Scott Plasma RC Pro Review
- Price: $10,999
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 700c Carbon
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
What we like about it: This dedicated triathlon bike features fully integrated cables, a hydration system, and storage boxes, all while adhering to aerodynamics.
What we didn’t like about it: It’s expensive and comes at a high price relative to most riders.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Scott Plasma RC Pro is a top-tier triathlon bike in the Scott Plasma RC series, with an exceptional frame design for terrifying aerodynamics. Combined with EVO-LAP technology, it offers a powerful and comfortable riding experience for triathletes.
Next, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Scott Plasma RC Pro. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several other top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, stay tuned.
Riding Experience
The Scott Plasma RC Pro offers a perfect blend of pedal responsiveness and riding stability. With a frame design that maximizes aerodynamics and efficiency, every pedal stroke delivers more power.
To test this, I took the Scott Plasma RC Pro to California State Route 1. I booked a hotel nearby using IHG in advance. I rode the Los Angeles to Santa Barbara section, covering a total distance of about 143 kilometers. This route is flat, runs along the Pacific Ocean, and allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the Pacific. It also includes some rolling hills and long descents.
Road Cruising
As soon as I hit the road with the Scott Plasma RC Pro, I was impressed by the bike’s lightweight feel and responsive pedaling. The carbon fiber frame is stiff and lightweight, making the entire bike feel integrated, and each pedal stroke propels the bike forward with precision.
During my long-distance cruising on flat roads, the Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 drivetrain provided a silky-smooth, seamless shifting experience. The transmission efficiency was high enough that my pedaling frequency increased, ultimately making my ride faster.
When I reached a high enough speed, the excellent aerodynamic design allowed me to achieve an incredibly aerodynamic state. I could feel the wind rushing past my ears.
Climbing and Descending
In climbing, the Scott Plasma RC Pro, as a triathlon bike, doesn’t have the same advantages as endurance road bikes. However, the lightweight carbon fiber frame makes climbing less strenuous. With the ample speed choices of the Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 components, adjusting to the right speed made climbing much easier and less effort-intensive.
On long downhill stretches, the exceptional aerodynamic design and integrated cable routing reduced even more wind resistance. Even without pedaling, the bike reached very high speeds.
Additionally, the Shimano Di2 ST-R9180 hydraulic disc brakes exhibited impressive stopping power. Even with continuous braking, the calipers and brake discs dissipated heat quickly, maintaining efficient braking performance throughout.
What pleased me the most was that even after several hours of riding, I didn’t feel particularly fatigued. The carbon fiber frame and carbon fiber wheels absorb more road vibrations, making the ride more comfortable.
Specifications
The Scott Plasma RC Pro features a carbon fiber frame with internal cable routing, along with a unique design tailored for triathlon bikes, giving it an eye-catching appearance.
The integrated internal cable routing design and aerodynamic application result in lower wind resistance during bike rides, contributing to a cleaner and neater appearance.
In terms of integrated storage, the Scott Plasma RC Pro allows you to store all your accessories and nutrition within the frame design. The new hydration system also maintains an aerodynamic position during hydration and nutrition intake, making it easy to replenish what you need while riding.
Finally, the Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 drivetrain components offer efficient transmission efficiency and smooth, precise shifting. The hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable braking performance.
Video
Other Versions
The 2023 Scott Plasma RC Pro is a sufficiently powerful triathlon bike, serving as the second-tier model in the Scott Plasma RC series. However, there is a higher-end flagship version available for those with a generous budget, offering top-tier capabilities in almost every aspect, without the need for any upgrades.
Therefore, we present the top-of-the-line triathlon bike in the Scott Plasma RC series:
2023 Scott Plasma RC Ultimate
The 2023 Scott Plasma RC Ultimate features the same outstanding geometry and ultimate aerodynamics. It is even lighter in weight.
Equipped with the top-tier SRAM RED eTap AXS 2×12-speed electronic shifting, it offers higher transmission efficiency and quicker shifting response. Electronic shifting also simplifies daily adjustments.
On the braking front, it utilizes the top-tier SRAM S-900 Aero HRD brake components, maintaining strong braking capabilities and reliable performance even in harsh conditions. Additionally, it comes with upgraded Zipp 858 NSW carbon fiber wheels, providing a smoother rolling experience and ensuring efficient riding.
What do we like about it?
- Available in five frame sizes (XS-XL), catering to riders with heights ranging from 5’1″ to 6’5″, offering a wide range of options.
- Integrated internal cable routing throughout the bike for a cleaner appearance and reduced wind resistance.
- Frame constructed using our Evo-Lap technology, delivering exceptional stiffness, comfort, and impact resistance.
- Hydraulic disc brakes with reliable performance in various riding conditions.
- Rear wheel adjustability with six different wheel mounting positions to achieve the ideal aerodynamic position, regardless of wheel or tire choice.
