Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 Review
- Price: $6,299
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 700x28C
- Gear: 2 × 12 Electronic
What we like about it: Ready-to-ride, lightweight, and geometry tailored for female physiology.
What we don’t like about it: Aggressive geometry might not suit everyone.
Rating: (4.85/5)
The Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 boasts a lightweight carbon fiber frame paired with the compact Syncros Creston 1.0 handlebar. It comes equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 drivetrain and Shimano BR-R8170 hydraulic disc brakes, presenting a clean and functional appearance. Nevertheless, it stands as an outstanding women’s racing bike. The Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 caters to riders who prioritize high performance and swift riding.
Below, we delve into the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15. Additionally, in the latter part of this article, we provide a comparison of several top bicycle models. If you seek more bicycle reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
I planned to bring the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 with me to California, so I pre-booked accommodations on IHG.
Upon arrival, I quickly got organized and set out to experience the Pacific Coast Highway with the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15. Of course, I chose only a portion of the route—the Big Sur route.
Frankly, completing the entire route is a considerable challenge. Stretching from San Simeon in central California to the Big Sur area in the north, it covers approximately 90 miles. However, I was more interested in exploring the all-around performance of the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 and had no intention of covering the full distance.
From San Simeon to Piedras Blancas
The weather was fine, and Eve and I embarked from San Simeon with a friendly race in mind. Our destination was Piedras Blancas. While we didn’t time ourselves precisely, we arrived at our destination without much fatigue. After locating a resting spot, we engaged in a discussion about our experience.
“Eve mentioned, “Pedaling feels strong and virtually devoid of any recoil resistance; it’s fantastic!” I concurred with her assessment. The Shimano Ultegra crankset delivers robust power with minimal recoil, and the notched Syncros Celista 1.5 saddle enhances my ride’s agility. Moreover, the relatively steep seat tube angle (74°) allows me to exploit this feature on the Syncros Celista 1.5 saddle, adopting a more aerodynamic posture for sprinting.
Despite encountering some uphill and downhill sections between Hearst Castle and Piedras Blancas, where climbing can be quite taxing, both of us found the experience relatively comfortable on this bike.
Thanks to the 2×12 Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 drivetrain, we precisely and smoothly selected lower gear ratios. With its relatively aggressive geometry, it was easier to adjust our center of gravity and attain an optimal riding position, conserving energy.
From San Simeon to Piedras Blancas, neither Eve nor I emerged as the victor. However, we were both content with the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15’s acceleration capabilities and performance.
From Piedras Blancas to Ragged Point
This route was comparably longer, spanning around 20 miles. Upon reaching Ragged Point, Eve and I exclaimed, “This was quite tough! A long journey indeed.” Fortunately, the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 features two bottle cage mounts, enabling us to carry ample hydration from the previous refueling station.
Initially, we had concerns about the tires, but they proved unwarranted. The Schwalbe ONE tires not only feature RaceGuard puncture protection but also roll efficiently with their 700×28C dimensions.
Not every stretch of road was smooth and even; we encountered some loose gravel. However, the carbon fiber frame and carbon fork of this bike offered a degree of shock absorption when faced with such terrain, providing some relief to our arms.
Though this journey demanded considerable effort, it was filled with enjoyment. We encountered a touring cyclist along the way, who had reportedly pedaled through several cities. His bike appeared sturdy and equipped to carry necessities such as tents. This ignited our desire for such an adventure.
Returning to the main point, this fellow enthusiast praised our bikes for their lightweight yet robust appearance. It was a pleasure to meet him and engage in discussions about bicycles and riding experiences.
Conclusion
Even at this price point, there are more exceptional bicycles available. However, the all-around performance of the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 pleasantly surprised us, and we would recommend it.
Specifications
The Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 features a carbon fiber frame. Notably, the entire frame assembly is hollow, maximizing weight reduction. Furthermore, for even greater lightness, it incorporates a new ultra-light seat clamp, weighing just 12g. This results in a more lightweight experience.
Regarding the frame, Scott has not cut corners but instead has conveyed to every rider their sincere approach to bicycle construction.
Moreover, we appreciate the absence of visible cables externally. The fully integrated internal cable routing not only presents a sleek appearance but also effectively protects essential cables from damage due to environmental factors.
In terms of components, the drivetrain employs the Shimano Ultegra Di2 2×12 electronic shifting system, paired with the compact 50x34T Shimano Ultegra FC-R8100 crankset. These components cannot be ignored, as they can be customized via the Shimano E-Tube mobile app, including enabling synchronized shifting. Furthermore, during rear gear shifts, it automatically shifts between chainrings to prevent cross-chain locking and monitors battery levels.
Without a doubt, it utilizes the Shimano BR-R8170 hydraulic brakes, providing precise and reliable braking.
In my personal opinion, this is an outstanding bicycle. If you are seeking a competitive bike at this price, it can be one of your choices.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Lightweight carbon frame
- Low rolling resistance Schwalbe ONE Race-Guard Fold tires
- Precise and smooth 2×12 Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 drivetrain
- Powerful Shimano BR-R8170 hydraulic disc brakes
- Clean and easily maintainable fully internal cable routing design
What don’t we like about it?
- Aggressive geometry might not suit everyone
FAQs
- Is this bike worth its price?
To be honest, there are other exceptional bikes available at this price. However, my answer to this question is affirmative; it is a bike that offers good value for its price.
- What does Scott Contessa mean?
It signifies that this is a bike designed specifically for women.
- What is the weight of this bike?
Its weight is 16.7 lbs.
