Thanks for the rider’s eye view of the bike in action. I know what to look forward to when I get mine. I saw Nino riding his in a UCI championship race & I noticed that he looked totally different from the other riders. So I looked into his equipment and quickly realized the Scott Spark is a major piece of efficiency and technical advancement. I'm just a casual rider but I know I will really like this bike. 👍☮️🌞🌟🚲🚴
Could you check the headset cups? There is some unclarity about the options for the rc and 900, most resources agree that they have the exact same frame, but the rc is sold in the steepest setting and the 900 in the most slack (difference in spec is 1.4, 1.2 from the cups 0.2 from the 130mm fork?). That would mean you can't go steeper (to 68) on the RC as you mentioned, only slacker in 2 steps.
The Scott Spark 910 is my dream bike, I really appreciated some of your verbal comparisons between the demoed RC AXS and the 900 series. I have never had an AXS set up on a bike, is it that or SRAM itself which allowed that bike to be as quiet as it was ? My current bike just has the entry Shimano Deore 12 speed set up and can be a bit noisy. Anyhow, thanks for the amazing ride and review video, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Great review! How smooth is the suspension on smallish bumps hit in quick succession, such as roots and breaking bumps? Does it do a good job of absorbing the impacts or does if feel more harsh?
Sorry Fritso, missed your comment. The suspension can be set up to be pretty sensitive as you've always got the option to lock out. You need to run the pressures low in the bigger tyres though or they'll feel stiff and the stiffness of the frame means it doesn't naturally flex and flow as much as something like an Epic. Santa Cruz Blur sits somewhere in between the two and I'm just about to post that review now.
thanks for the detailed ride review. Dont you think that the bike is kinda expensive and heavy with those components? you mentioned that for sure a dropper post, but what else would be a must have upgrade on this bike?
I wouldn't get the top fuel. My friend just bought the 2021 9.7 and while it's very light I just wouldn't take it over the 900 RC Team Issue (his pivot bolt fell out and damaged the bike, the chainring also rubbed the frame, not sure if that's because of the pivot bolt or the chain stay flexing). I just went and tested the 900 RC and would have gotten it if it was an XL. I ended up with the 910 just to get an XL and a dropper post. The 900 RC is the nicest XC bike I've seen.. I've owned the Orbea Oiz as well and the Spark RC AXS is AMAZING! The 910 non RC is also an amazing bike and more trail oriented which is why I got it.
Thanks for the review. How did you find the sizing compared to the previous Spark? I have one in pre-order because I really like my current Spark, but with the different geo I am a bit worried it will feel too big.
A little different situation: I fit perfect on a medium Scale, but I picked up the 2022 Spark and went with a Small. The older spark I would have gotten the Medium but with the new geometry the small was perfect for me.
also for reference I’m 5’7” (171cm) and basically was upper end of Small and low end on Medium. Small did not feel cramped, if anything, feels bigger than my medium Scale.
This bike or the 910 non RC? They're both the same price.. I chose the 910 but I'm almost regretting not just getting the RC lol. I know it depends on the trails you ride but I think the RC would have been plenty and would probably have better resale value no?
Curious on XC weaponry and general riding - between this and the New Supercaliber. What would you choose? Feel a difference in speed? Great review btw!
For general fast trail riding and XC racing combined, definitely the Spark (or similar 120mm XC bike like Cervelo, Blur, Orbea or Specialized Epic Evo. All lighter than SuperCal with similar spec but more suspension for handling a wider range of trails 👍🏻
Hi DK, both are brilliant and super quick so it depends what character you want really. The Blur is a little bit lighter and skips and flexes a bit more so it feels more lively and playful overall. The Spark has the travel, tyre volume and frame stiffness to be pushed as hard as a trail bike and it's great value too.
Spark feels stiffer, tighter and more efficient. Especially if you use the shock remote to full effect. That means it can feel a bit clinical rather than playful and lively, but then it's designed as a pure speed bike.
Hi Guy, thanks for this nice review. I am really interested to order this bike, it ticks all my boxes for a fully. But I am worried about one thing, the entrance of the cables under the stem. It looks like a hole where mud, dirt, water can enter the headset. Or is this a misunderstanding and is everything sealed correctly?
No you're right there is a chance for mud and water to get into the gap but that's rarely an area you see a lot of spray even in really filthy conditions. You could always add a little bit of tape if you were worried too.
This vs the Transition Spur? If I had to get a new bike, it would be between this vs the Transition Spur or build my own hardtail with the banshee paradox frame with pike fork.
