2017 Scott Spark 960 - FULL REVIEW

Today, let’s take a look at the 2017 Scott Spark 960, a full suspension XC mountain bike that is so light and so fast that it was a clear option for Nino Schurter in the 2016 Rio Olympics. It comes in at a price point of $1,999 MSRP, with higher priced sub model options.

Let’s look at the specs:

Frame

Scott features the Spark 3 Alloy SL 6011 frame on the Spark. The carbon alloy, custom butted hydroformed tubing allows the Spark to be lightweight without sacrificing much as far as durability. It has a tapered headtube as well as dropouts for 141x5mm.

Shocks

Scott continues their excellence in suspension by showcasing their amazing Twin Loc technology. This remote allows to switch between three suspension modes with the click of a button. You can opt for full travel in the front and back shocks – great for eating up roots, rocks, and rough roads. The second option is for traction mode on in the rear with full travel in front. This is great for maintaining control, essentially turning this versatile bike into a hardtail. The last option allows for a full, simultaneous lock out on both shocks for when you need to ride more casually.

The fork comes equipped with the Rock Shox Recon Silver RL Solo Air, a tapered steerer, and of course the option to lockout. The shock has 120mm of travel. While there are other bikes in competition that have bigger travel than this, the Spark still provides a plenty smooth ride

The rear shock is an X-Fusion NUDE Trunnion with Scott custom travel. Again, there are three mod options on the rear suspension – lockout, traction control, and full travel – and the full travel is at 120mm.

Ride

The Spark 960 is relatively responsive and can smoothly roll over logs, rocks, and other odd bumps in a trail. That being said, Sparks have always been built for speed, and the 2017 is no different. If you are looking for a downhill bike, the Spark is not your best choice. However, if you’re looking for a speedy, responsive XC racer, look no further.

Rear derailleur: Shimano SLX RD-M7000-10 SGS 20 Speed

Front derailleur: Shimano Deore FD-M617-D w/side swing

Shifters: Shimano Deore SL-M610 / Rapidfire Plus; 2 way release with gear indicator

Brakes: Shimano M365 Disc brakes

            180mm F&R / SM-RT30 CL Rotor

Crankset: Shimano FC-M627-B2 / 2-piece design

Rims: Syncros X-23 / 32H Tubless ready

Tires: Maxxis Forekaster / 2.35 / 60TPI

If you think that the Scott Spark 960 is the bike for you, come in to our shop today and we’ll get you set up!