Review: Scott Gambler 900 Tuned - A Sub-35 Pound Downhill Bike

Dec 11, 2019
by Mike Kazimer  



The industrial looking linkage and overbuilt design of the previous Gambler earned it plenty of fans, but compared to the lightweight and sleek shapes of Scott's modern trail bikes it was a bit of an outlier, like a kid in a family portrait sporting a green mohawk and denim vest next to their sweater-wearing siblings. For 2020 the Gambler moves from that single-pivot design to a Horst link suspension layout with 200mm of travel, and is now available with a full carbon frame.

The complete models all come with 29” wheels, but the Gambler's frame has enough geometry adjustments that it's possible to run 27.5” wheels without any issues.
Gambler 900 Tuned Details

• Wheel size: 29" (27.5" compatible)
• Rear wheel travel: 200mm
• Carbon frame
• 62° - 64° head angle
• 435 - 450mm chainstays
• Weight: 34.5 lb / 15.6kg (actual, size large)
• Price: $7,999 USD as shown
www.scott-sports.com/gambler-tuned

The 900 Tuned version reviewed here is the top dog in the lineup, with a race-ready spec that includes Syncros' Hixon iC DH carbon bar / stem combo, a Fox 49 fork and a DHX2 coil shock, SRAM's X01 DH 7-speed drivetrain and Code RSC brakes, Syncros' Revelstoke DH aluminum wheels, and 29" x 2.5" Maxxis Assegai tires for $7,999.

Don't have 8k to spend on a downhill bike? Scott also offers the Gambler 910, which has a carbon front triangle and aluminum back end, a Fox 40 Performance Elite fork, Code R brakes, and a SRAM GX drivetrain for $5,999 USD. There are also two aluminum-framed models, the $4,400 Gambler 920 and the $3,700 Gambler 930.


bigquotesThe Gambler is an incredibly neutral feeling bike – it's free of any unwanted surprises, and no matter the terrain, whether it was extra-chunky and blown out, or fast and smooth, the handling remained consistent. Mike Kazimer




photo

Construction and Features

Painting a bike bright orange and then topping it off with an integrated bar / stem combo is a surefire way to guarantee that it'll turn heads in the lift line. While the Gambler 900's paint job may be loud, thankfully the overall frame shape is very pleasing to the eye. It's uncluttered and clean, and much less busy looking than the previous version.

According to Scott, the Gambler's carbon frame was designed to have a 'stiffness zone', which runs from the head tube to the down tube and then the chainstays. The upper half of the bike – the top tube and seatstays – is the 'lightweight zone', where there's less material in order to shed a little weight and allow for more compliance. Claimed weight for the frame alone is just 2,650 grams (5.8 lb), which is as light as some trail and enduro frames out there.

photo
The Gambler uses a trunnion mounted shock that's partially tucked into the seat tube.
photo
Two axle positions allow for either a 435 or 450mm chainstay length.

The brake and derailleur housing are internally routed, entering behind the integrated fork bump stops. The seat tube actually wraps part way around the shock, partially shielding it from mud and other debris. There's a small window near the lower shock mount that gives water a place to escape during clean up – otherwise the bottom of the shock would be sitting in a little carbon swimming pool.

A bashguard and chainguide are expected sights on a downhill bike, but Scott did things a little differently with the Gambler. Rather than sticking with the ISCG 05 standard, they created their own proprietary chain guide system. With the new design the bash guard doesn't thread directly into the frame; instead, it slides over two lugs that extend underneath the bottom bracket. There are elastomers inside those carbon lugs to help absorb impacts and prevent frame damage. This design allowed Scott's engineers to gain more room to straighen out the chainstay and gain additional tire clearance.


photo
The bottom bracket height and amount of shock progression can easily be adjusted by undoing one bolt.

Geometry

There are many possible configurations for the Gambler, which makes it possible to fine-tune its geometry and suspension characteristics for different tracks and rider preferences. The chainstay length can be set at 435 or 450mm, and there are four possible positions for the lower shock bolt that affect shock progression and bottom bracket height.

Another set of headset cups are included that can be used to alter the head tube angle by 1-degree in either direction, and there's a cup that adds 15mm of stack height, which will come in handy for riders who plan on running 27.5” wheels. All that adaptability also means that going with a 29" front and 27.5" rear wheel is a completely feasible option as well.

2020 Scott Gambler




photo

Suspension Design

The Gambler's new Horst Link suspension configuration dropped the bike's anti-rise value to 40%, and the lower main pivot placement reduced the amount of chain growth and potential pedal feedback.

A trunnion mounted 225 x 75mm shock is the stock spec, but riders looking for a little more butt-to-tire clearance can run a slightly shorter stroke shock, either 72.5 or 70mm, in order to reduce the amount of rear travel.


Specifications
Price $7999
Travel 200mm
Rear Shock FOX DHX2 Factory
Fork FOX 40 Factory 203mm travel
Headset Syncros DH adjustable Semi integrated / adj +-1° with cup
Cassette SRAM CS PG-720 DH 11-25
Crankarms SRAM X01 DH DUB Carbon 34T Alloy Chainring / 165mm
Chainguide SCOTT DH Custom
Chain KMC X11-1
Rear Derailleur SRAM XO1 DH
Shifter Pods SRAM XO1 DH 7-speed
Handlebar Syncros Hixon iC DH Carbon 15mm Rise / 8° / 800mm
Grips Syncros Pro DH dual lock-on grips
Brakes SRAM Code RSC
Wheelset Syncros Revelsoke DH 1.5
Tires Maxxis Assegai 29x2.5"
Seat Syncros Comox 1.5 Titanium Rails
Seatpost Syncros DH1.5 / 31.6mm / Alloy7050




Scott Gambler 900 Tuned








Test Bike Setup

For my 160-pound weight, I ran a 475-pound spring on the Fox DHX2 shock and started with all four adjustments at 12-clicks from closed as per Fox's recommendations. By the end of testing I'd sped up the rebound a little and backed off the high-speed compression slightly, but that served as a good starting point.

For the Fox 40 fork, I ran 64 psi, with the following clicks of rebound and compression from closed: HSC: 14, LSC: 12, HSR: 7, LSR: 5.

Testing took place in the Whistler Bike Park, as well as a few shuttle zone with access to steep and natural trails.