As someone who has paid the north end of 4 figures for a top of the range XC bike in the past I still really struggle with prices jumping to 5 figures. I also hope the availability of the top end bike has improved aswell as the customer service from Scott UK, both of which were woeful when I looked at buying the last iteration of this bike. On a practical note is there a frame only option and can you run a cable operated mech for those of us who prefer big blue?
Hey Mate, Thanks for the review, (heavy breath), what would you think about slapping some proper low pressure grippy plus tires (heavy breath) (hb), on this bad boy for skipping off rocks ( heavy breath) in southern Utah( cough cough) like the old spark plus , (heavy breathing) or should I go with the 900? with same set up ( cough, cough, heavy breathing cough cough)
🤣 sorry I sound like I’ve got Covid! I absolutely loved the old plus tyre Spark (did one of my first videos on it) and I’m pretty sure plus wheels would fit in this bike too as it’ll take a larger 29er than the old bike. I’ll check with Scott to be double sure though 👍🏻
Which dropper post would you recommend for this bike? I was thinking something like the Fox Transfer SL Factory in 100mm would be a sweet mix. Unless there’s a better option?
Obviously an AXS Reverb would be the integration win but very spendy from a weight/function point of view Transfer SL would be spot on. I’m a big fan of the PNW droppers too but the 125mm stroke Loam post is about 100g heavier than the SL
@@GuyKesTV Thanks! I’m picking mine up in a week, and definitely feel this bike is begging for a dropper like you mentioned. I can’t wait to ride it. Thanks for the thorough reviews!
What do you think about the geometry of the new RC models as it is very similar to old 900 non-RC models (except the seat angle)? A real pitty those lower spec RC version don't get dropper post. Major reason why I'd consider the 900 series non RC.
You can always add a dropper post but I went ahead and got the 910 for the dropper post with integrated lever. Plus it's a little better for trails than the RC.. Not gonna lie tho the 900 RC I tested really was amazing and I might have gotten it had it been an XL lol. But I'll be plenty happy with a 910 👍👍
@@stevetdesigns Thank you for your reply. I quess you own the "old" 2021 Spark 910. That is the bike I'm considering to buy in about a half of last year now. It has very nice components. I'd prefer 120mm SID, but that just a personal preference. The only negative thing I've hear about Spark so far is that rear construction bearings are don't last very long.
Kes. I need some help my good man. Looking for a bike I can ride XC races on but still has enough in the tank for trail duties as well, but nothing too crazy. Currently have an Ibis Ripley V4 which is still a bit to trail. Find I'm loving a bit more head down riding like on my latest Specialized Chisel. So what about this Spark, the Epic Evo or even the Transition Spur? - thoughts?
Spark is stiffer and more head down the epic Evo. Evo is more poppy and skippy and playful like the chisel. Still waiting to try a Spur but getting a new Blur demo tomorrow which I’m dead excited about. Have you seen the Vitus FS XC bike? It’s basically the NS Synonym so it’ll twang a bit when really ragged but the pricing is ridiculous!
@@GuyKesTV Awesome cheers bud. Love how the new Chisel rides. Such a fun bike and bloody quick. Are you getting a ride on the Spur as that looks super cool. I just love riding fast and the Chisel gives me that buzz. My Ripley just feels too short and upright in comparison now for me to really put the hammer down on local trails. But if I can only have one FS bike that covers XC racing and some tamer trail riding it needs to have a bit of a chameleon
You definitely 100% want a large at 5'10". I listened to everyone that said I need a large at 6ft and it's definitely not what I prefer. I got an XL 910 and it's an awesome fit! You can always shorten the stem slightly (which is highly preferred over a longer one). This is my first spark but I've tried a large Orbea Oiz and now I'm selling it because it's too small. I felt my Stumpjumper was too small.. Trek makes slightly bigger bikes if I went with them I would get a large.. Make sure you look at the geometry numbers and reach when deciding.
I wonder if the pedaling has gotten any more progressive... likely not with a rear flex pivot still but curious. I’ve ridden the last two versions - have to be honest surprised they stuck with the trunnion approach.
It's pretty stable even fully open, SID keeps it tight off the top and then you've got the two remote settings so however you want your drive to feel it's pretty much got it covered.
@@siebert12 with his proprietary shock and tune - we rarely get the bike nino rides. But with the 120mm only option, just curious if it’s getting a bit more progressive. Guessing not too much since it has to field pro XC watts. Interestingly I’m putting a 120mm shock on my 2019RC this week. We will see if it works.
@@JasonLiske having collected a few bottles roadside at pro tour events, I appreciate that everything is bespoke for them. Their bidons are SUPER thin and lightweight....not thick (heavy?) plastic for those riders!
