The E-Genius 720 is SCOTT’s entry-level model and features the same elegant frame, TwinLoc technology, integrated battery, and Shimano drivetrain as their top-end model. However, its componentry is significantly lower-end – can its handling convince nevertheless?
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The best eMTB around € 4,500 – 11 exciting and affordable bikes go head to head
The SCOTT E-Genius was revised last year and now features a Shimano STEPS E8000 motor with an integrated 500-Wh battery. The large battery block is the reason for the massive downtube, which doesn’t harmonize aesthetically with the otherwise dainty look of the bike. However, it allows for the integration of the battery and leaves room for a water bottle in the front triangle. Like with most of SCOTT’s bikes, there are quite a few cables leading to and from the handlebar of the E-Genius.
It just wants to play! The SCOTT E-Genius is a fun bike.
These aren’t only for the SHIMANO DEORE brakes and the SRAM NX drivetrain, but also for the X-Fusion shock and the RockShox Sektor fork. SCOTT’s TwinLoc lets you select between three different suspension settings: the rear suspension can be set to offer 150 mm, 100 mm, or be locked out. Another special feature of the SCOTT E-Genius 720 is its 2.6″-wide MAXXIS tyres with an extra robust Double-Down casing.
The SCOTT E-Genius 720 in detail
Fork RockShox Rekon RL 140 mm
Rear shock X-Fusion Nude 150 mm
Motor/Battery Shimano Steps E8000 / Shimano 500 Wh
Drivetrain SRAM NX
Brakes Shimano Deore 200/200 mm
Seatpost Syncros Dropper 120 mm
Stem Syncros FL2.0 60 mm
Handlebar Syncros FL2.0 Steps 760 mm
Wheels Syncros X-30
Tires SMaxxis Minion DHF/DHR II DD 2.8″
Unfortunately, the RockShox Sektor fork doesn’t do the bike justice. Fast, hard blows overwhelm it.
All those levers are confusing. It takes a while until you find your way around the cockpit of the E-Genius.
Trail riders might frown, but others are glad about the possibility to mount a stand
An eMTB needs robust tyres! SCOTT knows what matters and uses MAXXIS tyres with the reinforced Double-Down casing.
The geometry of the SCOTT E-Genius 720
The SCOTT E-Genius climbs confidently. The Shimano motor provides a lot of power, and the seating position is central and comfortable. However, the bike has a very low bottom bracket – it’s great on the descents, but the pedals sometimes get hung up on roots and rocks on the way up. To avoid this, we recommend reducing the rear travel in technical terrain via the TwinLoc lever on the handlebar. Unfortunately, this will also reduce traction and comfort. Where the E-Genius really shines is in cornering. Thanks to the very balanced geometry and the low bottom bracket, you’re very integrated in the bike. In combination with the super-grippy tyres, the SCOTT’s cornering ability is hard to beat. The bike feels agile and lively, very quick at changing direction, and the rear end works well. It is sensitive, but not overly plush, offering a good amount of feedback. Unfortunately, the entry-level RockShox Sektor cannot match this performance. With quick, hard blows, it seems overwhelmed and unable to follow the contours of the terrain. Although the bike remains controllable even in demanding sections, with a better fork it would have been at the very front of this group test.
Conclusion
SCOTT has done a lot right with the new E-Genius 720. The handling is balanced and fun, the rear linkage works very well, and the componentry is mostly good. Unfortunately, the entry-level fork noticeably limits the potential of the bike. For the € 4,799 price tag, we would have expected more.
Strengths
– very good-natured, predictable handling
– balanced, central seating position
– brilliant tires
Weaknesses
– fork doesn’t do the bike justice
– cranks get hung up on technical climbs
– too many levers on the handlebar
Uphill
Downhill
Stability
Agility
Value
For more information head to: scott-sports.com
The testfleet
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The best eMTB around € 4,500 – 11 exciting and affordable bikes go head to head
All bikes in test: BULLS SIX50 EVO AM2 | Conway eWME 627 | FLYER Uproc 4.10 | FOCUS JAM² Plus | Giant Full-E+ 1.5 Pro LTD | Haibike XDURO AllMtn 7.0 | KTM MACINA KAPOHO 273 11 PT-CX5I | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 800 | Moustache Samedi 27 Trail 6 | Specialized Turbo Levo FSR 6Fattie
This article is from E-MOUNTAINBIKE issue #013
E-MOUNTAINBIKE Magazine is published in a digital app format in both English and German. Download the app for iOS or Android to read all articles on your tablet or smartphone. 100% free!
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.
Words: Photos: Christoph Bayer, Valentin Rühl
