First Impressions: Scott Scale 29 Pro

My current test bike is a newsworthy steed. After introducing an aluminum alloy Scale 29er last year, Scott upped their game by introducing a carbon fiber version for model year 2011. I first rode the carbon Scale 29 back in June at Scott’s press launch in Sun Valley, ID. I took a shine to the sample I rode in Scott’s backyard, and was only too happy to volunteer as test pilot, now that full-production samples are available.

 

For the skinny on the technology that went into the making of the carbon Scale platform, please read my Scott press camp report. Today, I’ll tell you a little bit about the Scale 29 Pro that I have in my clutches. The looks is "nicely understated in black and white," the price tag reads $2699.99 and my size large sample tipped the Dirt Rag scales at 24.1 lbs (w/o pedals).

 

The full gear range offered by the 3×10 drivetrain and a solid parts spec results in a steed that’s ready rumble as an "everyday" trail bike, as well as a weekend warrior on the race circuit. Highlights include: Rock Shox Reba 29 RL fork, Sram X.9 rear / Shimano SLX front derailleur, Avid Elixir 5 brakes, DT Swiss 485d 32H rims laced to DT Swiss 370 Disc IT rear and Scott Disc Pro Disc IT front hubs, Schwalbe Rocket Ron EVO 29 x 2.25 Kevlar bead tires and a Ritchey Comp Tapered 1.5“ – 1 1/8“ semi integrated headset. Check out the Scott website for complete specifications.

 

Look for a full ride report in my forthcoming Dirt Rag print review, but I will say this: so far so good. The Scale 29 Pro felt comfortable and well-mannered, right out of the box. I find that some test bikes involve a "learning curve" to adapt to their particular handling quirks, but everything felt chill on the Scale from the get go. That gave me the confidence to push hard and let ‘er run, at least while our trails have remained dry and fast, a treat that’s bound to come to an end soon with winter precipitation approaching. I’ll leave it at that for now, and politely suggest that you pony up for a Dirt Rag subscription and make sure you get my full-blown product review when it rolls hot off the presses.