Specs
Build
| Frame | Addict RC Disc HMX Road Race geometry / Replaceable Derailleur Hanger Internal cable routing |
| Fork | Addict RC HMX Flatmount Disc 1 1/4″-1 1/2″ Eccentric Carbon steerer |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano SM-BB72-41B |
| Headset | Syncros Addict RC Integrated |
| Stem | Syncros RR 1.5 1 1/4″ |
| Handlebar | Syncros Creston 1.0 Compact Carbon |
| Saddle | Syncros Celista 1.5 (V-Concept) Cutout |
| Seatpost | Syncros Duncan 1.0 Aero |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150-SS 24 Speed Electronic Shift System |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 FD-R8150 Electronic Shift System |
| Crank | Shimano Ultegra FC-R8100 Hollowtech II 50×34 T |
| Shifters | Shimano Ultegra ST-R8170 24 Speed Electronic Shift System |
| Cassette | Shimano Ultegra CS-R8100-12 11-30T |
| Chain | Shimano Ultegra CN-M8100-12 |
| Brakes | Shimano BR-R8170 Hyd.Disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Syncros Capital 1.0 35 Disc 24 Front / 24 Rear Syncros Axle w/Removable Lever with Tool |
| Tires | Schwalbe ONE Race-Guard Fold nb 700x28C |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano SM-MT800 CL rotor 160/F and 160/R |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| BMC Teammachine SLR TWO | Click View | 700 × 25c | 2 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | SRAM FORCE eTap |
| Merida SCULTURA 9000 | Click View | 700x28C | 2 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
| Polygon HELIOS A9X DURA ACE C60 | Click View | 700x28C | 2 × 12 Electronic | Carbon | SHIMANO DURA-ACE Di2 |
BMC Teammachine SLR TWO vs Scott Contessa Addict RC 15
This BMC Teammachine SLR TWO comes at a price that’s $600 cheaper than the Scott Contessa. However, if we’re merely determining who’s better based on price, that’s undoubtedly playing it rough.
We can observe that the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 employs the Shimano Ultegra Di2. It provides a smooth, rapid, and precise shifting experience. The BMC Teammachine SLR TWO, on the other hand, utilizes the SRAM FORCE eTap AXS, which enables wireless shifting.
Additionally, during riding, one can notice that the Contessa Addict RC 15 features the shorter Syncros Creston 1.0 handlebars, followed by slightly shorter cranks. This is especially convenient for many riders with smaller hands, making it easier for them to maintain control.
In conclusion, if you’re inclined towards SRAM’s groupset, you might want to give the BMC Teammachine SLR TWO a try. On the other hand, if you prefer a Shimano groupset and have smaller hands, I would highly recommend considering the Addict RC 15.
Learn More: Is BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Worth Buying? [2022 BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Review]
Merida SCULTURA 9000 vs Scott Contessa Addict RC 15
Both of these bikes feature full carbon frames, so there’s not much difference in weight. Moreover, they both utilize the Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain for their rear derailleurs, offering 24 gear options.
However, the Merida SCULTURA 9000 has a steeper head tube angle (73.5°) compared to the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15, which means it handles turns more nimbly. But this also implies that at low speeds, more effort is required to maintain straight-line stability.
Furthermore, during our actual rides, we conducted a rough speed test. In the same conditions, the Merida SCULTURA 9000 reached a top speed of up to 41mph. This is faster than the Contessa Addict RC 15.
However, if you pay attention to tires, you’ll notice that the Contessa Addict RC 15 is equipped with Schwalbe ONE Race-Guard Fold tires. These tires feature RaceGuard puncture protection, effectively reducing the risk of flats during high-speed rides. Whether for daily training or fast-paced cycling, they are quite suitable. Plus, they come at a price that’s $1022 cheaper than the Merida SCULTURA 9000, allowing you to potentially invest the saved money in upgrades.
In the end, it’s up to you as the rider. Whether it’s pricier or more affordable, choose based on your own needs.
Learn More: Is Merida REACTO 6000 Worth Buying? – [Merida REACTO 6000 Review]
Polygon HELIOS A9X DURA ACE C60 vs Scott Contessa Addict RC 15
Polygon HELIOS A9X DURA ACE C60 also features a carbon frame, but its wheels are made of aluminum. This might be a cost-saving measure. However, it also boasts a 2×12 electronic shifting system, utilizing the SHIMANO DURA-ACE Di2 RD-R9250 rear derailleur. This is an excellent derailleur that’s 58% faster than the RD-R9150, ensuring smooth and rapid gear changes. Of course, the Shimano Ultegra Di2 RD-R8150 on the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 is also impressive. In my experience, its responsiveness is equally precise and quick.
It’s worth noting that the Polygon HELIOS A9X DURA ACE C60 has a longer seatpost(145mm) compared to the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 (115mm). This might be more suitable for riders who prefer an upright riding position. However, for those aiming for speed performance, I believe the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 is more fitting. Moreover, it aligns better with the physiological characteristics of female riders.
Furthermore, the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 is equipped with the Syncros Creston 1.0 Handlebar, which is more compact. This is convenient and easier to handle for riders with smaller hands.
So, if you’re looking for speed and happen to be a female rider, I think the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more upright riding position, the Polygon HELIOS A9X DURA ACE C60 could also be a solid option.
Summary
This concludes our comprehensive review of the Scott Contessa Addict RC 15. This remarkable racing bike excels in performance and can help riders achieve impressive results in competitions. Considering all factors, we rate it at 4.85. For more information about bicycles, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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