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The Scott Ransom has been a firm favourite in the enduro segment since 2006 and has always defined the pinnacle of what is technically possible. The latest generation also wants to be measured against this standard and offers unique details. For example, the Ransom has a shock absorber with reservoir integrated into the frame, which is located low down in the bottom bracket area. The integration is based on a Bold patent and gives the Ransom an extremely tidy look.
The handlebar/stem unit also blends harmoniously into the design, which is styled right through to the dropout. Despite full system integration, Scott has thought about user-friendliness: all it takes is a quick press of the button on the down tube and the cover can be quickly removed. This makes the shock and tools easily accessible. Even the negative suspension travel (SAG) can be easily read off via a drag indicator in the bottom bracket area.
Price: 9999 Euro >> available here
We have tested these bikes
- Forestal Siryon Diode 16.17 kg / 170/170 mm / 29" / 8899 Euro
- Lapierre Spicy 8.9 16.16 kg / 180/180 mm / 29/27.5" / 6999 Euro
- Merida One-Sixty 8000 15.61 kg / 170/170 mm / 29/27.5" / 7899 Euro
- Norco Sight C1 15.68 kg / 160/150 mm / 29" / 8499 Euro
- Propain Spindrift 5 CF 16.25 kg / 180/180 mm / 29" / 7029 Euro
- Scott Ransom 900 RC 15.46 kg / 170/170 mm / 29" / 9999 Euro
- Transition Sentinel Carbon 14.91 kg / 160/150 mm / 29" / 8990 Euro
Equipment Scott Ransom 900 RC
- Fork: Fox 38 Grip2
- Damper: Fox Float X Nude
- Circuit: Sram X0 AXS Transmission, 1x12
- Bandwidth: 520 %
- Brakes: Sram Code Ultimate / 200/200 mm
- Telesupport/lift: Syncros Duncan / 210 mm
- Impellers: Raceface Turbine R30
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai Maxxgrip Exo+ / Dissector Maxxterra DD 29 x 2.5 / 2.4
- max. system weight: 128 kg
- Guarantee: 5 years
- Special features: Handlebar-stem unit, internal damper
From the test lab
- Total weight: 15.46 kg kg without pedals
- Weight of wheels: 5351 g
- Impeller inertia: 4443 kg x cm²
Prize for innovation
At 9999 euros, the Ransom RC is anything but a bargain. In return, it comes with Fox Factory suspension - albeit only with a small Float X shock -, a Sram X0 Transmission drivetrain and Raceface aluminium wheels with Doubledown tyres from Maxxis on the rear wheel. In total, the Ransom weighs just 15.46 kilos (thanks to the frame and cockpit), which is noticeable in its direct, light-footed handling.
Precision vs. comfort
It is clear from the first few metres of the test track that the Ransom is a precision device. Every push, every rider input is picked up immediately and implemented without loss. The position on the bike is also immediately pleasing. The length is just right, you're nicely centred and always in full control.
However, as soon as the surface becomes rougher, it quickly becomes apparent that the high precision also has a downside: What applies to the pilot's input also applies to the feedback from the surface. The Ransom passes on far too many impacts to the rider and penalises even the smallest riding error. This is exhausting and tiring. Where other bikes flex, the Scott bounces and builds up little traction.
Our measurements in the laboratory confirm the riding impression and confirm the extremely high stiffness of the rear triangle, which is almost twice as high as some of its competitors. On the affordable Ransom with aluminium rear triangle, which we were able to ride in previous tests, the value is even higher. In addition, the large-volume frame acts as a resonance body and makes for a rather loud riding experience.
Uphill, on the other hand, the Ransom leaves nothing to be desired. The position of the bike is orientated towards propulsion and also allows for long rides. Thanks to the Twinloc lever, the rider has all the trump cards in their hands and can tighten or lock out the rear suspension at lightning speed, adapting it to their needs and the route. In open mode, the rear end pumps significantly.
BIKE review of the Scott Ransom 900 RC
Functional system integration and the stylish look make the Scott Ransom a real eye-catcher. The low weight and harmonious geometry are also impressive. However, the biggest drawback is the excessive frame stiffness, which unnecessarily restricts the riding behaviour in terms of comfort and traction.
