First Ride: Transition's New Scout Carbon

Feb 12, 2020 at 15:08
by Daniel Sapp  


You probably already guessed without reading that Transition's latest Scout is longer and slacker than its predecessor, but the geometry isn't the only thing that's changed. The new Scout has 140mm of rear-wheel travel (up from 130mm), a 150mm fork, an all-carbon frame, and it's still rolling on 27.5" wheels.

The bike is available in three different builds and as a frame-only option. Prices range from $4,499 USD up to $6,599 USD. The Scout with the mid-level GX build that I've been riding sells for $5,499 USD and has a full SRAM GX drivetrain, SRAM Code RSC brakes, Stans Flow S1 Team wheels, a RockShox Lyrik Ultimate RC2 fork and RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock.
Scout Carbon Details

• Wheel size: 27.5"
• Travel: 140mm (r) / 150mm (f)
• Full carbon frame
• 64° head angle
• 430mm chainstays
• Weight: 29.8 lb / 13.5 kg (GX build, size M)
• Complete price: $4,499 - $6,599 USD
• Frame only: $3,199
www.transitionbikes.com

Frames are available in sizes XS to XL and all bikes fit a water bottle in the front triangle. The build kits are finished off with handlebars and a seat from Transition's house brand Anvl, along with Sensus grips and a OneUp dropper post.


The Scout GX build, as shown, sells for $5,499 USD.


Chainstay, seatstay, and downtube protection is molded into the frame and keeps the bike quiet.
Bearings are covered and shielded to keep out dirt and grime.


Frame Details

Visually, the lines and contours of the Scout's carbon frame are a bit different than what we've seen from Transition in the past. According to Transition, this new aesthetic is achieved via a latex coated EPS molding process that allows for sharper frame lines and tighter edge radius control.

All of the bikes can fit a water bottle inside the front triangle, and there are two bolts on the underside of the top tube for mounting tools or accessories. Cable routing is internal...for the most part. The rear brake cable is routed externally for ease in serviceability. There are ISCG05 mounts and riders can run a full chainguide if they so wish. There are sealed Enduro Max bearings which are covered with bearing shields to keep out muck and grime on the main pivot.

Other details include a threaded bottom bracket, molded chainstay, seatstay, and downtube protection with the chainstay/seatstay protection also designed to quiet chain noise in rough terrain. The frame will clear up to a 27.5" x 2.6" tire.


Internal cable routing for shifting and the seatpost make it easy and clean to pass cables through the frame. A clip holds the cable tight behind the chainring.
Two bolts on the underside of the top tube serve as a tool or accessory mount.



Geometry

The size medium Scout has a 460mm reach and 604mm stack. The head tube angle is 64-degrees, seat tube 77.2-degrees, wheelbase is 1217mm, and all sizes of the bike get 430mm chainstays. There's a good deal of standover height, and a shorter seat tube than before, which makes it possible to run a 120mm dropper on the XS, 150mm on a small, 180mm on a medium and up to a 210mm on the large and XL frames. The previous Scout had a 10mm shorter reach, degree steeper head tube angle, slacker seat tube...you get the idea.

There aren't any geometry-adjusting flip chips to be seen, but Transition say it's perfectly acceptable to run a 160mm fork on the bike as is, with the 57.5mm stroke shock, or with a longer 62.5mm stroke shock that would up the travel to 150mm.


Suspension

Originally, the Scout had 125mm of travel paired with a 140mm fork. In 2018, the bike bumped up to 130mm of travel paired with a 150mm fork, and now, in its latest iteration, the Scout has 140mm of rear-wheel travel paired with a 150mm fork.

The Scout comes from Transition with 140mm of travel delivered via a 205 x 57.5mm stroke shock that has a 24.5% leverage rate progression, a big change from the last generation that had only 11%. That should allow the bike to work with both air and coil shocks without any issues.

The air shock on the bike comes stock with one spacer, which leaves garage mechanics room to tinker and add more or less ramp up as the bike moves through its travel. Transition recommends that riders run 28-30% sag, but say that they can run anywhere from 25-35% without really throwing off the way the bike rides. I experimented around with this a good deal and that's true, and helpful for those looking to dial the bike in for a little more or less squish depending on how and where they may ride. I settled closer to 30% for my preferred setting.

Riders can use a 62.5mm stroke shock on the Scout in order to up the travel of the Scout by 10mm to 150mm. Transition provides recommended sag settings for this right alongside the other shock on the back of the seat tube.

The Scout is available in two different colors and as a frame only option.



Ride Impressions

Transition says that the Scout is what they would call a modern-day Bottlerocket. If you're not familiar with the Bottlerocket, it's a bike that Transition made well over ten years ago that was short, nimble, playful, and very capable, especially for its time. I had one and I still wish I didn't get rid of it despite how much bikes have advanced, as it was one of the most fun bikes I've owned.

I've been riding the bike in Western North Carolina on all of my usual trails. With the suspension set up as Transition recommended, I settled on running about 30% sag in the shock, which was 147psi with 64psi in the fork.

I was impressed with the efficiency of the Scout while climbing both long grinding fire roads as well as in more technical terrain. There wasn't a lot of bob in the suspension and I never felt as if I was being bogged down. In addition, the seat tube is effectively steep enough to help keep my weight forward and keep the front end on the ground even when things pitch up.

Descending, the suspension is active and supple. There wasn't a bit of harshness in the initial part of the stroke and there was ample traction. The bike is easy to pop off of anything and everything, if you so choose, and doesn't lose composure when it gets up to speed either. Also noticeable is how quiet the bike is. The chainstay and seatstay protection do a phenomenal job of quieting chain noise.

So who's it for? The new carbon Scout is for riders who are looking for a versatile and capable 27.5" bike that's all about delivering an extra-fun time on the trails. It ticks the nimble and playful boxes, and it's a bike that I truly enjoy riding in a variety of conditions. As an ode to the Bottlerocket, the Scout delivers and then some.

Keep in mind that I've only had a short time on the bike and these are very initial ride impressions and not a full review. I'm looking forward to riding the bike more and gathering more concrete thoughts in the coming months.





Video: @damangler

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374 Comments

  • 158 6
 I always thought Transition bikes were aesthetically pleasing. Though I'm not sure what I like more: the new angular frame or the older rounded frame. Either way, bike looks awesome! And even better now with lifetime warranty. But I do wish they had Shimano build kits available.
  • 31 7
 My main ride is a 2016 Patrol, I feel it’s the ugliest bike I’ve ever owned. But it’s for riding not looking at, and it’s good for that!
I rode with the Transition guys last year, they were riding prototypes with this new shape, it’s quite desirable, a huge improvement, to my eyes.
  • 12 2
 You should see it in person.... WOWZER
  • 19 2
 old banana style is for eating only, I like this frame design much more
  • 34 8
 Frame is really nice and clean, but I don't know why they went with the 1970s bathroom suite colour scheme.
  • 7 30
flag suspended-flesh (Feb 13, 2020 at 8:54) (Below Threshold)
 +100 for the sick trail dog!!!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5a0jTc9S10
  • 25 7
 Man I can't wait for their E-bike to drop. It's gonna be like Dylan in '65 all over again.
  • 33 3
 I’m more concerned with where the geo is going.
The scout has always been a short wheelbase short chainstay playful poppy bike.