Me.
Mike Kazimer
Location: Bellingham, WA, USA
Age: 37
Height: 5'11" / 180cm
Inseam: 33" / 84cm
Weight: 160 lbs / 72.6 kg
Industry affiliations / sponsors: None
Instagram: @mikekazimer


 Photo by clint trahan clinttrahan.com

Riding

I started with the Gambler in the low / progressive setting, which delivers the most amount of beginning stroke suppleness in order to maximize traction in steeper, loose terrain. That setting worked as advertised, and on more natural tracks the fact that it took barely any effort to initiate the rear travel helped keep the back end stuck to the ground. Add in the tenacious grip of the Maxxis Assegai tires and you've got traction for days.

The downside to all the suppleness became apparent when I headed to the Whistler Bike Park. In that setting, where the speeds were higher and the trails weren't quite as steep or rugged as the natural tracks I'd been on previously, I found myself sitting a little deeper in the travel than I wanted, and there wasn't quite the level of support I was looking for on jump- and berm-filled trails. Out came the wrench, and within a few minutes I'd swapped the shock to the linear / low position. That setting created a more supportive beginning and mid-stroke, and felt much more appropriate for the bike park, while still retaining enough ramp-up to avoid any harsh bottom outs.


 Photo by clint trahan clinttrahan.com


The Gambler is an incredibly neutral feeling bike – it's free of any unwanted surprises, and no matter the terrain, whether it was extra-chunky and blown out, or fast and smooth, the handling remained consistent. Grab a handful of brake in the steeps and the rear end will still keep sucking up those bumps; compared to the Kona Operator I'd been on previously it was a bit surprising how unaffected the rear suspension was. I personally prefer a little more anti-rise than what the Gambler delivers; I'm willing to trade some plushness for geometry preservation, but it didn't take long to adapt to the Gambler's handling. The 450mm chainstay length felt well-matched to the 460mm reach number, which meant that I never switched to the shorter setting, but the option is there for riders who want to experiment a little.

The Gambler never felt delicate or too floaty for me despite its impressively light 34.5-pound weight. It has the solidity you'd expect from a DH bike, without a hint of sluggishness when it comes time to get airborne or lift up and over a section of chunky trail. The “weight doesn't matter” motto gets tossed around all the time, but there's something to be said about starting with a lighter chassis rather than spending time and money further down the road trying to knock off a few grams. That lighter weight also means it's easier to add things like tire inserts or aluminum parts without worrying about the number on the scale climbing too high.



 Photo by clint trahan clinttrahan.com
Scott Gambler

Santa Cruz V10 29
Santa Cruz V10 29

How does it compare? Scott Gambler vs. Santa Cruz V10 29


The V10 and the Gambler were both developed with racing in mind and were a familiar sight towards the front of the field on the World Cup DH circuit this past season, so it makes sense to see where the similarities and differences lie.

As far as geometry goes, the numbers are fairly similar between the two bikes. Both have head angles that hover around the 63-degree mark, and both have a reach of 460mm. The Gambler's chainstays can be set at either 435 or 450mm, while the V10 has 445 and 455mm as the available options. For the consummate tinkerer, the Gambler has the edge when it comes to the number of geometry adjustments, adjustments that also allow the same frame to work with 27.5” wheels. Another point in the Gambler's favor is the seat tube angle – it's steeper on the small and medium frames, which means it's less likely to buzz the rear tire.

Out on the trail, the V10 is slightly more demanding to ride but is incredibly rewarding at the higher speeds it was designed for. The Gambler feels 'friendlier', for lack of a better term; it's a little plusher through chunkier terrain, and I didn't feel like I need to go flat out all the time to get the most out of it.

Both would make excellent race bikes, or park bikes for that matter, although I'd give the nod to the V10 if I had to pick the one that with the greatest need for speed. The Gambler doesn't mind if you decide to take a chill, lazy lap, but every lap on the V10 felt like there was a little voice in my ear urging me to go even faster.


photo
Syncros Hixon iC DH carbon bar / stem
photo
Syncros Comox saddle

Technical Report

Overall, the parts spec on the Gambler 900 leaves little to be desired. Fox's top-level fork and shock didn't miss a beat, and SRAM's Code brakes and drivetrain were all trouble-free.

Paint job: That orange paint job is hard to miss, but unfortunately, it's also prone to chipping. The area around the chainstay could stand to have more protection on it – the chain knocked off a layer of paint before I could slap on a strip of mastic tape. The paint also flaked off around the stem bolts on the integreated bar / stem combo, and in a few areas around the seat stays.

Syncros Comox saddle: DH bike saddles are easy to take for granted due to how little they're actually used for sitting on, but the shape of the Comox is great. It's free of any sharp edges, with just enough width to make it easy to find between your legs, but not so much that it gets in the way.

Integrated bar / stem: My first experience with Syncros Hixon integrated bar / stem combo was on a Scott Ransom, and in that instance, I ended up swapping it out because the bar roll didn't match my preference. It was a different story on the Gambler – the positioning felt like it was customized just for me. Of course, that may not be the case for every rider, and the fact that you'll need a new bar and stem if the Hixon doesn't suit your needs does add some extra inconvenience.


 Photo by clint trahan clinttrahan.com


Pros

+ Neutral, even-keeled handling
+ Easily adaptable to different tracks
+ Very light for a DH bike

Cons

- Not the most durable paint job
- Integrated bar / stem makes cockpit adjustments more difficult



Pinkbike's Take

bigquotesThe new Gambler is an entirely different bike than its predecessor – that two-wheeled monster truck has officially been replaced with a light and nimble race machine. I'll always have a soft spot for the previous version, but the new iteration is much less of an outlier in Scott's lineup, where its easy handling and versatility will surely earn it a new batch of fans.  Mike Kazimer







Author Info:
mikekazimer avatar

Member since Feb 1, 2009
1,716 articles

461 Comments
  • 1263 3
 Everyone that says, "Looks like a Session," will automatically be entered in a raffle to win a new Gambler.

