WATCH: We review the Norco Sight VLT C2

In July, Norco released a whopping 10 new eMTBs into Australia across the Range, Sight and Fluid FS dual-suspension platforms. These were the first bikes from Norco to be using the new Shimano EP8 motor, and Norco used the smaller, lighter, more powerful and more efficient motor to optimise the design on all of the models. Instead of bolting the EP8 into the existing eMTB models, Norco engineers chose to rotate the motor counter clockwise, shifting the unit backwards and upwards, but letting the battery sit low in the frame. This also meant it can be fitted and removed from the base of the down tube while keeping the down tube complete for nearly the entire length, aiding strength, stiffness and the overall handling of the bikes.

With a change to a horizontal suspension linkage with the Horst Link design, Norco opened up more of the main triangle for water bottle and spares storage. Less anti-squat was designed into the dual suspension system, as the need to have less pedal bob is reduced when riding with the help of the Shimano EP8 power plant. The huge down tube will swallow three different battery sizes, and Norco have opted to sell the bikes without a battery so you can choose what size suits your needs the best at the dealer. With 540Wh, 720Wh and a gigantic 900Wh to choose from, you can really customise your ride. There's a $200 difference between each battery size, but about 600g as well. There's a little multitool built into the base of the frame, so if you did purchase and carry a second battery – the 6mm tool is right at hand.

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The Sight VLT also had a huge make over, and the 29” wheeled bike has 160/150mm travel front and back. It is aimed at all-mountain and trail riding. There are four Sight VLT bikes in total, with two alloy models starting at $8599 for the Sight VLT A2, and two carbon models starting at $10199 for the carbon Sight VLT C2. Like the Range, you can fit two water bottles on the largest two sizes. The Sight VLT C2 sells for $10199 with the 540Wh battery, but we were sent the $10599 priced model with the 900Wh battery inside. You can choose which of the three battery sizes you want at the dealer.

The C2 has a more basic suspension package than the C1, with a shift away from the Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 fork and X2 shock. The C2 also has a slightly narrower gear range than the SRAM 10-52 on the C1, or the Shimano 10-51 on the A1. The C2 does offer a well-rounded package, with a wide range SRAM drivetrain using SX, NX and GX parts and a single-click shifter to reduce the chance of punching too many watts through your drivetrain while shifting. Shimano take care of braking with 4-piston brakes and 203mm rotors.

Watch the video above for a run down on the features and our review.

You can find more details on the Norco Sight VLT eMTB range online.