- Integrated storage allows you to store all accessories and supplements within the frame design. The new hydration system maintains an aerodynamic position during hydration and nutrition intake and is easily replenished during the ride.
What don’t we like about it?
- It’s expensive and comes at a high price relative to most riders.
FAQ
- Are Scott bikes a good value for the money?
Scott bikes are made with high-quality materials and precise engineering to ensure a great riding experience. They are also lightweight, making them easy to transport and maneuver. For anyone looking for a high-quality bike that can be used for many years, Scott bikes are a significant investment.
- What kind of terrain is this bike suitable for?
It is best suited for riding on well-paved roads and other smooth surfaces.
- How do I choose the right size?
We provide a size chart here, but the best way to find the most suitable size is to try one out for yourself.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’6″ | XS |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | S |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | M |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | L |
| 6’0″ – 6’5″ | XL |
Scott Plasma RC Pro Specs
Build
| Frame | Plasma 6 Disc / HMX TRI Geometry / Plasma HMX seatpost / Replaceable Derailleur Hanger |
| Fork | Plasma 6 Disc 1 1/4″- 1 1/2″ Carbon / integrated |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano SM-BB71-41B |
| Headset | Syncros Integrated 1 1/4″- 1 1/2″ drop-in headset |
| Handlebar | Syncros Creston iC TRI, 400mm, Syncros E1 Carbon extension |
| Saddle | Syncros Belcarra 1.5 TRI |
| Seatpost | Syncros Plasma 6 HMX with Ritchey WCS clamp adjustable head |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 24 Speed Electronic Shift System |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 FD-R8150 Electronic Shift System |
| Crank | Shimano Ultegra FC-R8100 52/36 T |
| Shifters | Shimano Di2 SW-R9160 Electronic Shift System |
| Cassette | Shimano Ultegra CS-R8100-12 11-30 |
| Chain | Shimano CN-M8100-12 |
| Brakes | Shimano BR-R9170 Hyd.Disc |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Di2 ST-R9180 Electronic Shift System |
Wheels
| Rims | Zipp 404 Firecrest Carbon tubless disc-brake 24 Front / 24 Rear Syncros SL Axle / Removable Lever with Tool |
| Tires | Schwalbe PRO ONE TT Microskin, TL-Easy, Fold 700x25C |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano RT-CL800 rotor 160/F and 160/R |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Wheelset | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Factor SLiCK SRAM RED eTap AXS | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM Red eTAP AXS | 2 × 12 Electronic |
| Canyon Speedmax CFR Disc eTap | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM S-900 Aero HRD | 2 × 12 Electronic |
| BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM S-900 Aero HRD | 2 × 12 Electronic |
Scott Plasma RC Pro vs. Factor SLiCK SRAM RED eTap AXS
They are both top-tier triathlon bikes. When it comes to drivetrain components, the former offers a smoother shifting experience. The latter, on the other hand, is more crisp and precise, with higher-grade components.
However, the former excels in better storage integration, allowing riders to conveniently replenish their supplies while on the go. Additionally, in terms of aerodynamics, the Scott Plasma RC Pro outperforms.
In the end, between these two bikes, I would prefer the Scott Plasma RC Pro. Its versatility and functionality are what I appreciate the most.
Scott Plasma RC Pro vs. Canyon Speedmax CFR Disc eTap
When comparing these two bikes, the latter will have a lighter weight, making the ride more effortless.
In terms of components, the former, with Shimano components, offers a more refined operation. The latter, equipped with SRAM components, provides a crisper-shifting experience. When it comes to weight and transmission efficiency, the latter has a slight edge.
So, the latter’s ride will be faster, while the former’s versatile storage integration ensures continuous supply replenishment during the ride.
Therefore, between them, both are excellent triathlon bikes, each with its advantages.
Learn More: Is Canyon Speedmax CF SLX 8 WMN Disc Di2 Worth Buying? [Canyon Speedmax CF SLX 8 Review]
Scott Plasma RC Pro vs. BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE
In terms of geometry, the latter has a more aggressive riding posture, while the former offers better riding comfort with its geometry.
Regarding drivetrain components, both of these bikes feature electronic versions of shifting, which are easy to adjust. However, the former provides a smoother, more precise shifting experience, while the latter’s shifting is crisp and robust.
One of the significant reasons I appreciate the Scott Plasma RC Pro is its superior integrated storage, allowing me to replenish energy during the ride.
In summary, the Scott Addict RC Ultimate would be my top choice.
Learn More: Is BMC Timemachine ROAD 01 THREE Worth Buying? [BMC Timemachine ROAD 01 THREE Review]
Summary
The above is my riding review of the Scott Plasma RC Pro. In our view, it’s a top-tier triathlon bike, featuring a high-end lightweight carbon fiber frame paired with top-tier components for maximum performance. This is why we gave it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other triathlon bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes at various price points, making it fun to explore different options. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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