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Scott Genius Range Guide

Words by Harry Archer

on 23/01/2018 09:22:00

genius hero

The new Genius has hit the trails and it's fair to say that the 2018 Genius has the potential to be one of the most successful Trail Bikes this year. With a revised geometry and frame design that closely mirrors last years hugely popular Spark, the new Genius features a plush 150mm of travel at both the front and rear with a clever Twinloc remote system that allows the rider to reduce the rear travel to 110mm and improve pedalling efficiency by increasing the compression dampening. This means the Genius performs like never before and when combined with the big volume tyres and new rocker link Trunnion mount shock (Specialized's patent on the Horst link has ended and the addition of this to the Genius has noticeably improved the overall suspension) equates to a super long and slack bike that performs excellently out on the trails. The ability to easily switch between 27.5" and 29" tyres also make the Genius one of the more versatile full-suspension bikes on the market, allowing you with a simple flip of the shock clip to choose the right wheel size for the route your on. The frame is available in full carbon, carbon/alloy and all-alloy options - I'm certainly no rocket scientist, but it doesn't take a Genius to see that this is one helluva bike!

Quick Links

What's New? Aluminium Models  Carbon Models E-Genius Summary

Mountain Bike Guide > Mountain Bike Size Guide >

So What's New?

Boost technology

Boost is a hub and drivetrain standard developed by SRAM and is built around a wider rear and front hub and enables stiffer wheels due to a wider spoke bracing angle. Boost 148 rear hubs move each flange of the rear hub three millimetres wider. Boost is designed as a complete system so drivetrain performance isn't compromised. Even though it pushes the cogs three millimetres outboard, the crank-arm Q-Factor remains the same as the system's crank-set utilizes front chain-rings that sit a corresponding 3mm outward to ensure the required chain-line. Boost cranks can only be used when paired with a 148mm hub. On the front the hub spacing is increased by 10mm to 110mm, leading to increased wheel stiffness and greater clearance for bigger tires - the main advantages of Boost technology. The 3 mm outboard chain ring adds clearance in the chain stay area that allows a substantial increase of the chain stay tube cross-section. In addition ,the stiffness in this part of the frame improves and with a wider range of positions for the rear wheel, the frame geometry can be adjusted, allowing Scott to shorten the chain-stays for more agile handling.

boost diagram

One Frame : Two Wheel Sizes

On the new Genius, Scott wanted to ensure that versatility was still achieved. Unlike much of the competition, the new Genius can switch from 27.5" to 29" wheels with nothing more than the flip of a chip. No need to change the fork, all you need to do is flip a shock mount chip, change your wheels and off you go. The flip chip allows us to maintain a similar BB height when switching from one wheel size to the other which is key to keeping handling similar for both wheel sizes. With 27.5" wheels, you can run either 2.5", 2.6" or 2.8" tires. For the 29er, anywhere from 2.4"-2.6" is good to go. The Genius has always been a bike for everyone. Now, more so than ever this rings true. One frame, a multitude of options.

Genius Trail Geometry

The Genius has always been a bike designed to go up as well as it went down and for 2018 it's clear that Scott wanted to re-emphasize this point. They've designed the Genius specifically in search of balance. Compared to the previous iteration, this one is slacker, has longer reach, shorter chain-stays and a steeper seat angle and shows Scott really wanted geometry figures that would balance out the long front end for more stable descending. What they've ended up with is a bike that climbs like a mountain goat and gets you down the mountain faster than Steve Peat. After years of testing different options, these numbers are a result of taking everything they want out of a bike for the trails and building it.  A big plus for the new geometry is that it properly caters for taller riders over six foot. With an XL size reach of 505mm and 65 degree head angle, the slacker geometry of the new genius works extremely well for taller riders looking for a comfortable ride.

wheel genius

Genius Virtual 4Link Design

Scott's suspension kinematic brings perfect balance and control to the Genius platform. Using their Virtual Four Link design, they have refined the suspension feel, pedalling and braking response to work with maximum efficiency and in harmony with the TwinLoc Suspension System. The kinematic suspension curve gives supple small bump sensitivity and therefore exceptional traction characteristics, perfect support in the mid-stroke and a controlled deep stroke for predictable and comfortable bottom outs. A criticism of previous Genius conceptions was that they bottom out quite easily and it is hoped that the new system rectifies this - with early signs showing that it most definitely has! Specific pivot placements ensure efficient pedalling that drives the bike forwards like a DeLorean time machine and neutral braking that strikes a perfect balance between rider comfort and control, chassis stability and rear wheel traction. From the XC racer, to the downhill enthusiast, the new Genius kinematic brings improvements and advantages in all areas and gives a solid fundamental basis for a bike for all riders and all conditions.

