KTM and racing go together like Mozartkugel and Salzburg. The Austrian flagship is - how could it be otherwise - a race bike of calibre. Even the look of the full carbon frame is impressive. The design language promises propulsion. The Rock-Shox RS1 upside-down fork also fits perfectly into the picture. The developers have managed to integrate the XTR Di2 just as well. The battery is concealed in the seatpost and the cables are optimally routed. A look at the geometry shows a steep steering angle (promises agile steering), long chainstays and a low bottom bracket (stands for downhill stability). The riding position is not as race-like as the Cannondale. The target group is therefore likely to be somewhat larger. The Scarp definitely has long-distance qualities.
A glance at the wide cockpit shows: Something is missing here - namely the left shift lever. KTM consistently utilises the strengths of the Di2. After all, thanks to the Syncro-Shift function, the right lever is sufficient for all 22 gears. The front derailleur automatically changes the chain. This allows the left thumb to concentrate fully on operating the full-sprint lever, which simultaneously arms the fork and shock. One click and you're off: the firm platform helps on short ramps and long climbs alike. You sit comfortably and can easily imagine following the route markings of a marathon for many hours. As soon as things get rough, a twitch of the thumb relaxes the suspension. The RS1 responds finely, as does the rear. However, like the fork, it does not fully utilise the suspension travel. However, this could have been due to the slippery test track and the test riders' lack of willingness to take risks. Going downhill, the Scarp immediately inspires confidence. It can handle high speeds and the tyres suit the range of use. A super bike. But by BIKE's standards, it's not quite good enough for the "Super" rating. Compared to the competition, the Scarp loses points in the criteria of weight, warranty (only three years) and stiffness.
PLUS Beautiful design, successful handling, good frame details
MINUS Hard grips, only three-year warranty, moderately stiff
Conclusion Sleek marathon racer that impresses with its unusual design. It delivers a convincing performance both uphill and downhill and is not quite as expensive as its competitors.
The alternative: For 7599 euros, you can upgrade to the top model in 27.5 inches. The Scarp 27 Prestige Di2 has Fox instead of Rock Shox suspension, the rest remains the same. The mechanical XTR starts at KTM from 4899 euros.
