VeloNews 2008 Buyer's Guide Recommends Spark 15
XC RACER...
When SCOTT's Spark was introduced for the 2007 model year, weight weenies had reason to rejoice. While its linkage-activated single pivot suspension system is solid and aided by a proprietary rear shock with an air volume control, it's nothing too revolutionary, but the frame's weight certainly is. Employing a carbon molding process called IMP; SCOTT is able to reduce the amount of material in the top tube, head tube and down tube assembly by 11 percent. This molding method is also used to construct the chainstay assembly. In conjunction with the new process, Scott developed a new higher-modulus fiber for the Spark called HMX. This latest carbon blend is 20 percent stiffer than the HMF fiber SCOTT previously developed for its carbon mountain bike frames. While the Spark 15 is mid range in the line up, its price and component specification is similar to most other brands' top-tier offerings.
FRAME: IMP-molded FIMX carbon, CR1 molded HMF carbon swingarm, SCOTT Nude TC rear shock (manufactured by DT Swiss), 100mm travel, 4 sizes
FORK: Fox F100RL, 100mm of travel
COMPONENT HIGHLIGHTS: SRAM X.O transmission, XTR front derailleur, Truvativ Stylo MTB 3.3, Avid Juicy Seven Carbon brake set, DT Swiss 24oS hubs built to DT Swiss X43o rims using Super Comp spokes
WARRANTY: 3 years
WEIGHT: 23.8 pounds