Then we'll send you a Session.
  • 115 58
 Norbs got robbed
  • 28 4
 oof is that a new orange Scott edition session?
  • 4 3
 Don't start it!
  • 9 156
flag OriginalDonk (Dec 11, 2019 at 0:25) (Below Threshold)
 Not sure that one landed as you hoped it would but solid effort.
  • 16 1
 Looks like a....wait a moment
  • 3 2
 Happy lost to ping -oh wait wrong forum
  • 17 0
 but you will get this session
cutt.ly/ue5l0CS
  • 16 0
 Why did you not release it is raw carbon like the team frames, those look so good!
  • 4 17
flag ilyamaksimov (Dec 11, 2019 at 1:01) (Below Threshold)
 gambler looks like Cube Wink
  • 14 1
 But i wouldn't be able to tell the difference, because it looks like a Session...
  • 8 1
 Looks like a Session
Smile
  • 7 3
 @WAKIdesigns: your Norbs got robbed
  • 58 1
 @Ellisjm: once you ride it you would ;-)
  • 7 1
 Looks like a prettier Session Big Grin
  • 5 0
 Looks like session on steroids
  • 74 2
 I dunno, I'm not much of a Gambler, so I won't take part in this Session
  • 20 0
 That colour looks like szechuan.
  • 3 1
 looks like it's sick, not session
  • 1 0
 You can't beat that cube joke so easy
  • 2 0
 It genuinely does though.
  • 4 7
 LOOKS LIKE A SESSION :-) now send me a new bike ????????
  • 6 0
 Looks like Cube 215 that looks like a GT Fury that looks like a Norco Aurum that looks like a Trek Session that looks like a Kona Operator that looks......
  • 3 2
 It looks so much like a Session that Scott probably just got a Session and painted it in non-Session yellow to make it not look like a Session which isn't fooling anyone because it does really look like a Session.
  • 4 0
 @flaviotsutsui: like a Turner Burner.
  • 4 8
flag nyhc00 (Dec 11, 2019 at 4:22) (Below Threshold)
 A Session it looks like (in Yoda voice)
  • 2 1
 "Looks like a Session," - there I said it (and also wrote it). Enter me automatically in a raffle to win a new Gambler, please.
  • 1 1
 Looks like a session!
  • 1 5
flag mogh (Dec 11, 2019 at 4:40) (Below Threshold)
 Just in case this is real :-) "Looks like a Session,"
  • 1 2
 looks like a session.
  • 4 1
 Looks like a Session.... But send the Gambler instead
  • 1 6
flag slicedsilver (Dec 11, 2019 at 5:25) (Below Threshold)
 Looks like a Session Wink
  • 13 0
 SCOTT-Sports out in front on the PR game!
  • 1 0
 bet
  • 3 1
 Looks like a Session, but nicer
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 2 0
 @mogh: I'm pretty sure it's not but just in case I'll do like you!

"Looks like a Session,"

Send me the Gambler instead. It will cost you less! Smile
  • 3 1
 In case, nobody mentioned: Looks like a Session Big Grin
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session.
  • 1 1
 looks like a session
  • 4 0
 I don't know if i'd make the trek to a demo day, because after a nice muddy session it will look exactly like that other bike, i always forget the name of.
  • 1 3
 Looks like a Session
  • 4 1
 well played Scott, well played
  • 1 3
 Looks like a Session,
  • 5 0
 Looks like a better session, norbs got robbed, and Scott please fix the paint thing, my spark keeps chipping paint.
  • 1 1
 @BobbyLite: looks like a session (if this is real lol)
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session.
  • 2 1
 I also belive in Santa Claus, so It looks like a Session
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session
  • 5 0
 Looks like a Session. Someone in here is going to get a clapped out 2005 Session 77 haha.
  • 4 0
 Scott sports is killing it lately. Keep up the good work.
  • 2 0
 Looks like a Session! But prettier! Those colors are on point!
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session. Smells like teen spirit.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 2 0
 Looks like a session, but would also be sweet if it looked like a new 29er Voltage
  • 2 0
 Looks like something I'd like to session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session ????
  • 1 0
 Gta have a matching green lambo
  • 1 0
 Well, It looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session... Which was finally redesigned to modernise the design.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 6 0
 LOL. Now that's how you do internet commenting as a company. Does look like a session tho.
  • 4 0
 Savage @SCOTT-Sports, straight savage...
  • 1 0
 "Looks like a Session".........will be a great Holiday!!
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session...
  • 2 0
 Whatever, but it looks like a session !! And if I won a session instead of the gambler, I would have a gambler, because it looks like the session ... owww shit
  • 6 0
 Hats off to you guys for making the sexiest DH bike currently on the market.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 2 0
 What's a Session?
  • 6 0
 Looks like a Session.... a free bike is a free bike.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 I mean it does look like a fun bike to session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 5 0
 Looks like a session. Can you please sell and ally frame only. Most of us can't afford 8k be I have most parts to build one from scratch. I also can't afford 4k for a frame though. Upset that poor people and plasticphobes seem to get the short straw. Just spent 4k on a new ransom 920 just to get a frame and forks. Struggling to sell the parts I dont need. It's a bit off a faff.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session Big Grin
(prefer the Gambler tho)
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 If ‘it looks like a session’ pb shoulda compared it to one!
  • 2 1
 Niko and Vinny T did the real test, this guy catching 3 feet of air isn't telling me anything.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session - but more importantly, looks like my next bike!
  • 2 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 4 0
 Looks like a Sunday
  • 2 0
 Looks like a Session,
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 3 0
 Looks like a Gambler
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 2 4
 Why is a bike that costs $7999 in the US £7200 in the UK...that exchange rate is ludicrous, it should be about £6100....
  • 1 0
 looks like a session
  • 3 0
 BEST LOOKING BIKE out there! was lucky enough to see Mike testing it on WBP and i thought it was an enduro bike as it looks so slim and light! GOOD JOB guys Would love to test this beauty out!
  • 1 0
 Dayum thats a lot of comments.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session. Ok. Let me know when you need my address for shipping.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session - please don´t send me a session
  • 1 0
 er...looks like a santa cruz...?
  • 1 0
 Looks like a more refined session. Just in case this is real. Would blow my old bike out of the water any day. Oh and did I mention it looks like a....
  • 3 0
 if no ones win a bike, I'll go to Scott's manufacture and put a Trek sticker on every bike.
  • 2 0
 Looks like a Session! Totally worth the gamble! Smile
  • 6 0
 @Danmcdan: sales tax. Our prices are quoted with VAT @ 20%. The US price doesn’t include sales tax cos it’s different rates in different states, but they’ll pay more at the till unless they can duck the tax somehow. No big conspiracy.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session!
  • 2 0
 @drmantistobogganmd: I’ve been hoping SCOTT will do a frame only Ramsom for some time now ( Carbon or Al). As no one wants that Fit4 fork, or that lock out junk on there bars. With the very high sales prices in Oz, I’ll probably just get a new Yeti SB165 frame eventually. Scotts seems to have some great engineers on there frame design team. But are massively let down by the XC orientated parts specs department, in regards to the Ransom build.
  • 2 1
 @up-left-down-right: yeah, it's a step down from my capras grip 2. But surprisingly I bought the ransom to be able to switch between wheel sizes and run mullet. I needed something a little more trial oriented that I can ride on flatter shit to work etc. So I welcomed the twin lock. I actually wanted it. But yeah, I miss my X2 and grip2 36 but hey I knew what I was getting into. I still have my capra for really heavy shit yo.
  • 2 0
 Class reply! Best looking downhill bike ive ever seen. Beautiful!
  • 2 1
 Session, it looks like.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session.
  • 2 0
 Definitely looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 I'm not too proud to join in, cause it definitely looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 LOOKS LIKE A SESSION
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Im truly excited for the free bike. It looks as though Scott will be buying a whole lot of Sessions, perhaps they should invest in a proof reader?
Good work though, bike looks awesome
  • 1 0
 Did I forget to mention that it "Looks like a Session".
  • 1 0
 Looks like a ...........................................Session
  • 1 0
 looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session. My DHR is a 2011 so I'd take either. Might murder a nun to get the Scott. Will definitely type a session joke for a Trek.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 looks like a session xD - same name @gmail.com - Happy Holidays Scott Bikes!
  • 1 0
 @aps62: thx, always wondered why prices were so different to exchange rate
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session? I don't think so, but if you say so.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session ;-)
  • 2 0
 Your mom looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session. Are you guys going to send us the session mule bike you used before you decided to copy the same frame style? just joking.
  • 1 0
 Not normally a Scott fan but this is the nicest looking downhill bike ever designed.
  • 5 0
 Tastes like a Szechuan
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 "Looks like a Session,"
  • 1 0
 Looks like a maiden
  • 1 0
 at least you got ahead of it....
  • 1 0
 It does look like a session tho
  • 1 0
 @fartymarty: and put a 1 peice stem/bar on
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session not going to miss out
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session. Like a really fast and light session.
  • 1 0
 This DOES NOT "Looks like a Session."
  • 4 0
 This is my favourite comment of the year.
Thanks @SCOTT-Sports it’s good to see not everyone takes life too seriously.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 7 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session. The joke will never die.
  • 1 1
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session, but I'd rather have the Gambler
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 5 0
 @mwysel: we're people too!
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session.
  • 8 3
 @SCOTT-Sports: no, you are the evil industry taking away 26” wheels, old Marzocchis, pushing e-bikes and robbing Norbs. Then you have no hardcore hardtail in your line up and no Down Country bike with wheelbase longer than 6ft, seat angles are not steeper than 76, not to mention the fact that none of your shocks has hydraulic bottom out like EXT, which is the freshest demand. Anyone riding that Gambler will be grossly overbiked. Wromg wrong wrong
  • 1 0
 @AngusG: that one piece bar stem thingee is pretty sexy.
  • 1 0
 @mwysel: yes well played Scott.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session, but so do many other great bikes!
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 8 6
 Have some decency people... Jesus... I strongly recommend everyone to go to a World Cup and attend a GoPro event. It works in a way that a young girl comes up on the stage and throws cameras and accessories to the crowd, asking: “ how much do you want a go pro? Do you love GoPro?, “again, everybody: ee want go pro!”, “louder!” “Weee eant go proooo” “good! Now again!”... leg doggies! leg! Sit! Jump! Sit! How much do you want a Session?! Say “Looks like a Session doggies!”, “Haaaaaaaaw!” Bark for me! Woof! Wooof!
  • 1 0
 This is gold. Really made my day Smile
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session,
  • 1 0
 Amazing. Did you guys hire the Wendy's PR girl?

