Weight, comfort, efficiency and handling are the four prerequisites of any decent XC bike – and they just so happen to be the four factors that the Swiss brand SCOTT claim to have dramatically improved with their all-new Scale hardtail.
For the frame and hardware, the SCOTT Scale weighs in at 849 g with its HMX SL carbon fibers, which are employed on the Scale RC SL. But it isn’t just its weight that has caught the world’s attention – SCOTT claim to have vastly improved the hardtail’s level of comfort, both when riding in and out of the saddle. The Scale comes in a RC option (4 models both with two wheel size choices), a regular option (13 models and two wheel sizes) and a plus-size tire option with three different builds. All three strands also offer a female-specific model known as the Contessa.
The SCOTT SCALE RC Carbon in detail
The SCOTT Scale features an all-new carbon frame that has been painstakingly developed by SCOTT, seeing them make some crucial changes to the carbon lay-up. As a result, the frame is even lighter, and according to the team it’s also around 47% more comfortable than its predecessor – coming at zero cost to its stiffness and efficiency.
The right model for every rider
Given the three model options, there’s sufficient scope for the SCOTT Scale to appeal to every rider. Firstly there’s the XC racer-orientated RC model with its focus on achieving the ultimate efficiency. Then there’s the regular Scale that’s also 2x compatible and therefore even more adaptable. It comes in both a 27.5″ and a 29″ wheel options, as well as with both a carbon or aluminium frame choice. The Scale Plus exclusively comes with an aluminium frame, but thanks to its chubby tires it’s probably the most versatile of the trio.
Geometry of the SCOTT Scale RC
SCOTT haven’t just tuned the spec to suit the bikes’ intended purposes, they’ve also adjusted their respective geometry, seeing the re-incarnated RC now take a slacker head angle, steeper seat angle, smaller stack and longer frame when compared to its former model. The aluminium frame on the plus-size model has been designed with an even slacker 66.5° head angle to further boost its performance on descents.
Scott Scale 900 RC: SL, Ultimate, World Cup, Pro
Scott Scale 900/910/920
Scott Scale 700 RC: SL, Ultimate, World Cup, Pro
Scott Scale 700/710/720
Scott Scale Plus RC: 700/710/720 SL, Ultimate, World Cup, Pro
Prices and availability
We can’t disclose any of the final prices for the Scale models just yet but according to SCOTT the bikes will be available in shops this autumn.
Our first impression of the SCOTT Scale RC Carbon
Our first impressions confirmed that the RC model looks set to satisfy – if not exceed – the criteria for being a mega fast XC bike, so it comes as no surprise to hear that Nino Schurter has extended his contract with SCOTT for yet another four years. It’s also ace to see the plus-size models cutting a fine figure on paper, showing both a sorted spec and wisely chosen geometry. But while it’s commendable that there’s so much diversity in the new SCOTT Scale range, this could lead to some confusion and uncertainty.
More information on the SCOTT website
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
Words & Photos:
