Expert Rating: 9.5 ( 3 Reviews )
9.8
Bike Radar
Sep 20, 2023
The Scott Scale RC SL is a top-tier cross-country hardtail built for speed and efficiency.
9.8
Overall Rating
The Scott Scale RC SL is a top-tier cross-country hardtail built for speed and efficiency.
10
Weight
The Scott Scale RC SL for a size large weighs 8.93 kilograms (19.69 pounds) without pedals.
10
Front Travel
Front suspension is provided by a Fox 32 Stepcast Float Factory Fork.
9
Rear Travel
The Scott Scale is a hardtail mountain bike, so it doesn't have rear suspension (zero rear travel).
10
Pedaling Efficiency
The Scott Scale is brutally fast and efficient, with rider inputs being quickly and precisely converted into forward motion. It offers an efficient and rewarding uphill experience.
10
Handling
The bike is designed to be aggressive and fast, with an aggressive riding position thanks to lower, slacker, and longer geometry. It handles well on descents and excels on fast, less technical trails.
10
Frame Stiffness
The Scott Scale RC SL features a frame made from HMX SL material, which uses t-1000g carbon fiber, claimed to be the world's highest tensile strength fiber. This material is used to make the frame lighter while maintaining stiffness and strength.
9.5
Scotty Laughland
Sep 20, 2023
The Scott Scale proves itself as a capable cross-country machine during an epic six-hour ride with various terrains
9.5
Overall Rating
The Scott Scale proves itself as a capable cross-country machine during an epic six-hour ride with various terrains
9
Weight
The bike is a lightweight cross-country racing machine.
10
Front Travel
The front suspension fork is a Fox Float 34 Stepcast.
9
Rear Travel
The Scott Scale is a hardtail mountain bike, so it doesn't have rear suspension (zero rear travel).
9.5
Pedaling Efficiency
The bike is praised for its climbing efficiency and ability to tackle steep climbs with a wide range cassette.
10
Handling
The Scott Scale is designed for cross-country riding and is noted for its handling on technical trails, including descending and climbing.
9.5
Frame Stiffness
The bike offers some compliance and suspension for a smoother ride.
9.3
Cade Media
Sep 20, 2023
The Scott Scale RC Carbon is a super-light hardtail mountain bike designed for cross-country riding with efficient pedaling and agile handling.
9.3
Overall Rating
The Scott Scale RC Carbon is a super-light hardtail mountain bike designed for cross-country riding with efficient pedaling and agile handling.
9
Weight
The bike is super light
10
Front Travel
The bike is equipped with a RockShox super-light fork with 100 millimeters of travel.
9
Rear Travel
The Scott Scale RC is a hardtail mountain bike, so it doesn't have rear suspension (zero rear travel).
9
Pedaling Efficiency
The bike is lightweight and efficient for cross-country riding.
9
Handling
The bike handles well on cross-country trails with its shorter travel and lightweight build.
9.5
Frame Stiffness
The bike's lightweight carbon frame suggests a balance between stiffness and compliance.
Are you ready to tap into the wisdom of industry experts? I’ve gathered some valuable insights about the Scott Scale from three informative YouTube videos. These videos provide a wealth of information on this highly-regarded bike, covering everything from its design and engineering to its performance on various terrains. Let’s embark on a deep dive into the specifics of the Scott Scale, breaking down its features, strengths, and what sets it apart in the competitive world of mountain biking. Let’s dive right in!
Weight
Starting with the basics, the Scott Scale RC SL, in a size large, boasts an impressive featherweight figure of 8.93 kilograms (equivalent to 19.69 pounds), and that’s without pedals! It’s clear from the get-go that this bike is designed to be a lightweight cross-country racing machine. In fact, calling it super light might just be an understatement; it’s practically ethereal!
Front Travel
When it comes to the front suspension, the Scott Scale ensures you get a smooth and controlled ride with its Fox 32 Stepcast Float Factory Fork. This fork is a game-changer, providing responsive and reliable performance for those demanding trails. But wait, there’s more! If you prefer a bit more cushioning, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s also the Fox Float 34 Stepcast version available.
And if that’s not enough, the bike offers another option in the form of a RockShox super-light fork with 100 millimeters of travel. This variety in front suspension ensures you can tailor your ride to your preferences and the specific terrain you’re tackling.
Rear Travel
Now, let’s address the rear end of things. The Scott Scale is a hardtail mountain bike, which means it doesn’t come equipped with any rear suspension, translating to zero rear travel. But fear not, because being a hardtail is precisely what gives this bike its unique charm. It’s all about delivering that raw, unfiltered connection to the trail, making it a top choice for riders who relish the challenge and precision of hardtail riding.
Pedaling Efficiency
Prepare to be blown away by the Scott Scale’s pedaling efficiency. This bike is nothing short of brutally fast and efficient. It’s like your rider inputs are instantly translated into forward motion with precision. Uphill climbs become a breeze, and you’re rewarded with an efficient and satisfying riding experience. Many riders sing praises about its climbing prowess, especially when coupled with a wide-range cassette that helps you conquer those steep ascents.
Moreover, the bike’s lightweight design makes it a true contender for cross-country riding, ensuring you get the most out of your pedal strokes with every rotation.
Handling
The Scott Scale isn’t just about efficiency; it’s also engineered for impressive handling. It’s designed to be aggressive and fast, offering an aggressive riding position thanks to lower, slacker, and longer geometry. This setup ensures you can confidently tackle descents and excel on fast, less technical trails. Whether you’re navigating tight corners or letting it rip on straightaways, this bike handles like a dream.
While the Scott Scale is undoubtedly designed for cross-country riding, it’s equally noted for its prowess on technical trails, be it during descents or demanding climbs. Its versatility shines through, making it a reliable companion for various riding scenarios.
Frame Stiffness
Behind all this greatness is the Scott Scale RC SL’s frame, crafted from HMX SL material. This material is no ordinary carbon fiber; it’s the t-1000g carbon fiber, known to be the world’s highest tensile strength fiber. It’s the secret sauce that allows the frame to remain incredibly light while maintaining top-notch stiffness and strength. You get the best of both worlds—lightweight agility and robust durability.
The frame doesn’t just stop at stiffness; it also offers some compliance and suspension, adding to your comfort on those longer rides. It’s the perfect balance between stiffness for efficient power transfer and compliance for a smoother ride.
Overall Notes
In summary, the Scott Scale RC SL is not just any bike; it’s a top-tier cross-country hardtail built for speed and efficiency. It has the numbers to prove it, and it’s no slouch when it comes to real-world performance either. For instance, it has demonstrated its capabilities during an epic six-hour ride across diverse terrains, proving that it’s more than just a showpiece; it’s a workhorse that delivers when it matters most.
And if you want to take it up a notch, there’s the Scott Scale RC Carbon, a super-light hardtail mountain bike designed specifically for cross-country riding. With its efficient pedaling and agile handling, it’s the ultimate companion for those who demand the best from their ride.
Curious to see how the Scott Scale bike compares to others? Explore our comprehensive guides for an in-depth analysis of top-quality bicycles designed to meet various cycling requirements and preferences. Inside these guides, you’ll encounter a diverse array of excellent options tailored to your liking, along with helpful resources to support you in making a well-informed decision.
But remember, your thoughts count! Write a review about the Scott Scale and let us know how it performs for you.
Happy riding!
John