Transition Scout Alloy NX Review
- Price: $4099
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: Front: Maxxis Assegai 3C EXO+ (2.5), Rear: Maxxis Minion DHRII 3C EXO+ (2.4)
- Gear: 1×12
What We Like About It: It features a 6061 aluminum frame that offers exceptional strength and durability.
What we didn’t like about it: 24mph isn’t fast enough and may not meet the needs of some riders.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Transition Scout Alloy NX is an outstanding full-suspension mountain bike. With its creative design and aggressive geometry, I’m quite fond of this bike. I’m looking forward to taking it off-road and seeing how it performs.
Below, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Transition Scout Alloy NX. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it with several other top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, be sure to follow us.
Riding Experience
In Flims LAAX, I chose The Never End Trail route. It’s a 4.0-mile route that’s mostly downhill, with an altitude drop of 3339ft. The trail is quite complex, featuring gravel, grass, and various factors affecting the ride. There are steep uphills and downhills, and the path is rugged with sharp turns. These elements posed quite a challenge to my ride.
Off-Road Riding
Starting at the trailhead, the initial road was relatively simple, so I accelerated continuously. Then, I encountered the first uphill. I adjusted the SRAM NX Eagle rear derailleur to the lowest gear ratio, which allowed me to conquer the uphill with minimal effort. I also lowered the seatpost height using the dropper, helping me stand up for acceleration without hitting my legs against the seat.
During downhill sections, the ODI Elite Flow grips provided a tight hold on the RaceFace Chester 35 handlebar, preventing hand slip during high-speed vibrations and ensuring my safety. With 150mm front travel and 140mm rear travel, the bike’s suspension absorbed shocks effectively on bumpy roads. I remained seated on the bike and didn’t feel excessive bumps, instead experiencing the joy of conquering different terrains.
In each curve of the trail, my previous riding experience came into play as I accurately judged the road and turns. This bike exhibited excellent handling, thanks to its impressive turning ability and agile 27.5″ wheels. It boosted my confidence, enabling me to navigate every curve with precision.
Is that all?
The Transition Scout Alloy NX features inconsistent front and rear wheels. The front wheel is equipped with a Maxxis Assegai 3C EXO+ (2.5) tire, while the rear wheel sports a Maxxis Minion DHRII 3C EXO+ (2.4) tire. The Maxxis Assegai 3C is suitable for downhill and aggressive off-road riding, with noticeably low rolling resistance. Its small knobs between the central tread and side knobs provide smooth transitions during turns, granting powerful traction through each corner. The Maxxis Minion DHRII offers excellent grip and traction, and its angled edges play a significant role in acceleration. It offers more acceleration for the same effort.
Furthermore, the ANVL Forge Cromo saddle impressed me with its comfort. Throughout the ride, it felt lightweight and thin. With specific optimizations, it’s highly flexible and one of the best saddles I’ve recently ridden on. It barely compressed my buttocks, providing exceptional comfort as I sat on it. This feeling is simply fantastic.
Specifications
The Transition Scout Alloy NX is an exceptionally impressive full-suspension mountain bike. It features the Scout Alloy 140mm frame, equipped with a Fox Float 36 Rhythm fork and Fox Float X Performance rear shock, providing 150mm of front travel and 140mm of rear travel. This setup results in outstanding suspension performance.
Moreover, this bike boasts an SRAM NX Eagle rear derailleur with smooth operation and a wide gear range. Additionally, its SRAM Code R Hydraulic Disc brake delivers powerful braking capability, ensuring rider safety.
Video
Other Versions
After numerous tests, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It’s a highly capable full-suspension mountain bike. However, since many riders have specific performance or component requirements, we’ve explored other bikes in the same category for further investigation.
Transition Scout Alloy GX
The Scout Alloy GX weighs 33.4 lbs, making it slightly lighter and more agile than the Scout Alloy NX at 34.9 lbs. Moreover, the Scout Alloy GX features a Fox Float 36 Grip 2 Performance Elite fork, while the Scout Alloy NX utilizes a Fox Float 36 Rhythm fork. The Fox Float 36 Rhythm is made from cast aluminum, while the Fox Float 36 Grip 2 Performance Elite fork is built with a solid block, making it lighter and sturdier than the Fox Float 36 Rhythm.
