Devinci Django Test

The mountain bike market as we know it has changed and become much more specialized over the last five years. Bikes are now broken down into very specific categories and the only bike that now seems to cover two genres is the Enduro bike. It is a climber as well as a descender with a stronger emphasis on going down. 

Devinci released the Django as an aggressive trail bike. these are shorter, lighter version of their Enduro counterparts. These bikes will climb better and be a bit easier for longer rides in general. They do however give up a fair amount of comfort once trails get rocky and rowdy!

We took a break from the longer travel Enduro bikes and decided to test out Devinci's go at a short travel all mountain slayer the Django. it was noticeably lighter than our last bike and was a full factory build. We had to get used to Shimano brakes and drive train again but that only took a few rides.

Devinci History

"Aluminum was the seed that set a two-wheeled revolution in motion, when Devinci Bikes landed in Chicoutimi, Quebec, more than 25 years ago. From road to race to carbon and dual-suspension line-ups, today Devinci stands as a global frame-manufacturing leader, home to cutting-edge R&D facilities and a top engineering squad committed to the ultimate ride.

Its story starts in 1987, when Devinci began life as Da Vinci (as in Leonardo), a company envisioned by two local engineering students. Soon after, road biking entrepreneur, Felix Gauthier, entered the mix. By 1990 he had purchased half the company, swapped vowels, and Devinci proper was born.

From the outset it wasn’t always smooth roads for this fledgling Canadian-born brand. Perfecting the heat-treatment processes was a game of trial and error. Money was tight, distribution channels were slim, and when a costly new oven threatened to break the bank, Gauthier and his team combined ingenuity and talent to build one themselves. With a growing set of tools and skills in place, Devinci went to work cooking more bikes. By 1993, distribution had expanded, Gauthier had taken sole ownership of the business, and Devinci moved from its modest 800-square-foot home to one four times the size.

Brainpower was corralled; designers and skilled technicians were sourced; R&D was ratcheted up, reinforcing a commitment to quality and performance. From Canadian market exclusivity, Devinci branched worldwide, expanding its road repertoire to include an array of women-specific rides, hybrids, XC standouts, ergonomic cruisers, and a World Cup winning dual-suspension mountain bike lineup—featuring Dave Weagle’s patented Split Pivot technology.

Today Devinci’s creative engine revs under one roof. This includes a state-of-the-art on–bike testing system, which measures every stress and strain in real life situations. Changes to a particular design can be prototyped, tested, tweaked, and re–tested in days rather than weeks.

This detailed ethos equates to value and efficiency, as well as industry-leading quality control and R&D efforts poured into every bike launched at Devinci HQ."

Devinci Django

"Freedom on the bike is all about breaking from the starch and sending it into the dirt-sphere with power, speed, and finesse. Devinci’s new Split-Pivot Django actualizes those aspirations on the trail, with an optimal blend of 130mm front/120mm rear suspension. Surefooted 27.5 wheels enhance traction on wet, slippery surfaces and deliver appreciated stability. And alloy and carbon frame architecture augments punchy acceleration with precision handling and a lively overall feel. Whether sticking fierce, fast descents or finding optimal flow over upturned environments, Django seizes the opportunities ahead. Its lifetime warranty fuels the advance. *Image may not show accurate specifications. Please refer to specifications below."

Django XT Build Kit

• Carbon DMC-G 120mm
• RockShox Pike RCT3 27.5 Solo Air 130mm
• FSA Orbit 1.5 Zero Stack w/SL bearing
• RockShox Monarch RT3 7.25x1.75 DB High Volume Eyelet
• Schwalbe Hans Dampf 27.5x2.35" Trailstar SnakeSkin TL
• Schwalbe Rock Razor 27.5x2.35' Pacestar SnakeSkin TL DT
• Swiss X1700 Spline 27.5 15x100mm
• Shimano RT81 180mm Centerlock Shimano XT M8000
• Shimano RT81 160mm Centerlock Shimano XT M8000
• 11s Shimano XT M8000
• RaceFace Next SL 30T
• Shimano 11s 11-42T
• Shimano 11s
• Race Face Next ¾ Rise 31.8mm 725mm
• Race Face Turbine 31.8mm
• SDG Bel-Air Rock
• Shox Reverb Stealth 125mm 31.6mm
• Alloy CNC 37mm Black
• Devinci Performance w/lock-on
• 12.38 kg / 27.29 lbs

Devinci Django Frame Features

• 5th generation of all mountain Split Pivot frame. New geometry with a top tube 20 mm longer on all sizes to fit a wider range of customers
• Tapered head tube Precise control and the best strength-to-weight ratio in the business
• Lower stand-over height Delivering prime stand-over fit, and a super-low center of gravity for enhanced handling
• DMC-G Devinci monocoque carbon. Lighter, stiffer, more responsive. Featuring EPS molding with T700 carbon fiber
• Ultra-short chainstays Pin-it acceleration, combined with superior driver's seat handling
• Split pivot Suspension system. Separates acceleration forces from braking forces for synchronized feel
• AXIS & FRG ADJUSTABLE Perfect balance, minimum unsprung mass, and prime hi/lo geometry adjustment for perfect settings
• Boost 148 standard Stiffer rear wheel
• Internal cable routing Protection from elements. Deluxe, aerodynamic styling
• Asymmetrical construction Milking the most performance out of every frame angle, improved torsional stiffness
• 27,5 dedicated 2.35'' maximum tire clearance
• Increased bottom out force Increased progressivity for improved bottoming out forces
• CUSTOM TUNED REAR SHOCK

Split Pivot Suspension

"SPLIT-PIVOT is a newly patented Dave Weagle suspension system for high performance bicycles, where traction, efficiency, maneuverability, and frame stiffness are important factors on the track and trail. Shaped by DW's competition proven engineering, SPLIT-PIVOT offers true performance advantages over single pivot bikes, with a ride that's sure to make you smile.

