What’s new with the Norco Sight VLT CX?
Norco’s fourth-generation Sight VLT arrives in late 2024, aligning with the debut of Bosch’s Performance Line CX Gen 5 eMTB motor. The new bike is essentially a purpose-built pairing to the upgraded drive unit, featuring Norco’s VPS-HP suspension, a high-pivot design with a rearward axle path, and a 150mm/160mm front-rear travel split. The result is a carbon frame that blends internal cable routing, sealed pivots, and ample frame protection for a quiet, clean ride on rough terrain.
Compared with the previous Sight and the contemporary Fluid VLT, the CX model emphasizes a high-pivot philosophy designed to control the rear end under power and during big hits. The package is tuned to take advantage of Bosch’s turbocharged Gen 5 motor while delivering a balanced, predictable handling character on demanding trails.
Motor, battery and cockpit tech
Powering the Sight VLT CX is Bosch’s Performance Line CX Gen 5, offering 100Nm of torque and up to 750W of peak drive. Bosch’s software updates have since unlocked even more capability, allowing riders to push torque to 100Nm and power to 750W as needed. In the Norco spec, the CX is paired with an 800Wh Bosch PowerTube battery, neatly integrated into the downtube for a clean silhouette and unobtrusive charging workflow. The battery is not easily removable, which keeps the ride tidy but could be a constraint for riders who like to swap packs away from the bike.
Control is via a wireless Mini Remote on the bars, plus a top-tube system controller to manage battery life and on/off. The frame cutout supports the newer Kiox 400C LED display, which is available as an optional add-on for the cockpit. The result is a modern, largely wireless setup that keeps the cockpit uncluttered while delivering essential power management tools.
Geometry, sizing and ride feel
The Sight VLT CX is offered in four sizes (S2 through S5), with reach ranging from 447.5mm to 522.5mm and a consistent 64-degree head angle. Seat tube angles begin at 77.25° and increase gradually per size. The rear center length starts at 432mm and grows 4mm per size, but the high-pivot design adds an extra 9mm of growth under sag. There are no adjustable geometry chips—Norco keeps the geometry fixed to preserve the intended ride characteristics.
This is a true e‑MTB with a 150mm rear shock and a 160mm fork. The suspension platform (VPS-HP) emphasizes a soft initial stroke and a rearward axle path that flatters rough, technical climbs and exploding rock gardens alike. The ride feels plush and highly compliant, with a strong mid-stroke ramp that helps the bike land big hits without washing out.
Drivetrain and wheels
Norco’s Sight VLT CX uses a SRAM S-type transmission setup (in higher-end builds) or Shimano/ SRAM mixes depending on the model, paired with wide-range cassettes and carbon hoops. The CX’s tire spec brings Continental Kryptotal-F Enduro Soft 29×2.4in at the front and 27.5×2.4in rear, mounted on carbon or alloy rims depending on the build. The wheelset is matched to Boost spacing for a stable, purely trail-focused footprint that blends grip and roll efficiency across mixed terrain.
Price, models and what you get
The Sight VLT CX lineup spans three models, with MSRPs from AUD 9,999 to AUD 14,999. The test model—CX C2—retails at AUD 11,999 and features a RockShox Lyrik Ultimate fork, a Super Deluxe Ultimate shock, and SRAM S‑Type transmissions with 12-speed gearing. The CX C1 sits at a higher tier with SRAM components, while the CX C3 uses a Shimano Deore drivetrain and TRP brakes. Across the range, all bikes share the Bosch PowerTube 800Wh battery and the same carbon frame with VPS-HP suspension, ensuring consistent downhill performance and climb capability across price points.
First ride impressions
Initial on-trail feedback highlights remarkable grip, courtesy of both the Continental tires and the suspension’s ability to lock onto the trail with minimal chatter. The suspension’s initial and mid-stroke feel is soft and smooth, with a trailing axle path that helps the bike claw back traction and dampen chatter on rough sections. The mid-stroke ramp firming provides confidence through big hits and steep descents, reminiscent of high-tier suspension feel found on other premium e‑mountain bikes.
In practical terms, the Sight VLT CX is a quiet descender with clean, rattle-free internals. Mud shedding and cleaning are straightforward thanks to open cable routing and accessible pivots, a welcome trait in wet Tasmanian weather. If you’re chasing a high-pivot e‑MTB that rides like a capable 29er with a touch more front-end grip, the Sight VLT CX is worth a closer look.
Verdict
Norco’s fourth-gen Sight VLT CX represents a careful balance of power, geometry and ride quality. By pairing the bike with Bosch’s Gen 5 CX motor and a generous 800Wh battery, Norco delivers a trail-dominant platform capable of long days on rough terrain. It’s not a lighter, more minimalist build by any stretch, but the overall package excels in traction, stability and ride comfort, especially on wet and chunky trails. If you want a no-nonsense, capable high-pivot e‑MTB with modern electronics and a polished ride feel, the Sight VLT CX deserves serious consideration.
