 features the same frame material and design as the Norco Shore 1. However, the Shore 2 comes with fancier paint jobs and is $1600 cheaper.
The Norco Shore 2 utilizes a high-end suspension combination from RockShox. I prefer its RockShox Zeb R front fork, as it offers more responsiveness compared to the Fox 38 on the previous model.
However, for riders who enjoy jumps, the Fox fork may be more suitable.
The drivetrain on Norco Shore 2 differs significantly from Norco Shore 1. The former uses the Shimano Deore RD-M6100 drivetrain system. It may be sufficient for beginners, but if you’re seeking a more intense riding experience, you’ll need to upgrade the drivetrain.
Additionally, the Shimano BR-MT520 brakes with RT-64 203mm rotors provide decent braking power. However, they cannot be considered top-tier brakes in terms of performance.
If you’re looking to get into the world of full-suspension enduro mountain biking, the Norco Shore 2 is a great choice. It not only comes at a lower price point but also has a high ceiling for frame upgrades, allowing for future enhancements.
Next, we will provide a detailed list of the specific parameters for the Norco Shore 1, as well as some other full-suspension mountain bikes from different brands with similar price ranges.
What do we like about it?
- The Norco Shore 1 boasts an extra-long 180mm travel in both the front and rear, allowing it to conquer more challenging terrains.
- It features a relaxed head tube angle and a longer wheelbase, providing increased stability during downhill rides.
- It utilizes the Norco Ride Aligned Design System.
- It comes with a chainring guard to protect the chainring from impacts.
- The built-in dropper post allows for quick adjustment of saddle height during the ride.
- The Horst Link suspension design and integrated idler wheel offer excellent traction and support while reducing pedal kickback during large drops.
What don’t we like about it?
- The aggressive riding style and high price may not be suitable for all riders.
FAQs
- What kind of people does Norco Shore 1 suit to ride?
It is suitable for riders with some off-road mountain biking experience, good bike handling skills, and a desire for intense and aggressive riding.
- What kind of environments is the Norco Shore 1 suitable for?
It can be ridden on any terrain, including steep and rough downhill slopes. However, climbing might be more demanding.
- How do I choose the right size for Norco Shore 1?
We provide a size chart for your reference. However, the best way to find the most suitable size is to try it out for yourself.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″-5’5″ | S |
| 5’4″- 5’9″ | M |
| 5’8″- 6’0″ | L |
Norco Shore 1 Specs
Build
| Frame | Aluminum Freeride, 180mm Travel, Ride Aligned™ BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded Color: Silver / Silver |
| Fork | Fox Factory 38, GRIP 2, Float, 180mm, 44mm Offset |
| Rear Shock | Fox Factory DHX2, Coil Spring, 225x70mm, 400lb/in (S), 450lb/in (M), 500lb/in (L), 550lb/in (XL) |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB, BSA Threaded |
| Headset | FSA #57E Sealed Bearing |
| Stem | CNC Alloy, 40mm Length. 35mm Clamp |
| Handlebar | Deity Ridgeline 35, 800mm, 25mm Rise |
| Saddle | SDG Bel Air V3 |
| Seatpost | TranzX YSP-105 Adjustable Travel Dropper 150mm (S), 170mm (M), 200mm (L, XL) , 34.9mm |
| Grips | DMR DeathGrip A20, Thin (S, M), Thick (L, XL) |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM GX Eagle |
| Crank | SRAM GX Eagle Boost, 34T, 170mm |
| Shifters | SRAM GX Eagle |
| Cassette | SRAM Eagle XG 1275 10-52T |
| Chain | SRAM Eagle |
| Chain Guide | Norco Idler Chain Guide and Lower Guard |
| Brake | SRAM Code RSC, 4 Piston, Metallic Pads |
Wheels
| Rims | e*thirteen LG1 DH 27.5″ |
| Front Hub | DT Swiss 350, 15x110mm Boost, 6 Bolt |
| Rear Hub | DT Swiss 350, 12x148mm Boost, XD, 6 Bolt |
| Tires | Maxxis Assegai 2.5″, 3C Maxx Grip/DD/TR |
| Disk Rotors | SRAM Centerline, 200mm |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Drivetrain | Frame material | Brake Type | Shock travel |
| Trek Slash 9.8 GX | Click view | 1 × 12 | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 160mm rear, 170mm front |
| Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9 | Click view | 1 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 150mm rear, 160mm front |
| Scott Contessa Genius 920 | Click view | 1 × 12 | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 150mm rear, 160mm front |
| YT Industries Capra CORE 3 29 | Click view | 1 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 170mm rear, 170mm front |
Norco Shore 1 vs Trek Slash 9.8 GX
Let’s take a look at the comparison between these two bikes. The Slash 9.8 will be lighter in weight because it features a full-carbon fiber frame. However, the aluminum alloy on the Shore 1 will be more resistant to impacts from flying gravel.
