Behind every selection of an ideal mountain bike is a significant amount of research aiming to justify their valuation. So, you came across a Northrock XC27 mountain bike and contemplating getting it? Check this Northrock XC27 Review.
Northrock XC27 spells excellence, from agility to durability, excellent suspension to off-road strength, great wheels topped up with a stylish design. This bike won’t let you down.
If you enjoy exploring the out-of-doors, then you’ll appreciate the importance of a good mountain bike. It makes navigating rough terrains a breeze.
The Northrock XC27 incorporates a host of premium components that would appeal to mountain riders. However, just like any other bike, it is not immune to drawbacks.
This review takes a deep dive into the essential features and other specifications you’ll expect to see on the bike. It also highlights merits, demerits, and many other things you need to know about the Northrock XC27.
With that brief introduction, let’s get this review going.
Northrock XC27 Review: Specifications
| Brand | Northrock |
| Bike Type | Mountain Bike |
| Usage | Trail |
| Brake System | Tektro Mechanical Disc |
| Shifter | Shimano Altus EF-500 Rapid Fire (21 speeds) |
| Fork | SR Suntour XCT 69.9 cm (27.5 in.), preload, 80 mm travel |
| Frame Size | 44.45 cm (17.5 inches) medium |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Altus M310 |
Northrock XC27 Mountain Bike’s Key Features
The following section details some of the outstanding features on a Northrock XC27 that integrate to accord you a smooth ride;
1. Handcrafted 6061 All-Aluminum Alloy Press Formed Frame
Northrock XC27 features a robust and sturdy 6061 aluminum frame that’s light and corrosion-resistant. It is ideal for mountain bikes to withstand rough terrains.
You can comfortably move the bike from one spot to another thanks to its lightweight and responsiveness.
The handcrafted frame contributes to its longevity. It is also easy to clean, thus keeping dust, grease, and mud at bay.
Furthermore, the 6061 aluminum is rust-proof, meaning you don’t have to worry about the bike’s exposure to water.
2. Shimano Components Of Superior Quality
The triple crank and the drivetrain constitute crucial Shimano components that integrate to improve performance.
The bike boasts a Shimano FCT4501 triple crank coupled with a wide gear range. Therefore, you may experiment with different gear combinations to see what makes your ride more fun.
Additionally, the broad range of gears makes your climbing considerably simpler by improving your overall riding performance.
Moreover, the 21-speed Shimano Altus transmission and Shimano shifters provide precision, better control, and rapid shifting.
The drivetrain enables you to install brake levers on your bike, giving you better leverage.
3. Tektro Mechanical Disc Brakes
Brakes form part of the most cardinal accessories on a bike. If you wish to slow down or bring your bike to a complete stop, you’ll need to be in charge of its stopping power.
Northrock XC27 MTB comes with Tektro disc brakes that not only give you control and safety when riding off-road but also offer you massive stopping power.
Handling the bike is pretty simple, owing to the Shimano Altus EF-500 brake levers integrated into it. The brake levers are also easily adjustable.
4. A Front Suspension
The mountain bike’s 27.5-inch frame features a front suspension, whose enhanced traction allows you to ride quicker and more comfortably in off-road conditions. It provides extra steering control and absorbs vibrations, thus making you bike faster and for long hours.
The bike’s front suspension will endure massive shocks, hits, and vibrations when cycling over uneven terrains. Asides from that, it improves the stability of the rims when riding.
5. Maxxis Ikon 27.5” x 2.2 Wheels
These 27.5-inches fast-rolling wheels are large enough to roll smoothly over obstacles without difficulty. They enhance your bike’s flexibility, control, and efficiency.
The wheels enable you to go where you want to by tackling different off-road terrains while maintaining steering precision. They move swiftly on surfaces as you accelerate.
Other Noteworthy Northrock XC27 Features
6. Threadless Stem
The threadless stem links the fork’s steer tube to the handlebar. It combines with the 21-speed shifters to give you an ideal riding position and a smooth ride over mountainous trails.
As a cyclist, you won’t have to jeopardize your riding posture while climbing.
7. Stainless Steel Spokes
Most low-end bikes have spokes that tend to break when subjected to pressure from heavy loads. On the contrary, Northrock XC27 won’t disappoint you when it comes to this.
This MTB features robust stainless steel spokes that bear massive weights, which is something you’d anticipate from a high-quality bike.
8. Universal Mounts
Your Northrock XC27 can easily accommodate a kid seat, a bottle cage, and a rear bike rack. These modifications assist you in getting the most out of your bike.
