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First Look: Norco Range A7.1 delivers bang for your buck.

13.09.2014
by

As bike prices push happily into five figures, it is cool to see some brands keeping it real and trying to deliver top end performance at a reasonable price. Norco have managed to get their Range A7.1 down to just a few dollars over $3000, and have managed to include a Pike fork and dropper. The Range Killer B is designed for aggressive, wide-open riding. The 160mm Range is both an enduro race rig and the ideal backcountry accomplice – perfect for exploring shale-covered slopes and remote mountain ranges. We take a look!

The 160mm Range A 7.1 is both an enduro race rig and the ideal backcountry accomplice, all for $3085
The 160mm Range A 7.1 is both an enduro race rig and the ideal backcountry accomplice, all for $3085
Just the performance compound, but Hans Damps all the same.
Just the performance compound, but Hans Dampfs all the same. Rims are Sun Inferno 27 650B trails.
Shimano Deore M615 hydraulic discs are a solid performer. The 7.1 runs 180mm/160mm rotors .
Shimano Deore M615 hydraulic discs are a solid performer. The 7.1 runs 180mm/160mm rotors .
The all-mountain–tuned A.R.T. suspension system helps the bike climb to objectives with impressive efficiency
The all-mountain–tuned A.R.T. suspension system helps the bike climb with impressive efficiency
430mm chainstays should keep the bike agile.
430mm chainstays should keep the bike agile.
A.R.T. suspension: optimized kinematics for Enduro racing; tames burly trails for maximum speed and control. Frame compatible with piggyback-style air shocks.
A.R.T. suspension features optimized kinematics for Enduro racing.
Custom, hydroformed aluminum Killer B frame: tubes are manipulated into shapes with strategic curves and tapers for added strength, weight savings and flowing lines.
Custom, hydroformed aluminum Killer B frame: tubes are manipulated into shapes with strategic curves and tapers for added strength, weight savings and flowing lines.
The Rockshox Pike RC solo air 160mm 15mm fork is a real highlight.
The Rockshox Pike RC solo air 160mm 15mm fork is a real highlight.
Drive is from a 2x10 driver train, with a Race Face Evolve 36/22T chainset.
Drive is from a 2×10 driver train, with a Race Face Evolve 36/22T chainset.
It is good to see a dropper on a $3000 bike, Norco spec a KS E-Ten adjustable post.
It is good to see a dropper on a $3000 bike, Norco spec a KS E-Ten adjustable post.

For more information check out Norco’s website

Words and photos: Trev Worsey

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