Bike Magazine – The Bible Review of the Norco Aurum
Words By Ryan Labar
Even before we got it dirty on the trails, it was clear that Norco did its homework when designing the Aurum. The standout features include the integrated fork bumpers, keyed and replaceable pivot-bolt receivers, post-mount rear-brake studs and an extra derailleur hanger stashed on the frame. These are all godsends for privateer racers or anyone spending some serious bike-park time.
The Aurum’s geometry numbers are also quite noteworthy. Not only does it push the slacker and lower trend with its 63.5-degree head angle and sub 14-inch-high bottom bracket, it is the only bike we know of that has size-specific rear ends-as the frame size increases the chainstay length also increases. Impressive.
The mix of Easton, Sun Ringle, Blackspire and SRAM components also seemed well considered, and were right on point with the rest of the bike’s reliable demeanor. Riding the Aurum was a treat. Norco’s ART linkage uses a chainstay-mounted pivot for a rearward axle-path and minimal brake jack. This rearward axle path, combined with the slack head angle, soaked up square-edged hits nicely, allowing the Aurum to hold speed through rough steeps. The linkage also has a good deal of anti-squat, which manifests as snappy acceleration when you put power to the pedals. The suspension tune on the Aurum
felt about perfect as well It was nice and linear through most of the travel with a bit of a ramp up near the end to prevent harsh bottom-outs.
When mated to the stiff, hydroformed tubeset, it made for a bike that held its line through
wicked rock gardens and accelerated like a greyhound possessed. Perhaps a literal chink
in the Aurum’s armor was its thin paint job. We liked the bright-yellow paint, but it chipped easily, which is a bummer considering all the attention Norco paid to making a bike that’ll last through the seasons. -Ryan Labar
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