Urban Assault Weapon

WHAT: Norco 604 HOW MUCH: $1,430 WHERE: www.Norco.com

It’s good to see the urban riding movement growing up a little. Sure it’s still only now reaching adolescence, but we’re finally through that awkward stage. The bikes available now reflect a pretty thorough understanding of what riders want. Though many brands offer just a single frame with a good/better/best component package, Norco offers four distinct frames. Ranging from big hit freeride hardtails to super tech trials bikes, there’s something to satisfy the jibber in all of us, though I still wouldn’t recommend referring to yourself as a ‘jibber’ in public.

Perhaps the most versatile in the lineup is the 604. Much of the bike is noticeably BMX-inspired, from the horizontal dropouts to the steep, 71° head tube, and the 4130 Chromoly frame does as much for the bike’s overall strength as it does its understated look. Norco also gets points for making a frame with rim brake mounts, which can be positioned for 26 or 24” wheels, or removed with barely a trace.

The stout, plush Manitou Sherman fork and sticky, marshmallowy Maxxis Hookworms add just enough chunkiness to inspire more confidence than you probably ought to have. The spec is simple, yet solid. The tight cassette range, and a small, tough road derailleur keep the chain short and tight, while the Truvativ Boxguide keeps it from flying off at really inconvenient times. The budget Alex rims were a little underpowered for the bike, though. Even after the longer than average initial tensioning period, they whined for constant attention. The no-frills fork felt great, though with no adjustments to speak of, most jumpers will need to drop in a stiffer spring if they plan on using the bike to its potential.

In the saddle, though, everything comes together. The second you climb on it and pedal, give the fork the token bounce, pop up the front wheel and lean back, maybe swerve a bit, you’re hooked. Everything feels like it’s in just the right spot. The front end is comfortably roomy, but without sacrificing agility. This is thanks, in part, to the short back end, which at just under 16-inches helps keep the wheelbase tight, and makes the bike extremely comfortable on the rear wheel. I was sold on the bike based just on how well it manuals. The sweet spot is big enough to rival my bmx.

It’s hard to please everyone, especially when the masses in question populate the radically progressive urban riding movement. When a sport is so young, and its superstars are getting even younger, innovation is key. The new breed of bikes charged with satisfying this need are better suited than ever, and if you need two tons of dirt to keep you happy, or just a parking block, the 604 was made just for you.

Editor’s Note: Norco does not offer the 604 for 2006 (in fact, they’re sold out, so don’t even bother trying). Norco does, however, offer the 416 Street. At $1,500, it’s pretty much the same bike except for a few component changes. Check out the 416 on www.norco.com