Technology

2024 Norco Fluid VLT Evaluate

Wil evaluations the 2024 Norco Fluid VLT

Following two years of growth, the Norco Fluid VLT has arrived as the primary light-weight electrical mountain bike from the Canadian model. Including to the thrill, it was additionally one of many first e-MTBs to be introduced with the brand new Bosch Efficiency Line SX motor.

Norco has good type within the e-MTB scene, having earned loads of recognition since launching the unique Sight VLT all the way in which again in 2019. Through the years the model has developed a fame for producing sturdy bikes that lean in direction of the extra aggressive facet, and it’s well-known for pushing the envelope relating to suspension and size-specific geometry.

How would that fame translate to an e-MTB that’s been optimised for weight? We had been keen to seek out out, so we received our fingers on the brand new Norco Fluid VLT to place to the check.


Watch our video evaluate of the 2024 Norco Fluid VLT right here:


Whereas the Norco Fluid VLT could also be late to the light-weight e-MTB recreation, the Canadian model’s endurance has absolutely paid off.

Model new for 2024, the Norco Fluid VLT is the Canadian crew’s first light-weight e-MTB.

An summary of the Norco Fluid VLT

The Norco Fluid VLT is a light-weight e-MTB that’s designed for aggressive, fast-paced path using. It’s basically an electrified model of the common Fluid, albeit with a number of notable variations.

For a begin it’s constructed solely round a blended wheel setup with a 29in entrance wheel and a 27.5in wheel on the rear. Norco says it did take into account a full 29er, however the need to make the chainstays sufficiently brief, particularly on smaller body sizes, meant that the mullet setup gained out.

Most Fluid VLT fashions are outfitted with a 150mm journey fork and 140mm of rear journey. The exception is the top-of-the-range C1 130 mannequin, which shrinks journey all the way down to the identical 140/130mm configuration because the non-motorised Fluid.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Most fashions characteristic a 150mm journey fork and 140mm of rear journey.

The four-bar suspension platform is way the identical between the Fluid and Fluid VLT, although right here the chunky rocker hyperlink drives the rear shock through a trunnion bearing mount to assist enhance sensitivity. Norco additionally states that the Fluid VLT incorporates a barely decrease stage of anti-squat. That is mentioned to optimise rear wheel grip over pedalling effectivity, the latter of which is much less essential for the reason that motor helps to easy out chain torque within the first place.

Light-weight Bosch energy

In comparison with its greater Sight VLT and Vary VLT siblings that make use of a full-powered Bosch CX motor and a 750Wh battery, the Fluid VLT is constructed across the a lot lighter Bosch SX system.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Norco selected the Bosch SX system for the Fluid VLT, leading to a clear wi-fi cockpit.

The SX motor produces much less peak torque at 55Nm, however in case you spin the pedals quick sufficient it’ll attain the identical 600W peak energy output because the CX drive unit. It manages to do that whereas being significantly smaller in profile and nearly a kilo lighter.

Norco pairs this with a 400Wh inside battery, which drops an additional 1.5kg of weight. This contributes to a notably slimmer, totally enclosed downtube that improves the aesthetics whereas serving to to additional save weight.

The tip result’s a variety of full bikes that weigh 18-20kg. That’s round 5-7kg lighter than the Sight and Vary VLT, and it sees the Fluid VLT competing with different light-weight e-MTBs such because the Specialised Levo SL, Trek Gas EXe and Large Trance X E+ Elite.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The Bosch SX motor is slimmer and lighter than the CX motor, however it nonetheless manages to pump out as much as 600W of peak energy.

Norco Fluid VLT geometry & measurement chart

The Norco Fluid VLT is out there in 5 sizes, with S1 being the smallest and S5 being the biggest. First rate standover clearance and brief seat tubes permit riders to simply measurement up, ought to they need for an extended attain.

Geometry is on the cash with a 64.5° head angle and a 76.5-77.5° seat angle. You’ll additionally discover size-specific chainstays with the rear centre size various from 432mm on the S1 and going as much as 444mm on the S5.

As has develop into a theme with Norco mountain bikes, there’s a definite lack of any flip chips or angle-adjusting headsets on the Fluid VLT. The geometry is mounted on this bike, so anybody who likes the thought of working a 29in rear wheel should look elsewhere.

norco fluid vlt geometry size chart
Norco Fluid VLT Geometry & Measurement Chart
2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
A burly RockShox Lyrik combines with a 64.5° head angle to ship loads of confidence on the descents.

