SCOTT Spark DC 2027: the new Spark moves to 140 mm of travel

Just a few months ago, SCOTT presented the complete renewal of the Spark RC, a platform that features a new frame, kinematics, geometry, and a multitude of solutions aimed at making it lighter, more efficient, and easier to maintain. Now, that same base is used to shape the new SCOTT Spark DC. A bike that exploits the descending qualities of the new platform while taking advantage of its efficiency.

SCOTT Spark DC: the new Spark platform takes down-country to 140 mm

The new Spark DC significantly increases its descending capabilities thanks to a rear travel of 138 mm and a fork of 140 mm and up to 150 mm in the front. It adds a more relaxed geometry, tires up to 2.6", long-travel dropper posts, and components more oriented towards trail riding. The goal is to maintain much of the efficiency of a Spark XC, but with a considerably greater usage margin.

SCOTT defines the concept around three pillars: low weight, riding dynamics, and what it calls "impeccable performance." But the fundamental difference compared to the Spark RC lies in the user it targets.

While the RC is a bike designed around XCO competition, the Spark DC is aimed at the cyclist looking for a single MTB capable of pedaling fast and accumulating kilometers, but who also wants to tackle technical trails and enjoy even more on descents.

RECOMENDADO

An incredible SCOTT Spark under 9 kg with Flight Attendant inverted fork, wheels under a kilo, and ready to race

650 mm handlebars, "used" feel brakes, and customized Flight Attendant: A Closer Look at Bjorn Riley's New SCOTT Spark RC

We tested the new SCOTT Spark RC 2027: all the keys and sensations

New SCOTT Spark RC 2027: new suspension system, less weight, more efficiency, new wheels, new handlebars, and many details

Specialized founder returns to the helm: Mike Sinyard is back as CEO

Cycling improves how we think, remember and process information: a new study confirms it

But in this Spark DC, they haven't just limited themselves to mounting a longer fork on a Spark RC; they have adapted the new platform for use where control, versatility, and descending capability are more important.

138 mm in the rear and up to 150 mm in the front

This is probably the specification that best defines the new Spark DC. SCOTT states 138 mm of actual rear travel, and mounts forks of 140 mm in the front. However, the frame is tested and approved to use forks of up to 150 mm.

It is a configuration that distances this Spark DC quite a bit from the traditional XC concept and brings it closer to the realm of lightweight trail bikes. The rear suspension maintains the compact and integrated architecture of the new generation Spark, with the shock hidden and positioned very low in the frame. SCOTT thus concentrates much of the mass around the bottom bracket, aiming to lower the center of gravity and achieve a stable bike at high speeds without compromising its behavior during accelerations and direction changes.

The platform uses a flexible pivot system, reducing the number of joints and parts needed. According to SCOTT, this allows for weight savings while maintaining torsional stiffness and durability.

A specific kinematics for 140 mm

The increase in travel has not been solved simply by installing a different shock. SCOTT explains that the progression curve has been specifically developed to provide support in the mid-stroke area and a controlled bottom-out. At the same time, the anti-squat behavior has been worked on to maintain traction when power is applied.

The idea is to achieve a suspension that is sufficiently active to conform to the terrain when the wheel needs grip, but with support when the rider pedals hard or loads the bike in turns and direction changes.

Another important technical detail is in the shock mounts using bushings with bearings, designed to reduce initial friction and increase sensitivity to small impacts.

High compatibility with shocks

To avoid relying on a single specific shock, SCOTT has designed the frame around a 210 mm x 50 mm shock, with standard mounts of 20 x 8 mm. It also confirms compatibility with different models from manufacturers such as RockShox, Fox, and Öhlins, including the RockShox SIDLuxe XL Flight Attendant, the RockShox SIDLuxe XL, the Fox Float, the Öhlins TTX22M.2, or the RockShox Super Deluxe.

This greatly opens up possibilities for those who want to modify the bike's behavior later on.

A much more aggressive geometry than the Spark RC

The geometry makes the separation between the two bikes even clearer. The Spark RC 2027 that SCOTT presented a few months ago offers 65.9° of head angle in standard position, adjustable between 65.4° and 66.4°.

