Thankfully, there are many models of Genius, seven in fact. Scott also had some Genius 20s around, which had a lower cost and more conservative spec based around Shimano XT, with a XTR rear derailleur and a Fox 32 TALAS fork with 15QR thru axle and 150mm of travel. Yep, a Fox 32 with 150mm of travel, and the Scott Genius is the only place to get it. All other Fox 32 forks top out at 140mm in 2009.
The Genius will also come in alloy versions in the $3,000 price range. Contessa (women's) versions will also be offered - the high end Contessa Genius gets a carbon front end, but an alloy rear end.
I had an opportunity to ride the Genius Limited along the Mediterranean coast just outside of Girona, Spain. While 150mm/6" has traditionally signified an all-mountain bike, the Genius takes trail bike feel to a new travel heights. The Genius doesn't feel like a Specialized Enduro SL or a Trek Remedy, both of which are 150mm "lightweight" all-mountain bikes. The Genius is significantly lighter than any other 150mm bike, which makes a big difference, but the suspension feel, riding position, frame stiffness and handling response is more in-line with 5" bikes like a Giant Trance X, Trek Fuel EX or Specialized Sumpjumper FSR. So, while the Genius has 6" of travel, it's competing against bikes with 5 to 5.5 inches of travel. In fact, the Scott's closest competition on paper is probably an Ibis Mojo SL, a super-light trail bike with 5.5" travel. Obviously, the extra travel doesn't hurt it in the weight department, but what about climbing performance and all-around handling? I'm reserving final judgment: I'm riding a brand new (suspension not broken in), pre-production bike on trails I'm not familiar with - and only a few rides at that. My initial impression says that extra the travel doesn't hurt it compared to it's shorter travel competition, but I need a lot more time on my home trails before my mind is made up. Look for a test in an upcoming issue.
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