At this point, the dirt jumper is ingrained in the sport of mountain biking. But 20 years ago? The thought of using a mountain bike to tackle tackle jumps and BMX style riding was just starting to gain traction. From their first SuperCross bikes that were released almost two decades ago to the current Rampage line, MTB tech has changed quite a bit but the goal is still the same – pushing your riding to the next level with a bike that’s up to the task.
Aluminum vs. steel still seems to be a popular argument when it comes to the dirt jumper, but it’s one that aluminum seems to be slowly winning. According to Norco, their team wanted something lighter and stiffer than steel was able to provide, so the new frames are made from aluminum with a tapered head tube and a custom chainstay yoke to keep the back end as short as possible.
Hidden chain tensioners keep the single speed chain taught, and 135mm spaced rear dropout allows for bolt on rear axles to ensure things stay put. The frame allows for 26 x 2.3″ tire clearance and is built to accommodate a 100mm travel fork. Otherwise, things are kept pretty simple with a standard rear disc brake mount and external cable routing.
There will be three builds offered from the $899 (CAD) Rampage 2, to the $2,499 (CAD) Rampage Team, each with a 100mm suspension fork and 26 x 2.3″ tires.
The frame will also be offered at $499 (CAD) in S-L sizes.
