NEW 2023 Scott Genius - Headset-routed Cables and Integrated Suspension Design - Mountain Bike Press Release

The all-new genius is the ultimate trail bike. Smart suspension, smarter features, and the smartest design lead to an unbelievable trail bike that just can’t get enough, no matter whether you’re conquering high alpine trails or shredding single track with your buddies. the genius, any trail, any time.

This 29” wheel size-specific frame features 150mm of rear suspension paired with a 160mm fork. The new Genius platform has been tailored to the demands of the modern trail bike. We’ve applied an intelligent application of slacker, longer and lower with an even more capable geometry than its predecessor. We wanted a Genius that continued to excel going up the hill while having all the tools necessary for an even better time down to the valley floor.

As is the case with many of our mountain bikes, the head angle is adjustable. The bike comes with headset cups that allow you to choose between a 64 or 65-degree head angle. Carbon models are also shipped with an additional, standard 64.5-degree headset set. With this bike’s predecessor, we already had a solid suspension platform to work with. Changes to shocks and the amount of capability expected in this category has led to an increase in progression and optimization of the kinematic.

We also applied some principles from our award-winning Ransom platform. What we end up with is a classic Genius vibe perfect for all-day epic’s and add to that a solid pinch of party for when the trail points downward.

Integrated Suspension Technology

The new Genius applies our patented Integrated Suspension Technology. Not only does this make for a fantastic-looking bike, but it also allows us to improve the bike’s suspension performance. Primarily, we can engineer frames with a lower center gravity, resulting in better handling and a more stable, confidence-inspiring ride for the end user. Additionally, the frame’s construction is stiffer around the BB, which reduces unnecessary movements laterally to the direction of the shock’s travel. It goes without saying that the shock is also protected from debris and the elements, two of the main enemies when it comes to shock performance.

Setting sag and checking travel use is easier than ever before with the new Genius. An external indicator on the link allows the end user to easily set sag and to identify how much travel they’re using.

Spline Link Construction

The all-new Genius’s link comes with a spline construction. This allows for great optimal load distribution and high dimensional and form accuracy. We made this happen using a new broaching process allowing us to be very precise while manufacturing. Larger bearings enable the use of a shaft with a bigger diameter and increased contact surface in general. The result? Enhanced durability and the ability to handle larger loads. The link is made of forged AL7075, which is ultra-strong yet lightweight in nature.

Frame Construction

SCOTT MTB’s have always focused on stiffness-to-weight ratios – we want bikes that are strong but that won't weigh you down when you’re out in the mountains. For the new Genius, this would be no different. Our goal was to have a similar frame kit weight to the previous bike but with added integration and improved frame characteristics – something we’ve achieved to great effect. Frame and hardware weigh in at only 2295g while providing a bike that can handle the riding that big mountains throw at it.

We’ve applied our stiffness and lightweight zone principle to the Genius. Through strategic reinforcement of certain areas in the stiffness zone, we can really maximize weight savings elsewhere. The Genius features a 55mm chain line. Through this, we can really optimize tire clearance while not sacrificing rear end stiffness.

Shock Access

Accessing the integrated shock is just a button away. The downtube door that is featured on all Genius models is super simple to remove - just push the button, pop off the cover and shock access is granted. The opening is quite large, making things like cable routing much easier. Additionally, removing the shock is a piece of cake. A window on the seat tube gives direct access to the shock bolt. Furthermore, the all-new Genius is available in full carbon, carbon/alloy hybrids, or full alloy models. All bikes in the range benefit from the same levels of integration, updated geometry, and incredible suspension performance.

Genius and Genius ST

We’re introducing the Genius in two different formats, Genius 900 and Genius ST or “Super Trail.” Our all-new Genius 900 platform takes a tradition of versatile trail bikes and delivers a package that is ideal for any trail, any time, while the ST offers better performance and higher capability on DH sections. While both of these bikes run the same frame layout, they have very unique characters.

