People who are new to fat biking like exploring the more affordable, entry-level versions. In many respects, looking at Costco as a location to get something inexpensive makes sense, which brings us to the Northrock XC00 Fat Tire Bike review.
The new version of Northrock XC00 is capturing the interest of those wishing to save money on a new fat bike. This bike is an absolute gem as it’s affordable and can handle versatile terrains.
Its remarkable features include a conventional all-aluminum alloy frame, Shimano Altus 7 Speed drivetrain, and disc brakes. Costco is known for its low prices, and they carry several top-rated bikes at that price.
Once you get an opportunity to test out the Northrock XC00 bike, you’ll realize it’s got some merits and demerits in different conditions and terrains. Read on to find out more about the bike.
Northrock XC00 Fat Tire Bike: Specifications
| Bike Part | Type |
| Frame Material | 6061 Aluminum-alloy |
| Frame Size | 18 inches, fits most riders 5’7” to 6’2” |
| Brake Type | Mechanical Disc Brakes |
| Brake Levers | Tektro alloy |
| Number of Speeds | 7-speed |
| Number of Gears | 7 |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel |
| Tires | Kenda fat mountain, 26” x 4.0” |
| Shifter | Shimano Altus SL-M310 rapid-fire |
| Grips | Velo ergonomic dual-density comfort grip |
| Derailleur | Shimano Altus |
| Weight | 35.2 lb |
Northrock XC00 Fat Tire Bike: Key Features
A low-cost fat bike won’t have a lot of standout features. Nevertheless, newer models usually outshine preceding models, and they improve as technology advances.
Let’s examine the specs of a Northrock XC00 fat tire bike:
1. Hand-built 6061 All-aluminum Alloy Press Formed Frame
Northrock XC00 features a standard handcrafted all-aluminum alloy frame utilized by many manufacturers due to its lightweight and responsiveness. The frame is 18” in length and suits riders of heights ranging between 5’ 7” to 6’ 2”.
Additionally, the frame is lighter, stiffer, and stronger thanks to a proprietary frame-building technique. Unlike its steel counterpart, it is rust-resistant and requires low maintenance.
Furthermore, the frame can accommodate a rear bike rack, fenders, water bottle cage, and a child seat. It also features a rust-proof paint finish to offer a long-lasting brilliance.
Although it’s difficult to prove, some cyclists attribute the bike’s extra weight solely to its frame.
Even though the frame material isn’t heavy, it is inferior to that of a better version.
2. Shimano Altus 7 Speed Drivetrain
This bike’s Shimano Altus 7 Speed transmission provides excellent shifting performance. It is one of the most appealing aspects of a bicycle in a low price range.
It will continue to perform flawlessly for a long time.
The manufacturers used some of these characteristics on other Northrocks, and it panned out well. So, it’s rational to cling to what worked before and use it to create better models in the future.
However, adopting Northrock XC00 as your maiden mountain bike or biking it on singletracks may not be the best idea because the bike sports only seven gears.
Furthermore, the seven gears may not cut it when navigating upward over rock beds and roots.
3. Tektro Mechanical Disc Brakes
Northrock XC00 features decent disc brakes that offer optimum stopping power in different riding conditions. They demand less maintenance, thus giving you more time to enjoy your adventure.
However, their durability has raised questions on the need to replace them continuously. Casual riders won’t have problems with the quality of the brakes, but seasoned riders will prefer a superior setup.
4. Fast-Rolling Tires
This fat tire bike incorporates Kenda 66 cm × 10.2 cm (26 in × 4.0 in.tires that guarantee enhanced trail control, maximum traction, handling, and pleasure. They function admirably on regular trails but fall short in snowy conditions.
They don’t appear to be as good at navigating in the snow compared to other beginner fat bike tires. Although these tires may not fare well in the snow, they do weigh as they should.
It is hard to manage the bike’s total weight, especially when the wheels aren’t helping to minimize it.
5. Alloy Rims And Hubs
The Northrock XC00 fat tire bike integrates lightweight alloy rims and stainless-steel spokes to minimize weight. They also tackle all riding difficulties.
Others
6. Velo Mountain Saddle
The curved Vello saddle gives comfort while also increasing power output and improving performance.