This is more slayer geo than the current patrol (same angles but longer reach and wheelbase)

Which is great for going faster, but the scout was always about goofing about....
  • 7 4
 @honourablegeorge: santa cruz nomad wants its colour back...everybody was hating on the tan colour when the v4 nomad came out! new scout looks the bees knees! currently have a v3 5010 but that new scout is hot!
  • 1 0
 @funkzander: V4 nomad tan color seems to have a lot of yellow in it
  • 1 0
 @Muchogusto: youre right! on the pictures above it looks like tan but on transitions video it looks like olive green. like the sage green patrol.
  • 10 1
 @Richt2000: Agree. Scout gen 1 was a magic blend of traits but most of all FUN. I own a Scout gen 2 and it's righhht on the line of feeling like a 'big' trail bike. Now the gen 3 fills the role of a gen 1 Patrol, which isn't a bad thing, but we're missing the trail/FSDJ bike.
  • 6 3
 @Richt2000:
Yep! Transition should've left the Scout be as it was for the segment of us that just want a fun bike and aren't concerned with all out "enduro" speed. They've got the Patrol for the trend stuff
  • 8 1
 @cyclecuse: I still have a gen1 Scout, got a SBG Scout and sold it...they feel nothing alike, especially with the stock low offset fork, and I'm assuming this new one ventures further from the "fun" factor.
  • 22 3
 Transition a Shimano build kit is a must!
  • 9 0
 I've seen lots of people requesting a shorter travel Patrol, and I know of at least 5 people that ride almost exclusively DJ that are probably buying one as we speak. I know the Transition boys love to make bikes that jump, and the rumor is that the new Scout is made to be more poppy and playful on bigger stuff. I would demo one before I made the full judgement.
  • 1 1
 @Thustlewhumber:
Hope you’re right. I will demo one for sure, but wheelbase is longer than most enduro bikes!
  • 4 2
 @Richt2000: I think the idea is that you can downsize (or regular size). I ride a large Patrol at 5'10 and a ma large on most other bikes, but on this bike I could ride a medium. Then it would be shorter, more playful, better for goofing, etc.
  • 16 1
 @Dexta: Agreed! "Dear bike companies, Shimano builds at medium price points bikes, please" $5,500 is a chunk of change for a bike with a build kit (GX) third level down from the top of the line. If that's the world I live in, at least give us the option for SLX."
  • 10 0
 @mtb-sf: but with the steep seat tube angle the effective top tube / cockpit length is going to be very short if you size down. For example, large knolly endorphin has a reach of 465 and ett of 637 and feels great to me at 6’ tall. Medium scout has a reach of 460 and ett of 593, which is 44mm or almost 2 inches shorter while pedaling and would be way too cramped.
  • 3 0
 @codypup: it's not as easy as just buying the parts kit and slapping them on.
Companies like ibis can get away with tons of builds because theirs bike come completely disassembled, transition on the other hand sends their bikes just about completely built. Which means if demand is higher for a specific build they cannot easily adapt to the change, as once the bikes are being sold, they are already built and packed up. In a perfect world they would just build bikes to order, but then you would pay a premium for that, because believe it or not most bike companies aren't trying to totally bone you with the price of their bikes.

Let alone them needing to get the build kits for a reasonable price in the first place.
  • 8 0
 @mtb-sf: Sure, but then you're stuck with a too short top tube since steep seat angles are so in vogue these days. If you want a reasonable top tube length (which is arguably equally or more important than reach if, like many, you spend more time seated pedaling than bombing down hill) and insist on a steep seat tube and slack head tube, you have to live with a barge wheelbase, which shouldn't be the end result for all bikes. Works fine for downhill-oriented sleds perhaps, but for an everyday trail bike, not everyone agrees that 1300 wheelbase has no downsides... Really long wheelbase and playful generally don't go together.
  • 2 1
 @Climbtech: I agree with this. I'm someone that for years has preferred having my weight over the back wheel and so the first gen Scout naturally put me there with the seat angle. The SBG Scout made me feel like I was being pushed over the front wheel despite the size L being an inch longer, and the bike didn't have the flicky feel either...way more stable feeling, so I'd guess this one goes more into that solid/stable category...or...boring
  • 4 1
 @GlassGuy: But the slack head tube angle means the bike leans/carves immediately which makes them very responsive. Just in a different way. Have you tried doing a little under steering for quick direction changes? The other thing the super slack HTA does is it "wants" to change direction at slow speeds, so really techie stuff it's still quick.

I mean for sure a steeper head angle makes for quicker steering and there are lots of benefits to that. BUT, then your "stuck" with having a nervous descender which is "also" boring! Smile

So although there's no getting past the long wheel base and having to muscle the bike around sometimes I do thing newer geo is a better "overall" compromise for a fun bike...?
  • 2 0
 @butters1996: At some point in the process, every bike company makes a decision as to whose drivetrain goes on the bike. Whether that bike is assembled in Marin County or Viet Nam makes no difference in that regard.
  • 1 0
 @DirtBagTim: really eh? my 2016 Patrol (black with highligher yellow decals) is one of the coolest bikes i've ever seen. it's gorgeous AFAIC.
  • 1 0
 @DirtBagTim: I have the 2018 one with black and lime green and I agree it is not cool looking but holy shit I love that bike lol
  • 1 0
 Hé s crazy . Maybe he s into these new things @levy s testing @jamesbrant:
  • 2 0
 @barbarosza: I have to retract my statement, not because the bowed down tube on my beloved ‘16 Patrol suddenly straightened out, but because the ‘new things’ reminded me of a Marin Mount Vision with DUC fork I had in 2006, that and my c1977 Raleigh Chipper were undoubtedly uglier.
  • 2 0
 Ha ha now you come to your senses @DirtBagTim:
  • 1 0
 @DirtBagTim:
  • 78 3
 Yo transition where the f*ck’s the super sentinel
  • 18 2
 Super sentinel with the shielded bearings and better rear tire clearance would awsome. A 2.4 maxxis dhr2 is a tight squeeze.
  • 12 0
 It's in March.
  • 26 4
 @pdxjeremy: IMO all new bikes should clear 2.6 tires on the rear.
  • 9 3
 @Brdjanin: I don't know that a long travel 29er needs to be running 2.6 out back. 2.5 + mud clearance, in my book.
  • 3 0
 @pdxjeremy: My 2019 has plenty of room for the 2.4 dhr2
  • 5 0
 Is that a carbon-sentinel-only problem? I've got a 2.5" in the back and wide rims, and I've got ~1/4" clearance everywhere (on my aluminum Sentinel.)
  • 7 0
 @wubbalubbadubdub: WUBBALUBBADUBDUB!

Yeah, the carbon 29ers are notorious for small clearances. Smuggler is even worse.
  • 1 0
 @scvkurt03: yes I agree. But being able to clear a 2.6 would give the needed space for a 2.5. I was running the stock e13 wheeler with a dhr2 in back. The seat stay got hammered with rocks ect. I even vinyl wrapped it 1st and it got ripped off by rocks, mud ect 1st or 2nd ride
  • 1 0
 @s3ntin3l: I loved the bike, mine was a 2018 alloy. I regret selling it honestly.
Should have just polished the frame. Lol
  • 3 0
 @pdxjeremy: Ya, I can get on board with clearance for a dry 2.6. I swear I can fit a 2.8 in the rear of my carbon Patrol if I wanted, but clearance for the 1st gen of carbon SBG 29ers was tight to preserve the geo they wanted, I believe.
  • 2 0
 @pdxjeremy: I noticed how little clearance there is on my friend's Sentinel and other friends Smuggler. It looks like it got tight with the short chainstays to fit everything.
  • 1 0
 @pdxjeremy: my carbon frame clered a 2.5 on 30mm rim not problem, not sure why yours is weird
  • 46 5
 Sad to see the scout going longer travel and slacked out, a lot of companies keen adding extra travel to a given frame name every year, is this just a trend or is it that longer travel is becoming more pedal friendly or what?
  • 13 5
 Wonder when we'll see actual 120mm bikes again.
  • 17 0
 I demo'd the new scout and it pedals better and more efficiently than the old scout. Even with added travel. I'm gonna have to agree with their robot voice. Science. Technology. It's real!
  • 8 0
 @sherbet: Optic at 125mm is pretty wicked
  • 5 0
 In at least some cases, you see a new model come in behind it, or an older, shorter travel model gets upped in travel to fill the void. Tallboy/Blur, Sight/Optic, SB5.5/SB130 come to mind. Gotta wonder if Transition will go there, though.
  • 26 0
 This is basically exactly what happens in the car industry, too. Economy cars move upscale and get bigger, slowly turning from compacts into midsizes. Then the company releases a new tiny commuter car and the processes begins again. Take a look at a rav4 from 1999 vs 2020.
  • 4 1
 @adventuresbycole: cool bike, definitely not my ideal geometry.
  • 7 0
 @MrPulse: it's not about how it pedals. Short travel bikes feel different.
  • 14 0
 @protwurst: This is so true. Every new model is 10% bigger than last generation. More headroom, more luggage space, and then before you know it the Civic is bigger than a 10 year old Accord. Same thing happening with bikes now.
  • 6 0
 I'd reckon they're making space in the lineup for a new model. I'd bet a Lafeen's donut on it.
  • 10 1
 @sngltrkmnd: But they already have bikes that fit this segment. Why change the intended purpose of a bike and create a new one when you can keep the bike purpose driven and add a new bike with new intentions if you want it.

