SCOTT Spark RC
86/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts
Type
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
23.59, 24.69, 27.78 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the SCOTT Spark RC. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
12 reasons to buy
- SCOTT offers the Spark RC in six SRAM-equipped builds, ranging from the entry-level RC Comp to the top-end RC SL.
- Testers praise the bike's exceptional climbing ability, thanks to the steep seat tube angle, efficient pedaling position, and excellent traction on technical climbs.
- The TwinLoc remote (Team Issue, Team, Comp) allows riders to quickly switch suspension mode. Rockshox's Flight Attendant system (SL, World Cup Evo, World Cup) does this automatically.
- Reviewers say the plush Spark RC is nearly as capable as a trail bike on descents.
- Testers appreciate how the geometry balances stability on descents with efficiency on climbs.
- Reviewers say the external sag indicator makes setup easier.
- The frame has clearance for 2.6” tires and can fit up to a 40t chainring.
- Reversible headset cups allow owners to adjust the head angle by 0.6° without cutting cables or bleeding brakes.
- Testers compliment the sleek, modern aesthetics and the clean integration of the cables and rear shock.
- The highly decorated Spark RC boasts multiple XCO World Cup wins and World Championship titles.
- The frame-integrated tool (T25, T30, and 6mm hex keys) covers almost all adjustments on the bike.
- The main triangle (except for S size) has room for two water bottles.
9 reasons not to buy
- Experts say the Spark RC lacks the instant, snappy response found in XC bikes with shorter travel.
- The lower builds (Team, Comp) lack a dropper post.
- The Spark RC is offered in just four sizes.
- Reviewers note the bike understeers in tight corners, citing a longer wheelbase, slacker head tube, and stock tire choice.
- The fully integrated cockpit (SL, World Cup, World Cup Evo, Team Issue) limits adjustability.
- A tester of the Team Issue build experiences frequent pedal strikes on technical climbs when riding with the suspension set to Open.
- At 23.6 to 27.8lb, the Spark RC is slightly heavier than other 120mm XC race bikes.
- Experts complain that the integrated rear shock and cables make servicing more time-consuming.
- Press-fit bottom brackets are prone to creaking and harder to service than threaded alternatives.
Bottom line
The SCOTT Spark RC is a cross-country race bike with 120mm of travel front and rear. It's available in six builds. The three top-end builds use RockShox's Flight Attendant automatic suspension system; the other three have SCOTT's TwinLoc three-mode remote-controlled suspension. Testers praise the "superb" climbing performance, stable handling, and confident descending. However, a lack of "snappy" responsiveness, understeering in tight corners, and relatively high weight may deter some XC purists. Nonetheless, experts consider the Spark RC among the most capable XC racers, and it has the competitive credentials to back that up.Expert Reviews
86/100 based on 3 rated expert reviewsSCOTT Spark RC Team Issue AXS Review
SCOTT Spark RC WC AXS Review
Tested: SCOTT Spark RC Team AXS 2022
2022 SCOTT Spark RC Review: So Good I Want to Buy It
SCOTT Spark RC MTB XC V Enduro Live Ride Review
SCOTT Sees the Future of Cross-Country Bikes and It Looks Like the New Spark
Olympic Pedigree: SCOTT Spark RC World Cup Review
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We Test the SCOTT Spark 2022, the Most Desirable Mountain Bike of the Moment
Testing the New SCOTT Spark RC: The Bike for Everything?!
2022 SCOTT Spark RC Review | 6 Upgrades to Turn a Spark Into a Spark RC Race Bike
Tested: Pete’s SCOTT Spark RC Team Issue AXS Review.
Video Test – With the SCOTT Spark RC 2022 at the Capoliveri Legend [Italian]
New Product Review | SCOTT Spark RC 2022: The Benchmark Takes a Step Back [French]
MTB Test | SCOTT Spark RC World Cup Evo: Transformed by Electronics? [French]
SCOTT’s XC Game Changer in First Test [German]
100% Tested: SCOTT Spark RC Team Issue AXS Bike [Dutch]
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