The new SCOTT E-Genius on the trail

It’s immediately evident that SCOTT have invested in significantly revised geometry and a new design for the rear end. This bike is something else! Our test rider usually rides a size large, but due to logistical reasons, he had to make do with a size medium. While on past iterations of the E-Genius, it was common consensus that it’s wise to drop down to a smaller frame size because of those ultra long chainstays, this does not apply to the new SCOTT E-Genius. Our 180 cm-tall test rider found the position to be fairly compact but really comfortable, although he noted that a size large would be preferable for long days in the saddle.

Super powerful on the climbs, the Trail mode proved to be the optimal level of pedal-assist from the Shimano motor for 95% of the time. To save battery life drop down into Eco mode, or opt for Boost for some assistance up the hills.

The Shimano motor springs into life as soon as you touch the small on/off button. As one has come to expect, the motor delivers great, consistent power and the E-Genius willingly takes on ascents. Even when the gradient really ramps up, the bike still grinds uphill with composure – however, keep your eyes on your line choice when it gets technical. The long cranks and low bottom bracket can result in impromptu nature lessons with trail debris. Clicking into Traction mode alleviates the risk somewhat, as those crucial millimetres in the reduction in the rear shock’s sag can be the decisive difference between mastering the trail or becoming a subject of the trail edges.

Shift your weight towards the bars when the gradient ramps up.
The E-Genius comes alive on descent and tracks its line as if on rails.

The newest iteration of the E-Genius is a wiz on the descents, demonstrating significantly more ability than its predecessor thanks to those frame tweaks. It steers with precision, and keeps super stable at high speeds. The FOX suspension works with buttery smooth sensitivity and quality bump absorption. There’s ample feedback from the terrain and it’s even got enough support to pop the front wheel off the ground at times. The compact FOX rear shock stays composed down long descents, with a stellar performance matched by the powerful Shimano ZEE brakes and the grippy MAXXIS Minion DHF/DHR II tires. Unfortunately our testing phase was too limited to trial the E-Genius with a 29er setup, but we’ll be reporting back in detail on that in the near future.

No-nonsense when it comes to changing direction at all speeds.

Our thoughts on the SCOTT E-Genius 2018

With a sweetly designed frame and motor, the SCOTT E-Genius also boasts worthy wheel size versatility and top-notch handling. While the 2018’s climbing remains on a par with its predecessor, SCOTT have made serious gains on the descending ability of this bike. It’s a good deal in our book for those looking for a super good-looking and agile E-MTB with a ton of wisely picked features.

For more info head to: scott-sports.com