Fuji presented its new weapon for the fight against the clock last autumn: the Norcom Straight. This is at the top of the five-model range 1.1, which we have been able to test extensively over the last few weeks.
If you believe the manufacturer's information, then this offers Norcom Straight 1.1 more customization options than any other time trial bike.
equipment and practice
Our test bike has a frame height of 54 and is largely assembled. We only have to make the fine adjustments ourselves. And this is where the bike really surprises. After a few minutes we found the seating position and adjusted the front to our needs. This is not necessarily the case with corresponding counterparts from other manufacturers - a plus point for the Americans. However, this would be even more impressive if one also considered the angle of the tribars on the oval 960-Handlebar could change. Unfortunately, riders who prefer a more upright position at the front are somewhat limited here.
The seating position, on the other hand, reveals no flaws and is relatively easy to find. While the clamp is beautifully integrated into the top tube of the carbon frame, the post head has a rail on which the saddle and clamp can be easily moved.
But that's not the only case Norcom Straight 1.1 score. When it comes to system integration, too, attempts have been made to interpret the signs of the times correctly. Fuji installed a complete Shimano on our test bike Dura Ace 9070 Di2. The switching adapters are attached to the front Tribar-Ends, via which only the rear derailleur is controlled, as well as the brake levers specially developed for time trial handlebars.
The electronic circuit stands up to it Norcom Straight 1.1 very good to face. The automatic adjustment of the front derailleur, which aligns itself depending on the selected sprocket, is particularly impressive in the time trial position. Annoying adjustments, as known from mechanical groups, are history on this bike.
That the battery of the built Dura Ace Di2 attached to the seat post is due to the fact that it cannot accommodate an internal battery. However, this is the only flaw.
Fuji uses blades with a gear ratio of 54 to 39 teeth on the crank, after all every second counts in the fight against the clock. The muscles can burn for a minute longer. The cassette is also relatively narrow and has a spread of 11 to 25 teeth.
We also like the ovals very much 981-wheels, which we will examine in more detail in another test. Just this much: They roll - and pretty well. The braking performance is also excellent. In this regard, Fuji did everything right. Since the 981 When it comes to clincher wheels, the weight of 1.800 grams is reasonable.
Due to their rim height, they react appropriately to side winds, but by no means nervously. Brave drivers can also in this case on the Tribar remain. This is not the case with every time trial bike and is a welcome change compared to models from other manufacturers.
We have already touched on system integration. This also comes in terms of the built-in Aero TTV-Brakes from TRP to wear. At the front, Fuji guides the cable through the steering head, from where it leads to the brake via a deflection through the fork crown. This is mounted on the back of the crown.
The rear brake is located behind the bottom bracket. This is where the cable is fed into the frame behind the stem before reappearing on the down tube. So Fuji relies on a solution like that found in standard aero racers like the Trek Madone .
Both brakes offer an appealing performance and can be dosed well. The positive thing is that you can largely rely on them, even in adverse conditions.
Conclusion
The Fuji Norcom Straight 1.1 is a refreshingly different time trial bike. To what extent it brings aerodynamic advantages over corresponding models from the competition, we were not able to test in our test. But what we noticed is the very high level of ride comfort that the bike brings with it. This is certainly due to the very easy customization of the bike. And that's not necessarily the worst prerequisite for saving valuable seconds in the race. In addition, it is very well equipped from home. If you want to fight the clock at a high level, you will find in the Norcom Straight 1.1 a stress-free ally.
product Highlights
- very good setting options
- well thought-out frame details and system integration
- high quality equipment
- very nice optics
price and web
- 7.499,00 euros
- www.fujibikes.com