2017 Scott Spark 900 Ultimate Review

Scott Bikes rides into 2017 with a brand-new Spark 900 series, fully revamped and ready for the trail. Paying attention to weight and performance, Scott didn’t hold back, completely reconfiguring the suspension and geometry of one of their most successful bikes. In doing so, the new Spark becomes smoother and faster on technical terrain, while maintaining its race-inspired pedaling efficiency. We had the opportunity to ride the new 2017 Spark 900 Ultimate numerous times and can attest to Scott’s numerous improvements. that all of these changes have been for the best. The most noticeable difference is the vertical shock positioning. Scott revamped the Spark’s suspension kinematics (how the suspension actually moves), making the most of their ultra-lightweight single-pivot suspension design. The new rocker system provides better small bump sensitivity, and makes the most of the 120mm of Fox Nude shock travel. The main frame has been modernized, too, with a longer top tube, steeper seattube angle, and slacker headtube angle, improving high-speed stability and rider efficiency. Scott continues its use of their TwinLoc remote, allowing for in-ride adjustments between three distinct modes of suspension travel. On the dirt, our 2017 Spark 900 Ultimate showed improved descending confidence, while it maintained a firm pedaling platform on the climbs. With its Sram Eagle 1x12 drivetrain and 120mm of travel, the new Spark 900 falls within the lightweight trail bike category, and is ideal for the long climbs and fast singletrack we have here in the Wasatch. All of this comes in at just over 24 pounds (24.25 lb for the size medium) with a dropper seatpost, making the Spark 900 Ultimate both trail and race worthy. Check out the 2017 Scott Spark Ultimate on our website at http://contenderbicycles.com/product/2017-scott-spark-900-700-ultimate/