In 2018, Scott is sending out its new all-round machine Genius The 2.6-inch wide Maxxis tyres and a long reach add to this. Will the pleasing bike for everyone become a specialist for wild straight-line banging? We can reassure you: The Genius 900 is balanced and good-natured, as Scott relies on an ultra-short stem, similar to Mondraker's fast-forward geometry. Despite the long reach, you sit compactly and have to actively put pressure on the front wheel. With a ready-to-ride weight of 12.5 kilos and fast-rolling tyres, the Genius impresses with excellent propulsion. The tried and tested Twinloc lever tightens the suspension from the handlebars in three stages up to the lockout and at the same time reduces the stroke in the shock. As a result, the Genius climbs very strongly for a 150 millimetre bike. Downhill, you also feel very comfortable on the bike thanks to its favourable geometry. The suspension is rather firm and high in its travel. However, it could be more plush and the suspension travel feels limited. The Maxxis Rekon+ tyres roll well, but offer little braking traction and are quickly overwhelmed in wet conditions. As a result, the tyres rob the Genius of some of its confidence and potential for even more demanding descents. We liked the 2.6 tyre width. The handling is more similar to that of normal 2.4-inch tyres than that of wide 2.8 or 3.0-inch Plus tyres. A good compromise. Practical: Scott is packing the option of different wheel sizes into one bike in 2018 instead of spreading them across the model range. The geometry can be adapted to 27.5 or 29er wheels using a flip chip.
Adrian Vesenbeckh, enduro racer and photographer:
The Twinloc lever makes the Scott Genius extremely suitable for racing and climbing. Coupled with good climbing characteristics, the result is an excellent all-rounder. However, the suspension could work better. The extremely slack steering angle is compensated for by the stubby stem and makes the Genius smooth-running without feeling sluggish in corners.
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Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