• SPLIT-PIVOT's [concentric dropout pivot] is the heart of this new design. The [concentric dropout pivot] and Dave Weagle's engineering allow for performance features that no single pivot can duplicate.
• SPLIT-PIVOT separates acceleration forces from braking forces in the suspension The system reduces excess suspension compression due to acceleration forces, and at the same time reduces excess compression due to braking forces.
• Braking neutrality can be tuned independently of acceleration characteristics, and leverage rate curves can be tuned to meet the needs of the application.
• SPLIT-PIVOT can be engineered to build lightweight frame structures without resorting to exotic materials or tube shapes.
• Featuring 12mm thru axle, QR 12mm axle, or 10mm vertical QR possibilities, plenty of stock wheels fit the design.
• Bottom Line: SPLIT-PIVOT is a patented DW suspension that can be engineered to offer a ride that will make you want to be on your bike more often."

Devinci Django Geometry

The first trail climbs about 700 feet in just over 1 mile and I could tell The Django had a 5 lbs weight savings over the bigger bike. It's overall platform felt much stiffer as well and a bit less forgiving while climbing. I was only a minute behind my normal time of 18 minutes to get up which is not bad considering how much time I had off.

Once at the top I strapped on my bell and goggles and got ready to drop in. The first part is high speed and fire road width with a good scattering of rocks. I could tell right away The Dgango was a bit less forgiving when hitting bigger rocks than the past bikes we have tested. It was time to hop over these instead of just steam rolling them like we do with the bigger bikes.

The trail takes a hard left through rocks and enters a very high speed off camber single track section. there are some large rocks here you dodge and weave your way through. After that it goes right back across the mountain through some ruts and up and over a steep roller that acts as a G-out and typically uses most of a bikes suspension when hitting it at speed.

This trail is somewhat smooth compared to others in the area. I was able to get within a few seconds of my fastest time on my second time down the trail so this is a bike that inspires confidence.

 

Overall the bike seemed to provide a solid pedalling platform. Whether standing or sitting the bike bobbed very little we ran it in pedal mode on the rear shock about half the time. On a few occasions on the descents we left the shock in pedal mode just to see how it would feel and honestly you couldn't tell except for the small bump sensitivity.

The Devinci Django proved to be a more trail oriented type of bike. It's shorter travel and firm suspension stroke begged for smooth line choices and pumping your way down the trail to keep up the speed. Having ridden the more aggressive Enduro bikes recently what we came away with was that The Django can make for a rougher ride over rocky terrain. Smoother terrain and flow based trails are where The Django shines. It can carry speed and cover terrain very quickly with a skilled rider behind the bars. The Split Pivot Suspension designed by Dave Weagle feels good. Setting up the bike was pretty easy. We actually didn't need to add any rings into the rear shock. We ran between 25%-30% of sag on the bike. It was very progressive and we never had an issue with excessive bottoming out on the trail.

Riding The Devinci Django it became apparent that Weagle's design goals of a stiff, efficient and neutral braking frame have been achieved with The Django. I weigh 220lbs and can usually detect frame and wheel flex pretty fast. The Django felt very stiff and gave a very neutral braking feel. Acceleration, and climbing while providing a firm pedaling platform is something the Django does well. The tradeoff is that the bike provides a stiff ride on the way down and you have to be hauling ass to get the suspension to soak up the smaller stuff. This won't bug most riders but it should be noted. If you live in Santa Cruz or flow filled Nirvanas then it won't be an issue.

The Devinci Django is a fast bike it wants to be pressed into the turns and pumped out of them. Tires are something that can get chewed up around here fast. The trails are very rocky so we yanked off the back tire and ran a GRID casing Specialized to play it safe. It added some weight but was well worth it. With our Hope flat pedals our XL complete bike weighed 31lbs.

Conclusion

Overall we liked The Devinci Django with its short travel can do attitude. It was very playful and poppy, a bike you could launch off or over anything to big to run over. Carrying speed helped to keep the suspension active and absorbing all the terrain passing under your tires. Pumping your way down while avoiding the big stuff will keep you covering ground in a hurry.

People looking for a short travel aggressive trail bike that can handle 50 mile days and descend most terrain easily will love The Django. It provides a stable pedalling platform in a stiff chassis. Rider input is instantly translated into bike movement overall it is a very lively ride. Devinci did a good job with the bikes overall geometry. We ran wider bars and beefier tires to avoid sidewall tears.

It has been close to a decade since I have ridden a Shimano drivetrain and I was surprised by how will the XT 11spd worked. It clacks much harder between gears than SRAM stuff does so that took a bit of time to get used to. Overall the build was good. One thing worth replacing would probably be the wheels just beat the hell out of them and swap them for something wider and stiffer down the road.

There are some very rocky tails in this area and that is when you will notice the short travel of the Django. Hitting that stuff at speed transfers chatter into the bars and pedals. This was the only time we found the short travel holding us back. Overall it's agressive geometry, great suspension and stiff chassis make The devinci Django one hell of a fun ride.

We would reccomend The Django to a friend looking for a short travel bike. If they are looking at XC bikes I would suggest they check one of these out. If they already own a DH bike but want something to train on the Django could be the answer! Shortly after we got the 650b bike Devinci announced The 29" Django which should prove to be a bit better as smoothing out rough trails. Another bike sporting a Dave Weagle suspenion system that is awesome imagine that......

Devinci Django Questions

1. Give us a Devinci history lesson.

http://www.devinci.com/company/index.html

2. How do bikes go from ideas to production at Devinci?

https://freehubmag.com/videos/made-love

3. How did the idea for The Django begin?

With the Troy being updated with a burlier frame and now being more at the All-mountain crowd, it left a space for a new bike in our offering. Being based on the east coast, we wanted a bike that would be punchier than the Troy to handle the rolling terrain that we have here. That’s when we decided to go with a smaller travel bike (120mm in this case) that would remain very capable but would give a better punch.

4. Was it a hard choice to decide on a 120mm travel bike for you guys?

No, as previously said, this falls naturally in our lineup.

5. What where some of the main features you guys wanted in the Django when you were laying it out on paper (computer)?

We wanted a bike that feels more capable than the typical 120mm bike but also that feels very lively. A bike that makes the climbing less painful and bring some fun to it. True to Devinci’s design, we wanted to have short CS and low BB as well as low stand over height to make sure the bike is fun to ride.

