Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS Review
- Price: $9999
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Schwalbe Wicked Will 29×2.4″
- Gear: 1×12 Electronic
What We Like About It: In off-road mode, the suspension is very robust, and the steeper seat tube angle makes the rider’s ride more agile.
What we don’t like about it: The price is too high.
Rating: (4.9/5)
I have always been using hardtail mountain bikes for off-roading, but my friend told me that a full-suspension mountain bike would offer a different experience. I was looking forward to it. So, I got my hands on the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS and immediately put it to the test.
Below, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS. In the second half of this article, we will also compare it with several other top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
To test the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS thoroughly, I booked a flight and reserved a hotel on IHG to visit Big Sky Resort.
At Big Sky Resort, I chose the Ninja Marmot trail. This trail is 3,048 feet long with a downhill trend, a vertical drop of 302 feet, and very narrow paths. The trail is covered in loose gravel and dry branches, with many twists and turns and steep inclines and declines that presented quite a challenge to my riding.
Off-Roading Experience
Setting off from the starting point, I controlled the SRAM X01 Eagle AXS / 12 Speed Wireless Electronic Shift System rear derailleur. I adjusted the gear ratios for different slopes to adapt to various terrains. When going uphill, I adjusted the derailleur to the smallest gear ratio to maximize power efficiency. Standing up and using the dropper to lower the seat, I pedaled quickly for acceleration and managed to conquer the uphill smoothly.
During downhill sections, I controlled the Syncros Fraser iC SL DC Carbon handlebar. The 130mm front travel and 120mm rear travel offered excellent suspension on the rocky downhill path. This allowed me to roll over the terrain smoothly without experiencing excessive bumps. The bike’s downhill performance was remarkably stable, providing a comfortable experience.
In corners, the Schwalbe Wicked Will 29×2.4″ tires provided outstanding traction. Seated on the Syncros Tofino 1.5 Regular Titanium rails saddle, I shifted my weight to maneuver. Drawing on my extensive riding experience, I found the best entry points for each turn and completed them excellently. This is the confidence that the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS instilled in me.
Is That All?
The Schwalbe Wicked Will tires performed exceptionally well, providing maximum control during turns. Their stable and high-traction shoulder knobs offered great support not only in corners but also on other terrains.
It’s worth mentioning that the Syncros Tofino 1.5 Regular Titanium rails saddle I sat on was comfortable. It significantly reduced pressure on my sit bones, and I didn’t feel significant compression. The central cutout also reduced pressure on sensitive areas, ensuring comfort. This is the confidence that the Syncros Tofino 1.5 Regular Titanium rails saddle provided me.
Specifications
The Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS is an exceptional full-suspension mountain bike. It features the Spark Carbon HMX frame, along with the FOX 34 Float Factory fork and FOX NUDE 5T Factory rear shock, offering 130mm front travel and 120mm rear travel. As a result, the suspension provides excellent performance.
Moreover, this bike comes equipped with the SRAM X01 Eagle AXS / 12 Speed drivetrain, offering smooth and precise electronic shifting with a wide gear range. The Schwalbe Wicked Will tires are outstanding, providing strong braking power and traction, allowing riders to navigate freely and flexibly. The Syncros Tofino 1.5 Regular Titanium rails saddle is also exceptional, providing a comfortable seating experience for riders.
Video
Other Versions
After numerous test rides, we have gained deeper insights into this bike. It is undoubtedly an outstanding full-suspension mountain bike.
However, many riders have specific requirements for performance or components, so we explored similar bikes for further comparison.
Scott Spark 900 Ultimate
The Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS weighs 24.9 lbs, slightly heavier than the Scott Spark 900 Ultimate at 24 lbs, which might create slightly more resistance during rides. Nevertheless, the differences between these two bikes are minimal. They share components like the frame, fork, rear shock, etc., but the saddle is different. The Spark 900 Ultimate features the Syncros Tofino Regular 1.0 Carbon rails saddle, while the Spark 900 Tuned AXS is equipped with the Syncros Tofino 1.5 Regular Titanium rails saddle. The 1.5 saddle has a central cutout that alleviates pressure on sensitive areas, whereas the 1.0 saddle has a less pronounced indentation.
