One nitpick just for clarity (and I know this video is a couple of years old) - It’s only the Spark RC models that are considered XC. The other models of Sparks are categorized as Trail bikes, along with the Genius.
i just got my hand on a spark 920 from 2018 not used with a huge discount , even though it's nearly the same as the 2021 model, couldn't be much happier
Both are great bikes, but in my experience most people walk into the bike shop and get caught up with the longer travel, albeit heavier bikes. They ride with us and get left in the dust as our 24 pound "only 120mm" Spark-style bikes out-climb and out-maneuver them. In reality, most people ride XC but watch these videos of really good riders riding stuff they rarely will.
@@fitnesschefen Get the spark, i am. I went into my local shop and the guy said the sparks is the way to go. Im getting the 950 2019 but i've had to order an XL which will arrive in about two weeks. I ride mostly forest, cross country trails and i current have a Merida hard tail. I asked about the genius but he said you'd be amazed by how capable the spark is.
I own a Spark and my buddy has a Genius. We both are at the same level of riding and I have no problems keeping up with him on descents. The gearing is a tiny bit different in the rear and I start putting a gap on him when climbing.
Jetsetteren I have the Spark 710 and ride a lot of XC trails which are fairly rocky and I rip on it. I’ve been debating on a Spark but only if I can get it close to 21lbs like my Scale and that will cost me $10k. The thing to consider is the weight v price. There’s a HUGE difference between a 21-22lb HT and a 25-28lb full sus that will cost you $4-5k. Unless you ride on very rocky trails I really don’t see the need for a full sus unless you have loads of cash to burn. HTs are so responsive and light. Just depends on what kind of riding you plan on doing and your budget. Problem is if you’ve ever had a really light bike the last night thing you want is a heavy bike...an extra 5-8lbs changes everything big time. Full sus will not make up for poor bike handling skills.
Great explanation, thanks! I just got a spark and now I feel like I will be able to ride it in a more intelligent way. I had never given much thought to the difference between the XC and downhill objectives, since we all do both. But I'm not in my 20's anymore and i want to keep this body intact, while enjoying the beauty and freedom of the mountains. So I am for sure an XC guy, not an aggressive downhiller. Lots of interesting subtleties to take into account in this sport!
@@human_no847 I like the spark a lot. I compare it to my Specialized hard tail. The Spark makes me feel safer and more confident in the downhill. I ride in the Italian Alps a lot where the trails were not made originally for bikes. These are hiking trails essentially and are even more difficult than what you see on a typical YT video about MTB. That means safety is the top priority. Now I can't believe that I used to take the hardtail to go down those mountains :-O Also, the remote controlled drop saddle is a game changer. Adds a LOT of safety, comfort and pedaling leverage. I love it!
I had the spark 730 plus, I've recently bought a new bike, a trek remedy. Although I like the remedy my spark felt so much more maneuverable and more fun to ride. And the frame looks beautiful. I'm going to go back to scott next and get the genius.
I've had my Genius for a year now. No problems with it. Has been reliable in various terrains both climbing and descending. I would buy a Scott bike again.
I ride a 2018 Trek Roscoe 8. Its got 27.5 plus tires, its a hard tail with 1x11 gearing. Its a mountain goat on trails. Its only got 120mm of travel but somehow I have absolutely no problem keeping up with my co riders who are on 4k(US) Pivot Trail 429's. Honestly, the bike industry wants to sell you a full suspension because they make more money but in reality, you probably only need a decent hardtail. Even if you went with FS, many bike manufacturers are making the short travel 29er now which just shows you that travel isn't everything.
Hi , I need some advice regards to the x fusion nude rear suspension on my 3 month old Scott 940 strike ebike Can you point in the right direction , I would like to speak to an expert , the shop I bought the bike from have no idea or don’t care Help ! Thanks
Spark is 120mm - I own a 2017 940. BUT you can easily swap a cartridge in the front fork and bump it to 130mm or 140mm. Scott has told me they will still warrantly the bike upto 20mm over stock.
how much torque in tightening does the shock bolt from the flip chip have? scott genius 2019 ... exchanged the flip chip and there are no NM of all places
that would ruin the geometry of the bike, the trade off wouldnt be worth it i Say. Its designed to absord the imapct at a certain angle and it would be probably bad for the frame.