6. Did you achieve all the elements into the final product?

We did and we are stoked on the final product. No need to say that this bike has been the ‘go to’ option for many of our staff.

7. Any updates you guys are looking to do to the Django in the near future?

The Django saw a few spec change for 2017 like dropper post and wide bars on all models, including entry level. Other than that we are pretty stoked on the bike.

8. Care to elaborate on geometry used on the Django?

We wanted something that feels capable but remain nimble and fun. So short CS, low BB, HA that enable to handle the steeps while remaining lively on the trail.

9. Rocky or jump filled trails?

Jump filled on the 27.5, Rocky on the 29er.

10. Where are your carbon bikes made?

Aluminum are 100% made in Canada. Carbon bikes are designed, tested, assembled in Canada but frames are manufactured in Asia.

11. Who is the best Mountain Biker ever?

Stevie Smith

12. Any new bikes you want our readers to know about?

All our 2017 models are now online, check it out !

13. What do you think about all the new standards that have popped up in the last 3 years?

As long as it makes the ride and the bikes better it’s worth it. However it is definitely a challenge for us in terms of frame conception and parts spec.

14. What would make the bike industry better?

More trails and more people to maintain them.

15. Will Devinci be making a long travel 29” anytime soon?

Only future will tell.

16. Anything else you want to get across to the readers?

Have fun on the trails !

2013 Norco Aurum 1 Test

Norco bikes have been making, designing and breaking their teeth on the Canadian North Shore for almost a half century. Many of us will recall the days of the VPS and Shore bikes. These bikes were running the FSR style rear suspension system and were overbuilt to take the abuse that North Shore riding put bikes through. Those of you needing a history lesson check out the video below to find out more about Norco.

Specifications

• Aurum One 200 mm travel frame 
• Manitou Dorado Expert
• Cane Creek Double barrel coil (300 / 350 / 400 lb) 
• Sun Inferno 29 welded rim
• Maxxis Minion DHF 26 x 2.50
• Kenda Light weight MTB 26" tube
• Sun Jumping Flea 
• Sun Jumping Flea 157 x 12
• DT Comp stainless spokes (butted)  
• Saint 10 speed rear  
• Jagwire LEX housing 
• Shimano Saint short cage RD 
• Shimano Tiagra 12-28T cassette 
• Truvativ Decendant DH single 36T 83 MM BB
• Shimano CN HG54 10 speed chain
• E-13 LG 1 chainguide with Taco 
• Norco Lite two bolt 2014 aluminum 30.9 mm 
• WTB Silverado Race SL saddle  
• Cane Creek 40  
• 1x10 mm, 2x5 mm , 3 x 3 mm headset spacers  
• Alloy top cap 
• Easton Havoc bolt on direct mount 31.8 mm  
• Easton Havoc DH bar 800 mm , 31.8 mm clamp 
• Ergon GA1 Evo grip  
• Shimano Saint disc brake (200 mm rotor)
• Shimano Saint disc brake (200 mm rotor)

The Norco bikes of today have shed the weight in key areas while lowering the bikes center of gravity. They still use the tried and true FSR (Four Bar) rear suspension system that is licensed through Specialized. The FSR system stays active under braking while providing a progressive leverage curve. This is not the best pedalling platform but since the introduction of the 5th Element with platform dampening in the early 2000's the bob that was once a very noticeable aspect of a FSR bike has been drastically reduced resulting in a Downhill Bike that has decent pedaling. Along with the platform based shock Norco has also updated the FSR layout on their frames to pedal better than the standard design.

"The rear end is a true Horst Link, four-bar affair. Norco has long licensed Specialized’s FSR suspension design, though they’ve tweaked it a bit in 2011 with an eye toward improving pedaling efficiency. The axle path now takes a more rearward trajectory, which, according to Norco, accomplishes two things: First, as the suspension compresses, it creates a bit of chain growth, which, while pedaling, extends the rear shock and reduces its tendency to bob; and second, it reduces the rear wheel’s tendency to hang up when tracking over roots and rocks."

The Horst Link Defined

"A Horst link suspension has one pivot behind the bottom bracket, with one pivot mounted at each of the chain stays, in front of the rear wheel drop-out (this pivot being the venerated "Horst link"), and one at the top of the leveraged shock linkage that connects to the seat stay. Some notable examples of Horst link four-bar designs include the Specialized FSR and related bikes, Ellsworth, KHS, and Merida.

The Horst Link patent system proved popular since its debut, becoming a standard for rear suspension designs using an 'active' model. Specialized bought several of Leitner's patents in May 1998, and other manufacturers in U.S. now license the Horst link design from Specialized for the use of the 'Horst link' or FSR suspension patent. It is used by notable companies such as Norco, Ellsworth, KHS, and Fuji. European manufacturers, such as Cube, do use the same suspension design, but can not import it to the United States.^[5] The FSR patent system uses a wheel path that attempts to position suspension compression between a preloaded and an unloaded condition throughout most of its travel."

The claimed benefits of the FSR system are listed below.

• Reactive to small hits

• Variable wheel/shock ratio

• Handles large hits

• Progressive leverage ratio

• Non-linear/vertical wheel path

 

The Norco Aurum has slick flowing lines notice the built in fork bumpers.

The Tapered headtube.

The Aurum's hydroformed tubing helps keep it light and tuff.

Built in seat post clamp is oh so clean.