Additionally, the Spark 900 Ultimate features the SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS 12 Speed drivetrain, while the Spark 900 Tuned AXS comes with the SRAM X01 Eagle AXS / 12 Speed. The XX1 is more expensive but lighter. XX1 incorporates more carbon fiber, making it ideal for lightweight riders. X01 includes more alloy components, designed for heavier riders or endurance riders.
Therefore, if you’re a lightweight rider, I would recommend the Scott Spark 900 Ultimate. If you’re a heavier rider or an endurance cyclist, the Scott Spark 900 Ultimate would be more suitable.
What do we like about it?
- In off-road mode, the suspension is robust, with minimal dynamic travel, providing a steeper seat tube angle for agile riding.
- Optimized geometry eliminates long-travel effects, enhancing pedaling efficiency.
- Easy access to the bike’s suspension through the chamber, enabling effortless adjustments.
- Evo-Lap technology optimizes the bike for a more comfortable ride.
What don’t we like about it?
- The high price may not meet the needs of some riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- What is the maximum weight limit of this bike?
The maximum weight limit is 128kg.
- How does this bike control pedal bob?
It uses TwinLoc to alter compression damping, and spring curve, dynamically changing the bike’s geometry.
- 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 |
| 5’2″ – 5’8″ | SM |
| 5’6″ – 5’11” | MD |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | LG |
| 6’1″ – 6’7″ | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Spark Carbon HMX Integrated Suspension Technology Flex Pivot / Adjustable head angle Syncros Cable Integration System BB92 / UDH Interface / 12x148mm with 55mm Chainline BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Hanger Standard: UDH |
| Fork | FOX 34 Float Factory Air / Kashima FIT4 3-Modes with low Speed adj. / Kabolt 15x110mm axle / 44mm offset Tapered steerer / Lockout / Reb. Adj. 130mm travel |
| Rear Shock | FOX NUDE 5T Factory EVOL Trunnion SCOTT custom w. travel / geo adj. 3 modes: Lockout-Traction Control-Descend Custom large Air volume / DPS / Kashima / Reb. Adj. Travel 120-80-Lockout / T165X45mm |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB PF 92 MTB Wide / shell 41x92mm |
| Headset | Syncros – Acros Angle adjust & Cable Routing HS System +-0.6° head angle adjustment ZS56/28.6 – ZS56/40 MTB |
| Handlebar | Syncros Fraser iC SL DC Carbon 0° rise / back sweep 8° / mini Rise / 760mm Syncros Pro lock-on grips |
| Saddle | Syncros Tofino 1.5 Regular Titanium rails |
| Seatpost | FOX Transfer Factory Dropper Post Kashima 31.6mm / S & M size 125mm / L & XL size 150mm |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM X01 Eagle AXS / 12 Speed Wireless Electronic Shift System |
| Crank | SRAM X01 DUB Eagle Carbon crankarm 55mm CL / 32T |
| Shifters | SRAM GX Eagle AXS Rocker Controller |
| Cassette | SRAM X01 XG1295 / 10-52 T |
| Chain | SRAM CN X01 Eagle |
| Brakes | Shimano XTR M9120 4 Piston Disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Syncros Silverton 1.0-30 CL F: 15x110mm, R: 12x148mm 30mm Tubeless ready Carbon rim 28H DT Swiss Ratchet Hubs / XD Driver SRAM TyreWiz / Syncros SL Axle w/ Removable Lever with 6mm Allen, T30 and T25 Tools |
| Tires | Schwalbe Wicked Will 29×2.4″ EVO Super Race / TLE / 67EPI / Addix Speed Soft |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano RT-MT900 CL / F&R 180mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR | Click View | Bontrager XR4 Team Issue | 1 x 12 | Carbon | Shimano XTR, e*thirteen TRS Race |
| Ibis Ripley V4S XX Transmission | Click View | Maxxis DHR2 29″ x 2.4″ Exo TR (front), Maxxis Dissector 29″ x 2.4″ Exo TR (rear) | 1×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM XX Eagle Transmission |
| Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHR II 29 “x2.4” | 1×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM GX Eagle AXS |
| 2024 Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper | Click View | Front: Butcher, GRID casing,Rear: Purgatory, GRID casing | 1×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM XX Eagle Transmission, X01 Eagle AXS |
Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS vs. Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR
The Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR weighs 25.3 lbs, slightly heavier than the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS at 24.9 lbs. Heavier bikes provide a smoother ride but also introduce more resistance, while lighter bikes are highly maneuverable.
The Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS is equipped with a 1×12 electronic drivetrain. On the other hand, the Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR features a 1×12 mechanical drivetrain. Electronic shifting is very precise and requires simple maintenance through charging. Mechanical shifting, while not as precise, is more robust and easier to maintain, although it might have slightly less accurate gear changes and can experience misshifts due to various factors.
Therefore, if you’re seeking more precise shifting, I would recommend the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS. If you frequently ride in extreme conditions, the Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XTR would be your top choice.
Learn More: Is Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT Worth Buying? [Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT Review]
Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS vs. Ibis Ripley V4S XX Transmission
The differences between these two bicycles aren’t very significant. Both feature carbon frames and 29″ carbon wheels. They are both equipped with Shimano XTR M9120 4 Piston hydraulic disc brakes and have 130mm of front travel and 120mm of rear travel, providing excellent suspension effects.
Additionally, both bikes have a stack/reach ratio of 1.31, but they differ in terms of head tube angle. The Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS has a head tube angle of 65.8°, which is slightly smaller than the Ibis Ripley V4S XX Transmission’s 66.5° head tube angle. A smaller head tube angle contributes to a smoother ride, while a larger head tube angle offers relatively more agility.
In summary, if you’re looking for a more agile ride, the Ibis Ripley V4S XX Transmission is a great fit. If you’re seeking a smoother ride, the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS would be more suitable for you.
Learn More: Is Ibis Ripley AF Deore Worth Buying? [Ibis Ripley AF Deore Review]
Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS vs. Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon
The Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon weighs 30.7 lbs, which is slightly heavier than the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS at 24.9 lbs. However, the Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon comes with two wheel sizes, 29″ and 27.5″. The 29″ wheels offer better terrain clearance, while the 27.5″ wheels are more agile. The Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon provides riders with more options.
Furthermore, the Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon features 140mm of front travel and 130mm of rear travel, offering stronger suspension effects compared to the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS with 130mm of front travel and 120mm of rear travel.
Therefore, if you’re seeking enhanced suspension performance, I believe the Santa Cruz 5010 GX AXS RSV / Carbon would be a good choice for you. If you prioritize a lighter bike, the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS can suit your needs well.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz 5010 X01 A Good Bike? [Santa Cruz 5010 X01 Review]
Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS vs. 2024 Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper
The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper features 140mm of front travel and 130mm of rear travel, providing a stronger suspension effect and a more comfortable riding experience compared to the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS, which has 130mm of front travel and 120mm of rear travel.
Furthermore, the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS has a stack/reach ratio of 1.31, while the Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper has a stack/reach ratio of 1.33, slightly larger, offering better extension and making the rider’s riding experience more comfortable.
In conclusion, the Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper is priced nearly $1000 higher than the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS. If you’re looking for a more comfortable riding experience, I would recommend the Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper. However, if your budget is limited, the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS would be a better choice.
Summary
The above is our review of the Scott Spark 900 Tuned AXS. This exceptional full-suspension mountain bike offers an outstanding off-road experience. Based on the evaluation, we give it a high rating of 4.9. For more bicycle-related information, feel free to explore our other reviews.
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