Well played.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 @SCOTT-Sports: We shall see, why don't you send me one and I'll see if i can tell the difference ;-)
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session with a fancy handlebar.
  • 1 0
 "Looks like a Session"

*dreams of owning a Scott Gambler*
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 @Danmcdan: the UK price is with 20% VAT added, us prices are shown before various taxes are added. They don't have a uniform sales/vat as it changes from state to state.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 How long before people stop saying "looks like a Session" because my dash keeps filling up with people saying how much it looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 It resembles a session. If there is a raffle, I'm in for this!
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session,
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like that one bike, what’s it called again? The one with the wheels.
  • 1 0
 "Looks like a Session," ....finger crossed! haha
  • 2 0
 That Session looks like a Scott Gambler.

Is the paint colour a tribute to the US President "The Mandarin Candidate"??

BTW, how does it pedal?? Wink
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Killswitch. Sweet.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 2 3
 @judgerider348:
Your mom ‘likes’ a session
  • 1 0
 “Looks like a Session,”... figured it couldn’t hurt, and better late than never...
  • 11 0
 Can we still get in on this raffle @SCOTT-Sports?
  • 2 2
 @trek: And @SCOTT-Sports - hey,
Why don’t you get together with @DVOSuspension and make a new metric wheelsize 650mm? A bit like 30”. The whole super long and slack histeria is driven by long people. Give them what they need.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 171 24
 Pinkbike - why U no field test DH bikes! Remember where you came from damn it!
  • 237 2
 Because you can't ride dh bikes round a field.....it's a waste.
  • 3 1
 @watchmen: great reply
  • 35 17
 @vhdh666: you lycra boys ruin it for everybody here.
  • 35 5
 I 100% agree to your statement! Enough of this gourmet-pseudo-DH machines called enduro bikes or the "downcountry" crap!

WHERE ARE THE BIG BIKES?
  • 7 1
 @flaviotsutsui: heeft een Nederlander een big bike nodig?
  • 2 0
 @WAKIdesigns: Waki, with your comments, you probably trigger these kinds of answers haha
  • 5 6
 @flaviotsutsui: gourmet pseudo DH bikes ahahaha Smile
  • 3 10
flag WAKIdesigns (Dec 11, 2019 at 4:12) (Below Threshold)
 @vhdh666: jaeg, mykke nodig hvettu! Nico Vink begheve en sann uppenbargligen. Ser ikke anlednige at begheve dumme korteslagige hojje
  • 1 0
 @WAKIdesigns: you got me. Although Nico is not from NL - he's from the "flat part" of BE.
  • 7 6
 @vhdh666: I just wrote it in Swedish with most ridiculous attempt at Danish and Norwegian, thinking Dutch will come out of it.
  • 4 0
 As far as the cons list is seems like those can be overcome by putting protective tape on the frame and changing out the bar/stem combo. Not to bad for a cons list.
  • 1 0
 @watchmen: just need a DH field to ride down
  • 4 0
 YES!! Remember your roots Pinkbike! More DH bikes please!
  • 6 4
 @ADGproductions: Enduro bikes have geometries and suspension quality requiring use of full on DH tires. Then If you analyze geos of DH bikes you will find quite a few with effective seat angles around 74degrees. Fox offers lockout for X2 and and DHX2. All you need is regular drivetrain and a dropper...
  • 1 0
 This bikes weighs less, looks way better, is cheaper, and has full balls out riding capability.
  • 1 0
 @vhdh666: I’m not Dutch (but yes, you’re right), while I’m living here I bought a XC Mondraker , but I have my downhill bikes back in Brazil!!
  • 2 0
 @WAKIdesigns: I ride an enduro bike with Maxxis Hookworms only.
  • 1 0
 @WAKIdesigns:
Jeebus dude.
That was effin horrible. Big Grin

