We’re big fans of Norco’s approach – they encourage all their employees to ride and the result is a buzzing company staffed by people who really do live and breathe bikes. With a history of developing bikes especially for Vancouver’s infamous North Shore, it was only a matter of time before they designed a 29er and put their unique twist on it.
Although a year old now, the Shinobi has been largely overlooked. The slack head angle reveals itself instantly as you climb on board and it’s obvious from the get-go that the Norco lacks the light-footed feel of a more cross-country orientated 29er.
It doesn’t feel sluggish, though. Far from it, in fact – it feels as if it’s gearing up for something. The Shinobi climbs admirably, with the extra momentum of the big wheels making long drags surprisingly easy and the extra traction making the slippery stuff a cinch to clear.
Read more about the Shinobi at bikeradar.com
