The Spark 10 comes as a surprise when you look at the price tag. Last season, the model cost a whopping 5000 euros, but with different equipment (Shimano XTR instead of XT/X.0 mix) and 400 grams lighter. Nevertheless, the 2010 model is a step forwards, and at the same time you save 995 euros. The nicely blended look is better than before and the suspension has the new Twin-Loc lever on the handlebars, which can be used to lock the fork and rear at the same time - great! The key data from our laboratory correspond to those from 2009. 2.1 kilos for the chassis makes the Spark unrivalled in weight, even if it is only moderately stiff. 100-kilo athletes are in the wrong place here.
The design of the Spark could also compete in the marathon race test. The 120 mm Fox fork, which has been fitted since 2009, offers more travel and downhill fun, but within this test field the bike shows the most race-like character and only little all-mountain genes. Of course, this changes when you swap the narrow 2.1 mm Rocket Ron tyres, which are prone to failure, for 2.25 mm Nobby Nic tyres. The rear suspension in particular is firmer and less sensitive than that of Trek or Ghost, for example.
CONCLUSIONThe Scott Spark 10 is THE long-distance racer at a fair price. More marathon than all-mountain.
Web: www.scott-sports.com