Never change..
  • 1 1
 @Tjomball: mener daeg mein Höllandsker? Vag anne skjulle jaeg säge? Kan icke vore myge svårte an lite mer civilere Dänsker, som folket fram olike länder nord om Tyske kan faktiskt förstesen? Dänsker med leite mindre R uttalandes som "Hghy" lickesom jaeg vell spyyy, ock mer flemch istalle - Elleuh huehr? Big Grin

Kamelåså Beer
  • 1 0
 I`ve asked a few times why we're getting reviews on those short travel Camerys.... haha
  • 2 0
 @WAKIdesigns: You do not puut a dropper on a dh. You cant climb on a dh bike for geo reasons, if you want a dh bike that can climb buy a 180mm enduro
  • 1 1
 @Ellisjm: I analyzed it quite well. Many DH bikes will end up with geos having 73-74 seat angle effective at sag point. Do some research. Juxtapose latest gambler with Genius. Session with Remedy. Take a close look at this gambler the seat clamps in the post are nearly vertically above the BB. There’s no excuse... time for the return of VP Free. Too bad people will never buy this obvious improvement over Enduro racing bike (from the point of view of an amateur) because they are already using stupid light weight tires on their SB150s, Capras, Nomads etc... they will never buy a dual crown fork, they will spend thousands on expensive upgrades to their single crown forks but won’t deal with 700g weight penalty evidently improving handling and suspension performance
  • 46 4
 Dropper and singlecrown and you have an endurobike like it should be
  • 8 23
flag WAKIdesigns (Dec 11, 2019 at 0:25) (Below Threshold)
 Yes!
  • 14 0
 I'll take mine with a 10-50 odd gear range and the dropper, I'll keep the dual crown.
  • 1 0
 No joke. The line between enduro and dh has gotten mighty blurry.
  • 2 7
flag WAKIdesigns (Dec 11, 2019 at 8:11) (Below Threshold)
 @dirtyburger: I’ll be doing a proto of 190 bike this spring. We will put a great 170 bike on steroids. Msg me if interested Smile
  • 8 1
 And probably lighter than the Downc*ntry bikes they’ve tested.
  • 1 4
 @jclnv: my buddy’s Fuel Ex with lyrik and coil in the rear is on par with his Session 9.9
  • 2 0
 @WAKIdesigns: does his session happen to have a revelation and a fox dhx air?
  • 2 0
 The Ransom (Scott's enduro bike) is actually tested to the same stength standards as the Gambler. In terms of durability, there's no need to go to a Gambler frame.
  • 32 1
 Nope no twin loc not a real Scott, definitely a session.
  • 31 2
 The V10 is a good looking bike, but next to the Gambler it doesn’t look nearly as clean. The gambler is gorgeous
  • 5 6
 I think the v10 would look as clean if not better then the Gambler if it wasn't primer grey
  • 8 0
 @Erku: The Gambler has the better looking lines, the colour is just icing on the cake.
  • 11 0
 For me V10 frames just look broken!
Where most other bikes have a front triangle, V10s have a weird squished trapezoid with a seat tube sticking to the side... ;D
  • 17 0
 the V10 looks like a design challenge where you had to use Bananas to design your ideal DH bike.
  • 9 1
 The Gambler looks like a proper bike! The V10 just looks weird and squashed...
  • 3 0
 @TheBearDen: bananas, nah that’s transition carbon frames
  • 31 1
 giddy up that is sex
  • 30 0
 Transitions legal department would like a word.
  • 3 0
 @tobiusmaximum: hahaha seppo's love a good sueing
  • 26 0
 But how does it climb.........on a chair lift?
  • 16 0
 #UpDownhill
  • 2 0
 @gcrider It makes you fly!
  • 7 1
 New category. Upcountry. Downhill bikes that can climb.
  • 2 0
 It’s always my best sector @qreative-bicycle:
  • 4 0
 @peleton7: Isn't that enduro?
  • 2 0
 @RayDolor: technically Upduro
  • 1 0
 “It climbs like a bike you know is built to go down hill”
  • 23 0
 Come on @SCOTT-Sports give as a frameset-only option on the raw Gambler 920 already!
  • 16 1
 or do a "Gambler FR alloy" with a bit steeper seatangle and a hole for the internal dropper, 27.5 wheels, raw alloy, 180 fork, and 10-50 drivetrain. should be pretty easy to do and would be as cool as polarbearshit. daydreamin is fun
  • 2 0
 Yes please!
  • 3 0
 @optimumnotmaximum: They make it already. It's called the 2020 Ransom 920.
  • 18 0
 $3,700 entry level price point, adjustable head angle, bb height, chainstay all with ability to run 27 or 29. This is how DH bikes should be in 2020!
  • 6 1
 Commencal???
  • 19 3
 Needs a water bottle mount
  • 24 4
 Joking aside, a water bottle mount would be really useful for park riding. Hours on the bike, cooking on a chair lift or a shuttle bus. Sure, take it off of you're racing, but for every other day of the year, it'd be great.
  • 17 3
 @mountainsofsussex: A good bike park will have water for people at the top and bottom of the mountain.
  • 25 1
 @nug12182: you obviously frequent better bike parks than me...
  • 2 0
 @mountainsofsussex: spa bottle hidden in the bushes..
  • 1 0
 @mountainsofsussex: it might be a little warmer here...
  • 13 0
 @mountainsofsussex: I didn’t ever need a water bottle last time I rode in the UK — water just conveniently fell from the sky the whole time. You guys are so lucky. We have to carry water with us out west.
  • 1 0
 Get 34lbs bike, put 2lbs water bottle on it.
  • 1 0
 @nug12182: leave ur sweat stained camelbak at the bottom and take pit stops
  • 1 0
 @LuvAZ: No Camelbak,just fresh water compliments of said bike park.
  • 16 4
 Wow, this new gambler is an absolute beauty. The raw aluminum version on their website is killer..
But too bad though that Scott’s warranty on downhill bikes is 2 years only. Light DH bikes with stingy warranty is certainly cause for reflection … I have heard a few horror stories on dealing with their customer service so it's really my only hesitation on pulling the trigger on this beauty.
What a bike !
  • 1 1
 That's too bad about the 2 year warranty. I don't have enough bike parks or local places to really justify a DH bike but I sure was thinking about the 910 version being the one to get and keep for more than 2 years. Bummer.
  • 9 2
 Warranty doesn’t mean anything. Warranty is for when the manufacturer makes a flaw in the production of a product, not for when you huck to flat and break yourself and the bike.