Norco Fluid VLT worth & specs

There are 4 fashions within the Norco Fluid VLT lineup for 2024 with costs beginning at $8,999 AUD.

The highest two fashions utilise a full carbon body, whereas the cheaper two fashions pair a carbon entrance triangle to an alloy rear. In any other case every bike is constructed across the identical Bosch SX motor and 400Wh battery, with a clear cockpit that utilises the System Controller within the prime tube and a wi-fi Mini Distant for adjusting the motor’s help ranges.

For more information on the broader vary, you’ll be able to see detailed specs and costs in our first look article.

Right here we’ll be diving into our expertise of testing the mid-tier mannequin; the Norco Fluid VLT C2 140.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Our Norco Fluid VLT C2 140 check bike sits one step above the most cost effective mannequin.
  • Body | Carbon Fibre, VPS 4-Bar Suspension Design, 140mm Journey
  • Fork | RockShox Lyrik Choose+, Charger 3 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Journey
  • Shock | Fox Float X2, Efficiency Elite, 185x55mm
  • Motor | Bosch Efficiency Line SX, 55Nm Peak Torque
  • Battery | Bosch CompactTube 400Wh
  • Wheels | Bear Pawls Hubs & WTB KOM Path Alloy Rims, 30mm Internal Width
  • Tyres | Continental Kryptotal Path 2.4in Entrance & Xynotal Path 2.4in Rear
  • Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission 1×12 w/Praxis Alloy Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
  • Brakes | TRP Path EVO 4-Piston w/203mm Rotors
  • Bar | 6061 Alloy, 25mm Rise, 800mm Width
  • Stem | Norco SL 6061 Alloy, 40mm Size
  • Seatpost | TranzX RAD+, 31.6mm Diameter, Journey: 125mm (S1), 150mm (S2), 170mm (S3), 200mm (S4-S5)
  • Saddle | Fizik Ridon
  • Claimed Weight | 19.9kg
  • Precise Weight | 19.68kg
  • RRP | $11,499 AUD

Mixed with its mullet setup, wonderful geometry and supportive suspension, the Fluid VLT is a wickedly enjoyable bike to journey on quick and flowy trails.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The geometry chart recommended an S3, however at 174cm tall Wil was glad he picked the S2 measurement for the Norco Fluid VLT.

Sizing & match

To swimsuit my peak of 174cm, Norco recommends the S3 measurement for the Fluid VLT. Wanting on the geometry chart nonetheless, my desire was for the shorter attain of the S2 in order that’s what I requested.

I’m glad I did too, because it suits like a glove. I’ve no complaints from the 447.5mm attain or 619mm stack, and there’s an honest variety of headset spacers for adjusting the stem peak. The inventory bars are very vast although, so I chopped these all the way down to my most popular width of 760mm.

Norco’s alternative of contact factors are wonderful. The WTB grips characteristic a refined tapered profile, and the Fizik saddle has a flared tail to present good help on steep climbs.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The one bummer is the 150mm stroke dropper submit.

The one draw back of going to the S2 measurement is the 150mm journey dropper submit. There may be loads of insertion depth with the comparatively straight seat tube, so I’d undoubtedly take into account upgrading to an extended journey dropper submit if this had been my bike.

Suspension setup

Norco is undoubtedly main the way in which relating to suspension setup due to its complete Experience Aligned information. Enter your peak and weight into the net calculator, and also you’ll be offered with suggestions for the whole lot from quantity spacers and damper settings, by way of to recommended cockpit setup and tyre pressures. This provides you an important place to begin, and you may fine-tune additional by adjusting a number of parameters that think about your using place and terrain.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The 4-way damping on the Float X2 shock rewards a rider who likes to fettle.

I began out with the default settings for my 67kg using weight, which produced a barely firmer and slower suspension really feel than what I used to be searching for. This may be superb for smoother trails, however with my native terrain being fairly rocky and unfastened, I’d have to tweak the sliders to account for my preferences.

With some trial and error over the primary couple of weeks of using, I ended up with 170psi within the Float X2 shock. This delivered round 32% sag, and I matched that with Norco’s strategies for rebound and compression damping.

