From a hardtail MTB to an extreme aero gravel bike, this is the new SCOTT Scale RC Aero by Dangerholm

SCOTT once again demonstrates how far the concept of "gravel" can be stretched when it is in the hands of a preparer like Dangerholm. Starting from the Scale Gravel platform—a rigid derived from MTB with a rigid fork—the result is a unique bicycle that combines XC DNA, road aerodynamics, and an ultra-lightweight setup designed exclusively for competition.

SCOTT Scale RC Aero: the hardtail MTB that becomes an aero gravel

Within SCOTT's 2026 range, two very distinct interpretations of gravel coexist. On one hand, the SCOTT Addict Gravel, as the option closest to efficient, fast gravel with certain aerodynamic hints. On the other hand, the SCOTT Scale Gravel, based on a rigid mountain bike with stable geometry, huge tire clearance, and a clear focus on more demanding terrains.

The Scale RC Aero is born precisely from mixing both worlds. The idea was to combine the position and efficiency of the Addict Gravel with the capability on rough terrain of the Scale Gravel, also adding aerodynamic solutions typical of a high-level road bike. The result is not a series model, but a unique setup aimed at maximizing every watt.

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The most striking element of the project is in the rear triangle and the seat tube area. Dangerholm started with a SCOTT Scale Gravel frame but removed a large part of the upper section of the seat tube to integrate a section from a damaged SCOTT Foil RC.

Once both pieces were adjusted, a carbon repair specialist took care of joining them with new layers of fiber, shaping a "P" type structure that integrates the seat clamp typical of the Foil. The result is a clean and fully functional transition that provides a clearly more aerodynamic rear section.

Additionally, the right chainstay was notably modified to allow the use of larger chainrings. The new design accommodates up to 46 teeth, expanding the competitive range of the setup and aligning it with a clear focus on high-speed use.

The SCOTT rigid fork was kept practically stock, although the three rivets on each side intended for bag or accessory mounts were removed, prioritizing a clean aesthetic consistent with the aero approach of the project.

One of the pillars of the setup is the Syncros Duncan SL Aero CFT seatpost, originally developed for the Foil RC. Its D profile and specific CFT (Comfort Flex Technology) construction allow for a combination of aerodynamics and some vertical flex capacity, which is key when mounting 2.25” MTB tires.

The Berk Lupina Monocoque saddle, made from a single piece of carbon and with a declared weight of 99 grams, reinforces both the lightness and the futuristic aesthetic of the setup.

At the front, the Darimo Nexum Drag Gravel cockpit in 80x380 mm with integrated stem at -12°. This angle is key in a frame with a more aggressive geometry than a conventional gravel bike: it prevents the handlebars from being excessively high and maintains a coherent aerodynamic line. Additionally, the steering wedge, cap, and spacers were custom designed to allow for complete internal routing and total integration.

The transmission revolves around the SRAM RED XPLR 13-speed group with a 10-46T cassette and an integrated 44 tooth aero chainring. The rear derailleur incorporates a CeramicSpeed OSPW X ALPHA cage, while the bottom bracket is a CeramicSpeed BB ALPHA.

The brake system combines SRAM RED levers with 612 Parts two-piston calipers and 160 mm Carbon-Ti X-Rotor Aero discs, seeking a balance between power and reduced aerodynamic drag.

The wheels are one of the most exclusive elements. They are prototype rims developed by Dangerholm together with Faction Bike Studio and LX Lab, mounted with Extralite HyperSmart 3 hubs and Alpina Hyperlite Aero spokes. They are fitted with Maxxis Aspen ST MaxxSpeed Team Spec tires in 29x2.25”, a choice clearly inherited from XC to maximize speed on fast tracks.

9.00 kg… and room to drop below 8.5 kg

The declared weight of the setup is 9.00 kg with pedals included. However, the rims used are oversized prototypes, and according to the project itself, a production version could reduce the wheelset weight by around 500 grams. If that forecast holds true, the bike could be positioned below 8.5 kg, an extraordinary figure for a platform with 2.25” tires.

The SCOTT Scale RC Aero is neither a conventional gravel bike nor a rigid MTB transformed without more. It is an extreme interpretation of what a competition bike on mixed terrain can be when every detail is aimed at gaining speed.

Complete setup of the SCOTT SCALE RC AERO BY DANGERHOLM

• Frame: Custom SCOTT Scale Gravel
• Fork: SCOTT Scale Rigid
• Thru-axles: Syncros
• Headset: Syncros
• Spacers: Darimo
• Handlebar: Darimo Nexum Drag Gravel 80x380 mm -12 degrees
• Top cap: Darimo carbon with Extralite screw
• Expander: Carbon-Ti X-Plug
• Handlebar tape: Syncros RC
• Seatpost: Syncros Duncan SL Aero CFT
• Saddle: Berk Lupina Monocoque
• Brake levers: SRAM RED
• Brake calipers: 612 Parts two-piston
• Caliper screws: Extralite ExtraBolt 4.5
• Discs: Carbon-Ti X-Rotor Aero 160 mm
• Rear derailleur: SRAM RED XPLR
• Derailleur cage: CeramicSpeed OSPW X ALPHA
• Cassette: SRAM RED XPLR 13 speeds 10-46T
• Chain: SRAM RED
• Chainring: SRAM RED Aero with integrated power meter 44T
• Crankset: WERT STW-M 170 mm
• Bottom bracket: CeramicSpeed BB ALPHA
• Pedals: Xpedo M-Force 8 Ti
• Hubs: Extralite HyperSmart 3
• Spokes: Alpina Hyperlite Aero
• Rims: Dangerholm - Faction Bike Studio - LX Lab (prototype)
• Tires: Maxxis Aspen ST MaxxSpeed Team Spec 29x2.25”
• Tubes: REVOLOOP REVO.ULTRA MTB
• Weight: 9.00 kg with pedals included