KTM SCARP MT EXONIC Review
- Price: $9965
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Wheels: 29″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12 electronic
What we like about it: Top-notch components, impeccable performance.
What we don’t like about it: The price isn’t accessible to everyone.
Rating (4.7/5)
The KTM brand has a long and legendary history in the motorcycle and bicycle industries. Founded in Austria in 1953, KTM initially focused on producing motorcycles before expanding into the bicycle market in the 1960s.
Throughout its history, KTM has continuously pushed the limits of engineering and design, creating some of the most advanced and high-performance bicycles on the market today.
The SCARP series is one of KTM’s most successful and popular mountain bike series. Developed in the early 2000s, the SCARP was designed to be a versatile and high-performance bike capable of handling a variety of terrain and conditions.
Since its launch, the SCARP has undergone numerous iterations and improvements, resulting in a bike widely regarded as one of the best in its class.
The KTM SCARP MT EXONIC is the latest and most advanced version of the SCARP series. This carbon fiber mountain bike features a 1×12-speed electronic shifting system, allowing for lightning-fast and responsive gear changes.
Designed for a variety of terrains, from flat roads to rocky trails and steep slopes, the KTM SCARP MT EXONIC features a lightweight carbon fiber structure and advanced components, making it a top-of-the-line mountain bike ideal for serious riders in need of the best performance and technology.
If you’re interested in learning more about bike reviews, be sure to follow us.
Riding Experience
As a professional off-road cyclist, I’ve been fortunate enough to ride some of the best mountain bikes on the market. However, there’s nothing quite like riding a top-of-the-line full-suspension mountain bike.
The feeling of effortlessly gliding over rocks and roots while the suspension absorbs every bump is truly exhilarating. I have two real-life riding experiences to share, both on bikes of this type. Before setting off, I also booked accommodation through Skyscanner to give myself ample space to rest and prepare.
Descending
One experience took place in the beautiful mountain town of Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. I was participating in the “Top of the World” event at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park.
This was an off-road race that started at the top of Whistler Mountain and descended over 5,000 feet to the village below. I was riding a top-of-the-line full-suspension mountain bike, the perfect choice for this type of race.
The suspension allowed me to easily navigate the steep technical terrain, while the lightweight carbon fiber frame made accelerating and climbing a breeze.
The race started at the top of the mountain, with riders taking a gondola to the starting line. The air was thin, and the scenery was breathtaking. With the signal to go, I took off.
The first part of the course was rough and technical, with steep downhill sections on either side. But the suspension on my bike absorbed every bump, and I felt confident and in control.
The course gradually flattened out, and I was able to pick up speed and easily navigate the winding trails. The final section of the course consisted of a series of jumps and steep descents.
The suspension on my bike allowed me to land smoothly and maintain speed, and I crossed the finish line with a big smile on my face.
Off-Road Experience
There’s a trail in Moab, Utah known as “Poison Spider Mesa”. This trail is famous for its technical and challenging terrain, with steep drops, rock ledges, and narrow twisting paths.
I rode with a group of friends, all of whom brought their top-of-the-line full-suspension mountain bikes. As we made our way to the start of the trail, I felt both excited and nervous.
I was amazed at how easily my bike navigated the challenging terrain. The suspension absorbed every bump, and I was able to maintain my speed and momentum.
As we descended further down the trail, the terrain became even more challenging, with steep drops and narrow ledges.
But my top-of-the-line full-suspension mountain bike was more than up to the challenge. I felt a level of confidence and control that I had never experienced before on a bike.
We finally reached the end of the trail, exhausted but exhilarated. I knew I had just ridden one of the most challenging routes in the world, and my bike was perfectly suited for the task.
Overall, there’s nothing quite like riding a top-of-the-line full-suspension mountain bike. Whether you’re taking part in mountain shuttle activities or tackling challenging trails like Poison Spider Mesa, these bikes are the perfect combination of speed, agility, and control.
As a professional off-road cyclist, I’m grateful for the opportunity to ride these incredible machines and experience the thrill of pushing myself to the limit.
Specification
The KTM Scarp MT Exonic is an absolute top-of-the-line full-suspension off-road mountain bike, equipped with high-quality components. The frame is made of high-quality carbon fiber and has a rear travel of 115mm.
The front fork is a FOX 34 Float SC Factory with the travel of 120mm, and the rear shock is a FOX Float DPS Factory with the travel of 190x45mm. The wheels are DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30 Carbon CL, providing a responsive and stable riding experience.