I did the identical with the RockShox Lyrik, although I discovered the rebound damping was nonetheless too sluggish. I set this on the sooner facet at 12/20 clicks to stability with the rear suspension.

norco ride aligned suspension setup fluid vlt
Wil ended up fairly near the suggestions within the Experience Aligned setup information.
2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx weight
Our Norco Fluid VLT check bike got here in at 19.68kg with the tyres arrange tubeless and with out pedals.

Norco Fluid VLT weight

Our Norco Fluid VLT C2 140 check bike got here in at 19.68kg with out pedals and with the tyres arrange tubeless.

It’s not the lightest e-MTB we’ve examined, although it’s value noting that the top-end C1 130 mannequin is claimed to weigh simply 18.1kg. It does this with a extra weight-focussed construct package that features a RockShox Pike fork, an in-line shock, quite a few carbon elements and SRAM Degree brakes.

Personally I a lot want the burlier construct package on our C2 140 check bike, together with the RockShox Lyrik fork and heavy obligation Float X2 shock. There’s a little bit of weight within the inventory alloy wheels (2,132g confirmed) and the Continental tyres characteristic fairly sturdy casings for the Kryptotal Fr (1,123g) and Xynotal (1,027g).

I fitted a CushCore Professional insert into the rear wheel as typical, earlier than setting tyre pressures a bit larger than Norco recommends at 20psi within the entrance and 23psi within the rear.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Glorious weight distribution and a mullet setup make the Norco Fluid VLT a cornering ninja!

What will we dig concerning the Norco Fluid VLT?

Regardless of not being the lightest e-MTB on the market, I’ve been actually impressed with the agile character of the Norco Fluid VLT. The burden is well-placed on this bike, with much less mass up on the head tube due to the shorter 400Wh battery. Mixed with the mullet setup and brief chainstays, it initiates turns and rips corners with absolute ease.

I’m glad I went for the S2 measurement, which feels properly balanced and intuitive. I actually wouldn’t need the wheelbase to be any longer, which might make it tougher to select up the entrance wheel.

Because it stands the Fluid VLT is an outrageously enjoyable bike to journey that delivers a full of life and playful high quality with a great deal of help from the suspension. It isn’t the plushest bike on the market, although in fact it does have 10mm much less journey at every finish in comparison with the Focus JAM² SL and Specialised Levo SL. I’d additionally attribute some suggestions to the RockShox Lyrik with its Charger 3 damper. In some international locations, Norco gives this identical bike with a Fox 36 Rhythm, which is personally what I’d go for.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Low weight and poppy suspension makes for a full of life journey.

The Fluid VLT’s rear suspension is in any other case easy and extremely secure. The Float X2 is an incredible performer, holding the bike regular by way of uneven terrain. Together with its consistency on lengthy and tough descents, the spectacular dynamic stability stands as a key benefit over a smaller inline shock. There’s plenty of management at velocity, with the suspension absorbing harsh, ill-timed landings calmly and comfortably.

That’s backed up by the Fluid VLT’s strong chassis and construct package. There’s minimal squirming when being subjected to excessive load impacts, which implies you’ll be able to push this bike fairly arduous and quick on rowdy enduro trails. I would favor a bit extra journey on gravity-oriented terrain, however offering you’ll be able to maintain on there’s not a lot that’ll unsettle you aboard this bike.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The extremely tuneable suspension is able to absorbing some fairly heavy landings.

Excessive energy potential

The Norco Fluid VLT would show to be my first correct long-term check of the Bosch SX motor, and I’ve to say I’m mighty impressed. We’ll have a separate evaluate approaching this technique within the close to future, however there’s already lots to speak about.

It gives the identical commonplace modes because the full-powered CX motor, so that you’ve received Eco, Tour, eMTB and Turbo to select from. These might be modified within the Move app, and it’s potential to regulate the motor’s help attribute too.

eMTB is my typical go-to mode, because it adapts the facility output relying on how arduous you’re pushing the pedals. The progressive energy supply isn’t simply torque delicate on the SX motor although, it’s additionally cadence delicate.

At cruising speeds it’s fairly mellow, which helps to preserve the battery. Pedal rapidly and forcefully nonetheless, and also you’ll really feel the motor immediately roar to life. You’ll have to push at a excessive cadence of over 100 RPM as a way to entry the complete 600W of energy, which finally ends up being improbable encouragement whenever you’re whipping by way of undulating singletrack.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Our first correct expertise with the Bosch SX motor has been an overwhelmingly constructive one.

