Issue #031, Review - December 22, 2017

SCOTT Genius 700 Ultimate review

The engineers of the all-new SCOTT Genius 700 Ultimate have pulled out all the tricks. The bike not only looks outrageously good, but it’s also record-breakingly light too. Combined with its top spec and potent geometry, on paper the Genius promises to be a grin-inducing machine – we couldn’t wait to test it out on the trail!

For an overview head to the main article: Everyday Heroes! – We review six of the hottest, grin-inducing trail bikes

Light, strong, affordable – choose two! With the SCOTT Genius, the choice obviously fell on the first two points. At a hefty € 9,799, the bike is anything but a bargain. No wonder then that when Scott specced the bike, only the very best would do. The FOX Factory suspension, SRAM XX1 Eagle drivetrain, and classy DT Swiss XMC 1200 SPLINE One carbon rims are top-notch! As usual with SCOTT, the new Genius has their TwinLoc technology, which allows the suspension to be adjusted in three stages (lockout, traction, descend). A unique new feature is the Syncros Hixon cockpit, in which the handlebar and stem are joined together in a single carbon piece. The complete package is rounded off with MAXXIS Rekon Skinwall tires in a 2.8″ width. If you prefer, the Genius can also take 29″ wheels easily. To do so, simply adjust the geometry via the flip-chip in no time.

The seating position on the SCOTT Genius 700 Ultimate is comfortable, albeit a bit sportier due to the cockpit being lower than most other bikes in this class. Pressing the TwinLoc remote firms the suspension noticeably and reduces the sag. In combination with the low weight, the Genius marches forward relentlessly and climbs so well you’d think it’s an e-bike. This not only saves strength, but you could also – God forbid – start to think of climbing and sprinting as fun! With this bike, you could easily participate in a marathon.

Fast and beautiful! The clean look and enormous efficiency of the SCOTT Genius won us over completely!

On the descent, the Genius delights with its very balanced riding characteristics. The progressive rear suspension has to be set up with a bit more sag, but once dialled in works well and feels nicely defined. As light-footed as the Genius goes uphill, so it goes downhill. Direction changes are direct and need no encouragement. Those who like to pump through flat sections and on flowy trails will be rewarded with loads of pop. When the terrain becomes rougher and more demanding, the Genius shows what it’s made of, never feeling overwhelmed. Our only criticism? The small brake rotor in front.

The SCOTT Genius 700 Ultimate in detail

Fork FOX 34 Float Factory 150 mm
Rear shock FOX Nude Evol Factory 150 mm
Brakes SRAM Guide Ultimate
Drivetrain SRAM XX1 Eagle
Seatpost FOX Transfer Factory
Stem Syncros Hixon IC SL Carbon
Handlebar Syncros Hixon IC SL Carbon 760 mm
Tires MAXXIS Rekon 2.8″
Wheelset DT Swiss XMC 1200 Carbon Spline CL
Weight 11.72 kg
Price € 9,799

Geometry of the SCOTT Genius 700

Size	S	M	L	XL
Seat tube	410 mm	440 mm	480 mm	520 mm
Top tube	568 mm	601 mm	632 mm	668 mm
Head tube	95 mm	95 mm	110 mm	125 mm
Head angle	65.6°	65.6°	65.6°	65.6°
Seat angle	75.3°	75.3°	75.3°	75.3°
Chainstay	436 mm	436 mm	436 mm	436 mm
BB drop	20 mm	20 mm	20 mm	20 mm
Wheelbase	1.165 mm	1.198 mm	1.231 mm	1.270 mm
Reach	412 mm	445 mm	472 mm	505 mm
Stack	596 mm	596 mm	609 mm	623 mm

Conclusion

Marathon or enduro race? The SCOTT Genius 700 Ultimate can do both! It’s super-efficient uphill and impresses on the downhills with a high degree of agility while remaining very stable. This bike is a true all-rounder and thus the deserved test winner!