Back Issue | Group Test: Scott Genius 910 Review
The Scott Genius 910 already revealed its qualities to us in issue #009. As the bike exactly fitted the profile of the new group test, we were keen to see how it fared in direct comparison with the competition.
This review is part of a Group Test. View the main article here. Cube Stereo 120 HPC Race 29 | Scott Genius 910 | Rocky Mountain Instinct 950 MSL | Trek Fuel EX 9 29 | Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Elite 29 | Giant Trance Advanced | Mondraker Factor XR
The Scott comes completely dressed in black; it doesn’t need razzmatazz, as the spec is competent and high quality. Shifting and braking is taken care of by a complete Shimano XT groupset, and the 180mm brake rotors guarantee consistent braking performance. The other parts look the part and function well: you’ll find a Syncros cockpit and wheelset, and a RockShox Reverb Stealth seatpost. For our test Scott switched the standard 80mm stem for a shorter 60mmm version, an easy upgrade that improves downhill handling and that we can recommend to every rider around the 180cm height.
Scott’s patented Twinloc technology doesn’t just firm the suspension for climbing — it also noticeably reduces the sag, and therefore in the Climb-mode the geometry is also optimised for riding uphill. Overall, it yields a very pedalling-biased position on the bike. On asphalt, the almost fully locked-out bike was a winner with fantastic power transfer. Climbing off road, where efficiency and traction both count, the Traction-mode with 90mm of rear travel is the best choice. Adjusting the suspension is almost instantaneous using the bar-mounted remote lever.
For descents, the rider should logically use the descend-mode, which offers the full 130mm travel. Just as in the earlier individual test, the Scott offered a very well-balanced package for South Tyrolean Alpine trails. The Fox 32 Float fork with the top-end factory cartridge and specially developed Fox Nude rear shock harmonise well together. The bike is balanced, easy to control, and can be navigated without spoiling the rider with too much comfort. Both suspension elements have a quite progressive character and provide the pilot with plenty of feedback from the ground, allowing for playful maneuvers.
On flatter trails you can build up considerable speed on the Genius. Steering commands are precisely followed; the light footed bike can thus master even the tightest trail sections with ease, yet it never feels nervous at full speed.
Consistent – SCOTT doesn’t just fit the Genius 910 with a fancy rear mech — the whole drivetrain is at a high level and rewarded us with precise and light shifting.
Unnecessary – The small rocker arm flip-chip which allows you to vary the geometry by 0.5° really isn’t necessary. The bike already climbs brilliantly even in the slackest setting.
High-end – The powerful Shimano XT brakes fitted to the SCOTT Genius 910 won plenty of friends, as did the Twinloc lever, which allows you to adjust the suspension characteristics to the terrain in seconds.
Small part, big effect – In case the chain gets stuck or falls off, a red-anodized aluminium plate protects the carbon frame from damage. If you want, it can be exchanged for an ISCG chain guard.
Conclusion:
the SCOTT Genius 910 is quick as an arrow: it’s a nifty trail bike which performs both up- and downhill. The great handling and classy finish won us over. But this all comes at a price, and at € 4,299 it was the most expensive bike in the test group.
Price: € 4,299
Weight: 12.75 kg
Specifications
- Fork: Fox 32 Float CTD Factory
- Rear Shock: Fox Nude
- Drivetrain: Shimano XT
- Brakes: Shimano XT
- Handlebars: Syncros FL 1.5, 720 mm
- Stem: Syncros TR 1.5, 60mm (stock 80 mm)
- Tires: Schwalbe Nobby Nic Evolution, 2.25″
- Wheels: Syncros TR2.0
- Seatpost: RockShox Reverb Stealth, 125 mm
Geometry
Size: S / M / L (tested) / XL | Top Tube Horizontal:625mm | Seat Tube Angle: 74°| Chainstay Length:449mm | Head Tube Angle: 69°| Wheelbase: 1167mm Reach: 448mm | Stack:618mm | Wheelsize: 29″
This review is part of a Group Test. View the main article here. Cube Stereo 120 HPC Race 29 | Scott Genius 910 | Rocky Mountain Instinct 950 MSL | Trek Fuel EX 9 29 | Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Elite 29 | Giant Trance Advanced | Mondraker Factor XR