@@JasonLiske Let is know how it goes with the longer travel fork. The previous RC was just fantastic but I wanted a rig with a BB a few mm higher, the longer fork might take care of that!
So I got to try the 900 RC Team Issue (same in video) and it's an amazing bike! But since it was a large and I wanted an XL my only option was the 910, and I have to say, I absolutely love it! Get the RC of you want more of a fast race bike that can still handle trails, or get the regular Spark of you hit the trails a lot but still want to go fast when you need to.. The regular spark is plenty of bike and it can handle trails slightly better due the more trail oriented geometry and little longer travel.. Both amazing bikes! I almost just sucked it up and got the Spark RC but I'm happy I didn't and it's nice knowing I have the extra bike for when I need it.
@@AliPlayzKing haha that’s awesome. So quick eh? But I’ve had the same because of that big frame to hide the shock people think it hides a motor too 😵💫
Thanks for the rider’s eye view of the bike in action. I know what to look forward to when I get mine. I saw Nino riding his in a UCI championship race & I noticed that he looked totally different from the other riders. So I looked into his equipment and quickly realized the Scott Spark is a major piece of efficiency and technical advancement. I'm just a casual rider but I know I will really like this bike. 👍☮️🌞🌟🚲🚴
Got my Spark RC Team Issue Black ordered for May 2022. Soooo looking forward to it!
Could you check the headset cups? There is some unclarity about the options for the rc and 900, most resources agree that they have the exact same frame, but the rc is sold in the steepest setting and the 900 in the most slack (difference in spec is 1.4, 1.2 from the cups 0.2 from the 130mm fork?). That would mean you can't go steeper (to 68) on the RC as you mentioned, only slacker in 2 steps.
That is how I understand it. I think Guy got that part wrong.
The Scott Spark 910 is my dream bike, I really appreciated some of your verbal comparisons between the demoed RC AXS and the 900 series. I have never had an AXS set up on a bike, is it that or SRAM itself which allowed that bike to be as quiet as it was ? My current bike just has the entry Shimano Deore 12 speed set up and can be a bit noisy. Anyhow, thanks for the amazing ride and review video, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Great review! How smooth is the suspension on smallish bumps hit in quick succession, such as roots and breaking bumps? Does it do a good job of absorbing the impacts or does if feel more harsh?
Sorry Fritso, missed your comment. The suspension can be set up to be pretty sensitive as you've always got the option to lock out. You need to run the pressures low in the bigger tyres though or they'll feel stiff and the stiffness of the frame means it doesn't naturally flex and flow as much as something like an Epic. Santa Cruz Blur sits somewhere in between the two and I'm just about to post that review now.
@@GuyKesTV Awesome, thanks for your reply! Looking forward to the review.
thanks for the detailed ride review. Dont you think that the bike is kinda expensive and heavy with those components? you mentioned that for sure a dropper post, but what else would be a must have upgrade on this bike?
I'm just wating for mine to arive next december!🤤
And do you have it?😊
Loving the review guy
So the big question since you have ridden both: this, the Epic EVO, or 900 (I know you have not ridden it yet)
I'd like an answer to this as well please, I would just add a Trek Top Fuel into the mix too!!
Definitely.
Am I wrong or the Evo is about 2 kg lighter?
Is the 900 a better comparison that the RC? Seems the RC with a slack head tube cup installed!?
I wouldn't get the top fuel. My friend just bought the 2021 9.7 and while it's very light I just wouldn't take it over the 900 RC Team Issue (his pivot bolt fell out and damaged the bike, the chainring also rubbed the frame, not sure if that's because of the pivot bolt or the chain stay flexing). I just went and tested the 900 RC and would have gotten it if it was an XL. I ended up with the 910 just to get an XL and a dropper post. The 900 RC is the nicest XC bike I've seen.. I've owned the Orbea Oiz as well and the Spark RC AXS is AMAZING! The 910 non RC is also an amazing bike and more trail oriented which is why I got it.
Also, where is that? The trails look awesome!
Mostly Stainburn
Great review Guy! Any chance you'll be getting the new Blur in? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
I’ll tell you all about it in three weeks😉
Thank you for the ride 👍
Thanks for the review. How did you find the sizing compared to the previous Spark? I have one in pre-order because I really like my current Spark, but with the different geo I am a bit worried it will feel too big.
A little different situation: I fit perfect on a medium Scale, but I picked up the 2022 Spark and went with a Small. The older spark I would have gotten the Medium but with the new geometry the small was perfect for me.
also for reference I’m 5’7” (171cm) and basically was upper end of Small and low end on Medium. Small did not feel cramped, if anything, feels bigger than my medium Scale.