I feel a massive amount of riders are being forgotten about in this latest push for extreme geometry. This is great in the PWN, it isn't great in a lot of other places.
  • 3 0
 It's becoming like cars: making them bigger and more capable each year (read: more travel, longer lower and slacker) while increasing prices. After a while the biggest car becomes unattractive and too expensive and a smaller cheaper car is introduced. Then the circle continues, with the cars having different names.

If you don't know what I mean: compare old VW Polo, Golf, Passat and Phaeton with current Up, Polo Golf and Passat. Also compare old freeride bikes with current Enduro bikes (same travel, just as slack and longer and lower).
  • 5 0
 @protwurst: struth
1st golf = new up!
  • 4 0
 It is like cars, only faster. A Corolla is bigger than the Camry 10 years ago. Then they backfill with a Yaris or whatever... The bike industry has failed at that. Just want a good 120mm bike please:-)
  • 5 0
 @sherbet: This was my thought when I bought the SBG Scout and still owning an original Scout...they removed the fun and made it feel more serious. I sold the SBG and this new version looks even less like what the original was all about. They already have the Patrol, let the Scout be the fun bike
  • 4 0
 New f150’s are bigger than my 1993 f350. Nutty! @protwurst:
  • 3 0
 I bet the new Patrol moves a little more in the freeride / park bike direction a la the SB165.
  • 3 0
 @sherbet:

don’t worry. Specialized and Trek will always cater to the masses.
  • 33 4
 @WasatchEnduro: Missing the point. Spec and Trek are also going down the same road. It's weird how we go from 100mm XC bikes with 68/69 head angles immediately to 120mm bikes with 64/66 head angles. The middle ground is being lost quickly.

I feel like MTB is going to go through what Road bikes are going through now fairly shortly. For a while, the road bike market was completely dominated by over the top super fast racey ass road bikes. When gravel came along, instantly road race bikes fell off massively in sales as people were real with their needs and could admit they weren't gnarly enough to need a race bike.

MTB is going to have a similar renaissance as well. We're throwing agility and quick handling out the door to pursue THE MOST EXTREME GNARLY HARDCORE bikes we can, and frankly, they just don't sync with most of the riding population internationally. People are going to go back to being realistic about their needs instead of trying to chase numbers on a geo sheet, and I absolutely cannot wait for it.
  • 4 0
 @sherbet: agree. Love my Smuggler.
  • 7 1
 @sherbet: I've been thinking your thoughts for a while, and why I love the original Scout, then I got the SBG and all I could think was, "they've made it into another "enduro-ish" type bike, when all I want is a bike that's fun!". Not everyone wants or cares about racing.
  • 12 0
 @GlassGuy: James May had a bit on the Nurburgring a few years ago and how it's ruined sports cars as daily drivers. I feel that comparison is fitting for the current MTB culture.
  • 10 1
 Transition build bikes that are fun and work best in the terrain they live and ride in - the PNW. If they don't work for you then there's plenty of other companies out there making bikes that aren't as extreme in geometry.
  • 2 2
 @sherbet: maybe you're missing the point. Those 69 head angle bikes _are_ extreme gnarly hardcore bikes. For values of extreme hardcore that include xco or xcm (lots of miles real fast on real trails). What's really missing right now is the relaxed very short travel bikes. 100mm _and_ 67 degree head angle. Then the 120mm with 66 degree head angle just fits next in the range there.
  • 11 0
 @just6979: At no point did I mean to statr xc riding isn't skilled or challenging. That's definitely missing my point.

I think a large market segment would do well with a 67ish degree 120/130 trail bike. Those bikes are getting harder to find as the market changes. That's my point.
  • 1 0
 @sherbet: optic?
  • 3 0
 @pcledrew: absolutely rad bike, just still not what I yearn for.
  • 1 0
 @sherbet: Downcountry?
  • 5 0
 @kingtut87: Maybe, but the first Scout was such a magic ride for me(and others), and I live nowhere near the PNW. More the point here is that they had a bike that fit it's own category and had a following of riders that loved it because of the spot it filled, and they abandoned that for new geo that changed the bike dramatically
  • 1 0
 @GlassGuy:
  • 3 0
 @sherbet: just buy a Ripley, it's been that bike for a while now
  • 2 0
 @sherbet: well said
  • 6 0
 @bjh0003:

Exactly. So many haters are pining for the past. Transition is in a lose-lose if you listen to the commentary: if they stick with the old bike, they aren’t with the times; if they update the bike they’re killing the golden, nostalgic past. Bikes evolve. This one looks rad. The old version, which is still out there to ride, is also rad. Everyone can have fun on the bike they like.
  • 2 0
 @Lando406: I actually want to buy a second Scout (first gen) since I keep cracking the one I have and I love it so much...I almost bought one a few weeks ago but held back since money wasn't really overflowing in the account, and now there aren't any online in my size. I'm sure one will pop up again but they seem to be getting less and less available
  • 1 0
 Couldn’t agree more
  • 1 0
 @sherbet: fair enough!
  • 1 0
 @roma258: Next year's model will have 2 places you can strap things to.
  • 7 1
 @sherbet: Nice to see someone actually say something about the inappropriate push for all bikes to become super extreme as if there were no downsides. That type of comment is few and far between these days...
  • 3 0
 yeah. It's like car manufacturers making a model bigger every year. Lame.
  • 4 1
 @sherbet: i find it interesting. 4 years ago i was on a 435 reach medium. 2 years ago on a 450mm medium, and now on a 470 mm large patrol with 64 degree HA. Have not noticed that the bike is any less playful at all and at 5"8", im pretty sure i could ride an even larger bike. These guys are pushing the industry and im not sure if we have even found the sweet spot yet after jumping on a 485 reach bike recently. People complain about having issues with tight switchbacks with the bigger bikes. I have honestly never experienced this either.
  • 1 0
 @sherbet: I'm saying you don't really want that steep of a head angle. The extra front center and room to move your weight around while staying behind the "endo zone" is more than worth any potential steering slowdown.
  • 2 0
 I think there is still a Kona process out there that fits the bill. The 134s aren't as raked out / enduro. If I was buying Id probably do a 134 alu 29er. Looks spot on. My 2017 process 111 doesn't need replacing just yet...
  • 35 4
 "27.5 ain't dead"? bruh
  • 30 3
 Yep indeed ... why 27.5 would be dead? So that we all have to buy 29" bikes?
  • 6 23
flag dkidd (Feb 13, 2020 at 21:36) (Below Threshold)
 Yeah, its dead... some people just haven't caught on.
  • 21 1
 430 mm chainstays with 64deg head angle and 140mm travel - it’s getting close to a patrol
  • 6 0
 Wheelbase is longer than a patrol!
New patrol is going to have to be longer and slacker still.