In addition to providing higher energy over the TQ HPR50, Specialised SL 1.1 and Fazua Experience 60 motors, the Bosch SX drive unit is considerably extra responsive with sooner pickup on the pedals. Certainly at full tilt, the SX motor feels and sounds very very like the CX drive unit.

It additionally possesses the identical Prolonged Increase operate within the eMTB and Turbo modes, which sees the motor proceed to ship energy for a further metre after you’ve stopped pedalling. It is a sensible support for clearing technical options on a steep climb, offering a notable benefit over different mid-power motors.

Mixed with the addictive acceleration and progressive energy supply, the Bosch SX drive unit continually prods at you to go sooner. It’s an important match for the sporty Fluid VLT. The lure of most energy meant I commonly completed my rides completely knackered, in one of the best ways potential.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The climbing place is snug, and the compact chainstays make brief work of uphill switchbacks.

Any downsides?

Though the Bosch SX motor gives gobs of energy, it gained’t provide you with a wholly free journey.

Whereas the larger CX motor will present a heap of grunt in nearly any gear, the SX drive unit requires you to show the pedals over at an honest cadence to unleash its full potential.

Its responsiveness and excessive RPM windup actually takes a couple of rides to get used to. If you happen to downshift a few gears mid-climb, the motor can speed up unexpectedly as your cadence lifts. Conversely, in case you get caught in a excessive gear it’ll wrestle to churn out sufficient torque, which brought about me to stall on a couple of events. Very like an everyday mountain bike, you’ll profit from studying the terrain and downshifting in anticipation of steep pinches.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
In contrast to the Bosch CX motor, you actually have to be in a spinnier gear to get essentially the most out of the SX drive unit.

On the subject of climbing, I didn’t discover the Fluid VLT to be essentially the most planted on steeper gradients attributable to its brief chainstays and 27.5in rear wheel. It fits a extra lively and dynamic using type, and you really want to intensify your weight over the bars to maintain the entrance wheel sticking.

The flip-side is that the Fluid VLT is fabulously nimble when pivoting round tight switchbacks. The using place can also be completely snug due to the steep seat angle, and the comparatively tall BB and low-profile motor gives loads of floor clearance.

Actually the principle limitation is the rear tyre, with its arduous compound and shallow tread inhibiting traction on unfastened surfaces. That is exacerbated by the perky motor, which might rapidly overwhelm the out there grip and spin out the rear wheel in case you’re not cautious. With that in thoughts, upgrading to stickier tyres can be a good suggestion in case you’re frequenting chunkier terrain.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The shallow tread and agency rubber means it’s simple to spin out the rear tyre.

This may additionally improve the Fluid VLT’s descending capabilities, which feels prefer it has room to develop. Whereas the impeccable dealing with and burly chassis makes for a throughly confidence-inspiring journey high quality, I can’t assist however surprise how it will carry out with an additional 10mm of journey at every finish. It already comes with a Lyrik and that massive Float X2 in any case, so there’d probably be a negligible weight enhance extending them to a 160/150mm journey configuration.

I believe Norco has restricted the Fluid VLT to its present journey numbers as a way to assist differentiate it from the 160/150mm journey Sight VLT, which in all probability is smart from a industrial perspective. However given the potential enchancment in traction, consolation and high-speed stability, I actually wouldn’t object to the Fluid VLT having a contact extra squish.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Given the succesful dealing with and aggressive suspension spec, we reckon the Norco Fluid VLT may benefit from a contact extra journey.

Vary testing with the Norco Fluid VLT

Given the highly effective Bosch SX motor, I used to be curious to see how a lot vary could possibly be squeezed out of the 400Wh inside battery.

I principally used the eMTB mode on my typical check loops, and I’d usually obtain a 33-42km journey with 1,000-1,100m of elevation achieve earlier than the battery would run flat.

In fact that is very a lot depending on terrain. To show the variability, I did a a lot flatter journey on the much less highly effective Tour mode and ended up using over 70km with 600m of climbing.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The System Controller supplies a easy and unobtrusive visible information of your battery standing.