9. Alloy Double Wall Rims
Because these rims are lightweight, sturdy, and long-lasting, you can count on them to meet your cycling demands for a long time. Furthermore, they will assist you in overcoming unpredictability in rugged terrain.
10. Well-Contoured Velo Saddle
The contoured Velo seat keeps you comfortable when traversing the trickiest terrains for several hours. It improves your performance and raises power output.
11. KMC Chain
The chains on this bike are dependable and long-lasting and help you ride effortlessly fast.
12. VELO Grips
We’ve experienced scenarios where grips loosen, and it’s detestable. However, the Northrock XC27 allows you to keep up with your activities thanks to its VELO grips that guarantee comfort, control, and longevity.
Northrock XC27 Review: Pros And Cons
Pros
- It has a strong aluminum frame
- It’s fitted with strong spokes to sustain heavy load
- It has an efficient braking system
- Features a robust front suspension
- Allows for quick acceleration
- Enhances cycling agility
- Incorporates high-quality rims, wheels, and frames
- Rust-resistant
- Suitable for both men and women
- Needs low maintenance
Cons
- Limited to riders with a height of 5’7” or more
Northrock XC27 Mountain Bike Review: Size Guide
It is paramount to understand a bike’s sizing before purchasing to avoid choosing a bike that’s a mismatch for you. The chart below would help you select a bike that suits your stature:
| BIKE PART | SIZE |
| Frame Size | 17.5 inches (44.45 cm) |
| Effective Top Tube | 21.3 inches (59.5cm) |
| Standover Height | 30.50 inches (76.77cm) |
| 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 | 5’ 7’’ to 6’ 1’’ (170 to 180cm) |
The sizing chart is only a guide, and you’ll need to check the clearance over the bike to get the proper fit by standing over your Northrock XC27 and setting your feet on either side of the bike.
Different standover clearance heights apply to paved and unpaved surfaces. A measurement of 2 inches (5cm) is recommended for paved areas, while 4 inches (10cm) applies to unpaved ones.
Northrock XC27 Vs. XC29
The two MTBs have certain features in common; but also have disparities. If you’re trying to decide between the two, you’ll need to look at both.
a) Similarities
Both bikes feature Shimano Altus 21-speed drivetrains, 6061 handcrafted aluminum frames, and Tektro disc brakes. Besides, they also sport SR Suntour XCT forks, Shimano Altus M310 rear derailleur, Shimano Altus EF 500 brake levers, Maxxis mountain wheels, and KMC-Z50 chains.
Moreover, Costco sells both of these bikes at $349.
b) Differences
The two bikes have significant differences; for instance, Northrock XC27 features a 27.5 inches (69.9cm) fork, while Northrock XC29 has a 29 inches (73.6cm) one.
Another distinguishing feature is the wheel size. The Northrock XC27s measure 27 inches, whereas Northrock XC29s measuring 29 inches.
Furthermore, Northrock XC27 accommodates cyclists that are 5 ft 7 in. to 6 ft 1 in. (170cm to 180cm) tall, whereas Northrock XC29 suits riders with heights of 5 ft 8 in. to 6 ft 3 in. (170cm to 190cm).
Therefore, your height plays a modest role when contemplating the two bikes. Taller cyclists would feel more comfortable on XC29 while the shorter ones would enjoy XC27.
If you want additional mountain bike alternatives, consider the Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike (View on Amazon). It’s made of aluminum and steel frames and has 27.5-inch wheels and 21 speeds.
It also features knobby tires, which make it easy to handle uneven terrain and dual suspension.
FAQs
1. Is Northrock A Good Bike Brand?
Northrock bikes are high-quality bikes built using the latest bike manufacturing technologies to ensure they’re high-performing, long-lasting, and comfortable. They are sleek and affordable for casual riders.
2. How Much Does The Northrock XC27 weigh?
The bike weighs 14.5 kg (32 lb.).
3. Are Northrock Bikes Made By Giant?
Giant makes Northrock bikes while Costco does the retailing. It also manufactures Forge Bikes, which are sold online at Amazon and Target.
Final Thoughts
The Northrock XC27 is an excellent MTB due to its high-quality construction and affordability, which could make you second guess its efficiency.
The specs highlighted in this Northrock XC27 review prove that the low price tag is an absolute steal bearing in mind the comfort, ease of handling, and other goodies it comes incorporates.
It is worth noting that the bike is ideal for both men and women, albeit its frame design is a perfect fit for young males.