genius 4 link

Trunnion Construction

Scott have adopted the new Metric shock sizing standards with a Trunnion mount. Since the shock body now extends between the two lower mounting bolts, their suspension partners have more design space meaning the shock has more stroke for the same eye to eye length. Stroke on the 165mm eye to eye shock has increased from 38mm to 40/45mm.The Trunnion standard also offers structural gains as the shorter shock enables Scott to build a very compact frame and shock package, which integrates tightly to the seat tube and they've managed to develop a very tiny yet stiff linkage that is lighter than ever. Thanks to the Trunnion mount construction, stand over height on the new Genius is very low leading to a super compact, full suspension frame with provisions to mount both a small and big water bottle. As with the Spark, the Genius shock is driven by a compact rocker link, however, the additional travel of the new Genius stops the use of a pivot-less, flex-stay swing-arm similar to the one found on its shorter travel sibling. Instead there's a Horst link.  Previous Genius models featured a reasonably low leverage ratio at the start of the travel, making the shock hard to compress, then a relatively high leverage ratio from the sag point, making it easy to compress. This led to a lack of  sensitivity at the start of the stroke and yet it was still quite easy to bottom out. The re-developed shock design turns that on its head, giving a better initial response, better support and a more progressive end stroke.

2018-technologies-spark-trunnion-

By turning the Trunnion shock upside-down, Scott can fully integrate it into the frame which results in several benefits.Since the Trunnion mount is the same width as the down tube and main-pivot, Scott can have a very clean frame design in this critical area. The lack of tight transitions and small details allows for an efficient, continuous carbon structure. Carbon material added to reinforce the shock mount also stiffens the connection between the down tube, main pivot and bottom bracket which is a key stiffness path. The flipped shock also lowers the frame's centre of gravity helping to give a more planted feel when riding. Unsprung mass is reduced since it is the lighter part of the shock, connected to the linkage, not the heavier body which must move during an impact - the suspension system can react faster. The TwinLoc remote cable can be routed cleanly into the down tube to maintain the sleek lines and appearance of the bike. TwinLoc allows the rider to choose between  three riding modes: open, trail (or traction) and lock. 'Open' gives you the full 150mm of travel and the compression damping in the open setting whilst 'Trail' mode blocks off an air chamber in the shock and reduces travel to 110mm. At the same time Trail mode adds lower-speed compression damping at the shock and front fork. This equates to firmer suspension, less travel and a bike with a taller dynamic ride height  which as a result enables the bike to climb very well as there is an increased amount of pedal clearance.  The final mode is called 'lockout' which makes the entire suspension rigid. Perhaps a slightly strange addition to a Full-suspension bike as it will only really be of use when climbing on the road. Nevertheless it does add to the versatility of the bike which is never a bad thing. There's a dual lever remote underneath the handlebars that is used to change between the three different systems.

Integrated Chain Guide

Developed in collaboration with the SCOTT SRAM MTB Racing Team, The idea behind the chain guide is to create a reliable component that helps to avoid dropping chains but at the same time remains light, versatile and integrated in the design of the frame. The new Genius chain guide weighs just 23 grams and is easy to assemble thanks to the smart assembly system and can accommodate chain rings from 30 to 36 teeth.

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Evo-Lap Technology

Scott's Evo-Lap technology models the frame to optimize the surface area, simulate tube structures with different ply orientations, observe the results of using different configurations, and test the stress distribution in different areas of the frame. Thanks to this extensive computer modelling, Scott have been able to optimized the carbon layers in all parts of the frame. The result is a super light and compact frame without a sacrifice in the stiffness, comfort or impact resistance. The entire range benefitted from the Evo-Lap technology.

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SW Dropouts

The Genius features redesigned parts that can give significant benefits in terms of performance and functionality. On the previous model the support of the dropout was a bulky additional part moulded to the carbon chain stay but the new dropouts are designed to be integrated on the thru-axle system thanks to a hollow tubular design that allows a simple and light weight structure. Available for SRAM and Shimano DM derailleurs, this dropout increases the stiffness and avoids damage to the frame in case of impacts on the rear derailleur.