The drivetrain is powered by an SRAM XX1 Eagle DUB carbon fiber crankset with a 32T chainring and an SRAM XX Eagle SL AXS 12-speed rear derailleur. The bike is also equipped with Shimano XTR M9100 2-piston brakes and Shimano XTR M9100 brake levers.
Overall, this bike is built for the highest level of performance, with top-of-the-line components that provide precision and reliability on the most challenging off-road terrain.
Follow us for more information.
What do we like about it?
- Lightweight carbon fiber frame: The high-quality carbon fiber frame of the KTM Scarp MT Exonic makes the bike incredibly light, accelerating faster and providing more agile riding.
- Full suspension design: The 115mm rear travel and 120mm front travel provide a comfortable ride on any terrain, absorbing shock and providing stability on technical sections.
- Top-of-the-line wheelset: The DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30 Carbon CL wheelset is responsive and stable, allowing for precise handling and quick acceleration.
- Reliable braking system: The Shimano XTR M9100 2-piston calipers with Shimano XTR M9100 brake levers provide excellent stopping power and reliability, giving you confidence on steep descents.
- Grippy tires: The Schwalbe Racing Ray and Racing Ralph Evo SuperRace tires provide excellent grip and traction on all kinds of terrain, allowing riders to confidently tackle technical sections.
- Top suspension components: The FOX 34 Float SC Factory front fork and FOX Float DPS Factory rear shock are top-of-the-line suspension components, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
What don’t we like about it?
- Higher price: The price is not acceptable to everyone.
FAQs
- Is the KTM Scarp MT Exonic suitable for beginners?
Although the bike’s advanced components make it an ideal choice for professional and experienced riders, beginners can also ride it. The full suspension design and stable wheelset make it easy to handle on various terrains.
- Is the KTM Scarp MT Exonic suitable for racing?
Yes, this bike is designed for off-road racing, with a lightweight frame, top-of-the-line wheelset, and high-performance drivetrain. Its suspension components also provide a smooth ride on technical sections.
- Can the KTM Scarp MT Exonic handle rough terrain?
Yes, the full-suspension design, grippy tires, and high-quality suspension components make this bike suitable for rough terrain, including rocky sections and technical trails.
- What is the weight of the KTM Scarp MT Exonic?
Weighing in at about 23.3 pounds, the bike is incredibly light and easy to maneuver on the trails.
- Is the KTM Scarp MT Exonic worth the investment?
Yes, the top-tier components and high-performance design of this bike make it worth investing in for serious riders who want to compete at the highest level. However, the bike may not be necessary for those who ride more casually.
KTM SCAPE MT EXONIC Specs
Build
| Frame | Scarp 29″ Premium Carbon SLL115mm UDH / M-2926 Hanger Standard: UDH Color: Carbon (Fire Orange) |
| Fork | FOX 34 Float SC 29″ Factory 120mm remote |
| Rear Shock | FOX Float DPS Factory remote 190×45 |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB |
| Headset | KTM Prime drop/in 1.1/8″-1.5″ |
| Stem | KTM Prime MTB 6° |
| Handlebar | KTM Prime Carbon flat 740mm |
| Saddle | Selle Italia SLR Boost flow Carbon Rails |
| Seatpost | KTM Prime Carbon zero 30.9/400 |
| Pedals | None |
| Grips | KTM Team silicone |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM XX Eagle SL AXS 12speed |
| Crank | SRAM XX1 Eagle DUB Carbon 32T |
| Shifters | SRAM Eagle AXS Rocker Paddle |
| Cassette | SRAM XX1 Eagle XG-1299 / 10-52 rainbow |
| Chain | SRAM XX1 Eagle 12s |
| Chain Guide | None |
| Brakes | Shimano XTR M9100 / M9100 2-Piston |
| Brake Levers | Shimano XTR M9100 |
Wheels
| Rims | DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30 Carbon CL 110-15TA / 622x30TSS TLR |
| Spokes | DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30 wheelset |
| Front Hub | DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30 wheelset, 15x110mm Boost front, 12x148mm Boost rear with XD driver |
| Rear Hub | DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30 wheelset, 15x110mm Boost front, 12x148mm Boost rear with XD driver |
| Tires | Front: Schwalbe Racing Ray, Evo, SuperRace, TLE, 29″ x 2.35″, Rear: Schwalbe Racing Ralph, Evo, SuperRace, TLE, 29″ x 2.35″ |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano MT900 CL 160 / MT900 CL 160 freeza |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click View | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR | Click View | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Shimano XTR, e*thirteen TRS Race |
| Scott Spark ST 900 Tuned | Click View | 1×12 Electronic | Carbon Fiber | SRAM X01 Eagle AXS, GX Eagle AXS |
| Yeti SB130 T3 | Click View | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | SRAM XX1 Eagle, X01 Eagle |
| Santa Cruz 5010 X01 AXS RSV / Carbon CC | Click View | 1×12 Electronic | Carbon Fiber | SRAM X01 Eagle AXS, GX Eagle AXS |
KTM SCAPE MT EXONIC vs Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR
Although both the KTM Scarp MT Exonic and the Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR are high-performance mountain bikes, they differ in several ways.
The Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR comes equipped with advanced 1×12 XTR, e*thirteen TRS Race components, and a dropper post, making it more versatile and easier to ride on technical terrain.
However, the KTM Scarp MT Exonic features a 1×12 Electronic XX1 Eagle AXS, X01 Eagle AXS kit, which offers better electronic shifting and faster response compared to Trek’s XTR components.
The KTM also has a lightweight frame, making it more maneuverable on the trails.
As for the wheelset, both bikes come with carbon fiber wheelsets, but the KTM Scarp MT Exonic’s wheelset is wider and stiffer.
Additionally, the Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR is more affordable than the KTM Scarp MT Exonic, making it a more accessible option for those seeking a high-performance mountain bike.
Learn More: Is Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT Worth Buying ? [Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT Review]
KTM SCAPE MT EXONIC vs Scott Spark ST 900 Tuned
When comparing the KTM Scarp MT Exonic and the Scott Spark ST 900 Tuned, there are some similarities and differences to consider.
Both bikes feature carbon fiber frames and are equipped with 1×12 electronic drivetrains, carbon fiber wheels, and high-end components.
However, the Scott Spark ST 900 Tuned has the additional advantage of a dropper seat post, which provides better control and stability on technical descents.
The Spark is also priced more affordably, making it an easier option to obtain for those seeking high-performance mountain bikes.
On the other hand, the KTM Scarp MT Exonic has a lighter frame and 1×12 Electronic, XX1 Eagle AXS, and X01 Eagle AXS kits. It offers better electronic shifting and faster response than Scott Spark’s GX Eagle AXS components.
In addition, the wheelset of KTM is slightly wider and more rigid, providing better traction and stability on the track.
Learn more : Is Scott Spark 970 Worth Buying? – [Scott Spark 970 Review]
KTM SCAPE MT EXONIC vs Yeti SB130 T3
Both bikes are high-end full-suspension carbon mountain bikes. the Yeti SB130 T3 has longer travel to provide better control on rough terrain. It also features the 1×12 XX1 Eagle and X01 Eagle kits, known for their precise gear changes and excellent range.
On the other hand, the KTM Scarp MT Exonic features the electronically shifted 1×12 XX1 Eagle AXS and X01 Eagle AXS packages for a seamless and precise shifting experience.
It also has carbon fiber wheels that make it lighter and faster. However, it does not come with a lift seatpost, which may affect its performance when technology drops.
Learn more : Is Yeti SB130 C1 Splendid – [Yeti SB130 C1 Review]
KTM SCAPE MT EXONIC vs Santa Cruz 5010 X01 AXS RSV / Carbon CC
Both are high-end carbon fiber mountain bikes with advanced components. The difference is that the Santa Cruz 5010 X01 AXS RSV / Carbon CC has a slightly longer travel, while the KTM SCARP MT EXONIC is lighter and more agile, with a shorter travel.
So, if you prefer to move like a nimble deer through the mountains, I think you should give the KTM SCARP MT EXONIC a try.
But if you prefer more technical off-road routes, such as the Moab Slickrock Trail, you may want to consider the Santa Cruz 5010 X01 AXS RSV / Carbon CC.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz 5010 X01 A Good Bike? [Santa Cruz 5010 X01 Review]
Summary
That concludes our review of the KTM SCARP MT EXONIC. It is a top-of-the-line full-suspension mountain bike with high-end componentry and top-tier frame geometry, making it ideal for intense riding and fast movement in the mountains. Give it a try.
However, if you’re a budget-conscious rider, check out our more affordable bike reviews.
Finally, if you enjoy our content, please share it with your friends! And if our content has been helpful to you, please consider subscribing via the email subscription button below. Thank you for your support!