I don’t see how this can be as playful and as poppy as the old scout when it has more agressive geo than an XL capra!
  • 4 1
 That’s got a slacker head angle than my patrol from a few years ago!
  • 5 0
 Hopefully the new patrol will be more of a mini TR11 rather than a big scout.
  • 2 0
 @Muchogusto: with more manufacturers making a proper long travel freeride/park bike at 165-180mm travel, it would serve their catalog well to make a big patrol, especially since this new scout is so similar in numbers to the old patrol. kinda like how the new Norco Sight being more similar to the last gen Range.
  • 1 0
 @cuban-b: It would be cool to see a modern TR450 type bike that can be run at 170 or 180 with a dual crown and about 40-50% progressive to keep the suspension both sensitive and able to take the big hits.
  • 4 0
 Lars was experimenting with short shocking and under forking his Patrol last year. I guess this is the result. Super capable trail bike.
  • 16 0
 Manufacturers providing options on how to change rear-wheel travel amount is super cool.

Couple thoughts: the ETT on the medium seems super short (593). Dan you're about my height, did it feel cramped while seated?

Also, kind of bummed to see the Scout move into all-mountain category with its wheelbase and travel numbers. It was kind of cool to have a BMXy MTB with relatively short wheelbase and snappy head-angle. Now it's just another long-barge. Oh well, that's where the trends are headed.
  • 7 2
 Yep...just another bike fitting into trends instead of the outlier it was at first, which is why it was so great!
  • 5 2
 @GlassGuy: the geometry is far from sitting in trend, not sure you'll find much with a sub 400 seat tube and 460 reach
  • 8 0
 Buy it in a smaller size?
  • 4 0
 the 5010 has a steeper hta which makes it a bit more livelier on normal trails
  • 4 0
 @kiksy: For a taller person, the seat tube length is simply too short to do so. With a 210mm dropper at min. insertion the seat won't be high enough when sizing down.
  • 18 0
 How has nobody made fun of @danielsapp 's sweat pants yet? Y'all slipping!
  • 3 0
 That 100 pushup routine got @danielsapp looking swole!
  • 4 1
 Brian, those are Fox rain pants - a little short so they’re high watering a bit. I only wear sweat pants when it’s cold and dry, otherwise they get to soggy and heavy.
  • 2 0
 Don't make fun of his favorite pajamas like that
  • 15 3
 I still own a first gen Scout and once I rode it I sold my other bikes(two Santa Cruz). This bike has been my all time favorite trail bike, and since I keep cracking the chainstay. I figured I'd get the newer version with SBG and a burlier frame. I didn't pay attention to the geo changes before I bought it, and... I hated it...they steepened the seat tube so I felt like I was being pushed out over the front wheel. It rode well, felt composed in the air, handled trails well, but I just couldn't get past the pushed forward feeling.(and the stock lower offset fork killed the steering...swapped the fork out) The older Scout sets you more "inside" the bike, which is what I came to love...it's twitchy and like a big BMX bike on the trails. So, I have to wonder how this newer version will be...I'm going to guess it's also more "serious" since it's longer travel, longer chainstay, but, maybe I'll get a chance to try one out and it will surprise me.
I will say Transition has been a great company to deal with, especially since I've now cracked my chainstay a fourth(maybe fifth) time and they're always helpful. I'd love to support them more but I wish they kept the Scout as it was but made it a bit beefier, for those of us that love this bike for the wild child it was.
  • 15 0
 Same - loved the og scout for its short numbers and nimble handling. looks like my next bike is a 5010. i say that under duress of course
  • 4 0
 Also have the first gen Scout and love it. One day it will need to be replaced... Test rode a Gen 2 Scout and did not like it for the same reasons you outlined. I did like the Smuggler, so I suppose that is what I would replace it with.
  • 8 2
 Same boys. Still rockin a MK1 scout and would love to upgrade it but not for this. Tranny lost the plot with what the user's want - less is more. Plus that colour and cable routing is Turd. I'll save my money
  • 3 0
 @cuban-b: after owning multiple SC bikes, once I got the Scout I can't go back to VPP...the suspension on SC always felt lifeless, no matter what shock I installed, settings, etc.
  • 5 0
 @madisob:My plan is to get a '17 Scout so I have two, and just be done with trying to find more magic in a bike. It gets exhausting spending and losing money on bikes that just don't get the itch!
  • 2 0
 @GlassGuy: lol no wonder theyre such good pedalers.

also, since this new scout is so similar to the og patrol, im now thinking of getting a '17 patrol carbon to go with my '17 scout and then decide which i like better. you can get those for cheap now.
  • 1 0
 @GlassGuy: Was it a newer low mount VPP system like the nomad v4 and Bronson v3?
  • 1 0
 @Muchogusto: I bought the first Scout early '16, so last time I had the SC was a '15 version, so maybe the ride has changed some? It's still VPP compared to Horst link
  • 1 0
 You're the first person I've heard complain about a steep seat tube angle, do you really want to feel like you're pedaling from the back of the bike? haha
  • 2 0
 @nyles: Everyone likes what they like, and if you rode the first gen Scout then the SBG you'd notice a very different feel to the bike. When I decided to sell the SBG Scout my buddy rode it to possibly buy it, and without me stating my opinions he spoke up how he felt like he was being pushed forward on the bike and wasn't comfortable. So just because I'm the only person you've heard of complaining doesn't mean much....it's also a case of comparison. If I hadn't ridden the first Scout I wouldn't have any reason to the think the seat angle is too steep on it now. I found a frame that feels good to me and it's hard to find anything with the similar feel again
  • 13 2
 "Bearings are covered and shielded to keep out dirt and grime."

Finally. Both my SBG bikes had atrocious bearing wear on both of those main pivots.

Re: the comment in the video about power washing - You didn't have to powerwash your bike to have issues with the bearings there. I certainly didn't powerwash it and riding around these parts (It may have also been my weekly Butter Gap jaunts...), those bearings would get toasted within a few weeks or months. Both of my Transition SBG bikes had issues with that lower bearing, in some cases seizing after less than a month.
  • 14 2
 I live in the NW and haven't had any bearing issues.
  • 4 1
 @s3ntin3l: I live in western NC and have had a ton of issues, so have most other Transition owners I know in this area. A friend of mine had both those seized on his 5 month old Sentinel with less than 300 miles. I replaced the bearings on a 1 year old Smuggler and every bearing was seized solid. I had to replace my Smuggler bearings 3 times in one season. I've also commented about this elsewhere, but it only took a few trail rides and one wet day at the bike park to seize mine on a new Sentinel, which happened within two weeks.

I think it has to do with our dirt, which seems to be a bit sandy esp. in certain areas. When it finds its way past the bearing seal, which the SBG models has openly exposed, the bearings seize quickly.

Forgetting my experiences, if you compare the exposure of that bearing to every other bike in the same category, none of them have such a large, open space where the bearing is directly exposed. All those I've looked at have some kind of spacer or dust cover over the bearing rather than depending on the bearing seal to keep everything out on it's own or, alternatively, the pivot is further forward on the frame, so it isn't in the path of debris from the tire.
  • 3 0
 @shinook: maybe switch from standard carbon steel bearings to Stainless and be done with it? I’ve have issues with carbon steel headset bearings rusting out within a season (or less) but switching the stainless bearings solved the problem for good.
  • 3 0
 @sospeedy: Hell yeah, if there existed full-compliment 440C stainless pivot bearings (essentially enduromax but made of stainless) I'd buy the hell out of those. I'd probably even go to the trouble to change them out before building a bike up new.
Unfortunately I don't think that exists. Anyone know of any?
  • 2 0
 @sospeedy: The issue for me wasn't the bearing corroding, it was debris getting past the seal due to the exposure of the bearing to the elements. The seal on the bearing isn't sufficient alone to keep debris and water out of the bearing when it's as exposed as that bearing is. If you look down into the frame, there is a considerable gap there with no seal or protection over the bearing seal.

I never had an issue with pre-SBG Transition bikes, Santa Cruz, Giant, Specialized, or any other brand I've owned. Only Transition's SBG gen bikes.
  • 3 0
 Agreed.

I've avoided transition bikes for this reason, even though I really like how they ride.

