Introducing the 2024 Norco Fluid VLT: Redefining Lightweight e-MTB Performance
Electric mountain bikes have come a long way, and the 2024 Norco Fluid VLT is a perfect example of just how far. If you're after power with the handling responsiveness of a non e-MTB, this is one bike that needs to be on your radar. Norco, a brand with a good reputation for innovation, has upped the ante with its new Fluid VLT lightweight e-bike range. It’s not just another e-MTB—this one’s designed to change the game for riders who value both performance and handling. Featuring a smart mullet wheel setup and the lightweight Bosch Performance Line SX motor, the Norco Fluid VLT sets a new standard for what a lightweight e-MTB is capable of.
A New Approach to Lightweight e-MTBs
This is Norco’s first real dive into the lightweight e-MTB category, and it’s impressive. The mullet wheel setup, which pairs a 29-inch front wheel with a 27.5-inch rear, delivers the best of both worlds—stability up front and nimbleness at the back, a similar trend to a few other brands. This means you’re in control whether you're powering up steep climbs or navigating technical descents. Norco’s choice of the Bosch Performance Line SX motor keeps things light while still packing enough power to make every ride feel effortless. At the core, it’s all about shedding weight without compromising on the features that matter most to trail riders.
Why the 2024 Norco Fluid VLT Matters
Over two years in development, the Fluid VLT shows Norco’s commitment to creating something special for the growing lightweight e-MTB segment. The Bosch SX motor isn’t just lighter; it’s more compact, meaning it integrates seamlessly into the bike’s sleek design. Combined with a smart mullet setup, the bike offers incredible handling, whether you’re new to e-MTBs or have been riding for years. What’s more, Norco has focused on weight reduction without cutting corners on performance, which makes this bike stand out in a crowded market. If you're looking for a blend of power, stability, and maneuverability, this bike ticks all the boxes.
Mixed Wheel Setup for Optimal Performance
The mullet setup on the Norco Fluid VLT isn’t just for show. With a larger 29-inch wheel in the front and a smaller 27.5-inch wheel at the rear, you get a ride that’s stable and smooth over rough terrain while staying agile on tighter trails. The bigger front wheel helps you roll over obstacles with ease, giving you confidence when the trail gets tricky. The smaller rear wheel keeps things responsive, so you can make sharp turns without losing control. This setup, along with shorter chainstays, ensures that the bike feels balanced across all sizes, providing a consistent experience no matter what frame size you choose.
Powerful Bosch SX Motor and Lightweight Design
At the heart of the Norco Fluid VLT is the Bosch Performance Line SX motor, which delivers up to 600W of peak power while staying lightweight and compact. This is paired with a 400Wh battery, keeping the overall weight down to around 18-20kg. For those who’ve ridden heavier e-MTBs, this reduction in weight makes a noticeable difference in how the bike handles. The new Bosch motor responds quickly to changes in pedaling intensity, making climbs feel less daunting and keeping your ride smooth and steady. With the bike's reduced weight and powerful motor, you’re getting a setup that can take on steep climbs and technical descents with ease.
The lightweight carbon frame, paired with carefully selected gram-conscious components—such as the 31.6mm dropper post—delivers the advantages of a VLT e-MTB while maintaining a weight that's close to that of a non-electric bike.
The Ride Aligned™ suspension is optimized for trail riding, featuring responsive kinematics for efficient pedaling and the precision-tuned simplicity of Horst Link suspension. This design ensures a smooth and controlled ride across all terrains.
The Bosch Performance Line SX wireless system dramatically reduces e-MTB weight in a user-friendly design. Paired with a Bosch CT 400Wh battery and a nearly silent motor, it's built for lightweight performance and maximum riding enjoyment.
The Fluid VLT features a mixed wheel setup with a 29" front and 27.5" rear. The Fluid VLT C1 130 offers 140mm front and 130mm rear travel, while the 140 model provides three spec options with 150mm front and 140mm rear travel. This range ensures there’s a perfect fit for every rider's needs.
Suspension Setup for a Smooth Ride
The Norco Fluid VLT doesn’t just excel in power—it’s also built for comfort and control. The bike’s suspension setup includes 150mm of travel in the front and 140mm in the rear, ensuring you’re well-prepared for anything the trail throws at you. The four-bar suspension platform is designed for efficiency, soaking up the bumps and keeping you connected to the trail. The geometry, with a 64.5° head angle and a 76.5°-77.5° seat angle, provides a well-balanced ride, ensuring stability whether you're climbing or descending. It's the kind of setup that instills confidence, making the Fluid VLT a great choice for riders looking for a versatile e-MTB.
Why the Norco Fluid VLT is Perfect for You
Whether you're a seasoned rider or just getting into e-MTBs, the Norco Fluid VLT has something for everyone. It’s agile enough for technical trails but powerful enough to tackle big climbs with ease. With its lightweight design, you’re not wrestling with the bike; you're working with it, making every ride more enjoyable. If you’re someone who values a well-rounded bike that offers both power and precision, this could be the one for you.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Norco Fluid VLT is more than just another electric mountain bike—it’s a shift in how we think about lightweight e-MTBs. The combination of the Bosch SX motor, smart wheel setup, and refined suspension makes this a bike that can handle almost anything you throw at it. Whether you're out for a casual weekend ride or pushing your limits on technical trails, the Norco Fluid VLT delivers a riding experience that’s hard to beat.
Fluid VLT Range
Norco 2024 Fluid VLT C1
Fluid VLT Carbon Front Triangle, Carbon seatstays and chainstays. Fox 36 Performance Elite fork and Fox FLOAT X2 Performance Elite shock. SRAM Code Silver Stealth 4 Piston brakes with SRAM XO Eagle T-Type 1x12 Speed.
Norco 2024 Fluid VLT C2
Fluid VLT Carbon Front Triangle, Carbon seatstays and chainstays. RockShox Lyrik fork and Fox FLOAT X2 Performance Elite shock. TRP Trail Evo 4 Piston brakes with SRAM GX Eagle T-Type 1x12 Speed.
Norco 2024 Fluid VLT C3
Fluid VLT Carbon Front Triangle, Carbon seatstays and chainstays. RockShox Psylo Gold RC fork and RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock. TRP Slate EVO 4 Piston brakes with Shimano Deore 1x12 Speed.