That can assist you maintain monitor of your battery on longer rides, the highest tube System Controller makes use of 5 LEDs to show the present standing in 10% increments. The highest LED will change to white first (10% down), earlier than going clean (20% down). You can too get a precise share when you have your bike paired to the Bosch Move app.

When you’re all the way down to the ultimate 30% of battery remaining, the underside two LEDs will flip orange to offer you a visible cue. The motor’s energy will drop off barely till the battery hits 10% after which the ultimate LED turns crimson. At this level the motor will barely dribble alongside to protect the ultimate few watt-hours and aid you limp residence.

If you happen to do run the battery utterly flat, pedalling the Fluid VLT isn’t a horrible expertise. Sure, it’s mainly a 20kg mountain bike, however the tyres roll fairly nicely, and the SX motor is remarkably drag-free. In response to Bosch it delivers 50% much less resistance by way of the cranks in comparison with the CX motor, which is noticeable whenever you’re pedalling past the 25km/h cutoff level.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
Bosch claims the SX drive unit has 50% much less drag than the CX motor, and it actually looks like that in the actual world.

How does it examine to the competitors?

To supply some extra helpful comparative knowledge, I subjected the Norco Fluid VLT to our standardised vary check. Having set the motor to its strongest setting, I pedalled up an area street climb earlier than descending again down on singletrack to see what number of laps I may accrue earlier than the battery ran flat.

Right here’s the way it stacked up in opposition to the remainder;

  • Norco Sight VLT (Shimano EP8, 900Wh Battery) – 2,478m climbing
  • Canyon Spectral:ON (Shimano EP8, 900Wh Battery) – 2,451m climbing
  • Dice Stereo Hybrid 160 (Bosch Efficiency CX, 750Wh Battery) – 2,320m climbing
  • Rocky Mountain Altitude (Dyname 4.0, 720Wh Battery) – 2,108m climbing
  • Scott Patron (Bosch Efficiency CX, 750Wh Battery) – 2,079m climbing
  • Focus JAM² SL (Fazua Experience 60, 430Wh Battery) – 1,665m climbing
  • Scott Lumen (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,567m climbing
  • Orbea Rise (Shimano EP8-RS, 360Wh Battery) – 1,388m climbing
  • Norco Fluid VLT (Bosch Efficiency SX, 400Wh Battery) – 1,361m climbing
  • Trek Gas EXe (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,312m climbing
  • Scott Voltage (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,311m climbing
  • Specialised Levo SL (SL 1.2, 320Wh Battery) – 1,307m climbing
  • Large Trance X E+ Elite (SyncDrive Professional, 400Wh Battery) – 1,057m climbing
  • Specialised Kenevo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,053m climbing
2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The Norco Fluid VLT almost hit 1,400m of climbing throughout our standardised vary check.

As you’ll be able to see from that listing, the Fluid VLT carried out fairly nicely amongst its fellow light-weight e-MTBs.

It did fall wanting the Focus JAM² SL, which has a barely bigger 430Wh battery. I’ve discovered the Fazua Experience 60 motor to offer much less help total, and that resulted in a slower common climbing velocity of round 16km/h. Compared, the Fluid VLT was sooner up the mountain with a median velocity of 18km/h due to the punchy Bosch SX motor.

One other bike value drawing your consideration to is the Large Trance X E+ Elite, which additionally has a 400Wh battery. Nevertheless, it’s paired to a full-powered 85Nm motor that gives large help on the climbs. It meant the Trance X E+ Elite was in a position to cruise at a barely sooner tempo of 19km/h, which it did with much less effort and a decrease cadence. The draw back is vary, with the massive motor draining the battery a lot sooner.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx powermore 250wh battery
The non-compulsory PowerMore vary extender boosts the full battery capability to 650Wh.

Extending vary with the PowerMore battery

If you happen to’re trying to tackle greater rides with the Norco Fluid VLT, you can take into account including on Bosch’s 250Wh PowerMore vary extender battery.

This may set you again $799 AUD for the battery and mounting bracket, plus a further $40-60 AUD for the required cable, which is available in quite a few sizes to swimsuit totally different bikes. Confirmed weight for the PowerMore battery is 1,526g together with the mount and cable.