Hi!, I am in the process of getting a new bike, my whole experience is 26” bike with an upright position , never ridden a 29” or 27.5, I went to a local store and sat on a Scott spark 27.5 and it feels much like a i use to, do you think this is an easier transition from 26” to 27.5 or 29 ?, I just don’t like the layback feeling of new bikes, would this be a good all around mountain bike? (on sale too! ), I am not a aggressive rider but I do enjoy downhill and some climbing too. Maybe you can help me , I hope it makes sense my question, thanks and have a blessed day.
nice vid... missing seen you from gmbn, questio. I have a genius from 2016 (horizontal rear sus) 27.5 inch weels size, ¿how I can know if my bike can fit 29 inch weels or even 27.5 + ? ... rather than just try obviously, am looking for versatility because I also have a hard tail 29 but am more attached to full sus now a days.
I'm having difficulties with the rear sus of my spark 930. It seems too progressive. So if I use 30% sag, it's harsh and can't use more than 60-70% of the travel. If I use 40% sag it seems more plush. But even than, I couldn't use more than 75-80%of travel. If I use 55% sag, than I could move full travel, but the bike feels sluggish. I already take it to the authorized dealers and they said it's normal. I did all the process described at manual, and nothing changes. Have you any advices of set up? ( before I sell it and try the trek fuel or TV he following?)
Juscelino Castro Blasczyk I was having the same exactly issue. Just never getting the right settings , too progressive and harsh with the right sag and no getting full travel , so I heard some guys talk about the spacers inside the fork and the shock. Keep in mind I weight 170, 5”8 and I ride a little aggressive and I have the spark plus. So I decided to mess with it. I opened my fork to find 3 spacers (or tokens). I took off 2 leaving it just with one spacers, then I went to the shock and open it and I just found 1 spacers. I decided to take off. So set it back with the right sag again 17% front and 27 % back. Let tell you. What a difference that made. Made it more plush one the and I was finally getting more travel. Now after a year of playing with the setting. I love this bike. Rides and handles like a dream now. I definitely recommend to check the spacers. I’m sure you have to many. That’s what makes it more progressive. I don’t need a progressive ride. I need fun one :). Good luck
Joel Beristain my fork work just fine. But my rear shock is too much progressive and harsh. It's a shame. Because I really like the bike as my trail bike. But I'm beginning to consider change it. Maybe a trek fuel or a evil following.
I love what Scott offers and would have a hard time picking between Spark and Genius. Fortunately, I don't have to choose because the TwinLock system is a total turn-off. Please Scott, make twin-lock an option so us people that don't want all the extra fuss and proprietary shocks can still fall in love with your bikes. I tested the previous version of the Genius and found that I only enjoyed riding in the open setting and the extra buttons just cluttered up the handlebars and all those cables... yuck. Absolutely stunning bikes and thank you for modernizing XC race bikes to being way more stable and fun!
If you don´t want Twin lock on bike and want to ride still in "open" mode, there is no easier way than to remove it from the bike. IMO don´t understand, why Twin lock is barrier for you to fall in love with Scott bikes ;-)
The twin lock system is awesome! I wish more manufacturers would put remotes on their shocks and forks. I for one like cables and bar clutter, it saves me having to reach down to change gears, brake, drop the seat, and change suspension settings. I like it a lot.
It went together easily in less than an hour. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L Make sure the front fork is forward or the pedals will hit the front tire. Tires are both a little soft so it needs air before I ride it. The rear wheel didn't come with a clamp regular bolts hold it on. The front had the clamp. No scratches out of box. Rims are a little off with a slight wobble. They could have spent more time with the spoke tool fixing the run out. So far out of the box I'm happy with it. I did replace the pedals with a nice aftermarket set. After riding it a bit my A$$ is a bit sore so I ordered another seat. Overall I'm nearly 60 and didn't ride a bike in 30 years. I like my new 29" Schwinn. It will be used for casual rides with my friend.
I was able to ride the genius last summer. I was astonished by it. I loved it!! So far the best bike I've ever ridden.
