A great deal of research should go into choosing the best mountain bike that will justify the high price tag associated with MTBs and ensure you get a durable bicycle that will serve you well.
Before buying your mountain bike, gather all the necessary information, and this Northrock XC27 review offers all you need to know about this bike.
Durable, agile, low-maintenance, off-road strong, elegant design, good suspension, and excellent wheels are some of the qualities that describe what you get from Northrock XC27.
Suppose you love to explore the outdoors as much as I do, then you understand the value of a high-quality mountain bike. It makes conquering the roughest terrains much easier and more satisfying.
Northrock XC27 embodies excellent features that mountain bikers desire, but does that mean it’s flawless? Of course not; it has its drawbacks like any other bike.
This review will look into the features and specifications, pros and cons, and lastly, the FAQs of the Northrock XC27 mountain bike. Well, without much fuss, let’s get started.
Northrock XC27 Review- Specifications
Brand Northrock
Bike Type Mountain Bike
Frame Material All aluminum 6061
Frame Size 44.45 cm (17.5 inches) medium
Brakes Dual disc Tektro dual disc (mechanical)
Shifter 21 speeds, Shimano Altus EF-500 Rapid Fire
Crank Alloy Forged, 42/34/24T
Rear Derailleur Shimano Altus M310
Fork 69.9 cm (27.5 in.) SR Suntour XCT
The Key Features Of Northrock XC27 Mountain Bike.
Here are the standout features of the Northrock XC27 that work together to make it an exceptional mountain bike.
1. 17-Inch Hand-Built 6061 Aluminum Frame
6061 aluminum is strong and rigid, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion, making it excellent for a mountain bike because it allows it to handle rugged terrains effectively.
You can also move your bike from one place to another easily because it isn’t heavy.
Since it is rust-proof, you don’t have to be stressed out if your Northrock XC27 is exposed to water. Furthermore, it’s hand-built to ensure it is robust, and this frame is also effortless to clean, so your bike doesn’t have to be muddy, greasy, or dusty.
2. High-Grade Shimano Components
The crucial Shimano components in Northrock XC27 are the drivetrain and the triple crank, working cohesively to provide better performance.
This bike’s Shimano FCT4501 triple crank offers a broad gear range; hence you can explore different settings to find what works for you best.
In addition, the wide gear range also boosts your overall cycling performance and efficiency; thus, you can climb much easier.
The Shimano shifters and the 21-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain offer quick-shifting, better control, and precision.
You can also add brake levers more easily because of the drivetrain, providing you with more control of your Northrock XC27 mountain bike.
3. Tektro Disc Brakes
You want your bike to stop upon pressing the brakes, but that means controlling its stopping power. The Tektro disc brakes in this bike give you a huge stopping power and the control you need to ride off-road safely.
Northrock XC27 mountain bike also has readily adjustable integrated Shimano Altus EF-500 brake levers that help you manage the bike better.
4. 27.5-Inches Fast Rolling Wheels
These wheels offer better control of your bike, greater efficiency, agility, and since they are big, they roll over various terrains entirely without much struggle.
You can conquer different off-roads with these wheels and still maintain steering accuracy, so your Northrock XC27 will go where you steer it to go.
They also roll over surfaces quickly, allowing you to accelerate fast.
5. Front Suspension
Bike suspension helps you ride faster and more comfortably on off-road terrain, absorb vibrations, and offer additional steering control because of the enhanced traction. Therefore, you can cycle at higher speeds and for a longer time.
Northrock XC27’s front suspension will absorb the massive impacts, shock, and vibrations when you cycle on bumpy areas. Additionally, it gives the rims better stability as you ride.
Other Important Features:
1. Double Wall Rims
These rims are lightweight, strong, and durable, so expect to use them for a long time before thinking of replacing them. In addition, they will help you conquer unpredictable rugged terrains.
2. Threadless Stem
The stem connects the handlebar to the steer tube of the fork, and because it is threadless, you get an optimal riding position. As a result, you do not have to compromise your posture to climb.
However, the threadless stem is not the only component responsible for a nearly flawless climb, as the 21-speed shifters help make it possible.
3. Well-Contoured Velo Saddle
Northrock XC27 is made with a properly contoured Velo saddle that is comfortable to sit on even after many hours of riding. As a result, you will be comfy when riding regardless of the terrain, allowing you to enjoy the trail.
4. Stainless Steel Spokes
The spokes in this mountain bike are robust enough to withstand colossal loads, a quality expected from a top-quality bike. Hence, you shouldn’t worry about your Northrock XC27 spokes breaking as they do on most low-end bicycles.