Here in the PNW, I hear "horror stories" about this, and while I'm not afraid to work on my bike, I didn't want to commit to that much potential maintenance time. So I'm really glad to see them resolving the issue. Now just have to wait for them to trickle this down through the rest of the lineup.
  • 1 0
 @wubbalubbadubdub: I do see SS 440C bearings on EnduroBearing’s website. I’ve not had experience with them but maybe it would help enough to offset the added cost?
  • 2 0
 Same issues with my transition, but also with every other bike I've owned in BC. Just constant bearing maintenance. I cant believe how long it's taken for companies to start providing better sealing options for bearings.
  • 13 2
 I'm glad to see this. I was starting to worry that Transition had transformed into a flannel/coozie company. I've been waiting for new bikes...hopefully the rumored "short-travel diet Smuggler" will emerge soon!

(And the squared-edgy look is waaaaaayyyy betterer!!!!)
  • 7 0
 I wold LOVE a diet smuggler! I bought the 2019 and liked it so much I found a 2016 to add to the stable and it might be better! The old geometry still works a treat in my opinion. The new stuff is fast for sure, but the old stuff is still super fun. Give me 110-125mm rear and 130-140mm front with a 66/67 head angle that weighs 28lbs MAX! Let's get back to some under 30lbs bikes please!!
  • 4 0
 @garrisond5: Yep....66ha, 76sta, 500reach (xl), 140f/120r, and sub28#. Clearance for 2.5...yep, I said it; if you want a plus-bike, go buy one. 2.5 is plenty.

If they make it: take my $$$$!!! I’ll take it in “Transition Blue” preeeeeze!
  • 1 0
 @smartyiak: two huge thumbs up! I'll take mine in that new scout blue please!
  • 4 0
 @smartyiak: that sounds pretty close to the 2020 norco optic. I have an original scout and just ordered an optic. Hope it's as fun as the og scout!
  • 1 0
 @skibunnie: I would agree. Geometry looks spot on. It's the weight that gets me, for a short travel rig. I currently ride a 29lb smuggler. It's pretty close to perfect for me. Two less pounds would make me even happier.
  • 2 0
 @garrisond5: I agree that bikes are getting a little heavy these days, especially for bikes that you want to be able to pedal all day. My 2015 scout supposedly weighs 29 ish lbs stock but I made a couple of changes to it. The optic c2 will be 30 ish which isn't too bad in my opinion for a 29er and in my budget. I would have loved to stick with Transition because I was also super happy with my Syren back in the day but I just can't afford them anymore. The optic c2 has a pretty good build for the price, plus I'm happy to support Canadian, and I got a little local discount so win-win! A few reviews have mentioned that the optic reminds them of the scout so it should be a good match. The geometry is similar and travel is identical, just bigger wheels.
  • 2 0
 @garrisond5: isn't the weight because it's designed to be a shorter travel bike that can be ridden as hard as a longer travel bike but in a package that is more responsive?
  • 1 0
 @garrisond5: true that make em lightah
  • 8 0
 Looks like an awesome bike, kind of weird sizing for your average 5'10" guy though with the very steep seat tube. The top tube on the medium is super short but the wheelbase is perfect. And the wheelbase on the large is DH bike length and the large reach is MASSIVE. I doubt I'd be able to make myself comfortable on either size. I'd love to try both in Bellingham over a weekend though!
  • 4 0
 Another 5'10" guy with same thought. Dan is 5'9.5" in his bio and the bike he reviews is a medium. The seated sections looks mega cramped though. Ah the life of a tweener.
  • 1 0
 The website shows reach adjust headsets. Would they help?
  • 1 0
 @Muchogusto: it’s only 5mm
  • 4 1
 Just have to slide that saddle around a bit. People seem to forget this...
  • 2 1
 @bjh0003: But, but, but my precious seat tube angle!!!!
  • 8 1
 Kinda disappointed. Why, at that price point, is the suspension not Fox Factory and where’s the Shimano XT or XTR? I’d rather the XT than XO1/GX combos any day.
Absolutely loved my TR450 and my Patrol... they’re prices have grown substantially, not to mention the value to price point in comparison with other companies (Namely direct to consumer companies) is somewhat lacking.
Transition has lost me. Rad company though, doubt that’ll ever change.
  • 2 0
 That happens when you give away alot of frames!
  • 2 0
 Rockshox Ultimate is the same level as Fox Factory. Just no dicking about with Kashima. The fox stuff really does have that high end look tho....
  • 2 0
 @bjh0003: I’ve ridden both and prefer Fox Factory, personally.
  • 1 0
 @ytjodave: I feel you on that. I really just meant price/value wise, ride quality between the two is very debatable...
  • 2 0
 It's transition, they're too cool in everybody's eyes to complain about pricing. You're right, their part spec while not bad, isn't what I'd expect. 6600 bucks should get you factory suspension at the very least.
  • 8 1
 I suspect this means a new Sentinel, Patrol and maybe the Smuggler will be on their way. I really look forward to seeing what they do next with the Sentinel. Great riding bike.
  • 4 0
 it's sort of hard to figure out how they will make it better. lengthen the reach by 10 mm and half a degree slacker? Not sure if that would improve anything...the bike is such a beast. My guess is they're just gonna put a coil on it and some new paint...like they did with the patrol.
  • 10 0
 @pancakeflatted: the new scout has 25% rate for rear suspension, which is over 2x more progressive than the last scout and current TR line. I think this is probably the biggest improvement. That'd be a great start for improving the sentinel and patrol. Longer chain stays on L and XL frames would also be welcomed!
  • 3 0
 @pancakeflatted: Maybe increase rear travel to 160? Not that there's much wrong with the current 140. At any rate, they have some screaming deals for the Sentinel on their website now.
  • 4 0
 @pancakeflatted: it’ll have more travel, that’ll be the main thing. And then hopefully they’ll put the smuggler on a diet and make it more “downcountry”
  • 2 1
 @TheR: you can run a longer shock and get 150mm of travel.
  • 1 0
 @David9180: True, but that doesn't mean the new model won't have more travel.
  • 2 0
 @David9180: I don't think TR would approve. Doesn't your seat stay make contact with the the seat tube?
  • 1 0
 @s3ntin3l: I've removed the 2.5mm spacer from my 205x60 DVO Topaz and the seat stay bridge is ~2-3mm away from the seat tube at full compression. I would imagine that a compression while riding, factoring in flex, would make the seat stay bridge smash the seat tube. I'll personally stick with the 205x57.5!
  • 2 0
 @pancakeflatted: The leverage ratio is the issue with Sentinels. Doesn’t handle multiple big impacts well with the stock shock tune. Custom one off DPX2, Float X2 tunes are the norm for aggressive riders/racers. Probably the small geo changes you mentioned as well.
  • 2 0
 @dualsuspensiondave: it’s a problem with all transitions. Ext storia was the only shock that really worked for me without compromise.
  • 10 0
 Alloy Scout needs to live on with hi & lo spec build options + shimano
  • 2 1
 Agreed $5000 for a carbon frame to rich for my blood. Ill keep my 2017 Scout.
  • 3 0
 Agreed. There aren’t nearly enough bikes with SLX parts.
  • 11 2
 Come on sappy, ' external brake cable routing so you can easily change your brakes on the trail' What a loada shite
  • 10 1
 internal brake routing is the work of the devil, ask any mechanic
  • 6 4
 @Civicowner: Any incompetent mechanic....
  • 9 3
 @Demoguy: ah yes, internal brake routing, lets make things harder for no functional reason.... you shouldnt need to bleed your brakes and cut your hose just to remove your brakes....
  • 8 2
 @Civicowner: For most brakes you can disconnect brake hoses with little effect that would require a complete bleed.