Norco 5 Point System

1. Custom hydroformed tubing: strong in key areas, stiff, light and beautiful
2. New integrated fork bumps: wider turn radius and designed to accommodate a wider range of forks
3. Gravity Tune: optimal body position, ideal weight distribution for increased traction & control
4. A.R.T. suspension, optimized for DH: efficient pedaling, confident braking, square-edge bump compliance and bottomless feel
5. Syntace X-12 157mm axle system: superior stiffness for better handling through rough stuff

Advanced Ride Technology

"Advanced Ride Technology, or A.R.T., is the direct link between engineering and experience. More than a single suspension platform, A.R.T. is a system that we optimize for each intended use. Norco's engineering team strategically manipulates pivot locations to precision-tune suspension kinematics, ensuring that every full suspension bike will excel in the environment it was designed for. For downhill applications, we increase rearward axle path for a more controlled ride over gnarly, unpredictable terrain. For cross-country we increase pedaling efficiency and small bump compliance for a faster, smoother ride. A.R.T. delivers four major benefits to riders: enhanced pedaling efficiency, increased square-edge bump compliance, improved braking performance and progressive suspension characteristics. These benefits are balanced in different proportions based on intended use, creating a ride experience unique to each model.

Enhanced Pedaling Efficiency
A.R.T. is designed to effectively manage chain growth to create anti-squat forces that counteract the forces responsible for suspension bob. The result is an incredibly efficient pedaling platform, superior power transfer and unmatched climbing ability.

Increased Square-Edge Bump Compliance
Rearward axle path describes the rear wheel's trajectory as a bicycle moves through its travel. A.R.T. uses a pronounced rearward axle path that enables the wheel to travel both rearward and upward, up and out of the way of obstacles.

Improved Braking Performance
A pronounced rearward axle path also allows a bike's suspension to remain fully active when pressure is applied to the brakes. A.R.T. delivers powerful, predictable braking with fully active suspension and superior traction at all times.

Progressive Suspension Characteristics
A.R.T. suspension uses a progressive leverage ratio curve, meaning that the forces required to engage the shock increase progressively as the shock moves through its travel. The first part of the stroke is very supple and effectively absorbs small to medium-sized impacts. Toward the end of the stroke, the shock becomes progressively stiffer, resulting in a 'bottomless' feel. To the rider, this progressive curve is experienced as consistent, predictable suspension at every point in the travel."

Gravity Tune 

"With traditional frame designs, engineers adjust front-centre lengths for each frame size but use a single, fixed rear-centre length. This approach leaves riders of certain body types in a poor position when standing. Poor body position leads to uneven weight distribution and negatively affects traction, control and overall performance and ride characteristics. A simple solution to a complex problem, Gravity Tune fixes the front-centre/rear-centre ratio across all frame sizes, effectively optimizing geometry for every bike in the line. As a result, weight is always optimally distributed – regardless of rider height. Available only on Norco Bikes, Gravity Tune means equal ride characteristics and unrivalled control for all."

Hollowform Link Arm 

"Norco's Holloform linkarm is a hyper-rigid, one-piece linkarm that provides two distinct benefits to riders. First, it provides lateral support to the seat stays and stiffens the rear triangle, keeping the bike tracking straight and true through any terrain. Second, it prevents torsional forces from affecting the rear shock, reducing stiction and increasing shock life."

Hydroformed Tubes 

"Norco's hydroforming process uses high-pressure hydraulic fluid to form tubing into precise, structurally superior shapes with strategic curves and tapers. The process allows our engineering team to design tubes and complete frames that will behave exactly as intended. Hydroforming also enables engineers to increase strength in key areas and incorporate functional features such as stand over clearance into designs. The result is a visually striking frame that is functional, light and extraordinarily strong."

Integrated Dropout 

"Norco's integrated dropouts combine a number of traditionally independent features into a stronger, more efficient rear dropout system. Our integrated dropouts combine axle retention, post-mount brakes, rear suspension pivots, derailleur hanger attachment and frame gussets into a single structure. The result is a stiff, strong and light dropout system."

Syntace Derailleur Hanger System 

"Proven to be substantially stiffer and less prone to damage than conventional derailleur hangers, the X-12 system ensures incredibly crisp and precise shifting. Each frame comes with a spare hanger bolt integrated into the frame for emergency trailside repairs."

360 Lock Pivots 

"Norco's 360º Lock pivots employ a tapered collet insert that, when the pivot hardware is tightened, expands to grip the inner race of the pivot bearing around the full 360 of its inner diameter. This design creates a much stronger grip, prevents unwanted forces from acting on the bearing and prolongs bearing lifespan."

Geometry

The 2013 Norco Aurum 1 sits right in the middle of the Aurum line. It has a beautiful build kit consisting of the Dorado Expert fork, Saint brakes, shifter, deraillure, CCDB rear shock, Easton controls and other mid to high end parts. The MSRP on the complete bike is $5700, which from the build kit alone is a very good price point.

Norco offers a less expensive version and one called the LE that will save you 3-4 pounds at the cost of $1400 over the price of the Aurum 1. Although it is the only factory bike I know of that weighs 33LBS so considering that the LE is also a good deal.

The build kit on the Aurum 1 is astounding for the price of the complete bike. This new Dorado Expert has the exact same internals as the more expensive Pro version but uses a 6000 series aluminum so it is almost 300 grams heavier. Most would agree that the Saint gearing system is almost flawless and with the new clutch system this bike is almost silent. The only parts that we would consider replacing would be the cranks and maybe the wheels. Ride it for a year and replace as needed. You can for sure shave weight off the bike by swapping these out for lighter parts. 

Setting up a CCDB takes some fair bit of time. Cane Creek's set-up helper is located below for the CCDB shock. We would suggest using it unless you are familiar with tuning a Double Barrel shock. It took us a bit to get the bike set I run my rebound a bit slower than some of the faster riders. We also ended up adding some LSC to the shock to keep it firm under pedaling. 

Norco Answers Some Questions On The Aurum

1. When Norco began laying out the Aurum on paper what were the traits and strengths you were looking for the bike to have?

We were aiming to design the fastest possible downhill bike. To do this we paid special attention to wheel-path, leverage curves, braking performance and geometry.

2. Can you tell us a little about the custom hydroformed tubing you are using?

The Aurum frame uses double butted and formed aluminum for optimal strength, stiffness and weight. The frame’s curves are also functional, creating room for the shock, improved stand-over, heel clearance, chain clearance, caliper mounting, etc…

3. The Aurum features what is referred to as a Gravity Tune can you elaborate a bit on what it does and the benefits it provides? Is there anything a customer should keep in mind while setting up their new Aurum?