5. Universal Mounts
You can effortlessly mount a bottle cage, child seat, and a rear bicycle rack on your Northrock XC27. These customizations will help you get the best from your bike.
6. KMC Chain
This bike’s chains are reliable, durable, and contribute to achieving a fast and light ride.
Pros And Cons Of Northrock XC27 Mountain Bike
Let’s take a look at the strengths and drawbacks of Northrock XC27, starting with the pros.
Pros
- Low maintenance
- Robust aluminum frame
- Rust-proof
- Ideal for both women and men
- promotes cycling agility
- Facilitates quick acceleration
- High-quality tires, wheels, rims, and frames
- Comfortable saddle
- It has a powerful front suspension, brake system, and Shimano drivetrain
- Equipped with robust spokes to support a heavy load
- It’s quick and easy since everything you need comes with the bikes
Cons
- It is not suitable for riders below 5’7″
Northrock Xc27 Mountain Bike Size Chart
It is essential to know the sizing of a bike before purchasing it to avoid buying a bicycle that will either be too small or too big for you. Due to this, the Northrock XC27 mountain bike’s size chart is as follows.
| BIKE | SIZE |
| Frame Size | 17.5 inches (44.45 cm) |
| Standover Height | 30.50 inches (76.77cm) |
| Effective Top Tube | 21.3 inches (59.5cm) |
| Seat Tube Length | 16.92 inches (43cm) |
| Head Tube Length | 5.02 inches (11.8cm) |
| Chain Stay Length | 17.32 inches (44cm) |
| Reach | 16.18 inches (41.12cm) |
| Wheel Size | 27.5 x 2.2 inches (69.85 x 5.58 cm) |
| Rider Height Guide | Fits 5’ 7’’ to 6’ 1’’ riders (170 to 180cm) |
Remember size chart is a reference point, and to establish the right fitting, you will have to identify the clearance over your Northrock XC27. Do so by standing over your bike with each foot situated steadily on either side.
The recommended minimum standover clearance height is 2 inches (5cm) on paved surfaces, 3 inches (7.5cm) on light gravel/ unpaved surfaces, and 4 inches (10cm) on off-road.
Northrock XC27 Vs. XC29- The Distinction
Both of these Northrock bikes share certain similarities but also differ in certain aspects. Therefore, you must examine both if you are contemplating choosing between them.
Similarities
Northrock XC27 and Northrock XC29 have 6061 hand-built aluminum frames, 21-speed Shimano Altus drivetrains, and Tektro disc brakes.
In addition, they also have Shimano Altus M310 rear derailleur, Maxxis mountain tires, integrated Shimano Altus EF 500 brake levers, SR Suntour XCT forks, and KMC-Z50 chains.
Differences
Despite the many similarities, there are distinctive differences between these bikes. For example, while they share the same frame size (17.5 inches), Northrock XC27 fits riders with heights of 5 ft 7 in. to 6 ft 1 in (170cm to 180cm), while Northrock XC29 accommodates cyclists who are 5 ft. 8 in. to 6 ft. 3 in (170cm to 190cm) tall.
In addition, Northrock XC27’s fork is 27.5 inches (69.9cm), while that of Northrock XC29 is 29 inches (73.6cm).
Another distinctive difference between the two is the wheel size as Northrock XC27’s are 27 inches while Northrock XC29’s are 29 inches.
When choosing between these Northrock mountain bike models, consider your height. Taller riders are better suited to ride XC29, while shorter cyclists will feel much comfortable on XC27.
Both these bikes go for $349 at Costco.
Alternatively, if you want more mountain bike options, check out Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike with 26-inch wheels (amazon link), a 17-inch frame, and suitable for riders not less than 5 inches. It also has knobby tires, which help you navigate rough trails well.
Also, read: Northrock XC00 Fat Tire Bike Review
FAQs
1. Who Makes Northrock Xc27?
Northrock makes Northrock xc27 mountain bikes that are equipped with various Shimano components like shifters
2. Are Northrock Mountain Bikes Any Good?
Northrock mountain bikes are high-quality machines that are budget-friendly and designed to help you ride through various off-roads with ease. The brand’s mountain bike models are Northrock XC27 and Northrock XC29.
3. How Much Is A Northrock XC27?
Northrock XC27 will cost you about $349, which is a great bargain considering it’s comfortable, all-aluminum, lightweight, and offers smooth rides on various terrains.
Verdict
Northrock XC 27 mountain bike is worth considering because its quality build will surely surprise you. The low price should not deter you from giving this bike a short because it is a decent bicycle that will do more than get you from one location to another.
I wouldn’t end this Northrock XC27 review without mentioning that this bike is suitable for women and men, although young men are better suited to ride it due to the frame design.