Fitment is easy, although you’ll have to surrender the power to hold a bottle. On the upside the vary extender will increase complete battery capability to a whopping 650Wh, which is significantly higher than different light-weight e-MTBs in the marketplace. This may mean you can get an entire load of using in with the Fluid VLT, particularly in case you’re heading out on a backcountry epic with buddies on full-powered e-MTBs.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The Norco Fluid VLT C2 140 is definitely the value-pick of the vary.

Element highs & lows

In comparison with the Trek Gas EXe, Specialised Levo SL and Focus JAM² SL, the Norco Fluid VLT C2 140 gives a completely spectacular bundle for the cash.

The spec is nicely thought of for correct e-MTB using, together with the highly effective TRP brakes with their sturdy and extra heat-resistant 2.3mm rotors. These possess wonderful modulation with an ergonomic lever form that incorporates a good hook to your index finger to nestle into.

In fact the extremely tuneable Float X2 shock is a notable spotlight. It’s heavier than an in-line shock, although it’s far more constant on prolonged descents and it gives tonnes of big-hit help. The 4-way damper is usually a bit intimidating to start with, however Norco helps you make sense of the changes due to its complete Experience Aligned setup information.

I’ve to say that I’m much less enamoured by the Lyrik and its barely wood sensitivity. RockShox lately rolled out the Charger 3.1 damper for its 2025 fork vary, which gives smoother efficiency all-round. The excellent news is which you could replace your present Charger 3 damper with a 3.1 improve package, which shall be cheaper than shopping for an entire new fork.

I’ve had no sturdiness points with the inventory wheelset to date. The rear does want a real, however there’s been no untoward lack of spoke rigidity, and the hubs appear to be of respectable high quality.

Solely the tyres stand out as being my most important gripe with the inventory construct. I’ve precisely the identical Continental tyres on my Pivot Switchblade, albeit within the heavier Enduro casing with the Gentle rubber compound. These supply a lot better grip and damping, particularly on crumbly path surfaces and in moist circumstances.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The Norco Fluid VLT would profit from stickier tyres, and probably a extra sturdy casing on the rear for many who frequent rocky trails.

Body & motor particulars

General the Norco Fluid VLT has confirmed to be tight and quiet all through testing. The chunky body options easy pivot {hardware} and large sealed cartridge bearings. And whereas it’s essential to drop the motor out to exchange the dropper or gear cable, mercifully there’s no headset humorous enterprise with the management strains routed into the downtube through standard ports.

Norco has in-built quantity of body armour with a full protection chainstay protector that integrates into the dropout pivot. There’s additionally a mudflap over the principle pivot, a bolt-on downtube shuttle guard, and a correct metallic skid plate beneath the motor.

2024 norco fluid vlt bosch sx lightweight e-mtb
The downtube options bolt-on armour, and the motor is protected with a correct metallic skid plate.

Essentially the most outstanding noise on the path is from the Bosch SX drive unit itself, which displays an irritating clacking noise on the descents. Newer CX motors have develop into a lot duller and quieter on this regard, although the SX had us rewinding a few years. We’re advised this noise is a standard operate of the motor’s inside freewheel and is critical to cut back drag. Nonetheless, we’d want if it was as quiet as the remainder of the bike.

The truth that the interior battery isn’t simply detachable could also be a difficulty for some riders who don’t have an influence level the place they retailer their bike. And it’s value noting that whereas the cost port on the seat tube gives an impressively comfortable and weathertight seal, the discharge button requires an annoying quantity of pressure to actuate.

I do like that Norco has utilised the motor’s in-built velocity sensor with a magnet situated across the valve on the rear wheel. Together with the wi-fi Mini Distant and System Controller, the Fluid VLT gives a clear aesthetic that’s freed from any distracting screens or mess of wires.

The cockpit ergonomics weren’t fairly good for me, so I eliminated the Mini Distant to make sure I had brake levers and dropper distant in the correct spot. This tidies issues up additional, and you may merely use the buttons on the System Controller to alter help modes as wanted.

norco fluid vlt vs specialized levo sl lightweight e-mtb
We’ve been testing the Norco Fluid VLT alongside the Specialised Levo SL, which is likely one of the benchmarks within the light-weight e-MTB class.

Norco Fluid VLT vs Specialised Levo SL

Out of the light-weight e-MTBs that compete with the Norco Fluid VLT, it’s the Specialised Levo SL that I’ve had essentially the most expertise with.

