While the 2016 Sea Otter Classic was some time ago, there are still many bikes and products that we saw there to show you, like new offerings from Blue Competition Cycles.
We’re currently reviewing Blue Competition Cycles' Norcross EX cyclocross bike. But the company that sponsored former National Champion Jonathan Page has other Norcross models that are available to riders looking for a new bike, as well as a drop bar road/gravel bike in the Prosecco for those looking beyond cyclocross specifically.
Blue Competition Cycles Norcross SL cyclocross bike. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
First up is the new Norcross SL, which features a higher modulus carbon frame constructed of full T700 carbon compared to the EX model and reportedly saves 200 grams over the model we're currently riding. The SL trim also sports a mechanical Shimano Dura-Ace drivetrain, which anymore is a rare find on cyclocross bikes, given the proliferation of Di2 on high-end, race-oriented bikes.
The Rotor crank with round rings on the Norcross SL cyclocross bike. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
The SL's use of a Rotor crankset, with round rings, keeps the drivetrain package light, while both the cockpit components and carbon tubeless wheels are the same as those found on the EX model and are carbon offerings from Aerus. Pricing and availability on the bike is to be announced.
Blue Competition Cycles' Norcross SP cyclocross bike. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
There is also the Norcross SP. The SP model is built around the same frame as the Norcross EX's and features a mechanical Shimano 105 drivetrain mated to TRP's Spyre mechanical disc brakes and a non-series Shimano RS-500 crankset. The bike rolls on an Aerus Quantum AL-24 clincher wheelset wrapped in Hutchinson Toro CX tires. The bike retails for $2,046 USD.
Blue Competition Cycles' Prosecco AL aluminum drop bar road/gravel bike. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
Finally there is the Prosecco drop bar road/gravel bike. The bike comes in two carbon models that like the Norcross cyclocross bike line are designated by EX and SL versions. The bike shown here though is the alloy Prosecco AL. The frame is a 6000 series hydro-formed, double butted affair paired with a full carbon, tapered fork.
The non-series RS-500 crankset as seen on the Norcross SP. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
The Prosecco AL's build is like that of the Norcross SP, a mechanical Shimano 105 drivetrain spinning on a non-series Shimano RS-500 crankset. Where the Norcross SP runs the TRP Spyre brakes, the Prosecco AL stops on mechanical Hayes disc brakes. Fitting with its intended use of gravel rides and longer adventures rather than just cyclocross races, the Prosecco AL features rack and fender mounts as well. The bike sells for $1,364 USD.
More info: rideblue.com
Like the Prosecco AL, the Norcross SP runs Shimano’s 105 kit. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