Gravity Tune ensures that all sizes of riders get equal and optimal handling characteristics. To do this we modify the front-centre and rear-centre within the frame’s front triangle to optimize the rider’s weight distribution.

4. With all the different suspension systems out what made you choose the FSR four bar for the Norco Aurum?

Norco has a strong belief in the Horst-Link as it offers superior square-edge bump absorption, optimum braking characteristics, lateral stiffness and great pedaling efficiency.

5. Can you elaborate some on the A.R.T. Suspension and explain a bit what was altered and why?

A.R.T. suspension is all about the rearward axle path.  This helps the bike hold its momentum through rough terrain, helps the suspension remain active under braking and also improves pedal efficiently.

6. Was weight a very big concern when you went to create the Aurum bike? Do you know what the frame and shock weigh in it?

Weight is always a concern for any bike and the Aurum is no exception. Coming in at  7.5 lbs with a shock, the Aurum’s strength to weight ratio is something that we are very proud of.

7. The current crop of downhill bikes has undergone a slow evolution becoming
lighter, slacker and lower. Do you think we are approaching the magic set of
numbers for downhill bikes like MX bikes have had for years?

There will always be differences based on rider preference and suspension design but the variances are becoming less with every passing year. I believe that we are approaching a zone of perfection.

8. How do you think the three big suspension companies are doing with their most recent offerings of forks and shocks?

We have seen huge advancements over the past few years. Each manufacturer has stepped up their games and are pushing each other to remain competitive. The suspension technology available is getting better every year and will continue to improve moving forward.

9. What would you suggest to the suspension engineers to improve their products?

Mountain bike suspension could be improved through addressing durability and reliability. Weight reduction is another area to look at moving forward through the optimization of air springs in forks and shocks.

10. On future version can you see having adjustable BB, HA and chainstays or any form of chassis adjustment?
 

Not telling.

11. How long did it take to get the bike from Cad drawings to first production run?
 

The Aurum was a big push for Norco that we put a lot of resources into. Given the push we were able to move from a CAD model to a first production in a little over a year.

12. Who helped develop the frame?
 

The Aurum was a team effort. Our engineering team, product managers and team riders all had a great influence on the design and development of this bike.

13. How has the response been to the Aurum line?

Response to the Aurum has been extremely positive. Everyone who rides the Aurum raves about it.

14. What do you envision changing on the current Aurum frame over the next few years?
 

We are always striving for perfection and when it comes to the Aurum that means making it faster.  Wait and see.

15. Any other thoughts or things we should know about the frame?
 

Go ride one and find out for yourself.

Kyle Hogan takes the 2013 Norco Auarum 1 for a run down a local trail. This is only his second time on the trail but he managed to keep the Aurum 1 moving at a good rate.

A short film by BFree Media on the Norco Aurum 1.

Ian Wilkinson

The first trail I took the bike down is a short rock filled one. This trail is not very steep but has rocks from golfball to waist high boulders the whole way down. The Norco Aurum 1 tracked straight and true. The FSR suspension stayed active while riding the brakes something I do but not much on this trail. I had been riding a 41 LBS bike last and the Aurum 1 weighs in at 38 LBS so it was a bit more lively and easier to move around and change lines while navigating down the trail. Overall the bike felt very good on this first trail. It tracked well, ate small and big bumps alike. All while being nimble and pretty easy to change direction on.

I have not been riding much so the next trail I brought the bike out on was a little much. Having more saddle time on the bike I realized it started to get stable and feel balanced as speeds increased. This wasn't a problem on the previous trail but I was a bit worried with this next one. It is very long and rock filled the entire way down it also has some steep roll in sections on it. The bike again ate the rocks well, held a line when asked and seemed to provide a decent amount of traction. I noticed the weight of the bike this time it seemed to bounce around a bit more than some of the other bikes I have ridden down this trail. It could also be that I was just not pushing it hard enough to get into its comfort zone. The slack head angle combined with the low BB allow the bike to roll down steeps with ease. This bike for sure favors an aggressive riding posture elbows out and over the front to maintain traction.

The Dorado fork and CCDB shock combo are about as good as they get. We have not ridden a fork that is better then the Dorado yet at smoothing out the rough terrain especially at higher speeds. Having so many shock adjustment options on the back of the bike with be a huge plus to riders that like to tweak their bikes at every race or trail they ride. We suggest making a log to keep track of what works where to make the task a snap the next time around. The Saint brakes worked very well. There was a weird feel to the lever pull where we had it adjusted to. If you adjust the lever out or in further it went away. This was the only complaint.

Norco's dropout and derailleur hanger system are pretty clever. Having an extra derailleur hanger bolt in the frame is a nice touch. The Aurum frame itself is very nice. Having the built in bump stops for the fork and a built in seatpost clamp are just the icing on the cake. Attention to detail on the Norco is first rate. All the little things that some of other bigger companies overlook Norco took full advantage of and included them on their Aurum frames.

Overall the Norco offers a superior build kit for its price point. The bike likes to go fast and gets into its element once riders start pushing the bike and themselves. This isn't one of those bikes that you just hop on and it is easy to go fast. It takes an aggressive riding style to get the most out of the 2013 Norco Aurum the bike responds very well as the speeds increase. Having a slack head angle and low BB help keep it stable and carving the turns. While out back the short chainstay keeps the bike lively and makes direction changes a snap.

Vance Bennett

The Aurum would be a top pick in the bikes I would love to ride for a whole season. The bike has an amazing look to it from the color scheme to the frame design. Everyone I rode the bike with asked me does it ride as well as it looks. In my opinion yes the bike rides great from the steep rocky terrain to smooth jumpy trails.

Getting on this bike was a shocker cause I felt almost instantly comfortable on it. Being a medium and I'm 6 ft it was a little small but wasn’t a problem at all when I was riding the bike. The Aurum goes threw rock gardens extremely well and it hardly made a sound. I would have to say my overall favorite thing about the bike was how quiet it was threw even the roughest rock gardens. It almost made me feel smoother because I couldn’t hear a rattle on the bike. The integrated features such as the seat clamp and bump stops are a major asset to the Aurum. The bump stops are very slim which allowed for a tight turning radius which I was stoked about. The integrated seat post clamp makes the bike look a lot cleaner.