One nitpick just for clarity (and I know this video is a couple of years old) - It’s only the Spark RC models that are considered XC. The other models of Sparks are categorized as Trail bikes, along with the Genius.
Nice to know, thanks for the clarification
i just got my hand on a spark 920 from 2018 not used with a huge discount , even though it's nearly the same as the 2021 model, couldn't be much happier
Both are great bikes, but in my experience most people walk into the bike shop and get caught up with the longer travel, albeit heavier bikes. They ride with us and get left in the dust as our 24 pound "only 120mm" Spark-style bikes out-climb and out-maneuver them. In reality, most people ride XC but watch these videos of really good riders riding stuff they rarely will.
Very Cool
reniam so what do you suggest? Im only riding trails in the forrest? Genius or spark? Im a noobie
@@fitnesschefen Get the spark, i am. I went into my local shop and the guy said the sparks is the way to go. Im getting the 950 2019 but i've had to order an XL which will arrive in about two weeks. I ride mostly forest, cross country trails and i current have a Merida hard tail. I asked about the genius but he said you'd be amazed by how capable the spark is.
I own a Spark and my buddy has a Genius. We both are at the same level of riding and I have no problems keeping up with him on descents. The gearing is a tiny bit different in the rear and I start putting a gap on him when climbing.
Jetsetteren I have the Spark 710 and ride a lot of XC trails which are fairly rocky and I rip on it. I’ve been debating on a Spark but only if I can get it close to 21lbs like my Scale and that will cost me $10k. The thing to consider is the weight v price. There’s a HUGE difference between a 21-22lb HT and a 25-28lb full sus that will cost you $4-5k. Unless you ride on very rocky trails I really don’t see the need for a full sus unless you have loads of cash to burn. HTs are so responsive and light. Just depends on what kind of riding you plan on doing and your budget. Problem is if you’ve ever had a really light bike the last night thing you want is a heavy bike...an extra 5-8lbs changes everything big time. Full sus will not make up for poor bike handling skills.
Beginning song is:( Max Cloe - Safari )thank me later👍
We missed you at gmbn
Definitely
Great explanation, thanks! I just got a spark and now I feel like I will be able to ride it in a more intelligent way. I had never given much thought to the difference between the XC and downhill objectives, since we all do both. But I'm not in my 20's anymore and i want to keep this body intact, while enjoying the beauty and freedom of the mountains. So I am for sure an XC guy, not an aggressive downhiller. Lots of interesting subtleties to take into account in this sport!
Same, just got a spark (used to ride hardtails but my joints are complaining now) ...how are you finding it?
@@human_no847 I like the spark a lot. I compare it to my Specialized hard tail. The Spark makes me feel safer and more confident in the downhill. I ride in the Italian Alps a lot where the trails were not made originally for bikes. These are hiking trails essentially and are even more difficult than what you see on a typical YT video about MTB. That means safety is the top priority. Now I can't believe that I used to take the hardtail to go down those mountains :-O Also, the remote controlled drop saddle is a game changer. Adds a LOT of safety, comfort and pedaling leverage. I love it!
I have 2017 spark 720 plus..best bike i have ever owned...
i just bought one today : ) how are you finding it
I have the 710 plus. Upgrade to carbon handle, tubless and 1x. It’s down to 27 pounds. I love this thing!
I had the spark 730 plus, I've recently bought a new bike, a trek remedy. Although I like the remedy my spark felt so much more maneuverable and more fun to ride. And the frame looks beautiful. I'm going to go back to scott next and get the genius.
That background music 😫
Very good video, I'm a Specialized guy but this has me interested in Scott
I've had my Genius for a year now. No problems with it. Has been reliable in various terrains both climbing and descending. I would buy a Scott bike again.
Good ol scotty
I ride a 2018 Trek Roscoe 8. Its got 27.5 plus tires, its a hard tail with 1x11 gearing. Its a mountain goat on trails. Its only got 120mm of travel but somehow I have absolutely no problem keeping up with my co riders who are on 4k(US) Pivot Trail 429's. Honestly, the bike industry wants to sell you a full suspension because they make more money but in reality, you probably only need a decent hardtail. Even if you went with FS, many bike manufacturers are making the short travel 29er now which just shows you that travel isn't everything.
