They’ll get you out for your first few rides, but I’d plan to upgrade them. The highest-spec 29” FS1 model I tested is what I’d call a high entry-level bike, and it offers everything any new or mid-level rider should need to push their riding further. The GX components shift faster and crisper, and there’s more play in the NX shifter’s thumb paddle so it requires more motion to change a gear (or two).The Maxxis Forekaster tires are pretty good in dirt and loose dust, but not the grippiest on rock slabs. The Norco Fluid got some major updates this year and I got to try them out at the Fruita Fat Tire Festival a couple of weeks ago. Some of the highlights include a slackened headtube angle by 2 degrees from 68.5 to 66.5. Features We cover the shiny new things, with in-depth interviews and detailed stories about how the bicycles and components work, plus reviews to see if they live up to the hype. Norco’s redesigned Fluid FS goes longer and slacker, remains sensibly pricedThe X6 Alloy frame features modern geometry, internal cable routing and thru-axlesThe Norco Fluid FS has been updated to an even more capable trail packageThe updated progressive geometry should allow you to ride faster and harderNorco claims to have created the ultimate trail machine
Its front end is long enough to provide a well-balanced rider position, but it retains a comfortable reach that doesn’t stretch you out over the top tube. I seemed to be skidding my rear wheel on steep slabs that I can normally creep down without losing traction. This is the $3199 Norco Fluid FS1. If your area involves road riding to the trailhead or buff fire road climbs, a switchable rear shock will make this bike pedal better. All original except for rear wheel. The frames boast high quality construction, modern geometry and finishing features that I’m happy to see on entry level bikes. Tweet on Twitter. The 2019 Fluid frames feature impressive finishing touches, and they’re built with components that provide most of the same performance advantages of today’s higher-end bikes. Norco constructed this Fluid with an X6 aluminum frame but used smooth-weld technology to hide the fact that this bike is made from aluminum. Norco is up to date with current geometry trends, so at 5’9” I was comfortable on the medium right away. The stalwart design was due an update, and the brand new design features modernised geometry and features, and is claimed to be able to tackle anything it turns to.The Norco Fluid FS features an all-new aluminium frame for 2019. Out back a RockShox Deluxe R Debonair sucks up the bumps, but does not offer a pedal platform.The WTB STP i29 rims, which have a 29mm inner width, are laced to Novatec hubs. Norco Fluid 2 HT 2019 Mountain Bike . The WTB rims have held up very well, both are almost perfectly true and have no dents or dings on the sidewalls.The Fluid’s braking power was sufficient for 95% of my rides. By. 1766. On the trail, the 120mm Fluid offers a nice balance of grip and pedalling efficiency. Ridden about 25 times. Sign in to manage your newsletter preferences 2019 Norco "Fluid 2 FS" RRP when new; $3000 *Size Large (recommended for 172-183cm tall rider) *Rock Shox Monarch R rear shock, 120mm travel *Suitor XCM Forks, 130mm of travel *Seat dropper (Seat height adjustable while riding via lever on handlebars) *Shimano Deore derailleur, speed *Tektro hydraulic disc brakes Overall excellent condition. The frame has been updated with internal cable routing and now uses a thru axle at the rear.Norco sticks to its size scaled tubing design, ensuring frame characteristics maintain the same stiffness and ride characteristics for each size in the range.The geometry follows the usual industry trend of going longer, lower and slacker.The head tube angle is now around 66 degrees, a whole 3 degrees less than the previous model. The range starts at just £1,195 / $1,649 for the FS4 and FS4 W models and tops out with the£1,850 / $3,049 FS1 and FS1 W.The Fluid FS will be available in four models, each of which is available as a men’s and women’s version. The 120mm travel two niner also makes a great all around trail machine, which is ideal for riders who can only justify owning one bike.As for fitments, the Fluid frames use Boost 12x148mm rear axles, threaded 73mm BB shells, and have post-mounts for 160mm disc brakes.