The Aurum is incredibly light weight. It weighs about 38 pounds stock from the factory. The low B.B. on the bike made it comfortable to hit sketchy corners a lot faster and smoother. I first got on the Aurum on one of the steepest trails in the area and the first thing I noticed was how well it stops even in the loosest dirt. The Rear linkage looks simple but works very well and doesn’t cause any problems braking.

The small head tube was a concern to me because the look of it. But its serves a good purpose allowing people a much larger range to adjust there height. My one and only complaint was the cable routing on the rear linkage could cause the cables to bunch up. This is a simple fix of loosening or moving the zip ties in that spot to stop that from happening. So when setting up the zip ties just keep that in mind. All and all the Aurum was a great bike and I had a lot of fun riding it.

Kyle Hogan

I recently had the pleasure of testing the new Norco Aurum 1. My first impression was how good the bike looked. Clean lines, and an overall dominant look overwhelmed my senses, and I knew it was going to be an awesome ride. Some small, sizing adjustments later and I was ready to ride. So out to the trail I went.

The first thing I noticed was that the medium I was on was a bit smaller than other bikes I've ridden. The shorter top tube gave the cockpit a slightly cramped feel, but after a short while I found that the smaller stature was not a negative aspect of the handling. Under rough conditions, the bike performed very well. It seemed like it was more at home the rougher the terrain got. The shorter top tube was probably why it seems to handle faster in technical turns.

The build was very nice, with Shimano Saint parts and the Manitou Dorado fork. The crank set seemed like a downgrade in comparison to the rest of the parts, but I could only feel a very small amount of flex. Wheels were solid, and the bars/stem/seat post/saddle were all very nice feeling. Out of the box, I'd be confident in any situation, racing or not.

Obviously sluggish on the climbs (but it is a downhill bike), the only thing that I noticed as bad was the narrow handlebar. As it turns out the bars had been cut down, they come from Easton at 800mm which is about standard for todays low and slack gravity bikes! The Dorado had some seal seap happening and we assume it was just the typical thing that happens with inverted MTB forks. Their seals are not nearly as heavy duty as a MX fork so it is normal for some oil to bleed from the seal.

All in all, the Norco Aurum 1 was a lot of fun. It handled very well on almost every condition I could put it through. Rough, uneven terrains were where it felt most at home, and the parts specification makes it a “ready to race out of the box” machine.

Conclusion

Having spent a fair amount of time on the Aurum 1 we can say that we would suggest one to a friend. The bike does all it was inteded to do. It delivers a light, low, slack and well built gravity machine at a reasonable price point. This bike is one step below the high end build. The extra $2,000 will save close to 5 pounds in weight. There are two versions below the Aurum 1 each with a downgrade in componentry.

Those familiar with the FSR suspension will find no suprises in the bikes suspension feel. The A.R.T. tuning claims to handle square edge bumps better do in part to allowing more chain growth. This may be true it seemed to handle the rocks well. The frame was stiff and showed little signs of flex. Being low and long the bike comes into its element as the speeds increase and the terrain steepens.

Norco has created a race ready downhill bike in the Aurum series. The bikes have features built into them that very few large companies use. From the built in bump stops, seat clamp, suspension pivots and one piece rocker link. All the details help to elevate the package that Norco offers and by selling the Aurum 1 with this build at this price point they deliver to the consumer a race ready rig that is "affordable".

 

 

 Norco Aurum CCDB set-up guide.

2013 TWR Adds Three New Riders To The Team

Trek World Racing is excited to announce its much anticipated line-up for the 2013 race season, a roster which sees a mixture of race winners, World Cup podium riders as well as up-and-coming talent. All the riders selected for the program have the same philosophy and clearly have youth, talent and massive potential as key ingredients.

Headlining the team line-up is the Kiwi duo of Brook MacDonald (pictured above right) and George Brannigan (pictured above left). Brook MacDonald is the 2009 Junior World Champion and has recently scored his first World Cup win at 2012s Round 6 in Val dIsere, France, bringing his World Cup podium tally to 4 so far. George had his first taste of the World Cup podium when he finished 2nd at Round 7 last year in Hafjell, Norway, just missing the win by 0.4sec. His current UCI world ranking of #9 is a testament to his 2012 season of consistent results.

These two riders join American Neko Mulally (pictured below right) who enters his 4th year with the program, and his 2nd as an Elite rider. Last year was his most successful to date seeing him break into the World Cup top 15 and knocking on the door of the top 10. Even though Neko is still the youngest rider on the program, turning 20 next month, he carries a wealth of experience for his age as he enters the new season.

Making his debut onto a pro-team ride is Scottish talent Greg Williamson (pictured below left) who has impressed a number people with his recent results, most notably a number of top 20 World Cup placings despite very little support. His 15th in Hafjell after qualifying 19th, and a 17th in Fort William, shows he has strength on different styles of tracks and can earn points for his team.

Brook MacDonald says: "Being on Trek World Racing represents a fresh start for me and Im looking forward to all the new things Ill experience. Im really excited to be joining this team for the next 3 seasons and working with my new team mates and new bikes. The combination of the Session 9.9 with Fox Shox and Shimano has been pretty lethal the last 2 seasons!"

George says: "I'm so excited to be a part of Trek World Racing. This feels like the opportunity I need to improve my results and still be consistent. I know any team run by 23 Degrees has produced real talent and I want to make the most of this opportunity to get where I want to be. The group of team mates will be great and Im sure the support will be top notch. I cant wait for this season!"

Greg says: "For me, joining Trek World Racing is a dream come true. Ive been working hard for a long time to get onto a professional team like this. The roster this year is awesome, theyre all hard workers and dont do anything half-heartedly, so Im really looking forward to learning a few things and stoked to get back racing."

