To meet the increased demands of the Mountain Bike World Cup, Scott didn’t just update its Spark—it redesigned it from the ground up. There are nine models of the Scott RC in total, all with different specs. They have only one thing in common: 120 millimeters of travel at the front and rear. The model tested featured a “Rock Shox Flight Attendant.” Most of the test rides were conducted with the system turned off to gain a neutral riding impression. This revealed what the Spark is capable of without electronic assistance.

Everything about the bike’s numerous features and details can be found in the product presentation.

The bike in action

For an XC race bike, the riding position is rather upright and comfortable. Nevertheless, it accelerates very efficiently. The bike’s racing genes are evident right from the first few meters. It charges ahead on the uphills. Steps and obstacles are easily mastered thanks to the rear shock’s good rebound damping. The rear end has the necessary pop to launch it over obstacles with momentum. The riding position is comfortable, and somehow the Spark climbs so well that it feels like you have more muscle than usual. Only in very tight corners does it tend to understeer once it reaches a certain lean angle.

When heading downhill, you’re already at one with the bike after just a few meters. There’s no adjustment period needed; somehow, everything just fits. The standing position is very central, allowing you to maneuver the bike over any obstacle without much effort. Speed builds up quickly—almost too quickly, thanks to the potent suspension. That’s because the Maxxis Aspen tires are the limiting factor here when it comes to grip. Although the Scott has only 120 millimeters of travel, it absorbs even the hardest impacts perfectly. It’s striking how well it handles very deep and hard compressions without bottoming out. Still, it’s no comfort wonder; the suspension is efficient in propulsion and has a good dose of race character.

The pleasant handling stands out in particular; no matter how tight and fast the turns are ridden, the Spark simply powers through. Whether this is due to the well-chosen head tube stiffness, the minimal flex offered by the frame, or the sophisticated geometry remains to be seen. It’s likely a combination of all these factors. After all, the bike underwent a long development process and was tested down to the last detail by Scott’s developers and their athletes.

Conclusion

Scott has succeeded in creating a hybrid that will secure victories on the racecourse and offer plenty of fun to non-racers alike. Whether for a quick after-work ride, a high-altitude bike tour in the Alps, or chasing KOMs on flow trails, the Spark is a great choice. Scott calls it a race bike; others would describe it as a down-country rocket.