Go chat with your LBS so they can help you out when you send it too hard.
  • 5 0
 I can't speak for this DH bike. However I have a Ransom 900 tuned and it also has soft paint. @SCOTT-Sports customer service has been top notch in my experience. Very fast communication and they are have been easy to deal with, needing minimum effort from myself.
They have taken care of me to the point where I will keep them on the list of next bike to look for. Aside from the soft paint, the Ransom has been the best bike I have owned. I would suspect this DH bike would make anyone happy for years.
  • 2 0
 @StinkyTO: That is good to hear! I will head over to the local SCOTT dealer to check it out in person...
  • 7 0
 Scott makes some really nice light weight frames. I was eyeballing a genius frame kit for my next years build, but the kit also comes "complete" with exactly all the parts that I don't want on their complete bikes (Hixon barstem and FIT4 fork with remote :\ ). So unfortunately pass.
  • 8 0
 Agreed. The Ransom looks sick, but there's no way I'm buying one with a FIT4 and that stupid Twin-Lok shit on there.
  • 13 3
 this is as heavy as my SC Bronson v3 AL...
  • 3 1
 and my commencal meta ^^
  • 2 0
 It's got less than 2 lb on my blue pig!
  • 1 1
 @Stokedonthis: my Ripmo AF is heaver Frown
  • 2 1
 Remember to repeat the pinkbike comment mantra 100 times: "Weight doesn't matter" :-P
  • 2 1
 lighter than my mk1 process 153...
  • 3 1
 This is what I was getting at last week. Why are some frames a kilo heavier than others?

There’s either a small amount of companies who really know what they’re doing and everyone else is overbuilding and pissing in the wind or these things break all the time?

Your move Pinkbike.
  • 3 0
 It also has 1-2 inches more travel than the bikes all of you mentioned and a dual crown... since when did we start comparing DH bike weights to enduro/trail bikes? lol
  • 2 0
 @gibspaulding:
Haha.
Haven't even considered weighing mine. Probably even worse considering my studded tires and brooks saddle.
  • 1 1
 @jclnv: because some frames are designed for the Privateer that actually pays for and wrenches his or her own gear.
  • 3 0
 @jclnv: I agree with you. What the heck is goin on? Is Scott really that much more focused on the weight?

I love my enduro bike. But I'd love it even more if it weighed 28 pounds and could still be rock solid for 99.8% of the riders out there. And yes, I do feel a difference when the water bottle is full or empty, and the difference between a 900 gram tire and a 1100 gram tire is really really noticeable.

Here we have a DH bike built for giant hucks all day that weighs 34.5 pounds with DH casing Assegai tires. That is freakin sweet.
  • 2 0
 @jclnv: A lot of bike companies don’t do their own carbon manufacturing, they contract out their designs. Having no direct control over the process means they can’t take the material to its full potential. Carbon frames are also not easy to design efficiently, many companies might not have the required know how. But customers want to buy carbon frames at huge markups, therefore bike makers comply.

Part of it might also be different target demographics. Some companies build bikes for the 130kg bikepark rider, others aim for the 70kg racer.
  • 1 0
 @nismo325: They're saying that as a positive thing. That this bike is only a couple pounds heavier than an AM bike.
  • 1 0
 @Ttimer Almost everyone outsources manufacturing yet weights are all over the shop. However, if what you said is true and some design for 130kg and others 70kg, can I please have a list of the latter please.
  • 1 0
 @jclnv: If you want really light frames, look at scott and Giant. (and possibly a few more that I don't know right now )

Coincidentally those two companies are also very experienced in carbon and at least giant is running their own factories.
  • 1 0
 @Tjomball: I'm not really positive what mine weighs on its own, but ready to ride, with a tool kit, tube, and a full water bottle it's right at 37. I'd think around 33 without all that. The sad thing is that while there are upgrades that I'd like to do to it, they'd mostly make it heavier: namely a coil conversion for the fork and cush core at least in the rear. Could probably shave some weight off of the cheap SLX wheels though.
  • 6 0
 Where's the Climbing section? We know it descends like a DH bike but does it climb like a goat out of hell?

Sick bike though, insanely light for an off-the-shelf DH rig! And it's beautiful.
  • 7 1
 I know the V10 is a great bike and has all the history bla bla, but it looks like a broken KHS beside the Gambler!
  • 3 0
 I had 45 park days last summer between the Okanagan and Whistler, so chances are guys like me are the target market for this bike. But the only way I could ever afford to spend $9g on a DH bike is if I won the lottery.

Also, it looks like a Session.
  • 7 0
 Looks like your mother!
  • 2 1
 Bet you could knock off 300g for running an X2 and 400g for EXO minions. Maybe a little more for running 650b wheels. That's say 14.8kg? Dont care what people say, I prefer the X2. Never had issues running EXO tyres either. Its worth the small gamble.
  • 3 0
 Asking for a friend, Is there enough material to hold the rear wheel If He drills a Third dropout hole to fit 26”? #trolling #actuallynottrolling
  • 1 0
 Looks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a SessionLooks like a Session
  • 4 0
 The option of being able to change the rear suspension from progressive to linear with one bolt is genius.
  • 3 0
 When Brendog says that the bike works you can be sure that the damn bike works. Looks awesome too.
  • 17 0
 Definitely. An athlete sponsored by the brand being critiqued is the best way to eliminate bias.....
  • 1 3
 Kinda of like trying to get unbiased news from any 'mainstream' outlet....good luck! Everyone is selling xyz brand.
  • 5 1
 @pargolf8: He openly commented on not enjoying the multilink Gambler and then in an another interview expressed his dislike for that weird test mule he rode last year.

