Scott CX Comp Cyclo Cross Bike Review
The Scott CX Comp is an affordable all-rounder which is part of the cyclo cross range. It combines comfort and longevity to make it a suitable partner for daily commuting requirements but has all the skill necessary to work just as well off-road on muddy cross trails, which is where it really comes to life.
The Scott CX Comp has a brand new alloy frame which has been redesigned for the 2011 model, featuring geometry which is specifically aimed at the cyclo cross rider. The tubes are still large and domineering, helping to compensate for the bumpier conditions on the trail and also doing a good job of cutting out a significant proportion of road rumble when in an urban environment. The frame is suitably light and is coupled to a straight carbon fork that continues to enhance the claims to comfort made by the manufacturer about this model.
Scott CX Comp Cyclo Cross Bike Specifications
The Scott CX Comp comes equipped with a set of Schwalbe Black Jack tyres outfitted on Alex Race rims. This is the one area in which the bike really shows off its cyclo cross credentials. The tyres are grippy and able to compensate for uneven surfaces well, taking some of the bite out of rocky ground while snagging sufficiently on the mud to keep you on the right track. You will go whipping up climbs and be confident enough to up your speed on the downhill sections. Of course there is a slight compromise to be made when using these tyres on the tarmac, because they will be less willing to roll quickly than the slicker tyres of a dedicated road bike. However, you will probably be happy to make this small sacrifice in return for the unbeatable off-road performance levels.
One thing which stands out about the Scott CX Comp is its ability to take a surprising amount of punishment and still come out raring for more. Every component seems to have been chosen above all for its ability to endure the roughest riding conditions. The Shimano components on the gearing and the Tektro CX brakes go well with this design choice and although there are some own-brand additions which might be seen as weak links, here they are actually more than solid enough to live up to the promise of longevity.
The multipurpose outlook of the Scott CX Comp is refreshing and it will be a great choice for anyone who wants road bike aesthetics mixed with trail-friendly performance features and components. The bold tubing on the alloy frame is coloured black with white and red detailing and the white rims help to offset the chunky black tyres. Although the Scott CX Comp could be viewed as being a bit of a jack of all trades on paper, it is surprisingly focused and nimble in most conditions, using its snappy handling and comfort-enhancements to bring out the best from any rider and existing at a price point which makes it worthy of note.
