Eager to evolve an already great bike the team have certainly developed a rare breed, this is very much echoed in their aims, “Just because things have been done in a certain way for years does not mean that it is the best for everyone everywhere.” Scott say the low bottom bracket and greatly improved square edged big hit performance has enabled this bike to move forward faster than ever. The new floating link developed by Mat Landre is central to this and as he pointed out, “the linkage arrangement allowed us to fine tune the leverage rate and force–curve without compromising traction and comfort.” In its nature the suspension is a blend of support and traction, in the form of a slightly progressive beginning stroke, transitioning to a rising linear rate. The long shock and low leverage also enables a good amount of tuning range.

There’s some other nice detail too. During testing in Morgins the Gambler was noticeably solid in berms, it was difficult to get it sliding. Ben Walker hinted that this was probably due to the new axle design that is both eccentric and conical, two features which lock the rear axle in place, alleviating the need for pinch bolts. With reduced weight, reduced complexity, improved tracking, it wasn’t long before the stock wheels were hanging off the hubs, such is the force with which you can ride into terrain. “This is a serious bike for serious tracks, and a suspension compromise was not an option.” >>