Scott Spark 900 SL (2014)

Super light trail or xc

Pros

- Lightweight simple frame design
- SRAM XX1
- XC or trail capabilities

Cons

- TwinLoc may not suit everyone's riding style

Review

The stealth bomber 900 SL series from Scott comprises of both hardtail and dual suspension models with 29" wheels. Here we look at the Spark dually. I'm not sure why but nearly every bike companies headline ultra light weight bike comes with a black on black colour scheme. Thankfully, in the case of the Spark, it actually looks the bomb. The black styling suits the simplistic design elements in the dual suspension frame.

The frame is basically a single pivot design so may not have all the suppleness inherent in more complex suspension setups, but Scott has obviously aimed at getting the bike nice and light first and foremost. The 900 SL comes in at under 10kg which is in the extreme weight weenie category for a bike with 100mm travel.

While this weight and travel screams XC race the bike is actually much more capable than that. It doesn't sit low and long like a real racer, plus the relatively slack front end lends the bike to fun trail riding as well as high speed assault.

All the components are top notch as you would expect from a flagship model. We test rode the SRAM XX1 last year and came away mightily impressed. It is a perfect drive train for this bike. The Spark has all of Scott's technology incorporated; including adjustable BB height and the TwinLoc system. Many people swear by the ability to adjust suspension front and rear on the fly, although I found it was just too much. I prefer my bikes more simple than that and I think suspension technology these days is removing the necessity to have manual suspension adjusters. Its a personal thing, I prefer "set and forget" but many others love having the control.....you decide!

Overall if you have the means, (because under 10kg doesn't come cheap), this is a great bike for any XC or trail duties. It could also be a race bike if you have the legs. I would have no hesitation recommending a test ride at your local bike shop.