The four full time downhill riders will be joining Justin Leov (NZL) who we recently announced as our Enduro rider. Justin will be doing selected downhill events as well as acting as a mentor to the team. At 28 years of age, 10 years on the World Cup circuit and entering his 5th year with our program, Justin is the perfect role model for the other 4 riders.

The team is proud to confirm the following sponsors who have committed to the program and the new line-up. Shimano (Brakes and Drive Train), Fox Racing Shox (Suspension), JBL by Harman (Sound Systems), Bontrager (Tires and Wheels), Royal Racing (Competition and Casual Clothing), Seven (Body Protection), FUNN (Handlebars/Stems), MRP (Chain Guides), DT Swiss (Hubs), SDG Components (Seats and Seat Posts), SRM (Power Measurement), Motorex (Lubricants and Cleaning Products), Ryno Power (Sports Nutrition), ODI (Grips), Cane Creek (Headsets) and Alpinestars (Team Baggage).

The team was recently informed by the UCI that it had successfully completed the registration process for 2013, and will be informed on February 7 whether it has been awarded one of the 15 Elite Team spots, something we are quite confident of achieving with our current roster.

The team website currently has the profiles of all 5 riders in the Downhill section of the site. In the coming weeks well be updating the site with a new Enduro section.

2013 Transition Carbon Covert Announced

Transition Bikes unveils the new carbon Covert. See the bike in action as well as some of the new features and design inspiration that went into creating Transition Bikes first carbon bike.

The 2013 Carbon Covert is Transition Bike’s first carbon frame offering. The 160mm travel Covert was the perfect candidate to bring to carbon as it allowed the bike to shed weight, improve strength, add new features, and update the look at the same time. 

“In my mind, this bike really represents the ultimate no holds barred quiver killer. It's really everything I would want in a single do-everything type of bike and we've tried pretty hard to ensure all the right features are there without including things that don't really matter. A big goal of ours with this project was to develop something with very unique lines that you don't often see in bicycle frame design...and we feel we've really accomplished that. This was a long development effort so we're pretty pumped to finally unveil our first carbon frame.” Says Kyle Young, Transition Bikes owner.

Transition Bikes took the essence of the previous Covert but started from the ground up to produce something all new and extremely exciting. For design inspiration they looked outside the bike world towards Italian super cars. The carbon material allowed a no compromise design approach that allowed them to achieve exactly what they envisioned; powerful lines and a unique bold look. The frame uses some exciting new materials and an evolved suspension platform for the best possible performance on the trail.

The 2013 Carbon Covert is the first bike on the market to offer both C.O.C.K. and B.A.L.L.S. technology. The Completely Optimized Carbon Kinetics utilized in production of the carbon structure are an industry first; only available on Transition Bikes. The careful use of C.O.C.K. makes the Carbon Covert one of the strongest frames on the market today. The Basically Aligned Linear Leverage System suspension works with the shock making the suspension incredibly easy to tune; once again, only available on Transition Bikes. Our B.A.L.L.S. are only there to make sure you have fun on the trail. Unlike other suspension systems, our B.A.L.L.S. aren’t overly complicated, it’s just the right suspension technology to keep the ride smooth and predictable.

“When we first met in the lab to develop these new technologies, I didn’t realize just how big they would become. I am proud to see this bike released so everyone can experience the ultimate package.” Says Sam Burkhardt, Transition Bikes product manager. 

Working in conjunction with the B.A.L.L.S. suspension system, the 2013 Carbon Covert features a longer 8.5” x 2.5” custom tuned Fox CTD Adjust rear shock. The longer shock helps contribute to improved suspension performance and easier shock setup for riders of any size. The rear travel has been increased from 150mm to 160mm further expanding the performance in gnarly terrain. For riders looking for ultimate downhill performance, an optional Fox RC4 coil shock is available as well. The B.A.L.L.S. suspension system uses a higher main pivot placement for improved pedaling performance with modern 2x10 and 1x10 drivetrain setups. An all new hardware system, with single allen key tightening, has been developed to keep the pivots tight. While the front triangle features full internal cable routing, including the Reverb Stealth routing for clean looks and integrated performance.

FEATURES

• Carbon Front Triangle with Carbon Seatstay and Alloy Chainstay and Rocker
• 160mm Rear Travel
• 8.5” x 2.5” Fox CTD Adjust Custom Tuned Rear Shock
• Optional Fox RC4 Coil Shock Available
• All Front Triangle Cable Routing is Internal
• Reverb Stealth Seat Post Routing
• New Pivot Hardware System
• 12 x 142mm Dropouts (10 x 135mm Dropouts Sold Separately)
• Press Fit 30 Bottom Bracket Shell
• Frame Weight 6.75 lbs (Including Rear Shock and Rear Axle)
• PRICE: To Be Announced
• C.O.C.K & B.A.L.L.S Technology (Only Available From Transition Bikes)

GEOMETRY 
Head Tube Angle: 66.5 Degree (Fox 36 160mm) / 67 Degree (Fox 34 160mm) 
Chainstay Length: 430mm 
Seatube Length: Sm 563, Md 593, Lg 623mm 
Reach: Sm 378mm, Md 406mm, Lg 431mm 
Wheelbase Length: Sm 1106mm, Md 1137mm, Lg 1169mm 
Bottom Bracket Height: 349 mm

"This is definitely the most exciting bike we have ever done. It took much longer than we anticipated but when doing full suspension carbon you can't rush anything. Seeing carbon bikes being produced in person really makes you appreciate the massive amount of work that goes into each frame. I think there is a misconception that these bikes just pop out of molds and are good to go and that couldn't be further from the truth. Each frame is like a sculpted work of art.” Says Kevin Menard, owner of Transition Bikes. 

The 2013 Carbon Covert will be available in three colors (Lemon Lime Metallic, Stealth Black & Matte White) with multiple build kit options to meet different rider preferences and price points.

• TRANSITION BIKES
• 2641 Delta Ring Rd.
• Ferndale, WA 98248 USA
• (360) 366-4960

2013 Shimano Saint And Zee Groups Announced

Shimano introduces Zee, a new line of gravity components that are an ideal starting point for aggressive riders and racers. Zee is the gateway gravity component line that allows riders to get on board with Shimano’s gravity program and experience premium new component technologies at a price they can afford. Highlights in the Zee line include a 10-speed system that comes standard with new ICE Tech and Shadow Plus technologies.