Internal routing cleans up the frames aesthetics. How many times are you actually going to replace your brake hose? If it's that hard to do, use a cable routing tool, either make one yourself or buy one.
  • 7 0
 Who changes their brakes on the trail?
  • 4 2
 @Demoguy: yeah exactly. Internal looks so much nicer, for something that you may change at most once a year. Plus external is more likely to get caught on branches and get ripped out in the case of a crash. A well designed internal routing system is in every way better than external.
  • 10 2
 @kiksy: I've been riding over 25 years...never once has my brake cable been snagged or caught by a branch, or whatever! I do however like to experiment at times with different components, or, what happened not long ago I had multiple warranty issues with SRAM brakes and each time they sent a new brake I had to pay my shop almost $50 to install the damn thing! Internal routing serves zero purpose besides aesthetic, and to me I'd rather have the ease of not dealing with sending a hose/cable through a frame...it's a waste of time for zero return
  • 4 1
 A compression olive and a quick bleed isn't rocket science boys.

If we are slating internal routing then why have they bothered with chainstay internal gear routing? It's just odd. Like an afterthought

I normally bust levers or Shimano pistons way before I need to start unrouting hoses. Quick swap at the affected end with a bleed and we're off
  • 1 0
 @GlassGuy: exactly! I too have never had a brake line or der cable for that matter ever catch on a tree or anything else and rip off and leave me f’d.
  • 2 1
 @Demoguy: Yeah, because everyone in their right mind is gonna prefer a 30min job over a 5min job, for absolutely no performance benefit.
  • 3 1
 @Civicowner: Clearly your just expressing your own incompetency. And for your own info routing a brake line inside a frame takes me max of 2 mins.
  • 3 1
 @Demoguy: add a bleed to that. Dumbass
  • 3 1
 @Civicowner: Not actually, i'm a pro shop mechanic. As previously mentioned not all brakes require a bleed when routing or shortening hoses. It pays to know!!
  • 3 3
 @Demoguy: if you cut hoses without bleeding you are a certified nonce.

Working in a bike shop doesnt mean you know everything there is to know.
  • 2 3
 @Civicowner: Your a certified dickhead. Trust me i know more than you, I also know where i can do things different and get the same result that take most people a lot longer.. There's methods and preparation that make not needing to do a bleed a possibility.

Also i didn't say anything about "cutting hoses" as i said previously, It pays to know!!
  • 2 1
 @Demoguy: how do you ge olives off then.>?

I do not trust you, show me some credentials Razz
  • 3 1
 @Civicowner: Can't show you anything on here mate. I'm sure you know that even though you may like externally routed brake lines, you're still going to shorten your lines to suit your own frame which for YOU will require a bleed because you'll just cut away without thinking about it first.

Also with some frames having guided cable routing it's going to be quicker to route a cable through the frame than fit on average 3-4 cable ties. Also best practice is to replace barbs and olives, so cutting those is normal unless you have a connectamajig style fitting. Knowledge is everything mate!!
  • 9 0
 A 27.5 sounds really fun, after riding 29ers exclusively for 10 years.
  • 17 0
 It is. Recently gone back and 27.5 has brought the fun factor back.
  • 8 0
 oof you rode a 29er in 2009, those sucked
  • 13 17
flag gorideyourbikeman (Feb 13, 2020 at 9:19) (Below Threshold)
 @senorbanana: they still do.. 29er guys are always like "TwEnTy NiNeRs WhErE wAy WoRsE bEfOrE" But honestly. They just reduced the short coming's. Physics dictates that they roll like a wagon wheel no matter how you set the geometry. Change it all you want but short snappy fun trail sections will still be muted and numb under such a tall tire. 27.5 for the win!! unless you time yourself everyday riding like some olympian.
  • 4 0
 @CircusMaximus: I bought a 27.5 bike for winter goo riding, and dam its really fun to ride!
  • 7 0
 Nice specs.. however....why are almost all new bike colors variants on sick or poo?

Whats wrong with at least having one bright or poppy color in your range?
  • 1 0
 I actually like the more natural colors and dislike the bright poppy colors. there are still lots of brands who only do black and bright bikes. So I for one welcome these kind of bikes and think they look awesome.
  • 9 0
 $6500 cdn for a NX build kit no thanks.... Nice bike though
  • 5 0
 I've been wanting to upgrade to the newest Patrol for the last two models but always felt like the extra travel from my 2016 Patrol was way more than I need for my regular riding. Stoked to see this is just about what I was hoping for minus the cable routing. I can cope with internal routing for the few times I need to swap it out.

My 2016 Patrol (Alu - 155/160mm) has been a beast for everything it's had thrown at it, Alps, enduro races, uplift days, Scottish Munros (bit heavy for hike-a-biking) and endless UK trails both sloppy and occasionally, even dusty!
  • 6 1
 After 8 years of fun riding Oranges, I’m looking forward to ‘Transitioning’ in the next couple of weeks, but with a Patrol rather than a Scout.
Going to be fun getting to grips with a new toy.
  • 2 0
 going from linear to less linear kinematics?
  • 4 0
 This looks awesome. I love the way they don't mind the range overlapping a bit and they just give the people what they want. 36/Lyrik up front, good shock and rad angles. Imagine if this was another brand, they would have stuck a 34 on it or a shock lockout or something just to really piss you off. Wink
  • 10 5
 64 degree head angle on a 150 mm bike .. isnt it this going a bit to far now.. shurely creates drag on clibming... Gread looking bike tho.
  • 4 2
 It's basically on par with the Stumpjumper EVO. And I love that bike. I think 64 is really the limit though. I don't notice a huge difference between 64 and 65, but when I drop the EVO to 63.5 it's a significant change.
  • 4 1
 I have a 2 degree headset on my 140mm bike giving it ~63 head angle. As long as the seat tube is steep enough I see no issues with climbing a slack bike.
  • 6 0
 Slack head angles work fine on the climbs so long as the rest of the geo lets you keep some weight on the front. Apart from being heavier my Patrol climbs better than my old Sight with a 67 degree headangle.
  • 2 8
flag pixord (Feb 13, 2020 at 12:37) (Below Threshold)
 @kingtut87: so why are cross coutry bikes with steap head angles and downhill bikes with slack ? The way i see things is :
and I am not an expert by any means..
steap HA - less rolling resisntnce but not good when downhill
Slack HA - Stable at speeds and going downhill but slow going uphill...
  • 4 0
 @pixord: rolling resistance is only affected by tyre choice. For me a good seated pedaling position over the bottom bracket is what affects climbing the most. Older bikes with slack seat angles and steep head tubes often climb worse than modern geo bikes.
  • 4 0
 @pixord: HA does not affect rolling resistance...xc bikes have steep HA becasue it gives better low speed control, but they seem to be going slacker

Really just think about it, why would changing the angle of the forks affect rolling resistance?
  • 2 0
 My Norco Sight is a 64 HA 150mm bike and it climbs like a rocketship.
The 78 ST helps though...

...and 29" wheels.
  • 1 0
 @Civicowner: because of the way obstecules and terrain hits the fork i guess ? I just always imagined that the angle is important of the rolling resistance...
Maybe i am wrong then... will do a bit of research now !
  • 1 1
 @Civicowner: i have been pedaling downhill bike on a flat terrain and it fealt really slugish to get moving...., to me simply is not good on flat and uphill terrain... I stronglt belive ints not only due its tyres...
  • 2 0
 @pixord: it's to do with the fact it has 200mm suspension that is setup to be soft and absorb bumps. So your pedalling inputs are muted.
  • 3 0
 I've owned both generations of scouts and love them both. The V1 is more fun to jump and jib at slower speeds. Since my V1 was carbon, it also climbed well. At faster speeds the steep Head angle got a little sketch. Ive been riding the v2 (alloy) scout for 7 months now and really love the SBG geo. I sized down from a large to a medium and put a 45mm length stem. Its much more composed at higher speeds and loves to rail corners. I'd say thats what its best at. The v2 doesnt pedal like its predecessor cause of the added weight (2 or 3 pounds) but I did upgrade the wheels to Reserves which makes the bike stiffer and faster out of corners.
I'm def curious to check out the new scout. Lighter, more squish, more progressive, and slacker! There will always be pros and cons to new bikes. I bet the new one is still playful and also more composed.
  • 4 0
 Finally, a frame which continues to recognize the Geometron G1. I suspect the geo stuff is finally stabilizing for aggressive trail bikes (enduro?).
  • 1 0
 I did Geometrons "Staff Spec" drive train on my bike. Went back to 11 speed and ditched the clutched derailleur. Way more fun.
  • 3 0
 @vonroder77: What is 'Staff Spec'? I ran a 11-sp on the G16...I had a XL which was a tiny bit too long, but I really wanted something right between a L and XL. The industry is getting it...at least for Enduro races and in the steeps. I don't like the old leverage rate on the Transitions...okay with air but not great w/coil.
  • 2 1
 What this one has in common with Geometron?
  • 1 0
 @downcountry: Under builds specs on Geometrons website under drive train. They have a "Staff Spec" option for their drive train. XX1 11speed cassette (also extremely light), Xt derailleur
(so you can disengage the clutch), XTR shifter and a Hope short chain guide.