So yeah Id say Brendog may actually be someone you could trust when he has an opinion about the bikes he rides.
  • 2 1
 @TheBearDen: im not disagreeing with you. I actually like this gen of gambler and im not a big scott fan. Im just saying a sponsored athletes words arent the best opinion when the company they are referencing also help pay the billzzz
  • 1 0
 With the bright citrusy initial flavor, then furious fire on the trail I'd say this bike more resembles a Habañero pepper.
Please send me the 910 level, @Scottsports for Moab DH testing.
  • 1 0
 If you lowered that seat-post down to a normal DH riding position, wouldn't the tire smack the back of the saddle on deep rear compression. It doesn't seem like much clearance.
  • 1 0
 I still can’t un-see the position of the logo on the head tube.
Friday afternoon in design department.
Shall we go to the pub. Yea that will do. Let’s go.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session ... If trek had made the 2025 new model "better, lighter and faster" so please ship me the gambler instead of the session @SCOTT-Sports
  • 1 0
 so they took the session, moved the shock back an inch or two, painted it orange like they do with all their bikes, and put some sketchy ass bars on it
  • 4 2
 Bar/stem thing looks ace, but who doesn’t want the option to angle their bars?
  • 2 0
 Where is the suspension compression video? I would really like to see how close the tire gets to the seat!
  • 1 0
 This is what my size large SB150 weighs. That is with Cush Core F&R and an EDC tool.

Scott, what carbon magic are you doing? Quite an impressive weight.
  • 1 0
 “although I'd give the nod to the V10 if I had to pick the one that with the greatest need for speed”

What if I have a need for speed wheelies?
  • 1 1
 15.6kg for Large bike...hummm, how light this is light?
My Medium Trek Session 9.9 full carbon with 27.5" wheels weighs 13.6kg with full dh set up and pedals. This is light enough?
  • 1 0
 13,6kg é leve pacas!
  • 2 0
 I haven't been tempted by a DH bike in years. Even more so by the ally version.
Nice one @SCOTT-Sports
  • 1 0
 I LOVE my 2015 gambler. I can't find a single fault with it. I'm usually not brand loyal but I'm thinking the 2020 gambler will be my next dh bike
  • 4 1
 Looks like a Gambler!
  • 1 0
 Well done Scott Maybe the tide is turning back, too many bikes weighing in overweight, this is great at sub 35lb
  • 1 0
 Where in Madagascar would you need a dh bike mate?
  • 1 0
 @stephane98: Am in the UK
  • 1 0
 Is it just me or does it feel like Scott is making their bad paint quality a running gag?
  • 7 0
 they do it so its easier for @bicyclerider to strip it off
  • 2 0
 Huck to flat - or it doesn't work! Big Grin
  • 1 0
 Gorgeous DH bike, the raw aluminum frame is even sexier and I’m a V10 kinda guy too lol
  • 2 0
 Is this the same frame that Brendog broke in practice at Rampage?
  • 1 0
 Looks like my BTR Ranger. Same colour and same head tube angle but probably less fun.
  • 1 0
 Anybody know if the raw aluminum version will be available as a frame only option? I can't find anything about it online.
  • 1 0
 So many people entering must be a legit statement from scott so here I am. Looks like a session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session but the fiability are like a gitane bikes , they broke so many frame this year
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Maiden. Evidently that frame style/shock positioning works well!
  • 1 0
 The easy auto paint chipping feature is to let you know its a genuine Gambler, and not a Session.
  • 1 0
 What a session it was to read all this!. Would I be a Gamler to say it looks like a Session?
  • 1 0
 They forgot to mention that it has had a few sessions in red bull rampage, I haven't seen a v10 in rampage.
  • 1 0
 HAAAHAA "Looks like a Session," will automatically be entered in a raffle to win a new Session.
  • 2 1
 Such a clean looking bike - wins the DH bike Ms. Universe contest hands down.
  • 2 0
 porniest DH bike right now entering 2020
  • 1 0
 Love this, im a 2017 scott voltage owner and those look great! would buy!
  • 2 0
 I hate the idea of the same stack height between sizes!
  • 1 0
 This bike is freaking sleek as hell. I love that syncros bar it really just completes this bike.
  • 2 4
 "The “weight doesn't matter” motto gets tossed around all the time"

I think the context of that weight needs to be considered.

If you're talking bike to rider weight in regards to maneuverability, then yes, weight is quite important. Removing 2 pounds of bike weight, for example, for a 160 lbs rider trying to pick out the perfect line has some significance, and double if it's removed from the rims and/or tires. Taking 1 pound off the frame for for a 120 lb rider is much more significant than for a 210 lbs rider Especially if losing that 1 pound of bike means I'm going to break it just that much faster/easier (and double if saving that 1 pound from the wheels means I get more flats and destroy more tires and/or rims.

But taking 2 pounds off a bike _just_ to save a second or two off cranking up a half mile long fire road, that's what "doesn't matter" for 99% of riders (can be argued it will help a professional racer who needs results to earn a living, but that's not most people). Especially if losing that weight means you can't go back down as fast or confidently.
  • 1 1
 Last time I checked trek never insunk the shock into the seat tube but there is another brand that did. This is a straight rip of a RM Maiden not a trek.
  • 2 1
 I know the article says it has a Fox 40 but the sticker on that fork in the pictures clearly says Fox 49. Is it a prototype?
  • 8 0
 The 40 and the 49 are the same fork - the 49 stickers just show that it has lowers to accept 29" wheels.
  • 2 0
 Butternut squash orange, really?
  • 1 0
 Is Waki here? This is his perfect daily ride! Weighs the same as an Enduro bike with MORE travel!!
  • 3 2
 35 pounds, amazing ? And for stiffness and warranty ?
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session, but its orange
  • 2 2
 Looks like a Session. And if I should win, I'll happily take the Session, then sell it to buy a YT. Oh wait... Two of them.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session, like all the good bikes
  • 3 1
 Looks like a Gambler,
  • 1 0
 Best looking dh-bike in my opinion...
  • 1 0
 Because it looks like a session Smile
  • 1 0
 Are those dh casing tires though, if not then the weight is meh
  • 1 0
 You can see the dh casing spec on the tyre sidewall if you zooooom.
www.pinkbike.com/photo/17905454
  • 1 0
 @spudlord: i can't see anything there even squinting at full power. so these are double down casings? or dual ply in retro speak? not exo?
  • 1 0
 @spudlord: i did some inter web digging, the 60 tpi tires are single ply, so add a lb or so for actual dual ply pneu. but still clean looking bike.
  • 1 0
 @lifted-d: also is it missing the exo and DD emblem for the other casing types.
  • 2 0
 @lifted-d: also the spec on scotts website is for:
Maxxis Assegai 29x2.5" | 2x60TPI Kevlar Bead | DH | TR | 3C Maxx Grip
So two layers of 60tpi.
  • 5 0
 Ha, there’s a lot of internet sleuthing going on around here. Those are DH casing Assegai tires, which weigh 1340 grams each.
  • 1 0
 I’m always a sceptic thx for clarifying.
  • 1 1
 as an engineer I can confirm, it looks like a session, and no room for two bottles? unacceptable.
  • 1 0
 ahh, here we go again with another session of 'looks like a session'.
  • 1 0
 Gsiht us wi äs Session... ( wa isch ä session Smile )
  • 1 0
 Looks Like a Session - (Just hoping...) Smile
  • 1 0
 I would be REALLY scared to ride that handlebar.
  • 1 0
 I'm here for the comments. And it looks like a Session.
  • 1 0
 Oh. And while I remember. It looks like a session.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session to me though :-)
  • 1 0
 You lost me a chipped paint , also looks like a orange session
  • 1 0
 Dang, it looks like a session!
  • 1 0
 Dang, looks like a session!
  • 1 0
 Didn't know they made a Fox 49. (third paragraph)
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session size S
  • 1 0
 I'll take the Gambler if "it looks like a Session"
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session and I want one
  • 1 0
 We should start a campaign for more big bike content! #pinkbikeroots
  • 1 0
 Infinitely better looking than that Santa Cruz.
  • 1 0
 It's looks like a Session
  • 1 1
 I have to be honest. I hated it at first because it liked like.. well you know. Incredible machine nonetheless!
  • 3 2
 First time I read a review where the flip chip does actually matter.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session, but it looks way better
  • 1 0
 Looks like an orange session Big Grin
  • 2 4
 Does the chain stay and the BB height adjustement allows 650b wheels?

