Cascade Components has CNC machined an aftermarket link for the Norco Optic short-travel trail bike. Increasing progression from 17% to 23%, it concomitantly increases travel by 5mm taking it up to 130mm. So, how does that change the rear end’s behaviour, and does it require a longer stroke shock?
Cascade Components Norco Optic Link
Like many of Cascade Components’ aftermarket links, the link for the Norco Optic gives the rear a higher starting leverage ratio, making the suspension feel softer off the top of the stroke. On the trail, the increased overall progression, boosted from 17% to 23%, is said to provide better traction and small bump compliance while simultaneously making the bike harder to bottom out.
No, it doesn’t require a shock swap; it requires the same 190mm x 45mm shock that comes stock on the Norco Optic frames. This is simply a straight swap of the stock link for Cascade Components’ aftermarket link. It can be done at home with the use of basic tools, and is said to take around 20 minutes.
“Although we tend to focus more on descending, we recognize that the Optic is still a trail bike. Because a trail bike needs to be able to climb well, we made sure to maintain the excellent pedaling characteristics of the Optic so you can still take the bike on the longest rides imaginable” – Cascade Components.
Pricing & Availability
The Cascade Components Norco Optic link is available now, retailing at $332 USD. When you buy one of these, you’re also buying fresh Enduro Bearings, already pressed into their housings.
