Words and photos: Steve Jones
Shape and Purpose
Four hundred pounds is the difference between the Scott E-Genius 720 Plus motorised bike versus the non-motorised version. In terms of geometry they’ve made it slightly shorter in reach and wheelbase, and higher on the bottom bracket than the equivalent travel Genius Plus 700 bike. However this doesn’t take into account the increased stability offered by a bike with a motor fitted which adds 20lb to the bike.
The Scott is one of the shortest travel e-mtb’s that we have tested and its also one of the lightest. More than anything it highlights how crucial the geometry is to any bicycle and how the geometry translates to the type of riding that you’ll be doing. Scott say the Genius is an “any trail, anytime” bike.
We’d agree and disagree on this because this bike has been taken into and has succeeded in far more challenging terrain than its non-motorised stablemate which also carries a similar tagline. For us the Genius is all about adventure and exploring although it’s certain many will be aiming for the trail centres on this one.