Furthermore, in terms of geometry, these two bikes are identical, but their components differ. The Scout Alloy GX is equipped with SRAM GX Eagle components, whereas the Transition Scout Alloy NX features SRAM NX Eagle components. The GX components are lighter than the NX components and offer the customization capabilities of the AXS application, giving riders better control over the bike.
So, if you’re seeking a lighter bike, I’d recommend the Transition Scout Alloy GX. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Transition Scout Alloy NX would be a better choice.
What do we like about it?
- The Scout Alloy frame is crafted from 6061 aluminum, providing exceptional strength, durability, and riding quality.
- Collet main pivot technology enhances rear-end stiffness and tightens pivot hardware, resulting in a more comfortable ride.
- Fully integrated rubber protection keeps the bike quiet during rides.
- ZS44/ZS56 press-in headset allows riders to freely adjust the angle.
What don’t we like about it?
- The 24mph gear range may not be fast enough to meet the needs of some riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Can this bike accommodate a chain guide?
Yes, it can accommodate a Chain Guide since it features an ISCG05 tag.
- Can the travel be adjusted on this bike?
Yes, the travel can be adjusted within a range of 10mm above and below the stock travel.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are only general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size the best way is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’8″ – 5’3″ | XS |
| 5’0″ – 5’7″ | SM |
| 5’4″ – 6’0″ | MD |
| 5’4″ – 6’0″ | LG |
| 6’0″ – 6’7″ | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Scout Alloy 140mmColors: Midnight Blue (Carbon); Olive Green (Carbon); Classy Black (Alloy); Raspberry (Alloy) |
| Fork | Fox Float 36 Rhythm, (150mm) |
| Rear Shock | Fox Float X Performance, (205×57.5mm) |
| Headset | FSA No. 57E |
| Stem | RaceFace Aeffect R (40mm) |
| Handlebar | RaceFace Chester 35, XS/SM (780×20) MD/LG (780×35) |
| Saddle | ANVL Forge Cromo |
| Seatpost | OneUp Dropper Post, XS(120mm) SM(150mm) MD(180mm) LG(210mm) |
| Grips | ODI Elite Flow |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM NX Eagle |
| Crank | SRAM Descendent 6k DUB, (XS 32t/165mm), (SM/MD/LG 32t/170mm) |
| Shifters | SRAM NX Eagle MMX |
| Cassette | SRAM PG 1230 (11-50t) |
| Chain | SRAM NX Eagle |
| Brakes | SRAM Code R, or, SRAM Guide RE 4-Piston |
Wheels
| Rims | Stans Flow D |
| Spokes | Pillar Double Butted |
| Front Hub | Novatech D791SB/D902SB |
| Rear Hub | Novatech D791SB/D902SB |
| Tires | Front: Maxxis Assegai 3C EXO+ (2.5), Rear: Maxxis Minion DHRII 3C EXO+ (2.4) |
| Disk Rotors | SRAM Centerline (180mm) |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Nukeproof Scout 275 RS | Click View | Front: Schwalbe Magic Mary, Snakeskin 27.5×2.6″,Rear: Schwalbe Hans Dampf, Snakeskin 27.5×2.6″ | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | SRAM GX Eagle |
| Diamondback Release 29 3 | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF 29×2.3″ | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | Shimano XT |
| Norco Fluid FS A1 | Click View | Vittoria Mazza 2.4″ | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | Shimano XT,Praxis |
| Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF 29×2.5″ | 1 x 12 | Carbon | SRAM GX Eagle,NX Eagle |
Transition Scout Alloy NX vs. Nukeproof Scout 275 RS
The Transition Scout Alloy NX weighs 34.9 lbs, slightly heavier than the Nukeproof Scout 275 RS at 29.8 lbs. A heavier bike tends to provide greater stability during riding, but it also generates more resistance. On the other hand, lighter bikes are more agile and have better maneuverability.