On A 10-42 cassette you can run a medium cage derailure. Deactivating the clutch on the rear mech allegedly allows the rear suspension to cycle more freely.

I found I rarely used the full range of my 12 speed setup. Plus when i smash a rear derailure its 70-100 bucks to replace instead of 2-300
  • 3 0
 @Mondbiker: The geometry numbers. Geometron bikes were early proprietors (among others) of long, low and slack, with steep seat tube angles.

This is a 140mm trail bike with a 64 degree head angle, more bike companys are getting closer to what was considerd "extreme geometry" that Geometron has had for some time now.
  • 4 0
 @Mondbiker: If you look the history of Transitions SBG, it is influenced (admittedly) by Chris Porter and Geometron. Transition, simply took a baby step, but all the trial and error and concept is a interpretation of Geomtrons work.
  • 1 0
 @vonroder77: Guys, I own G16 so I know how it looks and know all numbers like the back of my hand and they are nothing like this, that´s why I was surprised to hear this comparison, yes it´s longer and slacker than before but nowhere near geometron g16 or G1, seat angle is not as steep but for me the biggest issue with this bike is lack of balance between front and rear center, while 430mm cs is ok for 3 smaller sizes, L and XL could use 440mm easily. Suspension is horst link and I applaud them for making LR more progressive but they still have some way to go to be close to geometrons in terms of kinematics don´t they? It´s a shame because it looks killer and I bet it actually rides fairly well in smaller sizes, but I wouldn´t want to go any shorter in CS lenght than 440mm on XL which I would buy based on other numbers. But I know making carbon molds for rear triangles is expensive enough to put off even much larger brands than transition so it´s not surprising.
  • 2 1
 @Mondbiker: +1 on that. I think there are still "holdover" beliefs in the industry about dimensions for certain segments. These need to go away! What I mean is makers thinking, "Hey this is a "trail bike", so it should have short chain stays for agile handling." In reality, if they're going to make bikes with progressive modern geo, then they need to throw out old ideas and BUILD FOR THE NEW BIKES from scratch. This is what Geometron and Mondraker did. So this new Scout has a 1248mm wheelbase for the Large. That is absolutely HUGE for a "trail bike"! That's all perfectly fine, but you can't hold onto the old "trail bikes need short agile chain stays" idea! 430mm is way too short for a 1248 bike. Like you say, you need to be up near the 440 range for a 1245+ wheel base bike.
  • 2 0
 @mybaben: Absolutely, and while it´s expensive to make different rear triangles about of carbon, I don´t believe for a millisecond it´s a lot more expensive to design adjustable dropouts like mondraker dune carbon has.
  • 1 0
 @Mondbiker: Agreed. Also, I'm not opposed to alloy rear triangles. I'm not that much of a carbon snob. LOL.
  • 4 0
 That looks goooooooooood. And pretty reasonable value for money in the US. Looks like they've shaved a couple of lbs off the builds, too.
  • 7 1
 The straight lines are up for debate, but no alloy version anymore?
  • 1 1
 Yes, more metal please!
  • 5 2
 I have a mk1 scout and they have lost the plot going up to 140mm travel. What made the mk1 scout so good was it’s nimbleness. More travel, slacker HA and longer stays will change that feel.
  • 2 1
 It changed for the worse with the SBG, so I'm guessing this gets even further from what made the original Scout so great
  • 3 0
 Being nimble is not something to be lost with a 140mm 27.5 bike.
  • 5 0
 Hopefully the paint, will be more durable this time. The previous bikes paint chipped easily
  • 3 1
 Frame looks pretty beefy when you see it in the video for perspective. Also that's a pretty stout tire spec. DHR2 and Assegai both EXO+. That being said the weight of the bike at 29.8lb isn't terrible. Carbon wheels and a more conservative tire spec and honestly you could get this under 28lbs possibly.
  • 2 0
 @shinook: Adding a fender to your seat stays helps protect those (same fender you would run on a fork). I haven't had a single issue with bearings since I built up my Patrol in May 2019. Just checked all the bearings last month. Buuuuut things happen, yes it could be soil types. Just giving a friendly suggestion on how to keep pivots guarded (much cheaper than replacing bearings constantly). Regardless, I am stoked to see more development progress on a bike company I will be riding for life! (unless they sell out or something as such)
  • 1 0
 Depending where I end up living, I'd be excited to have a short travel 27.5 bike, esp. as a second bike. Basically something to ride pump tracks, some light dirt jumps (I'm not a good jumper), and basically ride as a trail BMX.

This looks like it might be a bit bigger than I'd want though at 140/150 with a 27.5 HTA, but I'd love to ride it to find out.
  • 5 2
 @TransitionBikeCompany this make me sad. the scout was a solid bargain in your lineup, now its no different than a patrol. id gladly trade carbon for fox suspenders.
  • 4 0
 God DAYUM that's a good looking bike. Looks like a better looking Norco Optic/Sight.
  • 5 0
 Where’s my alloy scout???
  • 2 0
 Great to see awesome 27.5 bikes. As someone that gets a new bike once a decade I am still kind of afraid of being brand new 26er in 2012 guy. Think I will rock the 2014 process a few more years and see what shakes out.
  • 1 0
 loved my 2016 alloy scout but snapped two chain stays at the weld by the brake calliper, opted for a NOS 2017 carbon scout in 2019 as a replacement cos I don't want longer / slacker as it seems a departure from what the bike was all about, still loving the old geo and no issues with the plastic version, I like the new frame aesthetics but I doubt I'll ever ride one
  • 2 1
 agrred! They lost the bike when they went SBG geo and this goes even further. Ruined a great fun time bike! I'm on my fifth chainstay by the way...got this one welded with added beef to hopefully prevent another cracking!
  • 2 1
 sexy frame, but I'm not understanding the whole 'we externally routed the rear brake line to make it easier to service.'

