Despite its 2.8 inch wide Maxxis tyres, the Scott only weighs 100 grams more than the lightest bike in the test. A respectable performance, even in the high-end segment where money plays a subordinate role. But how is this possible? The centrepiece of the Sparks is the frame, which weighs just 2166 grams including the shock and also achieves the highest stiffness. And the wheels? Despite aluminium rims with a 35 mm rim width, the wheels are a moderate 150 grams above the test average. In terms of inertia, they even outperform all other 29er wheelsets, with the exception of the lightweight Specialized 29er set. The warm-up lap on the newly built pump track in Rabenberg confirms how well the Spark hangs on to the throttle. So we turn into the Stone Garden trail opposite in the forest. With just 0.9 bar at the front and 1.1 bar at the rear, the tyres offer an extra portion of comfort and extend the suspension with its rather short travel. On man-made rock gardens, you have to aim for the line and keep going. The Spark only loses a little speed and, thanks to the low tyre pressure, flits quickly, albeit somewhat undefined, through the bumpy sections. The Scott also surprises with a lot of grip and confidence on gravel sections and when braking. For short sprints or longer climbs, the Twinloc lever on the handlebars always provides the right response. Together with the consistently good handling, Scott takes the win on points. The only drawback: the bottom bracket is too low.
Tubeless tuning, 10 mm shorter stem: The ultimate trail bike has to be light, agile and powerful, but still offer safety and fun downhill. In our opinion, the Spark 700 Tuned Plus has all the ingredients to make it a title contender in this category. The mix of frame and add-on parts is already right in the standard build. (Julian Oswald, Scott)
