Norco Size Guide
Norco is a Canadian bicycle manufacturer specializing in mountain bikes and cycling equipment. Founded with a philosophy centred on rider comfort and performance, Norco designs bikes with multiple sizing options to ensure the best fit for diverse body types and proportions. Rather than relying on height alone, Norco emphasizes that body proportions—including inseam, torso length, and arm reach—play a crucial role in achieving optimal bike fit. This guide covers frame sizing for mountain bikes, trail bikes, and other Norco bicycle categories.
How to Measure
- Measure your height: Stand barefoot against a wall with your heels touching the base. Use a level or straight edge at the top of your head and mark the wall, then measure the distance from the floor to your mark in centimetres or inches.
- Determine your inseam: Wear the shoes you typically cycle in. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and measure from your crotch to the floor. This is your inseam length, which often determines frame size more accurately than height alone.
- Assess your proportions: Consider whether you have a longer or shorter torso relative to your legs. If there is overlap between two recommended sizes on the Norco chart, your body proportions will help determine which size is best for you.
- Note your riding style: Different Norco models (downhill, trail, cross-country, urban) may have slightly different geometry. Consider whether you prefer a more aggressive, slack geometry (larger frame) or a more upright, nimble feel (smaller frame).
- Visit an authorized dealer: Norco strongly recommends consulting with a local authorized Norco Bicycles dealer for a professional fitting and test ride before making a purchase.
Mountain Bike Frame Size Chart
| Norco Size | Frame Size (inches) | Rider Height | Recommended Inseam |
|---|---|---|---|
| XXS | 13" | 4'8" – 5'1" | 26" – 28" |
| XS | 14" | 5'1" – 5'4" | 28" – 30" |
| S | 16" | 5'4" – 5'7" | 30" – 32" |
| M | 18" | 5'7" – 5'10" | 32" – 34" |
| L | 20" | 5'10" – 6'1" | 34" – 36" |
| XL | 22" | 6'1" – 6'4" | 36" – 38" |
Product-Specific Guidance
Mountain Bikes (All Mountain, Trail, Enduro)
Norco's trail and all-mountain bikes are designed for versatile riding across varied terrain. Frame sizes follow the chart above, with significant overlap between sizes S, M, and L to accommodate different riding preferences. Riders with longer inseams relative to their height may prefer a size up, whilst those with shorter inseams might size down. These models prioritize balance and control, making them suitable for both aggressive and recreational riders.
Downhill Bikes (Aurum HSP, Aurum)
Downhill-specific frames tend to have slacker head tubes and lower bottom brackets. Norco's downhill bikes are offered in XXS through XL sizes. Due to the geometry, many riders find they prefer sizing down by one size compared to their trail bike size for a more responsive feel. Always test ride to confirm fit before purchasing.
Fat Bikes (Ithaqua, Bigfoot, Sasquatch)
Fat bikes accommodate wide tyres for snow and sand riding. Norco fat bikes are available in S, M, L, and XL. The wider stance may feel different; consult the size chart and speak with a dealer to ensure comfort and control with the larger footprint.
Cross-Country & XC Race Bikes (Charger, Storm)
Lightweight XC bikes demand precision fit for efficient pedalling. Norco's cross-country frames are offered in multiple sizes with recommendations based on height and inseam. A snug fit is typical for these performance-oriented bikes.
Drop Bar & Road Bikes (Tactic, Valence, Search, Threshold)
Road and gravel bikes from Norco follow similar sizing principles but are optimized for drop bar geometry. Reach and stack measurements become important; consult product-specific sizing guides available on Norco's website or with an authorized dealer.
Urban & Hybrid Bikes (XFR, Indie, VFR, Yorkville, Scene)
Urban and hybrid bikes prioritize comfort and ease of mounting. These models are available in a wider range of sizes to suit commuters and casual riders. Sizing tends to follow standard mountain bike dimensions, though geometry is more upright.
Sizing Tips
- Height is a starting point only: Norco's sizing charts use height as an initial guide, but inseam and torso length are equally important. Two riders of the same height may require different frame sizes based on their proportions.
- Overlapping sizes are intentional: Norco's newer generation of bikes features overlap between consecutive sizes (e.g., S and M both suit riders 5'5" to 5'9"). Use body proportions and riding style to choose within the overlap.
- Test ride before purchase: A professional fitting at an authorized Norco dealer is invaluable. You can assess how the bike feels under load and confirm that the saddle height, reach, and stack suit your riding position.
- Consider your riding style: Aggressive riders may prefer a slightly larger frame for stability, whilst technical riders on tight terrain may prefer a smaller frame for nimbleness. Norco's geometry varies by category.
- Account for body proportions: If you have a longer inseam relative to your height, you may prefer a size up. Conversely, a shorter inseam may indicate a size down. Discuss this with your local dealer.
- Check product-specific charts: Some Norco models have unique geometries (particularly downhill and fat bikes). Always verify the specific size chart for your chosen model on Norco's website or at a dealer.
- Factor in saddle and bar adjustments: Modern bikes offer range in saddle height and stem length. A professional fitting can dial in micro-adjustments to optimize comfort and power transfer.
- Seasonal or multi-bike considerations: If you own multiple Norco bikes (e.g., a trail bike and a downhill bike), you may find yourself in different sizes due to geometry. This is normal and expected.