People almost NEVER remove their brake lines; they just bleed them--which is done at the caliper level.
  • 6 2
 It makes it easier when I want to remove shitty SRAM brakes and put real ones on. Oh snap!! Wink
  • 6 1
 Dead sexy looking bike
  • 4 3
 Another instant classic! I own a Patrol for daily North Shore and a 2017 carbon Scout for XC, will sell them both and build myself one of these. Awesome work @transitionbikecompany
  • 7 4
 Looks really nice Transition. But call me when you're ready to Make Shimano Great Again! Later.
  • 2 2
 Not complaining anything... love translation bike ! Really just
You guy’s heard this somany times already but... just same bike and design and frame just different bike name on it...don’t know why its not excit me anymore...
Like watching recent NBA... they are all fall better player then before... but all shout three point and same dunk shit like all other team do....
I know ever bike is amazing now.... but all tge bike looks Similar situation make me bit sad hahahahah
Probably only me...hey nice work transition as usual guys!!!
Good day~
  • 12 0
 Well those are certainly words.
  • 5 0
 @roma258: most of them
  • 4 1
 The large had the same reach as my couple year old XL Scout, this is getting silly
  • 5 11
flag Boosting (Feb 13, 2020 at 11:54) (Below Threshold)
 Seat tube angle is steeper so effective reach should be similar. Learn to read geos goof
  • 7 1
 @Boosting: Seat tube angle makes literally no difference when you aren't seated goof. Some of us use our bikes going down hills as well as up
  • 3 7
flag Boosting (Feb 13, 2020 at 14:52) (Below Threshold)
 @src248: juste get a Large and stfu numb nut
  • 3 0
 @Boosting: Tall people can't size down as the large has a 430mm long seat tube.
  • 2 1
 @smuggly: he is obviously a size large size since he is whining about a 500mm reach. I hate short seat tubes too, this is all downside of midgets wanting to upsize all the time.
  • 1 0
 @Boosting: Little People.
  • 2 0
 It was more a comment on how extreme this trend is getting, Transition already had very modern geometry and now the Scout is even longer and slacker. The future is looking grim (donut)
  • 1 0
 @src248: I think that the geo numbers on this bike are a pretty good starting point. They are pretty much in the same range as all the major players. There are still a lot of companies offering older geo, along with a lot of used bikes that are totally fine to ride if you like less progressive geometry. For me(6'4") I can't imagine going back to a bike with less than 500 mm reach. Not that it would become unrideable, but rather why if given the choice would I want that.
  • 2 0
 Love the bike. Pretty much has the sentinel spec in a 27.5 wheel! Heard rumors they are realising an e bike soon. Any truth to that?
  • 2 0
 This may be the bike / frame that stops me replacing my SC Bronson V2 with a V3! I’ll be buying a frame only unless a Shimano build comes out.
  • 3 0
 I'm still riding my 2016 Alloy Scout and I love it. Transition are such a great company to deal with too.
  • 2 0
 leverage rate progression seems to be getting advertised more and more frequently. first noticed it as a highlight of the yeti sb165 press release last year (27%).
  • 2 0
 Gorgeous looking bike imo! And the reviews from the first rides are great! People should ride the bike before going all over board on the geometry-discussion...
  • 3 0
 Angles behind the headtube kinda resemble Moondraker.
  • 2 1
 Oh man I so love this one ! buoy ..... I have the Bronson V3 thats my DH bike now I need an agressive trail bike and cant decide in between the 5010 or this new Scout
  • 3 0
 I also have a Bronson V3. It is a killer trail bike. But I like your style...
  • 2 0
 So if the optic had just a tad bit more travel and 27.5 wheels. It would be this?
  • 1 0
 I've got a 2019 Scout, such a fun and capable bike. Maybe as bit heavy for a long xc slog, but I don't do much of that these days.
  • 3 0
 I'm impressed they make a sub 30 lb bike with a GX build!
  • 5 0
 Why is it listed as 31 lb for the medium GX on Transition's website?
  • 5 1
 Loks like a sight
  • 2 0
 Would love to see this in a shoot out with the Stumpy evo. Seems like another entry in the "do-anything" trail bike segment.
  • 5 1
 64º Headangle?!?! WHAT
  • 2 0
 This thing looks rad. Very Stumpjumper EVO ish if you put the stumpy in the high setting. The geo looks spot on.
  • 1 0
 Amazing looking frame, love the details and as a mech the external rear brake made me more happy than I should have been, but matte paint..so hard to clean so..meh..
  • 3 1
 Hey, the new Transition SB140...! All jokes aside.. Super rad looking frame. Good job Transition.-
  • 3 0
 The new scout looks kinda like the previous Slayer
  • 1 0
 @DirtBagTim: Just curious why you think it's ugly? I have an '18 Patrol, and I think it is sic! Yes I do get the new year bike model envy, but am still pleased.
  • 2 0
 Wow how do describe that color! Dirt, clay or stale chocolate pudding?
There is Robin's egg blue. Now that's hard core.
  • 1 0
 Interesting that the bike weighs over a pound less here than on the Transition site. Similar geo to the Patrol which makes sense.
  • 2 0
 Geometry is in the database for comparison purposes...
geometrygeeks.bike/bike/transition-scout-carbon-2020
  • 2 0
 So if it's a reimagining of a Bottlerocket, we're getting a PBR edition, right @TransitionBikeCompany ?
  • 1 0
 I rode this around the parking lot today. This is one of the first serious contenders in a “baby wheel” size that I have tried in a long time. Excited to demo it.
  • 2 0
 Pretty dope that you can give that bitch more rear travel
  • 1 0
 That's called a Patrol...
  • 3 8
flag Boosting (Feb 13, 2020 at 11:53) (Below Threshold)
 @mybaben: nah patrol bobs like a mofo
  • 1 0
 @Boosting: The OP said he wanted more travel, I was just saying that if you want more travel, then that's their Patrol!
  • 2 6
flag Boosting (Feb 13, 2020 at 14:48) (Below Threshold)
 @mybaben: nah mate he said it is cool that we have the option to add more travel. OP LMFAO rofl
  • 1 0
 @Boosting: Aw snap! I read it too fast. LOL. thanks mate.
  • 3 2
 What's with the air shock? I though Transition was #oncoil now. It's a lifestyle.
  • 2 0
 still waiting for the new TransAm29
  • 1 0
 Damn sweet! Lots of folks have been asking for a newer version Scout in Carbon. Nice to see it happen.
  • 1 0
 There's just something sexy about a transition... Classic but ageless design and quality.
  • 2 0
 I believe that's a frame only F you... Smile Ouch that price...
  • 2 0
 Yeah that’s cool but where’s the new Smuggler?
  • 2 0
 I love 27.5 bikes! Im glad the industry is not killing them.
  • 1 0
 The rear shock is using bearings instead of bushings? Correct?
Is the Trunnion mount with bearings?
  • 1 0
 Really enjoyed the video!

I have a 29" but my N+1 will be a 27.5"
  • 2 0
 Mullet friendly?
  • 2 0
 Ideal candidate that’s for sure!!
  • 2 1
 Can you do a head to head comparison with an Evil Calling?
  • 1 0
 The trail he's on looks very familiar...Cedar Rock maybe?
  • 2 0
 Cedar and Big Rock. Last bit is the rock near Corn Mill Shoals parking.
  • 2 0
 @Spitfire111: I thought so...that was our summer vacation the last 2 years. We love it down there.
  • 1 0
 I was waiting for this one !
  • 1 0
 Nice dad pants and New Balances’
  • 1 0
 Fingers crossed for a metal version
  • 1 0
 Trail bike that will weight 16 kilo?
  • 1 0
 Transition will be my next bike.
  • 1 0
 Perhaps it works as Mullet?!
  • 1 0
 Just when I decided for a bronson. Thanks for putting back in turmoil.
  • 1 0
 How Dare you compare anything to the Bottlerocket! That bike was a saint!
  • 1 0
 noice, would buy if i had money to burn
  • 1 0
 Above all, that video make me want to go back to Dupont State Forest.
  • 1 0
 Where's my new carbon smuggler??
  • 1 0
 460 reach on a medium this is getting out of hand.
  • 1 0
 Any idea what the geo is with a 160mm fork?
  • 1 0
 Nice.
  • 1 0
 that's hawt.
  • 1 0
 Boner!
  • 1 0
 Me likee
  • 1 0
 clean lines
  • 1 0
 Um sick!
  • 1 0
 Beautiful bike!
  • 1 0
 Looks like a Norco Sight
  • 2 2
 At those prices I would rather buy a ebike
  • 1 2
 Same
  • 11 12
 Nice bike but still not the grim donut!
  • 1 2
 Am I the only one who thinks this looks a LOT like a Kona Process 153?
  • 2 0
 It's closer to a 2020 Norco Sight than any Process
  • 1 0
 yes...
  • 2 0
 Everything the new process should have been, is right here in this bike.
  • 1 2
 Max tire size still 2.4?
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