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Syncros Trail Fender

The Syncros Trail Fender is made from a high impact PP composite that balances stiffness and durability. Designed to work specifically with Fox 34 and 36 Boost forks, the Trail Fender features a 2-bolt direct mount and a patent pending, bottom out clearance design. This means a clean and reliable mount for a fully integrated fender.

genius fender

The Genius Range

The geometries of the Genius frames is the same throughout the range. The major differences between the bikes is the level of components used and the frame material. Below is a brief run through of the major features of each individual Genius and how their components differ. The higher level bikes can be expected to be lighter, more efficient in shifting and braking, constructed with higher quality build material and feature all of the latest technology as that is what you're paying the extra money for. All Models feature the Trunnion shocks,dropper seat posts, tubeless ready tires and Boost hubs.

View The Full Scott Genius Range >

Aluminium Models

Scott Genius 750 2018

  • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
  • Fork - Rock Shox Recon RL Solo Air
  • Shock - X-Fusion NUDE Trunnion
  • Drivetrain - Shimano SLX / 20 Speed
  • Brakes - Shimano M396 Disc
  • Weight - 14.7kg

genius 750 wheel

    Scott 2018 Women's Contessa Genius 730

    • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
    • Fork - Rock Shox Recon RL Solo Air
    • Shock - X-Fusion NUDE Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Shimano SLX / 20 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano M396 Disc
    • Weight - 14.5kg

    Scott Genius 940 2018

    • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock - FOX Float EVOL Performance Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Sram GX / Eagle 12 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano MT500 Disc
    • Weight - 14.3kg

    genius aluminium front

    Scott Genius 740

    • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock - FOX Float EVOL Performance Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Sram GX / Eagle 12 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano MT500 Disc
    • Weight - 14kg

    Scott Genius 730 2018

    • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Shimano XT / 22 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano SLX M7000 Disc
    • Weight - 14.1kg

    Scott 2018 Women's Contessa Genius 720

    • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Sram GX / Eagle 12 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano SLX M7000 Disc
    • Weight - 13.4kg

    genius Aluminum shock

    Scott Genius 930 2018

    • Frame - Genius Alloy SL 6011
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Shimano XT / 22 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano SLX M7000 Disc
    • Weight - 14.4kg

    Carbon Fibre Models

    Scott Genius 720 2018

    • Frame - Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMF Mainframe
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
    • Drivetrain - Sram GX / Eagle 12 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano SLX M7000 Disc
    • Weight - 13.2kg

    Scott Genius 920 2018

    • Frame -Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMF Mainframe
    • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Air
    • Shock -F FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
    • Drivetrain -Shimano XT / 22 Speed
    • Brakes - Shimano XT M8000 Disc
    • Weight - 13.5kg
    • Syncross bar

      Scott Genius 710 2018

      • Frame - Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMF Mainframe
      • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Elite Air
      • Shock - FOX Float EVOL Performance Trunnion
      • Drivetrain - Sram GX / Eagle 12 Speed
      • Brakes - Shimano XT M8000 Disc
      • Weight - 13.3kg

      Scott 2018 Women's Contessa Genius 710

      • Frame - Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMF Mainframe
      • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Elite Air
      • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
      • Drivetrain - Sram X01 / Eagle
      • Brakes - Shimano XT M8000 Disc
      • Weight - 12.8kg

      Scott Genius 900 Tuned 2018

      • Frame - Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMX /1x optimized
      • Fork - FOX 34 Float Factory Air / Kashima
      • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
      • Drivetrain - Sram X01 / Eagle 12 Speed
      • Brakes - Sram Guide RSC Disc
      • Weight - 12.4kg

      Genius kashimi fork

        Scott Genius 700 Tuned 2018

        • Frame - Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMX /1x optimized
        • Fork - FOX 34 Float Factory Air / Kashima
        • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion
        • Drivetrain - Sram XX1 / Eagle 12 Speed
        • Brakes - Sram Guide Ultimate Disc
        • Weight - 11.7kg

        Genius carb wheel

          Scott Genius 700 Ultimate 2018

          • Frame - Genius Carbon / IMP technology / HMX /1x optimized
          • Fork - Fox 34 Float Factory air /Kashima
          • Shock - Fox Float LV Trunnion LV electronic damping
          • Drivetrain -SRAM XO1 Eagle 1x12
          • Brakes - Sram Guide Ultimate Disc
          • Weight - 11.7kg

          View All Scott Full-Suspension Bikes > View All Mountain Bikes >

          E-Genius

          Imagine owning the new Genius, with all the crazy new technological features it's got. Now imagine it had its own in-built uplift - That's the E-Genius. With four models to choose from with top-level Bosch and Shimano technology and the latest E-Bike specific components an E-Genius is your ticket to ride further and faster than ever before.