On the other hand, the FOX suspension on the Shore 1 will have better performance compared to the RockShox on the Slash 9.8 GX. It also has longer travels, which allows it to achieve higher jumps off dirt slopes.
The latter, however, will provide a smoother suspension, offering better filtration of vibrations on rocky terrains. But both bikes use the same drivetrain and brake components.
In terms of choosing between these two bikes, I would lean towards the Shore 1.
Not only because it is $1,200 cheaper, but it also aligns better with my pursuit of aggressive riding. However, the Slash 9.8 will be more lightweight and, paired with its 29-inch wheels, will provide faster and more stable descents.
Learn More: Is Trek Slash 9.8 GX Worth Buying? [Trek Slash 9.8 GX review]
Norco Shore 1 vs Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9
For the similar price range of the Norco Shore 1 and the Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9, both bikes feature SRAM GX drivetrains. However, the Spectral 27.5 CF 9 has electronic shifting, making maintenance more convenient.
The RockShox Lyrik fork on the Spectral 27.5 CF 9 may not fully unleash the potential of the bike, whereas the Shore 1’s components are nearly upgrade-free.
Additionally, the full carbon fiber frame of Spectral 27.5 CF 9 offers a lighter ride compared to the Shore 1, resulting in a more agile experience.
In conclusion, both bikes are excellent full-suspension mountain bikes, and either one would be a good choice. If you prefer a hassle-free option, go for the Norco Shore 1. If you anticipate future upgrades, the Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9 would be more suitable.
Learn More: Is Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review]
Norco Shore 1 vs Scott Contessa Genius 920
First, let’s compare the Norco Shore 1 and the Scott Contessa Genius 920. Many people may be impressed by the hidden rear suspension design of the latter at first glance.
Indeed, it looks sleeker, but it also makes replacement, maintenance, and disassembly more troublesome.
However, Scott is a brand known for creating classic mountain bikes, and the Contessa Genius 920 may also carry on the XC tradition. With a 65° head tube angle, it makes climbing uphill easier compared to Norco Shore 1.
But both the front and rear suspension on the Scott Contessa Genius 920 are a level lower than that of the Norco Shore 1. This means that Scott’s ability for aggressive riding and descending will be slightly inferior to the Shore 1.
Additionally, the Shimano Deore M6120 brakes equipped on the Scott may hinder its ability to handle high-speed descents.
Both bikes offer good choices. If you want a more balanced mountain bike, then Scott would be a good option. On the other hand, the Norco Shore 1 is designed for extreme downhill and challenging jumps.
Norco Shore 1 vs YT Industries Capra CORE 3 29
Norco Shore 1 and YT Industries Capra CORE 3 29 are both challenging choices. Firstly, I am more attracted to the appearance and paint job of the latter.
The geometry of the YT bike is more reminiscent of traditional endurance mountain bikes compared to the Norco Shore 1, which leans more towards Freeride.
This allows the Capra to have faster downhill speeds, while the Shore 1 can perform more maneuvers in the air.
What I like about the YT is its 29-inch wheel size. Yes, I prefer the current trend of 29-inch wheels because I appreciate the enhanced traction and stability they provide for both climbing and descending.
This is an area where the Norco Shore 1 falls short compared to the YT.
When it comes to choosing between these two full-suspension mountain bikes, I might lean toward the YT due to its more appealing paint job. However, everyone has different priorities, so it’s important to choose based on what you value to avoid any regrets later on.
Summary
Here is our review of the Norco Shore 1. In our opinion, it is a sturdy bike that instills confidence in riders to take on more challenging terrain. Taking all factors into account, this is why we give it a high rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other full-suspension endurance race bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes with various price points, making it an interesting read. Feel free to check out our other reviews as well.
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