Great review as always Guy.
This bike or the 910 non RC? They're both the same price.. I chose the 910 but I'm almost regretting not just getting the RC lol. I know it depends on the trails you ride but I think the RC would have been plenty and would probably have better resale value no?
Curious on XC weaponry and general riding - between this and the New Supercaliber. What would you choose? Feel a difference in speed? Great review btw!
For general fast trail riding and XC racing combined, definitely the Spark (or similar 120mm XC bike like Cervelo, Blur, Orbea or Specialized Epic Evo. All lighter than SuperCal with similar spec but more suspension for handling a wider range of trails 👍🏻
Thanks! And since the epic 8 s works has come out. Would you saw very similar to Spark or the epic is another level
Thank you for the review! You recently reviewed the Santa Cruz Blur. How would you compare? Which one?
Hi DK, both are brilliant and super quick so it depends what character you want really. The Blur is a little bit lighter and skips and flexes a bit more so it feels more lively and playful overall. The Spark has the travel, tyre volume and frame stiffness to be pushed as hard as a trail bike and it's great value too.
Thanks for the first ride review Guy. How did you find it in comparison to the SC Blur TR and Epic Evo?
Spark feels stiffer, tighter and more efficient. Especially if you use the shock remote to full effect. That means it can feel a bit clinical rather than playful and lively, but then it's designed as a pure speed bike.
Hi Guy, thanks for this nice review. I am really interested to order this bike, it ticks all my boxes for a fully. But I am worried about one thing, the entrance of the cables under the stem. It looks like a hole where mud, dirt, water can enter the headset. Or is this a misunderstanding and is everything sealed correctly?
No you're right there is a chance for mud and water to get into the gap but that's rarely an area you see a lot of spray even in really filthy conditions. You could always add a little bit of tape if you were worried too.
Great review. Is the the decoy coming soon ?
This vs the Transition Spur? If I had to get a new bike, it would be between this vs the Transition Spur or build my own hardtail with the banshee paradox frame with pike fork.
Just bloody marvellous!
It's a sick looking bike right?
As someone who has paid the north end of 4 figures for a top of the range XC bike in the past I still really struggle with prices jumping to 5 figures. I also hope the availability of the top end bike has improved aswell as the customer service from Scott UK, both of which were woeful when I looked at buying the last iteration of this bike. On a practical note is there a frame only option and can you run a cable operated mech for those of us who prefer big blue?
You can install a cable for the mech if you wish.
Hey Mate, Thanks for the review, (heavy breath), what would you think about slapping some proper low pressure grippy plus tires (heavy breath) (hb), on this bad boy for skipping off rocks ( heavy breath) in southern Utah( cough cough) like the old spark plus , (heavy breathing) or should I go with the 900? with same set up ( cough, cough, heavy breathing cough cough)
🤣 sorry I sound like I’ve got Covid! I absolutely loved the old plus tyre Spark (did one of my first videos on it) and I’m pretty sure plus wheels would fit in
this bike too as it’ll take a larger 29er than the old bike. I’ll check with Scott to be double sure though 👍🏻
@@GuyKesTV Yes I remember that review. Im still riding mine.
Which dropper post would you recommend for this bike? I was thinking something like the Fox Transfer SL Factory in 100mm would be a sweet mix. Unless there’s a better option?
Obviously an AXS Reverb would be the integration win but very spendy from a weight/function point of view Transfer SL would be spot on. I’m a big fan of the PNW droppers too but the 125mm stroke Loam post is about 100g heavier than the SL
@@GuyKesTV Thanks! I’m picking mine up in a week, and definitely feel this bike is begging for a dropper like you mentioned. I can’t wait to ride it. Thanks for the thorough reviews!
What do you think about the geometry of the new RC models as it is very similar to old 900 non-RC models (except the seat angle)?
A real pitty those lower spec RC version don't get dropper post. Major reason why I'd consider the 900 series non RC.
You can always add a dropper post but I went ahead and got the 910 for the dropper post with integrated lever. Plus it's a little better for trails than the RC.. Not gonna lie tho the 900 RC I tested really was amazing and I might have gotten it had it been an XL lol. But I'll be plenty happy with a 910 👍👍
@@stevetdesigns Thank you for your reply. I quess you own the "old" 2021 Spark 910. That is the bike I'm considering to buy in about a half of last year now. It has very nice components. I'd prefer 120mm SID, but that just a personal preference. The only negative thing I've hear about Spark so far is that rear construction bearings are don't last very long.