          Electric bike size guide >

          Technology

          Shimano E-8000 Series Battery/Display And Assist Switch

          Shimano_display_e-bik

          To meet MTB specific needs, the E-8000 series was designed with all day performance in mind. The capacity of the Ion-Lithium battery has been increased to 500WH and can now be recharged in only 5 hours. The new design features a lower profile specifically for mountain bikes which improves both impact and vibration resistance. The new colour display comes in a compact size and is therefore nicely integrated on the handlebar. While the display features full connectivity with Shimano Di2 components it also allows for individual settings for the information shown. The switch has been redesigned specifically for mountain bikes and works via Bluetooth. Thanks to the ergonomic design improvements, the switch is now better integrated and offers a similar feel to a gear shifter.

          Shimano_battery_E-Genius_E-Spark_back-ground-230

          Battery Features:

          • 36V of nominal voltage
          • Durability of more than 1000 cycles
          • Removable battery

          Shimano E-8000 Series Drive Unit

          The E-8000 series drive unit has been specifically redesigned for mountain biking needs. The compact design of the drive unit allows for shorter chain stays and more tire clearance. These features, together with the light weight of the battery pack (below 3.2kg) and a new stiff and lightweight BB axle with Hollowtech-II technology (Q-factor 177mm), improve handling and ride feel substantially. The drive unit achieves a maximum power output of 70Nm and 250W.

          MY17_Ebike_Tech_Shimano_Engine_jpg

          The E-Genius 2018 Range

          Scott E-Genius 720 2018

          • Frame - E-Genius 700/900 Alloy Frame
          • Fork - Rock Shox Recon RL Solo Air, 140mm travel
          • Shock - X-Fusion NUDE Trunnion
          • Drivetrain - SRAM NX1 11-Speed
          • Brakes - Shimano Deore M6000 Hydraulic Disc, 203mm Rotors
          • Motor - Shimano STePS E8000, 250W, 70Nm
          • Battery - Shimano 500Wh, Integrated
          • Display - Shimano E8000 Remote & Display
          • Weight - 23.2kg

          egenius fork

          Scott E-Genius 920 2018

          • Frame - E-Genius 700/900 Alloy Frame
          • Fork - Rock Shox Recon RL Solo Air, 140mm travel
          • Shock - X-Fusion NUDE Trunnion
          • Drivetrain - SRAM NX1 11-Speed
          • Brakes - Shimano Deore M6000 Hydraulic Disc, 203mm Rotors
          • Motor - Shimano STePS E8000, 250W, 70Nm
          • Battery - Shimano 500Wh, Integrated
          • Display - Shimano E8000 Remote & Display
          • Weight - 23.2kg

          E-genius shock

          Scott E-Genius 710 2018

          • Frame - E-Genius 700/900 Alloy Frame
          • Fork - FOX 34 Float Performance Elite Air, 150mm Travel
          • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion, 150mm Travel
          • Drivetrain - Shimano XT 11-Speed
          • Brakes - Shimano XT M8000 Hydraulic Disc, 203mm Rotors
          • Motor - Shimano STePS E8000, 250W, 70Nm
          • Battery - Shimano 500Wh, Integrated
          • Display - Shimano E8000 Remote & Display
          • Weight - 23kg

          E-genius shimano 1

          Scott E-Genius 710 2018

          • Frame - E-Genius 700/900 Alloy Frame
          • Fork - FOX 36 Float Factory Air / Kashima / 150mm travel
          • Shock - FOX NUDE EVOL Trunnion / Kashima / 150mm travel
          • Drivetrain - Shimano XT RD-M8050-Di2 11-Speed
          • Brakes - Shimano BR-M640 ZEE Hydraulic Disc
          • Motor - Shimano STePS E8000, 250W, 70Nm
          • Battery - Shimano 500Wh, Integrated
          • Display - Shimano E8000 Remote & Display
          • Weight - 22.9kg

          Read Our Comprehensive E-Bike Buying Guide

          Summary And Further Reading

          So there we are - a comprehensive guide to the new Genius range from Scott. For more information visit us in store or contact us directly. Happy riding!

          Visit Our Stores > Contact Us >

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          You can browse the entire Scott Genius range online, or you can get your hands on it in your nearest Rutland Cycling store.

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