Scott Spark RC: Nino Schurter's machine
The Scott Spark RC is THE quintessential cross-country bike. It's the ride of Nino Schurter, the most decorated rider in XC history, and Kate Courtney. If you're looking for a full-suspension designed to win races, here it is.
TwinLoc: the revolutionary lock-out system
TwinLoc is the Spark's signature feature. It's a bar-mounted suspension lock-out system offering three modes:
- Descend: 120 mm travel front and rear, suspension open
- Traction Control: reduced travel (~80 mm), firm damping for technical climbs
- Lockout: suspension locked, the bike rides like a hardtail
Switching between modes is a single click from the handlebar, no hands off. In racing, it's a considerable advantage: lock out on smooth climbs, open up in technical sections.
HMX carbon
The frame uses Scott's HMX (High Modulus Extreme) carbon on RC models. It's Scott's highest-grade carbon with an exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio. The result: a complete frame (front + rear) of about 1.8 kg.
| Spec | Spark RC SL | Spark RC Team | Spark RC 900 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame | HMX carbon | HMX carbon | HMF carbon |
| Fork | RockShox SID SL Ultimate | Fox 34 SC Factory | RockShox SID SL |
| TwinLoc | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Groupset | SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS | SRAM XX Eagle AXS | Shimano XT |
| Weight | ~9.4 kg | ~9.8 kg | ~10.6 kg |
| Price | ~$11,000 | ~$8,000 | ~$5,000 |
Under 10 kg: the weight quest
In race trim, the Spark RC SL drops below 9.5 kg. That's a 120 mm full-suspension lighter than many XC hardtails. The secret: every component is chosen to the gram, from bearings to mounting bolts.