Zee Shadow Plus RD

The Zee RD-M640 features Shadow Plus technology proven to reduce chain slap, drop and impact noise and the 10-speed short cage RD’s low profile tucks safely below the cassette cogs. With two spec options that enable a typical MTB cassette (11-32,11-34,11-36) or a close ratio road cassette (11-23,11-25,11-28), Zee is ready to handle the needs of enduro and DH racers. 10-speed also offers complete compatibility with Dyna-Sys MTB product and Shimano’s latest chain and cassette technology.

 

New Gravity 10-Speed Shifter

The new Zee shifter uses Dyna-Sys compatible cable stroke, which means linear shift effort, easy set-up and accurate, stable gear changes. All new paddle shapes with 2-Way release and dimpled main lever allow riders to be more in control and perfectly engaged.

Powerful 4-Piston Disc Brakes With ICE Tech

New Zee hydraulic disc brake systems are gravity rated with a Servo-Wave brake lever and new 4-piston ceramic disc brake caliper. System stiffness is tuned using Shimano’s high-power hose and shorter lever blade while ergonomics are perfected with a new pivot location and dimpled surface. ICE Tech brake pad and rotor options reduce heat in the system and maintain performance on the longest descents.

Durable, Reinforced Crank Set

The thick wall aluminum construction on the Zee twopiece cranks and reinforced steel axle translate to additional confidence on the trail. With an axle 30% stronger than comparable trail cranks and smooth running, accurately aligned chain wheels, the Zee crank will perform reliably - run after run. The crank arm features outboard bearings and steel pedal inserts. Options include single ring 34T/36T/38T; FC-M640 68/73mm BB and FC-M645 83mm BB. Pressfit compatible.

New Durable And Reliable Hubsets

Quick engaging, smooth running hubs are a big advantage on the mountain. The new Zee hubs include quality sealing, adjustable angular contact bearings, and rotate on extra stiff, one piece rear axles with integrated cone construction. Zee hubs are ready for any modern gravity bike with 20mm axles up front and 12mm axles in 135, 142 and 150mm configurations.

The original dedicated gravity component line is more focused, more advanced and more
dedicated to speed than ever with the new M820 group for 2013. The now 10-speed Saint M820
group embraces Shimano’s latest technology and debuts all-new advancements in both heat
control and drivetrain stability. With new ICE Technologies and Saint’s take on the Shadow Plus
rear derailleur, the M820 group promises riders a pure riding experience and the gift of focus
through seamless and stable bike control.

The New Standard In DH Rear Derailleurs

New chain control and silencing technologies in the new RD-M820 are a game changer for gravity riding. In addition to the proven Shadow Plus RD design, a Saint specific, high durometer urethane bump stopper (between the RD and the dropout) was added to reduce impact noise. Now 10-speed, the new RD-M820 features a durable super wide link that serves as the backbone of the DH parallelogram. Ready for track and trail, the mode converter easily adapts between two settings for MTB cassette gear ratios (11-32, 11-34, 11-36) and road (11-23, 11-25, 11-28).

ICE Technologies Even More Advanced

The new Saint disc brake embraces Shimano ICE Technology and advances it, reducing heat and improving performance through multiple combined features. In addition to finned brake pads, self insulating ceramic pistons and three layer rotor construction, new M820 disc brake systems will also see the introduction of a 30mm aluminum banjo fitting and an innovative finned rotor, that reduce operating temperatures by increasing the convective surface area. The new SM-RT99 Ultimate Clad rotor is a significant performance enhancement reducing heat by 50 degrees, creating 20% more stopping power, eliminating brake fade and increasing pad life. A new, longer 30mm banjo fitting extending from the caliper further reduces heat at a critical location where oil transitions from hose to caliper. Saint shares the excellent ergonomics and system stiffness found on Zee brake systems and is also ISPEC compatible.

Improved Shifter Ergonomics, Easier Shifts

Advanced DH ergonomics including longer levers (+5mm) and textured paddles combine with low friction ball bearings to reduce shifting effort on this gravity specific shifter. Designed specifically for Shadow Plus and Vivid indexing, these shifting enhancements reduce base shifting effort by up to 37%, so that on-trail shift effort is as light as ever. Instant, effortless shifts create a whole new paradigm for the most durable, gravity-ready drivetrain on the market. Premium
functions include instant release, multi release and 2-Way release. An I-SPEC bracket option will be available to reduce weight and handlebar clutter.

Reliable DH Race Cranks

New Saint Hollowtech II cranks are hollow forged Duraluminum, creating a lighter weight crank set with an axle that is 250% stronger than trail options and an arm that is double strength. The single-only setup looks great with custom aluminum hardware and is available in three lightweight chainring options (34T/36T/38T) and in two crank sets: FC-M820 (68/73mm BB) and FC-M825 (83mm BB) that both offer Presfit BB compatibility. A steel pedal insert adds durability at the pedal interface. Note: MTB Press fit BB: SM-BB71-41A (50mm chainline; 89.5x41 BB shell), DH Press fit BB: SM-BB71-41C (58mm chainline; 104.5x41 BB shell)

New Saint Hubsets

New Saint hubs are lighter and easier to adjust. All weather rated with top quality sealing, adjustable angular contact bearings, and precision ground, integrated cone construction, these hubs track straight and roll true. Centerlock mounting for alignment and braking efficiency, Saint hubs are available with 20mm axles up front and 12mm axles in 135, 142 and 150mm configurations.

New Wider, Lower Profile Saint Flat Pedals

After years of success, the crowd favorite DX flat pedals are succeeded by new PD-MX80 Saint-branded pedals that feature a wider (+3mm), lower profile (-8.5mm) platform with an easy replacement pin system. Adapted to modern riding, the PD-MX80 retains the durable, smooth rotating axle and concave ergonomic platform that made the MX30 a legend.