Where you biking looks good there. Like the bike
Stainburn
Kes. I need some help my good man. Looking for a bike I can ride XC races on but still has enough in the tank for trail duties as well, but nothing too crazy. Currently have an Ibis Ripley V4 which is still a bit to trail. Find I'm loving a bit more head down riding like on my latest Specialized Chisel. So what about this Spark, the Epic Evo or even the Transition Spur? - thoughts?
Spark is stiffer and more head down the epic Evo. Evo is more poppy and skippy and playful like the chisel. Still waiting to try a Spur but getting a new Blur demo tomorrow which I’m dead excited about. Have you seen the Vitus FS XC bike? It’s basically the NS Synonym so it’ll twang a bit when really ragged but the pricing is ridiculous!
Trek Top Fuel and Mondraker Podium FS worth a look too.
@@GuyKesTV Awesome cheers bud. Love how the new Chisel rides. Such a fun bike and bloody quick. Are you getting a ride on the Spur as that looks super cool. I just love riding fast and the Chisel gives me that buzz. My Ripley just feels too short and upright in comparison now for me to really put the hammer down on local trails. But if I can only have one FS bike that covers XC racing and some tamer trail riding it needs to have a bit of a chameleon
Just looked at the Vitus. Just wonder if I'm covering a bit of trail as well if 100mm out the back will be enough?
Orbea oiz m10 tr
How tall are you and what size were you riding? At 178cm, I'm right in the middle of M and L....
I'm 177cm and I have a medium 2017 Scott Spark RC. Sometimes it feels a bit too small for me. I wish more companies made a M/L size like Trek.
You definitely 100% want a large at 5'10". I listened to everyone that said I need a large at 6ft and it's definitely not what I prefer. I got an XL 910 and it's an awesome fit! You can always shorten the stem slightly (which is highly preferred over a longer one). This is my first spark but I've tried a large Orbea Oiz and now I'm selling it because it's too small. I felt my Stumpjumper was too small.. Trek makes slightly bigger bikes if I went with them I would get a large.. Make sure you look at the geometry numbers and reach when deciding.
@@stevetdesigns At 6'2 (188cm) you reckon an XL or L is the right size for me? Thanks.
Mint
I wonder if the pedaling has gotten any more progressive... likely not with a rear flex pivot still but curious. I’ve ridden the last two versions - have to be honest surprised they stuck with the trunnion approach.
It's pretty stable even fully open, SID keeps it tight off the top and then you've got the two remote settings so however you want your drive to feel it's pretty much got it covered.
Have to be honest, seems to have worked well for Nino over the years.
@@siebert12 with his proprietary shock and tune - we rarely get the bike nino rides. But with the 120mm only option, just curious if it’s getting a bit more progressive. Guessing not too much since it has to field pro XC watts. Interestingly I’m putting a 120mm shock on my 2019RC this week. We will see if it works.
@@JasonLiske having collected a few bottles roadside at pro tour events, I appreciate that everything is bespoke for them. Their bidons are SUPER thin and lightweight....not thick (heavy?) plastic for those riders!
@@JasonLiske Let is know how it goes with the longer travel fork. The previous RC was just fantastic but I wanted a rig with a BB a few mm higher, the longer fork might take care of that!
You going to review the Lux Trail?
Yes, got my name on one soon as samples are available. Looks good eh!
Is it an e-bike? 😀😀😀😀
That speaks on its own for the bike.
And also about rider´s stamina :)
It's an awesome bike for chasing E-bikes. Especially on twisty climbs where they are clumsy round the corners 🤣
What size bike are you riding
Large. I’m 180cm tall
You liked it then 😁
I'm wondering how does the trail, non RC version ride.
So am I. Hopefully find out soon 👍🏻
I just got the 910 and will be finding out very soon!
@@stevetdesigns 👊🏻👊🏻
So I got to try the 900 RC Team Issue (same in video) and it's an amazing bike! But since it was a large and I wanted an XL my only option was the 910, and I have to say, I absolutely love it!
Get the RC of you want more of a fast race bike that can still handle trails, or get the regular Spark of you hit the trails a lot but still want to go fast when you need to.. The regular spark is plenty of bike and it can handle trails slightly better due the more trail oriented geometry and little longer travel.. Both amazing bikes!
I almost just sucked it up and got the Spark RC but I'm happy I didn't and it's nice knowing I have the extra bike for when I need it.
@@stevetdesigns brilliant, can't wait to try it myself.
Every since I got this bike and I race xc or nica I’m 15, they think it’s a e bike and gotta check it out
@@AliPlayzKing haha that’s awesome. So quick eh? But I’ve had the same because of that big frame to hide the shock people think it hides a motor too 😵💫
How much 😳😳😳
Ur so strong, how