7. Velo Grips
They guarantee you control, comfort, and durability.
8. KMC Chain
The KMC lightweight chain is robust and long-lasting.
Northrock XC00 Fat Tire Bike Pros And Cons
Below are this bike’s strengths and weaknesses.
Pros
- It is affordable.
- It features a lightweight all-aluminum frame that offers durability and rigidity.
- It has wide Kenda tires that roll easily over obstacles.
- Employs Shimano Altus 7-speed transmission provides high-performance shifting and ultimate durability.
- Shimano Altus rapid-fire gears offer control and precision.
- It has Tektro mechanical disc brakes that provide maximum stopping force.
- The contoured Velo saddle improves power output and performance.
- It has Velo grips that promise control and comfort while riding.
- It has lightweight and durable alloy rims.
- It has a Tektro alloy front hub.
- It accommodates cyclists of different heights.
- They are designed for all-season riding.
- Perfect for beginners.
Cons
- Needs upgrades.
- Not suitable for snowy terrains.
Is Northrock XC00 Fat Tire Bike Good For Beginners?
Costco sells Northrock XC00 at about $500, which spells out the company’s intention to target beginners. The 35.2lb machine offers incredible comfort when traversing off-road and flat trails.
The shifters function and come in handy in a few rugged terrains. You won’t need them that much when biking over flat terrain.
However, it’s imperative to examine the tire pressure of your new Northrock XC00 before hitting the trails for the first time. Additionally, choose a low PSI to benefit from the increased cushioning.
Can You Ride Northrock XC00 In Snowy Conditions?
One of the Northrock XC00’s glaring flaws is its inability to match the top performances of comparable entry-level bikes in snowy conditions. The fundamental issue appears to be the tires might fail to “cut through” large quantities of snow.
When such issues crop up, the entire mountain biking experience becomes substantially worse.
Generally, they have a poor grip and are too heavy, implying you’ll need to work harder on the pedals.
Furthermore, fat bikes need excellent traction, which is essential when biking on snow. It is mainly true for entry-level bikers because a slight loss of control could trigger impulsive decisions, making them vulnerable to accidents.
You have the option to upgrade the bike, but doing so means that you are no longer receiving the same sort of absolute bargain that you bought it.
Having a fat tire bike incapable of handling much snow reduces its total worth significantly. It explains why some cyclists have incorporated a BIKE SKI, which is an excellent choice for a “cheap” bike.
Alternatively, you can decide to go with another bike rather than making some upgrades on this fat-tire bike. An excellent and affordable option is the Mongoose Dolomite Mens Fat Tire Mountain Bike (View on Amazon).
The Dolomite has a 17-inch frame, 26-inch wheels, disc brakes, 7-speeds, and supersized knobby all-terrain tires.
Who Should Buy Northrock Fat Tire Bike?
This bike is designed primarily for those who consider fat tire bikes to be a fundamental mode of commuting. They might wish to go on a few hikes, except those considered difficult.
The bike’s components cannot saddle strenuous activities; no wonder cyclists get trapped while trying to replace some accessories to prolong the bike’s life.
Costco provides fat tire bikes for low-entry levels, but cyclists should keep their expectations in check. You shouldn’t expect this model to compete with high-end ones that would cost you thousands of bucks.
The Northrock XC00 weight limit is about 300 pounds and costs around $500.
FAQs
1. Are Northrock Bikes Made By Giant?
Giant makes Northrock bikes, which are then sold at Costco.
2. How Do You Assemble A Northrock XC00?
It’s straightforward to assemble a Northrock XC00; you merely need to follow the instructions provided. You could also get someone else to do it if you’d prefer that.
Final Thoughts
From the Northrock XC00 fat tire bike review, it is clear that the bike is a good pick for casual riders and beginners. It is also one of the most affordable bikes available in the market; and one of the best pioneer or backup bikes for long journeys.
Northrock XC00 can be adjusted to accommodate different heights of riders, which is also a benefit.
However, exercise caution when going for long, mountainous, and snowy rides. Remember, its maintenance and constant upgrades of the bike’s accessories could cost you hundreds of bucks.
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