The SCOTT E-Genius has already bagged some victories with us– but it was always the high-end model. We are curious to see how the more affordable version, the E-Genius 720 Plus, performs in this comparison test.
SCOTT is known for taking the styling of their bikes very seriously. The E-Genius 720 Plus is no exception. The model in our test uses the same Bosch Performance CX motor that we find on the high-end version. Under the small Purion-Display on the handlebar sits the TwinLoc remote, which controls the lockout adjustments of the rear suspension. Thanks to the motor’s powerful propulsion this sophisticated accessory ends up being almost unnecessary. We didn’t bother using it in this test. The specification of the E-Genius 720 might well be affordable, but it is also very functional. The SRAM NX shifters and the affordable Shimano brakes, which feel pretty potent with the big 200 mm rotors, work incredibly well. The gorgeous FOX 34 Performance fork fits perfectly into the functional and aesthetic package of the bike.
If you find yourself standing between frame sizes on the E-Genius, the smaller option is the way to go. Even tall 185 cm riders will still feel comfortable on a medium sized frame, which fits like a glove on 180 cm-riders. Due to long chainstays (490 mm), a steep seat-angle (74°) and a powerful Bosch motor, the E-Genius is an impressive climbing machine. On steep climbs both the grippy tires and the finely-tuned gearing provide excellent traction. Despite, or maybe exactly because of its long chainstays, the bike descends with a pleasant and balanced handling. Optimal weight distribution between tires provides an ideal amount of traction on the front wheel. The E-Genius corners with agility, maintaining a safe and stable balance and the powerful suspension system makes it feel safe and controlled even at high speeds. Sounds like a great all-rounder, doesn’t it? And that’s exactly what the E-Genius 720 is, it’s an affordable yet extremely functional package.
The SCOTT E-Genius 720 Plus in detail
Fork FOX 34 FLOAT Performance 140 mm
Rear shock FOX Nude 130 / 90 / 0 mm
Motor / Battery Bosch Performance CX / 500 Wh
Brakes Shimano BR-M615
Drivetrain SRAM NX
Seatpost Syncros Dropper 2.0
Stem Syncros TR2.0 50 mm
Handlebar Syncros FL2.0 Mini Riser 760 mm
Tires MAXXIS Minion DHF / Rekon 2,8″
Rims / Hubs Syncros X40 / Shimano HB-M618
The FOX 34 Float Performance was the perfect choice both aesthetically and functionally.
Due to the motor’s great power transfer, the TwinLoc-control turns out to be superfluous. In our test ride we ended up not using it at all.
The 2.8” MAXXIS MINION DHF offers a massive amount of grip on the front wheel. That would have been the best option also for the back wheel, unfortunately the Rekon+ gets lost on looser terrain.
The NX-shifting-group may well be cheap, but also extremely efficient, reliable, and it won’t break the bank if you need to replace it. We only wish the cassette was replaced by a GX version with a slightly better gear-ratio.
SCOTT E-Genius 720
Conclusion
The SCOTT E-Genius 720 Plus is a real charmer with its affordable yet brilliant overall- package. A great choice, whether you are a trail ripper or a relaxed weekend tourer. Components are inexpensive yet functional, the geometry is well-balanced, the motor reliable and the suspension is a dream. Top! Definitely one of our buying recommendations– but unfortunately, due to the outstanding competition, it still does not take the test-win
Strengths
– Nicely balanced handling
– Well thought-through component choice
– Good chassis
Weaknesses
– Crammed cockpit
– NX cassette with bad gear ratio
For more Information head to: scott-sports.com
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: 11 E-MTBs under € 5,000 in Comparison
All bikes in test: Bergamont E-Trailster 8.0 | CENTURION No Pogo E2000 27+ | FOCUS JAM² 29 | Giant Full-E+0 Pro | Haibike SDURO AllMtn 7.0 | KTM MACINA Kapoho LT 273 | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 800 | SCOTT E-Genius 720 Plus | Specialized Turbo Levo FSR 6FATTIE | Trek Powerfly 8 FS
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