Furthermore, the Nukeproof Scout 275 RS is a hardtail bike, whereas the Transition Scout Alloy NX is a full-suspension bike with 150mm of front travel and 140mm of rear travel. This gives the Transition Scout Alloy NX stronger suspension performance compared to the Nukeproof Scout 275 RS, which has 140mm of front travel.
In summary, if you’re seeking superior suspension performance, I would recommend the Transition Scout Alloy NX. If you’re looking for a lighter bike, the Nukeproof Scout 275 RS would be a great choice for you.
Learn More: Is Nukeproof Scout 290 Elite Splendid – [Nukeproof Scout 290 Elite Review]
Transition Scout Alloy NX vs. Diamondback Release 29 3
The Diamondback Release 29 3 features larger 29″ wheels, which provide strong traction and better ability to handle rough terrain. On the other hand, the Transition Scout Alloy NX has smaller 27.5″ wheels, offering agility and maneuverability. Additionally, the Diamondback Release 29 3 is equipped with 140mm of front travel and 130mm of rear travel, providing slightly less suspension performance compared to the Transition Scout Alloy NX with 150mm of front travel and 140mm of rear travel.
Furthermore, the Transition Scout Alloy NX has a stack/reach ratio of 1.27, which is smaller than the Diamondback Release 29 3’s 1.35 stack/reach ratio. A larger stack/reach ratio offers more stretching ability, enhancing the rider’s comfort during the ride.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a more comfortable ride, the Diamondback Release 29 3 would meet your needs. If you’re looking for more agile wheel handling, the Transition Scout Alloy NX would be an excellent choice for you.
Learn More: Is DIAMONDBACK ATROZ 3 worth buying? [DIAMONDBACK ATROZ 3 Review]
Transition Scout Alloy NX vs. Norco Fluid FS A1
The Transition Scout Alloy NX is equipped with 150mm of front travel and 140mm of rear travel, offering stronger suspension performance compared to the Norco Fluid FS A1 with 140mm of front travel and 130mm of rear travel. Additionally, the Norco Fluid FS A1 features 29″ tires for better traction, while the Transition Scout Alloy NX comes with 27.5″ wheels that provide exceptional agility.
Furthermore, the Norco Fluid FS A1 can reach speeds of 26mph, whereas the Transition Scout Alloy NX has a speed of 24mph. However, the Transition Scout Alloy NX has a smaller 64° head tube angle, in contrast to the Norco Fluid FS A1’s 65° head tube angle, which contributes to a smoother ride for the rider.
In conclusion, if you’re aiming for a smoother ride, the Transition Scout Alloy NX would suit you well. If you’re looking for better and faster speeds, I would suggest considering the Norco Fluid FS A1.
Learn More: Is Norco Fluid FS A1 Worth Buying? – [Norco Fluid FS A1 Review]
Transition Scout Alloy NX vs. Cannondale Habit Carbon 3
The Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 features a very lightweight carbon frame, but it’s prone to breaking when subjected to side impacts. In contrast, the Transition Scout Alloy NX has an aluminum frame that’s relatively heavier but doesn’t have this issue. Moreover, it boasts agile 27.5″ wheels, while the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 comes with 29″ tires for better traction.
Furthermore, the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 has 140mm of front travel and 130mm of rear travel, whereas the Transition Scout Alloy NX with 150mm of front travel and 140mm of rear travel offers stronger suspension performance. Additionally, the Transition Scout Alloy NX has a 1.27 stack/reach ratio, while the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 has a stack/reach ratio of 1.359. A larger stack/reach ratio contributes to a more comfortable ride.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a more comfortable ride, I would recommend the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3. If you’re looking for better suspension performance, the Transition Scout Alloy NX would be the better choice.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Worth Buying? [2022 Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Review]
Summary
The above is our comprehensive review of the Transition Scout Alloy NX. This exceptional full-suspension mountain bike provides an outstanding off-road experience for riders. Considering everything, we’ve awarded it a high score of 4.8. If you’re interested in more bike-related information, feel free to explore our other reviews.
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