At the heart of both layouts is our NUDE shock platform, which has been a preeminent feature of the Genius family for over a decade. You’ll find the NUDE 5T shock on the Genius 900, and a brand-new addition to the NUDE Family on the Genius ST – the Float X NUDE from FOX. With this shock, we focussed more on downhill performance while still making sure that you can get up the hill in a hurry. In terms of geometry, the main difference between both platforms is the head angle. Genius 900 comes stock with a 65-degree head angle, while the Genius ST comes in with a slacker 64 degree head angle. Now of course, with our angle adjust headset that is available on both models, you can play around with this to see what suits you best. Each version has a different approach with regards to spec, ultimately resulting in two different characters on the trail.

Nude Shock Options

Nude shocks have been integral to the Genius platform’s success from day one. With this latest iteration, you’ll find two different versions of nude shocks on the new Genius 900 and Genius ST.

Genius 900 - Nude 5T

For us, the Genius 900 is the ultimate do-it-all trail bike. That being said, it is the perfect bike for a do-it-all suspension system. The Genius 900 features our TwinLoc Suspension System, connecting frame, fork and shock via a handlebar remote.

Looking more closely at the shock, we’ve spec’d this bike with a Nude 5T from FOX that features our patented Traction Control mode. When you transition from Descend mode into Traction Control, two important things happen. Air volume in the shock is reduced, and compression damping is altered. This leads to a few interesting changes. Primarily, the system changes the bikes dynamic geometry, you sit higher in the shock’s travel, ground-to-pedal clearance is increased, and you move into a more effective position for putting down the power on snappy singletrack or for clearing technical climbs. The bike becomes more agile, nimble and efficient, all without sacrificing traction or sensitivity. The shock also features a lockout mode, the firmest of all three modes, that is ideal for those long climbs on smoother surfaces to access the trailhead. The lockout still features a big hit blow-off in the event that you hit a rough section, preventing any potential damage to the suspension.

Genius ST - Float-X Nude

The Genius ST was made for riders who place greater focus on the downhill part of the ride and on dialing in their setup. With that in mind, we decided to opt for fork options that favor more adjustability and are introducing a new shock that we developed in collaboration with FOX, the Float-X NUDE.

While this shock also features 3 modes that can be actuated with a remote, we decided to do things a bit differently compared to the NUDE 5T. We received great feedback in recent years from our ramp control option on certain Genius and Ransom shocks and decided to make this an option that can be adjusted on the fly with the all-new Float-X. In descend mode, both air chambers are open, giving you access to 150mm of specifically tuned suspension travel. Flick the switch into the ramp control mode, one chamber in the shock is closed off, increasing progression within the shock. Out for a rip that features technical single-track and maybe a section or two of fast bike park? With this new shock, it’s as if you can add a volume spacer in your shock mid-ride. Then, we have a climb mode that closes off compression damping and also alters the bikes dynamic geometry for those long slogs up to the trailhead so you can save energy for the rip back down. The Float-X also features a Low-Speed compression adjust dial.

Updated Hixon Cockpit

The Genius features a Hixon Cockpit from Syncros which has undergone a redesign with refined ergonomics for both backsweep and upsweep, two options for rise depending on frame size (15mm and 25mm) and two stem lengths. Multiple options exist for computer mounts, lights, etc. with the possibility to mount on the stem cap but also out the front of the bar using two threaded inserts. All cables flow neatly under the bar and into the headset leading to clean, clutter-free cockpit.

Speaking of headset, swapping head angle is easy. Just take off your cockpit, remove headset cups, rotate them each 180 degrees, and reassemble. No need to cut any cables or bleed any brakes. Cable integration is not exclusive to the one-piece cockpits though. Syncros also has a series of stems and bars to match, allowing for the same great cable integration but with the ability to run a higher-rise bar for example.

Genius Alloy

Alongside our carbon models, the 2023 Genius and Genius ST will be available as a hybrid version featuring a carbon mainframe and alloy rear triangle, and also as complete alloy versions. The Genius alloy offers a similar advanced riding experience by further sharing the same geometry and kinematics. This truly high-end aluminum frame further offers the same design, same advanced level of integration and further technological features of the carbon genius internal cable routing, SAG indicator, downtube cover for easy shock access, headset adjustment, chain guide etc.

To produce the 2023 Genius alloy, more than 15 complex processes by SCOTT’s R&D department in order to produce the 30 different parts needed to complete a full frame.