# Uniquely Shaped Mountain Bikes The Norco Optic C2 Offers a Distinct Riding Experience By Justin Lam | Published 2018-08-16 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/optic-c2 References: [coolhunting](https://coolhunting.com/design/test-ride-norco-optic-c2/) & [norco](https://www.norco.com/bikes/mountain/trail/optic-carbon/optic-c2/) The [Norco](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fluid-vlt) Optic C2 may not be the flashiest mountain bike but this humble bicycle actually packs in a lot of features ideal for tackling rough terrain and harsh environments. Equipped with a [carbon frame](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/thok-tp4-r), GX1 12-speed rear shifter, GX Eagle derailleur, Elite 34 Float fork and Fox Elite shock, the Optic C2 carries many of the same features as high-end mountain bikes. Where the bike differs from the norm comes in the distinct shape of the frame. A slack 68-degree head-angle and gravity-tune geometry ensures the bike maintains an optimal wheelbase for all of its frame sizes. This shape also lends itself to a playful and free-flowing style of riding when taking steep descents. Image Credit: [AV Wakefield](https://www.instagram.com/viktorianorth/?hl=en) ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.8/10 - Popularity: 69% | Activity: 68% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Sports](https://www.trendhunter.com/sports) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Distinct Frame Shapes:** Exploring unique frame designs for enhanced performance and riding experiences. - **Gravity-tune Geometry:** Incorporating specific geometry to optimize wheelbase and maneuverability on mountain bikes. - **Playful Riding Style:** Developing bikes with designs that promote a more free-flowing and dynamic riding experience. ### Who This Affects Most - **Bicycle Manufacturing:** Opportunities for manufacturers to create innovative bicycle designs with distinct frame shapes and gravity-tune geometry. - **Sports and Outdoor Retail:** Retailers can cater to consumers seeking mountain bikes with unique frame shapes and gravity-tune geometry for improved performance. - **Outdoor Adventure Tourism:** Tourism companies can offer mountain biking experiences that emphasize a playful and free-flowing riding style on distinct frame-shaped bikes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Ultra-Rugged Off-Road Bicycles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cotic-cascade-adventure-bike.md) - [Height-Accommodating E-Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fluid-vlt.md) - [Geometrically-Optimized Mountain Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/r-x1000.md) - [Premium Range Mountain Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/decoy-mx-core-5.md) - [Precision-Engineered Short-Travel Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/canyon.md) - [Rugged Technical Bicycles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/knolly.md) - [Endurance-Focused E-Mountain Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/helium-enduro-7.md) - [Versatile Step-Through E-Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/norco-scene-vlt-2022.md) - [Shock-Absorbing Urban Bicycles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urban-bicycles.md)