In the Spark DC, it drops directly to 65°, and the same head system allows for a half-degree adjustment in both directions:

With 64.5° in the most relaxed position, we are already looking at figures typical of bikes clearly oriented towards trail riding. The chainstays measure 440 mm in all sizes, compared to 434 mm of the Spark RC, while the reach in standard configuration is 430, 460, 490, and 520 mm for sizes S, M, L, and XL respectively.

SCOTT Spark DC geometry in standard position

TwinLoc remains one of the hallmarks

SCOTT maintains its well-known TwinLoc remote, from which both suspension and dropper post are controlled simultaneously. The suspension has three modes: Descend, to use all the travel; Traction Control, for a firmer platform; and Lockout, aimed at maximizing efficiency.

The higher-end Factory and DC 10 versions completely change their approach by using the electronic RockShox Flight Attendant system, capable of automatically managing the behavior of the suspensions in real-time.

Larger bearings and CeramicSpeed in the HMX frame

One of the priorities of the new generation Spark has been to increase durability. The Spark DC incorporates larger bearings and additional sealing. In the HMX Carbon frame, SCOTT uses CeramicSpeed SLT with a lifetime warranty, while the HMF Carbon frames use stainless steel bearings.

Its low position also allows for optimizing the loads received by the assembly and simplifying maintenance. The bottom bracket features a particularly interesting solution: BSA threaded 73 mm, integrated directly into the area of the inner link. The frame also uses a UDH dropout, a chainline of 55 mm, and accommodates chainrings of up to 34 teeth.

Up to 2.6" tires

Although the stock setups use Maxxis 29 x 2.4" tires, the frame accommodates tires up to 29 x 2.6". This is another figure that clearly shows where the Spark DC has shifted. With 138 mm of rear travel, the possibility of a 150 mm fork, a head angle of up to 64.5°, and 2.6" tires, its usage margin is well above that of a conventional XC dual-suspension bike.

Dropper posts of up to 250 mm

SCOTT has also taken advantage of the new frame design to greatly increase the insertion available for the dropper post. The diameter is a conventional 31.6 mm, with a 34.9 mm clamp, and the maximum insertion depth is as follows:

• S: 287 mm
• M: 307 mm
• L: 348 mm
• XL: 378 mm

The setups start from 150 mm in size S, 200 mm in M, and 225 mm in L and XL, although technically the frame accommodates posts of up to 250 mm, as long as the dimensions of the rider and the post itself allow it.

Integrated Save the Day storage

The Spark DC inherits another of the solutions introduced with the new platform. The Save the Day Kit uses the inside of the down tube as storage space and allows for transporting a lightweight tube, pump, and tire levers without resorting to external bags.

It also includes a multi-tool designed for the usual adjustments of the bike, with a 6 mm Allen, Torx T25, and a 2.5 or 3 mm Allen key depending on the shock.

Access to the interior is done through a new magnetic cover. In addition to facilitating opening, its design aims to prevent mud and dust from reaching the shock compartment.

Integrated cabling, but without forcing its use

SCOTT has made an interesting decision regarding cabling. The Spark DC allows for cables to be routed through the head tube, achieving maximum integration, but it also allows for a conventional setup where they enter through a piece located in the head tube.

This way, it is possible to use a traditional stem and handlebar setup without having to disassemble the head tube for certain maintenance operations.

The hardware has also been redesigned to facilitate access, and SCOTT directly prints the torque values and other necessary information for maintenance next to them.

SAG indicator, steering limiter, and additional mounts

The list of small details is extensive. The frame incorporates a SAG and travel indicator, aimed at facilitating the setup of the shock and checking how much travel is being used.

There is also a removable steering stop that limits the handlebar's rotation to prevent cockpit components from hitting the frame during a fall.

SCOTT also adds additional anchor points for accessories and storage, as well as the possibility of installing specific mud guards.

Main technical specifications of the SCOTT Spark DC 2027

SCOTT Spark DC 2027: models, setups, and prices

The new SCOTT Spark DC range consists of five setups, all available in sizes S, M, L, and XL.