Otherwise you'd lose the "bike-parky, freeridy" behaviour that the previous Gambler had (and was liked for).
  • 2 0
 Didn't Fairclough do Rampage with a 29er this year...
  • 1 0
 Yep both wheel size options with both wheelbase lengths.
  • 1 0
 @m3000: How? BB is 13.5 with 29 wheels. So that means a 12.7 BB with 27.5?

@SCOTT-Sports can we get some clarification?
  • 1 0
 @chriskneeland: you would hit chainring on full compression Big Grin
  • 1 0
 @chriskneeland: There's a flip chip for BB height.
  • 1 0
 @m3000: Where? The only flip chip I see is at the lower shock mount. According to the geo chart that only makes a difference of .1inches. Not enough equal the drop from the smaller wheelsize.
  • 1 0
 @chriskneeland: It has a flip chip and a headset cups that change the HA and a cup that adds 15mm of stack height. I have no clue if that helps raise the BB enough for 27.5 though?
  • 1 1
 @chriskneeland: wow, I should be working for SCOTT. There is a flip chip at the upper shock mount, this is for wheelsize/bb height . Lower shock mount is to adjust the progressivity. At the back there's 2 chainstay length options, then headset cups for head angle adjustment.
  • 2 0
 @chriskneeland: Actually, looking at the pics your right, it doesn't look like the upper mount has a flip chip like the Ransom does. It's all on the 4 way lower chip. I'm pretty sure it works as Vink and all the freeriders are running 650B wheels in theirs, however I'm not 100% on the numbers.
  • 2 0
 @chriskneeland: The BB height given in the geo chart is taking into account the chip change and the wheel size change. To put that another way, the geo chart is showing the geo for both the 29 setup (900) and 27.5 setup (700).
  • 1 0
 @stim: Ok that makes sense. So essentially you'll have to run it in the high setting with 27.5 to keep the BB at 13.5
  • 1 0
 @chriskneeland: Correct.
  • 1 0
 That Session looks remarkably like the new Gambler
  • 1 0
 In a world it’s lighter then some ews rigs, you can not make it up
  • 1 0
 No dropper post on DH bikes, and EWS riders use DH wheels and tires.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session...in all seriousness, sick rig!
  • 1 0
 What settings do you have to run it in for a mullet combo?
  • 1 0
 How much does the Aluminum version weigh...
  • 2 0
 Looks oh so clean.
  • 1 0
 I would prefer a session with this gambler
  • 1 0
 @SCOTT-Sports Looks like a Session, just in case this shizzz is legit.
  • 2 0
 Size XL please!
  • 1 4
 "whether it was extra-chunky and blown out, or fast and smooth, the handling remained consistent"

Well, that's hard to believe since one of the hardest things about suspension tuning is getting the perfect compromise between those two extremes. Also, in the previous paragraph you said that the suspension settings that felt good on the steep and rugged natural trails (so chunky and blown-out) then didn't feel good in the park "where the speeds were higher and the trails weren't quite as steep or rugged" (so, fast and smooth).

Which is it?
  • 2 0
 Looks like a Gambler!!
  • 1 1
 A downhill bike that's lighter than the majority of local shop guys' "enduro" bikes. HAHAHA
  • 1 0
 I'd like to try this mullet craze! see if it holds true. #tooshortfor29er
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session. Size L Land Rover green please
  • 1 0
 Looks like an improved Session.
  • 1 0
 35lbs??? Now that's a heavy Down Country bike...
  • 1 0
 gamble away the session of psychotherapy
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session only mo betta.
  • 1 0
 So why are trail bikes so heavy if a full dh bike only weighs this much?
  • 1 0
 $9k trail bikes do not weigh 35 lbs, my old xtr Nomad C. is 29lb even.
  • 1 0
 Super duper enduro or dh light? Ha
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer - any plans for a Demo 29 review...?
  • 2 0
 Yep, look for that in the spring time.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: Gracias...gotta figure out what to ride in the park next year.
  • 1 0
 Looks like the sessions slimmer fitter sexier sister.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session, but I'd rather have this...
  • 1 1
 It's also great for canyon gaps, as demonstrated by Brendog.
  • 1 0
 Looks nice. I like.
  • 1 0
 I want one
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks amazing
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session Wink
  • 1 0
 Isn't that a session ?
  • 2 2
 Why not compare to... Session?
  • 1 0
 Looks like a session
  • 1 0
 What's a Session??
  • 1 0
 Trek Session 9.9. Another dh bike of simular looks.
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Session,
  • 1 0
 What a beauty.
  • 1 1
 Is this the new Session?
  • 1 1
 Looks like a session
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 1
 Looks like a session
  • 1 1
 Looks like a session!
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 1
 Looks like a session.
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 1
 Bike looks sick.
  • 1 1
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 2
 Looks like a Session,
  • 1 2
 Looks like a Session.
  • 1 2
 Looks like a session
  • 1 2
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 2
 Looks like a session
  • 1 2
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 2
 "Looks like a Session,"
  • 1 2
 Looks like a Session
  • 1 2
 Looks like as session
  • 1 3
 Looks like a session!
Below threshold threads are hidden







Copyright © 2000 - 2024. Pinkbike.com. All rights reserved.
dv65 0.079830
Mobile Version of Website