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Test of the Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS

Developed by the renowned Swiss brand, the Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS represents one of the most advanced and high-performing mountain bikes available on the market. Specifically designed for cross-country (XC) competitions, Scott's equipment gives a unique name to its fastest bikes: the RC. This acronym stands for Racing Concept, dedicated to cyclists seeking optimal competition performance. Among these bikes, the Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS stands out as the flagship model, being the lightest in the range at just 10 kg. The Spark has racked up victories in recent years, from World Championships to the XCO World Cup, as well as the Cape Epic, the world's most prestigious mountain bike stage race. But what can this bike bring to us, mountain bikers who don't have the abilities of a world champion? That's what we'll discover in this article.

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Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS: Pioneer of XCO

The Scott Spark RC range continues to expand. It starts at €3,699 with its entry-level model, the RC Comp, up to €14,999 with its top-of-the-range model, the RC SL (EU). Between these two models, you will find notably the RC World Cup AXS at €7,999 and the Spark RC Pro at €5,999.

Not surprisingly, at a price of €12,999, the Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS is among the high-end models.

Full-suspension cross-country MTB

The Spark RC is the most awarded full-suspension cross-country bike to date. Designed by riders for riders, the RC series (or Racing Concept) is aimed at dominating the competition.

Among the major innovations of this model, one can mention the position of the shock absorber and a significant evolution of the geometry. It can be said that the Scott Spark initiated the concept of modern XC bikes. SL stands for Super Light, weighing just 10 kg, ideal for cross-country.

TwinLoc Suspension System

The most well-known and relevant feature of the Spark range is the TwinLoc suspension system. Paired with the Fox NUDE EVOL shock absorber, customized for Scott, this system allows adjustment in three positions:

Lockout: the stiffest of the three modes, perfect for smooth trails or forest roads. This mode can handle a challenging section while protecting the fork and shock absorber from damage.
Traction Control: one air chamber remains closed, reducing the air volume of the shock absorber. This decreases the actual travel and creates a more progressive air compression curve. The bike's geometry is modified. The rider is positioned higher, placing them in a more efficient position to maximize performance and attack technical climbs. The bike is more maneuverable, agile, and efficient, without sacrificing traction or sensitivity. This mode is ideal for less steep terrain where speed is important, as well as technical climbs requiring optimal traction and comfort.
Descend: you benefit from the full available travel of the rear wheel. The fork and shock absorber have been optimized for downhill riding.

These adjustments allow cyclists to quickly adjust suspension based on terrain and race conditions.

Geometry of this Full-Suspension MTB

The geometry and suspension capability of the Spark provide confidence rarely matched in XC, particularly on descents. By fully opening the TwinLoc, we benefit from extraordinary sensitivity, giving the impression of having more travel than expected, with our only limitations on steep slopes coming from the lack of a telescopic seat post.

On climbs, the bike's lightness and the TwinLoc system are our allies. The intermediate position offers exceptional traction on steep terrain. When conditions allow, the lockout mode transforms every pedal stroke into noticeable progress. The high rigidity of the frame and Syncros Silverton SL wheels also contribute to this efficiency.

A particular feature that quickly grabs our attention is the bike's silence. The overall quality, especially of the monobloc wheels, means that most of the time, only the contact of the tires with the ground is noticeable.

An Exclusive Frame

The frame geometry is optimized for cross-country competition. It offers an ideal combination of stability and agility, allowing cyclists to navigate technical terrain with precision while maintaining high speed on rolling sections.

There are three types of frames. The more affordable versions feature HMF fibers, while high-end models use HMX or HMX SL fibers, some of the lightest and stiffest materials available, minimizing weight while maximizing strength and durability. The HMX SL carbon used in this bike uses high-module and highly sophisticated carbon fibers to achieve these performance levels.

All cables are integrated into the frame for a clean look and improved aerodynamics. This design also reduces wear and maintenance.

Luxury Equipment for High-End Cross-Country MTB

Syncros Silverton SL Wheels

Its price is also justified by exceptional components that deserve special attention. The Syncros Silverton SL wheels are a perfect example. Made from a single piece of carbon fiber and weighing 1,250 g, these wheels are the lightest on the market and thus allow better acceleration and maneuverability. They are equipped with Maxxis Ikon tires, which impress with their performance offering a good balance between rolling and grip. These tubeless ready tires with a width of 2.20 inches offer excellent traction and low rolling resistance, optimized for speed and performance in XC.

Fox 34 SC Float Factory, a Fork that Redefines XC Standards

Until recently, a fork with 34 mm stanchions was considered a Trail or even Enduro fork. However, the evolution of cross-country bikes has led to the integration of forks as robust as this into XC ranges. In this context, it offers 110 mm of travel.

Its unparalleled rigidity is not the only notable feature of the Fox 34 SC Float Factory. Indeed, its stanchions, in the high-end version, benefit from Fox's Kashima finish.

On very rough terrain, the remarkable rigidity of the Fox 34 SC Float Factory stands out, allowing you to easily choose the right path and overcome obstacles faster than usual. On descents, this quality is reinforced by the confidence provided by Shimano XTR brakes, offering more power than needed to stop the bike in all situations.

Superior-Quality Components

Other components are also supplied by Syncros. Special mention goes to the Syncros Fraser IC SL carbon monobloc stem and handlebar set, which looks spectacular. With a width of 74 cm, its design is equivalent to a 70 mm stem in size M.

The Syncros Belcarra Regular 1.0 saddle, with a width of 130 mm, may seem narrow to some cyclists. However, it facilitates slowing down on descents, especially since the bike does not have a telescopic seat post.

High-End Transmission

The MTB is equipped with the Sram XX1 AXS transmission. This wireless electronic group represents the highest standard of the brand. Weighing only 1,415 grams, the XX1 Eagle AXS group is both lightweight and of excellent quality. In addition, gear changes are effortless and wear is reduced. With the AXS app, you can further customize the group according to your preferences.

Fitted with a 10/52 cassette and a 32-tooth chainring, this bike allows you to climb impossible slopes.

Riding with the Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS

Although it is a bike focused on competition and maximum performance, you will be pleasantly surprised by its comfort. The short stem allows you to ride without being too stretched out. As for absorbing uneven terrain, the wide section of its tires and a suspension more comfortable than expected from a thoroughbred XC, make comfort the first quality that catches our attention.

Performance and Maneuverability

Despite the aforementioned comfort, the bike accelerates easily when we increase the pace. However, with this suspension system, it is almost essential to use the intermediate position of the TwinLoc as soon as we press on the pedals to avoid excessive sway.

One of the peculiarities of the 2021 Spark RC is the increase in fork travel while still retaining its perfectly adapted racing character.

While the Scott Spark RC 900 SL AXS is the ideal model for demanding competitions and demonstrates exceptional performance (right, Nino Schurter?), it is much more than just a racing bike. The riding comfort it offers and the performance of its suspensions also make it an ideal choice for more relaxed outings. Cyclists looking for a fast bike they can rely on while fully enjoying the trails will find in this Spark a serious contender and at an unbeatable price offered by The Cyclist House.

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Chloé Wilhelem

Passionate about sports, Chloé decided to take up triathlon in 2017. She discovered cycling that same year and has been hooked ever since. She has a soft spot for climbing mountain passes. Between the Tourmalet and Mont Ventoux, her heart is torn. Her dream? To explore the world on a bike and continue to make a living from her profession, web writing. What does she think about refurbished bikes? The perfect solution to indulge yourself! Because that's what cycling is all about, isn't it?