2012 Norco CCX2: aluminum/carbon with disc brakes, $1199

This bike inspired us to make an exception to our belt-drive, internally geared hub lineup for urban bikes. Now that disc brakes are legal in cyclocross racing, for 2012 Norco adds disc to its mainstay ‘cross bike, the CCX2. That change, combined with the 2′s aluminum frame, carbon fork, and Continental Double Fighter 700×37 street tires with side tread, makes this an excellent choice as a fast commuter, winter cx trainer, year-round adventure vehicle, and of course racing. And it’s a fairly incredible bargain at $1199. Swap out the tires and you’re ready to race. The only thing we didn’t care for was the white grip tape…so we’re offering customers a choice of black or blue bar tape at no extra charge. Fully accepting of racks, fenders, bottle cages.