Can you fit a 27.5 on the spark?
Oh yes sure u can
Weird question
When will you install your new XTR components?
What's the song when Scotty starts riding the Spark
SCOTTYYYYYYYYYYY
But Scott. I thought you had a DH bike also. :P
Scotty what album is the song towards the end of the video
Where would you put the spark plus of 2017 with 130mm travel fork?
James it would be a light trail bike
It rides better then my enduro bike. My 710 plus with with a few upgrades is down to 27 pounds. Rides like a dream
Would like to see the same review in 2022
As the Spark 930 now has 130mm upfront
I want a Genius soooo dam bad!!
Picked mine up earlier today. Lightly used, looks like new, about one quarter list price. Yet to be ridden.
Same Ian
I have one
Wat size frame of your genius?
Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the Spark a three pivot bike, and not a single pivot one?
Bro, the spark is not an XC bike, it's a trail bike
Its the mix combo of being able to race it, but still spend the day trail riding
It's the spark 900. It is xc
Hi , I need some advice regards to the x fusion nude rear suspension on my 3 month old Scott 940 strike ebike
Can you point in the right direction , I would like to speak to an expert , the shop I bought the bike from have no idea or don’t care
Help ! Thanks
The Scott Spark 700 Plus Tuned is the best Scott's bike ever made.. it's an aio machine (except for heavy DH)
bro saya mau tanya harga spark 960 berapa bro...
indonesian
rear suspension reminds me of a Trek bike
Are you guys just ignoring the fact that you sell the Spark as a 27.5 x 2.8 as well? Also the Spark is 130mm up front, seems relevant.
Didn’t know that, 130 mm good enough for me.
I have a spark 720 with 7.5x2.8 with a fox 34 fork so I am confused by this, anyway I love riding it
Spark is 120mm - I own a 2017 940. BUT you can easily swap a cartridge in the front fork and bump it to 130mm or 140mm. Scott has told me they will still warrantly the bike upto 20mm over stock.
@@motorradventures3323 I own a 2021 with 130mm in front, so this means I can add up to 150mm?
how much torque in tightening does the shock bolt from the flip chip have? scott genius 2019 ... exchanged the flip chip and there are no NM of all places
10nm
Great to se scotty at work 🤙🏻😁
Can you upgrade the suspension on a Spark? To say something a little longer, 140mm perhaps?
that would ruin the geometry of the bike, the trade off wouldnt be worth it i Say. Its designed to absord the imapct at a certain angle and it would be probably bad for the frame.
title of the song when scotty rides the sparks thank you..
Thanks for the share, wondering about battery life?
Hi!, I am in the process of getting a new bike, my whole experience is 26” bike with an upright position , never ridden a 29” or 27.5, I went to a local store and sat on a Scott spark 27.5 and it feels much like a i use to, do you think this is an easier transition from 26” to 27.5 or 29 ?, I just don’t like the layback feeling of new bikes, would this be a good all around mountain bike? (on sale too! ), I am not a aggressive rider but I do enjoy downhill and some climbing too. Maybe you can help me , I hope it makes sense my question, thanks and have a blessed day.
nice vid... missing seen you from gmbn, questio. I have a genius from 2016 (horizontal rear sus) 27.5 inch weels size, ¿how I can know if my bike can fit 29 inch weels or even 27.5 + ? ... rather than just try obviously, am looking for versatility because I also have a hard tail 29 but am more attached to full sus now a days.
Sergio Cristancho no
I'm having difficulties with the rear sus of my spark 930. It seems too progressive. So if I use 30% sag, it's harsh and can't use more than 60-70% of the travel. If I use 40% sag it seems more plush. But even than, I couldn't use more than 75-80%of travel. If I use 55% sag, than I could move full travel, but the bike feels sluggish. I already take it to the authorized dealers and they said it's normal. I did all the process described at manual, and nothing changes. Have you any advices of set up? ( before I sell it and try the trek fuel or TV he following?)