SCOTT Spark DC Factory

• Frame: Spark DC HMX Carbon Gen5, adjustable head tube, fork stop, CeramicSpeed bearings, Syncros Octopus Gen2 integration, BSA, UDH, Boost 12x148 mm, and chainline of 55 mm
• Travel: 140 mm front / 138 mm rear
• Fork: RockShox Pike Ultimate Flight Attendant, Charger 3.1 3P, 15x110 mm
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe XL Ultimate Flight Attendant, 3 positions, 205 x 50 mm
• Suspension control: RockShox Flight Attendant electronic
• Derailleur: SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission, 12 speeds
• Remote: SRAM AXS Rocker Pod
• Crankset: SRAM XX Eagle AXS Transmission carbon, integrated power meter, 32 teeth
• Bottom bracket: SRAM DUB BSA 73 MTB Wide
• Chain: SRAM XX Eagle Transmission
• Cassette: SRAM XX SL Eagle XS-1299, 10-52
• Brakes: SRAM Motive Ultimate, 4 pistons
• Rotors: SRAM HS2 Center Lock, 180 mm front and rear
• Handlebar: Syncros IC-M200-SL2 HMF Carbon, 760 mm, 20 mm rise
• Dropper post: RockShox Reverb AXS, 31.6 mm
• Saddle: Syncros Tofino R 1.0 with carbon rails
• Wheels: Syncros Silverton CF1 carbon, 30 mm, 24 carbon spokes, XD hub
• Front tire: Maxxis Forekaster 29x2.4", 120 TPI, 3C MaxxTerra, EXO, Tubeless Ready
• Rear tire: Maxxis Rekon 29x2.4", 120 TPI, 3C MaxxTerra, EXO, Tubeless Ready
• Extras: Syncros Save the Day IS-M100, Syncros tool, tubeless kit for handlebar, and SRAM AXS Powerpack
• Weight: 11.5 kg tubeless, without Save the Day Kit
• Color: Carbon Black
• Sizes: S, M, L, and XL
• Price: 

SCOTT Spark DC 10

• Frame: Spark DC HMF Carbon Gen5, adjustable head tube, BSA, UDH, Boost 12x148 mm, and chainline of 55 mm
• Travel: 140 mm front / 138 mm rear
• Fork: RockShox Pike Ultimate Flight Attendant, Charger 3.1 3P
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe XL Ultimate Flight Attendant, 205 x 50 mm
• Suspension control: RockShox Flight Attendant electronic
• Derailleur: SRAM X0 Eagle AXS Transmission, 12 speeds
• Remote: SRAM AXS Rocker Pod
• Crankset: SRAM X0 Eagle Transmission with power meter, 32 teeth
• Bottom bracket: SRAM DUB BSA 73 MTB Wide
• Chain: SRAM X0 Eagle Transmission
• Cassette: SRAM X0 Eagle XS-1295, 10-52
• Brakes: SRAM Motive Silver, 4 pistons
• Rotors: SRAM HS2 Center Lock, 180/180 mm
• Handlebar: Syncros IC-M200-SL2 HMF Carbon, 760 mm
• Dropper post: Syncros SP-M301-AL2 +RAD 2.0
• Saddle: Syncros Tofino R 2.0, CrMo rails
• Wheels: Syncros Silverton CF2 Carbon, 30 mm, 24 spokes, XD hub
• Tires: Maxxis Forekaster 29x2.4" front and Rekon 29x2.4" rear, 120 TPI, 3C MaxxTerra, and EXO
• Extras: Save the Day IS-M100, Syncros tool, tubeless kit for handlebar, and SRAM AXS Powerpack
• Weight: 12.3 kg tubeless, without Save the Day Kit
• Color: Mist Blue
• Sizes: S, M, L, and XL
• Price:

SCOTT Spark DC 20

• Frame: Spark DC HMF Carbon Gen5
• Travel: 140 mm front / 138 mm rear
• Fork: Fox 36 SL Factory Grip SL, Kashima, 3P, 15x110 mm
• Shock: Fox Float Factory Traction Control EVOL Kashima, 210 x 50 mm
• Suspension control: SCOTT TwinLoc, 3 modes
• Derailleur: Shimano XT Di2 RD-M8250, 12 speeds
• Remote: Shimano Deore Di2 SW-M6250
• Crankset: Shimano XT FC-M8200, 32 teeth
• Bottom bracket: Shimano BB-MT501 BSA
• Chain: Shimano CN-M6100
• Cassette: Shimano Deore CS-M7200, 10-51
• Brakes: Shimano Deore BR-M6220, 4 pistons
• Rotors: Shimano RT-CL700, 180/180 mm
• Handlebar: Syncros HB-M200-AL1, aluminum 7075, 760 mm
• Stem: Syncros DC ST-M200-AL2
• Dropper post: Syncros SP-M301-AL2 +RAD 2.0
• Saddle: Syncros Tofino R 2.0
• Wheels: Syncros Silverton AL2, 30 mm, Tubeless Ready
• Tires: Maxxis Forekaster 29x2.4" / Rekon 29x2.4", 120 TPI, 3C MaxxTerra, and EXO
• Extras: Syncros tool
• Weight: 12.7 kg tubeless
• Color: Lemon Yellow
• Sizes: S, M, L, and XL
• Price: 

SCOTT Spark DC 30

• Frame: Spark DC HMF Carbon Gen5
• Travel: 140 mm front / 138 mm rear
• Fork: RockShox Pike Select 3P Air, Charger RC 3P
• Shock: RockShox Deluxe Traction Control RL3, 210 x 50 mm
• Suspension control: SCOTT TwinLoc, 3 modes
• Derailleur: SRAM S1000 Eagle AXS Transmission, 12 speeds
• Remote: SRAM AXS Pod
• Crankset: SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission, 32 teeth
• Bottom bracket: SRAM DUB BSA 73 MTB Wide
• Chain: SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission
• Cassette: SRAM Eagle XS-1270 Transmission, 10-52
• Brakes: SRAM DB6, 4 pistons
• Rotors: SRAM Centerline Center Lock, 180/180 mm
• Handlebar: Syncros HB-M200-AL1, aluminum 7075, 760 mm
• Stem: Syncros DC ST-M200-AL2
• Dropper post: Syncros SP-M301-AL2 +RAD 2.0
• Saddle: Syncros Tofino R 2.0
• Wheels: Syncros Silverton AL2, 30 mm, Tubeless Ready
• Front tire: Maxxis Forekaster 29x2.4", 60 TPI
• Rear tire: Maxxis Rekon 29x2.4", 60 TPI, EXO
• Extras: Syncros tool
• Weight: 13 kg tubeless
• Color: Carbon Black
• Sizes: S, M, L, and XL
• Price: 

SCOTT Spark DC 40

• Frame: Spark DC HMF Carbon Gen5
• Travel: 140 mm front / 138 mm rear
• Fork: RockShox Pike 3P Air with Rush RL cartridge 3P
• Shock: RockShox Deluxe Traction Control RL3, 210 x 50 mm
• Suspension control: SCOTT TwinLoc, 3 modes
• Derailleur: Shimano Deore RD-M7200, 12 speeds
• Remote: Shimano Deore SL-M6200
• Crankset: Shimano FC-MT520, 32 teeth
• Bottom bracket: Shimano BB-MT501 BSA
• Chain: Shimano CN-M6100
• Cassette: Shimano Deore CS-M6200, 10-51
• Brakes: Shimano BR-MT620, 4-piston
• Front rotor: Shimano RT-CL300, 180 mm
• Rear rotor: Shimano RT-CL300, 160 mm
• Handlebar: Syncros HB-M200-AL2, 6061 aluminum, 760 mm
• Stem: Syncros DC ST-M200-AL2
• Dropper post: Syncros SP-M303-AL2 +RAD
• Saddle: Syncros Tofino R 2.5
• Front hub: Formula CL-811, Boost 15x110 mm
• Rear hub: Formula CL-3248M, Boost 12x148 mm, Micro Spline
• Rims: Alex Rims X-30SE, 32 spokes, Tubeless Ready
• Front tire: Maxxis Forekaster 29x2.4", 60 TPI
• Rear tire: Maxxis Rekon 29x2.4", 60 TPI, EXO
• Extras: Syncros tool
• Weight: 13.8 kg tubeless
• Color: Tender Green
• Sizes: S, M, L and XL
• Price: