FIRST LOOK: Norco Aurum A7.1

Norco have a pretty reliable name in the gravity world, and when they updated the Aurum with the carbon model it did make plenty of people pretty excited. But while some brand’s alloy bikes will be watered down versions of their higher specced models, the Norco Aurum A7.1 runs a frame with nearly identical geometry to their World Cup bike, with a refined parts choice chosen for performance at a more real-world budget.

It’s a good look at why carbon isn’t always the answer, when avoiding the pricey black magic allows for a quality drivetrain setup, reliable suspension and a great wheels and tyre package.

We had tester Lachlan McKillop put the bike through its paces over summer, and his review will be out in Issue 152, on sale in February.