Juscelino Castro Blasczyk I was having the same exactly issue. Just never getting the right settings , too progressive and harsh with the right sag and no getting full travel , so I heard some guys talk about the spacers inside the fork and the shock. Keep in mind I weight 170, 5”8 and I ride a little aggressive and I have the spark plus. So I decided to mess with it. I opened my fork to find 3 spacers (or tokens). I took off 2 leaving it just with one spacers, then I went to the shock and open it and I just found 1 spacers. I decided to take off.
So set it back with the right sag again 17% front and 27 % back. Let tell you. What a difference that made. Made it more plush one the and I was finally getting more travel.
Now after a year of playing with the setting. I love this bike. Rides and handles like a dream now.
I definitely recommend to check the spacers. I’m sure you have to many. That’s what makes it more progressive. I don’t need a progressive ride. I need fun one :). Good luck
Joel Beristain i did it , found no spacers or tokens.
Joel Beristain my fork work just fine. But my rear shock is too much progressive and harsh.
It's a shame. Because I really like the bike as my trail bike.
But I'm beginning to consider change it. Maybe a trek fuel or a evil following.
Nice Scott
What’s your opinion on the S Works EPIC XC?
Philip C he will say it’s bad cause he is sponsored by Scott
shout out Scoty Lachland!
Anyone know the music to this video?
Did you find it yet? Looking all over for that song!
Andrew Ho found it, The song is: Max Cloe- Safari thank me later👍
genius is enduro or just good trail? If to compare GT Force and Genius its equal? Or GT Sanction and Genius is equal?
Force and genius are equal.
whats the name of the song
greg viloan The song is: Max Cloe- Safari thank me later👍
Scottyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
I love all the scotts in this vid
I love what Scott offers and would have a hard time picking between Spark and Genius. Fortunately, I don't have to choose because the TwinLock system is a total turn-off. Please Scott, make twin-lock an option so us people that don't want all the extra fuss and proprietary shocks can still fall in love with your bikes. I tested the previous version of the Genius and found that I only enjoyed riding in the open setting and the extra buttons just cluttered up the handlebars and all those cables... yuck. Absolutely stunning bikes and thank you for modernizing XC race bikes to being way more stable and fun!
If you don´t want Twin lock on bike and want to ride still in "open" mode, there is no easier way than to remove it from the bike. IMO don´t understand, why Twin lock is barrier for you to fall in love with Scott bikes ;-)
The twin lock system is awesome! I wish more manufacturers would put remotes on their shocks and forks. I for one like cables and bar clutter, it saves me having to reach down to change gears, brake, drop the seat, and change suspension settings. I like it a lot.
I wish I have that kind of bike.So I can travel alone with all-in-one capability.
Song?
Ieuan Williams The song is: Max Cloe- Safari thank me later👍
What is the name of the song? It's so siick!
The song is: Max Cloe- Safari thank me later👍
My man scotty
On my way to getting a 900 spark, foolishly nearly bought a Marin
I’m sold! Crap I already have the genius in the shed
my spark is something between these two bikes
Which spark do you have
It went together easily in less than an hour. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L Make sure the front fork is forward or the pedals will hit the front tire. Tires are both a little soft so it needs air before I ride it. The rear wheel didn't come with a clamp regular bolts hold it on. The front had the clamp. No scratches out of box. Rims are a little off with a slight wobble. They could have spent more time with the spoke tool fixing the run out. So far out of the box I'm happy with it. I did replace the pedals with a nice aftermarket set. After riding it a bit my A$$ is a bit sore so I ordered another seat. Overall I'm nearly 60 and didn't ride a bike in 30 years. I like my new 29" Schwinn. It will be used for casual rides with my friend.
Spark 970 my dream bike 😍🥰
Scott bicycles are what years do the first bicycles! I want to know ! What next ? I want to buys !!
I want that SCOTT Genius!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good content but whoever mixed the audio needs to check their levels.
me tooooooooo
Felt EDICT FRD for the win!
cool.
I have Scott Aspect 760 2016
Son la mejor marca del mundo
What size was the genius?
nice bike, but i've no money.
rofl
Pls shut out for me pls
The spark has two pivots
Stumpyyyyy
no, just NO!