The Levo SL does have extra squish with a 160mm journey fork and 150mm rear journey. It comes arrange as a mullet, however a intelligent chainstay flip chip permits it to accommodate a 29in rear wheel, which is one thing the Fluid VLT can’t do. There’s additional geometry adjustment out there through an angle-adjusting headset and a secondary flip chip within the decrease shock mount.

Specialised additionally gives the Levo SL in an additional body measurement with six in complete. The geometry could be very related between the S3 Levo SL and the S2 Fluid VLT, with the identical rear centre size and an nearly an identical attain and head angle. The Levo SL’s seat angle is a contact slacker, making the cockpit really feel extra stretched out.

When it comes to worth the Levo SL Comp Carbon is available in a bit larger at $11,900 AUD. Many of the spec sits at the same stage, although it comes with a mechanical GX Eagle drivetrain and fewer adjustable Fox suspension. Nevertheless, due to its full carbon body and smaller 320Wh battery, the Levo SL Comp Carbon is sort of 1.5kg lighter (18.24kg vs 19.68kg).

specialized levo sl
The Levo SL is a bit lighter and it’s additionally significantly plusher on chunky trails.

On the path each are nice dealing with bikes which can be simply flat-out enjoyable to journey. I’d say the Levo SL is barely perkier attributable to its decrease weight and poppier suspension. It’s additionally smoother and grippier, which is a mixture of the additional journey, Fox suspension and stickier tyres that permit it to drift superbly by way of the chunk.

The Levo SL can’t sustain with the Fluid VLT on the climbs although. Its SL 1.1 motor feels dainty in comparison with the brawny Bosch SX, which gives considerably extra help on steeper gradients. This resulted in a considerably sooner common velocity (18km/h vs 14km/h) through the standardised vary check, with the Fluid VLT reaching extra elevation achieve too. For these trying to go lengthy, including a variety extender will see the Fluid VLT’s 650Wh battery capability trump the 480Wh on the Levo SL.

Noise ranges are comparable, with each motors emitting the same quantity as they whirr away. Nevertheless, the SL 1.1 doesn’t endure from the identical clacking noise on descents. Together with its smaller type issue, it’s a extra refined performer in comparison with the larger and musclier SX motor.

As to which one I’d select? From a journey high quality perspective, it’s the Levo SL that will get my vote. If you happen to’re after extra energy and battery capability although, it will be very arduous to look previous the value-packed Fluid VLT.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The Bosch SX motor is the key weapon of the Norco Fluid VLT, and for a lot of e-curious riders, it may very nicely be Holy Grail.

Move’s Verdict

Whereas the Norco Fluid VLT could also be late to the light-weight e-MTB recreation, the Canadian model’s endurance has absolutely paid off.

Selecting to construct it across the Bosch SX system was a sensible transfer. The compact motor delivers plenty of energy and a extremely responsive really feel that sees it performing remarkably near a traditional full-powered e-MTB, albeit with a big weight benefit. Mixed with its mullet setup, wonderful geometry and supportive suspension, the Fluid VLT is a wickedly enjoyable bike to journey on quick and flowy trails.

Its sturdy chassis and succesful construct package means it may well deal with some fairly rowdy using, although it may benefit from a contact extra journey to grasp rougher terrain. We’d additionally suggest becoming some stickier and chunkier tyres to benefit from the Fluid VLT’s cornering panache and high-speed poise.

That apart, the Fluid VLT delivers a full of life and playful journey high quality that underscores the dealing with benefits a light-weight e-MTB gives over a full-powered equal. If you happen to’ve been tempted by the style however have been delay by under-powered motors, you’ll little question wish to take a really shut take a look at the Fluid VLT.

As talked about earlier, we’ll have a correct in-depth evaluate approaching the Bosch SX motor within the close to future. Keep tuned to the Move web site and YouTube channel for extra!

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
If you happen to’ve been turned off by the sluggish dealing with and grounded really feel of a traditional e-MTB, you’re going to like the agility of the Norco Fluid VLT.

That apart, the Fluid VLT delivers a full of life and playful journey high quality that underscores the dealing with benefits a light-weight e-MTB gives over a full-powered equal.

2024 norco fluid vlt c2 140 bosch sx
The Goldilocks of the light-weight e-MTB style? For a lot of riders, the Norco Fluid VLT will tick nearly each field.

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