Norco has released the new Sight VLT TQ, a mid-power eMTB designed to deliver what the brand calls a “pilot, not passenger” ride feel.
The new electric mountain bike pairs a full-carbon frame with the compact TQ HPR60 drive system, aiming to blend the handling of a regular trail bike with subtle, seamless motor assistance.
It is built around the all-mountain Sight platform, which sees travel figures of 160mm for the fork and 150mm at the rear using the brand’s VPSHP suspension system.
Norco claims the TQ motor system weighs in at only 1.9kg, making the top-of-the-range Sight VLT TQ C1 top the scales at 19.05kg.
Pricing starts at $6,999 for the Sight VLT TQ C3, increasing to $8,999 for the Sight VLT TQ C2, with the Sight VLT TQ C1 sitting at the top of the range at $10,599.
TQ HPR60 motor
At the heart of the Sight VLT TQ is the TQ HPR60 motor system, giving the bike 60Nm of torque, 350W peak power and up to 200 per cent support.
It features a harmonic pin ring gearbox design, which is said to reduce the number of moving parts while increasing gear overlap.
The result, says Norco, is a lightweight and highly efficient drive unit with a notably quiet, natural ride feel.
The motor is paired with a 580Wh internal battery, with the option to add a 160Wh range extender for longer days in the saddle.
You can also tune support characteristics via the TQ app, with updates delivered automatically over Bluetooth.
Norco's senior product manager, Paul Burnett, says the goal was clear from the outset: balance.
“We wanted to make an eMTB that has the perfect balance of weight and power. The innovative TQ system, combined with our proven Sight VLT platform and VPSHP layout, gave us the ability to accomplish all those goals.”
Mixed wheels, size-specific rear centres and full-carbon frames
The Sight VLT TQ will be available in five sizes (S1–S5), with Norco’s size-specific rear-centre lengths designed to maintain consistent handling characteristics across the range.
A mixed-wheel, mullet configuration is said to combine front-end stability with rear-end agility.
Norco’s VPSHP (Virtual Pivot Suspension | High Pivot) layout delivers efficient climbing and composed descending through rough terrain.
Like many high-pivot designs, it increases the rearward axle path to improve suspension performance in technical terrain.
Norco says the rearward axle path maintains momentum and keeps you on line as speeds pick up and trails get rough.
Enhanced trail experience
Rather than chasing outright torque and performance figures, the Sight VLT TQ is intended to be focused on riders who are yet to take the plunge into riding eMTBs, much like Orbea’s Rallon RS, enhancing rather than overpowering traditional trail riding.
The brand says the bike is aimed at “the e-curious, the ride-purists, and anyone who wants to unlock more laps without compromise”, with a ride character intended to feel intuitive and unobtrusive.
