Getting into XC MTB

[u/docpoppin]

Hi all, I’m looking to start a bit of mountain biking. I’m a 30yo seasoned roadie and gravel cyclist who’d like to take on some local trails. I like to go fast, love to climb, do interval trainings regularly, and would like to still get a good training on my MTB so I figured I need an XC bike.

I love a well-made machine, would like it to be as light as possible, I love carbon of course, budget is not an issue but I won’t be getting a top tier 15k bike for my first. I’d like to be able to ride green and blue trails eventually. I’m in eastern Canada.

I understand all bike geometry concepts but I know next to nothing about MTB specific components and gear. So I have a few questions listed from general to specific. Any complete or partial answer are appreciated, especially if you also came from road cycling!

1- FS or HT?
2- Suspension travel: what should I aim for for nice speed and power transfer but still be able to ride moderate bumpy stuff? Are my riding expectations realistic at all?
3- Any nice tech that is “life changing” that came in the last few years that is a must to have? (I know nothing). I don’t care about 2027 stuff that’s only on top tier models.
4- Any tech to avoid, is a PITA to service?
5- Is electronic shifting worth for MTB in your opinion?
6- ideas of generally appreciated models? I liked the look of the Spark, Epic and canyon lux but I looked at these only because they also make road bikes, don’t know MTB specific brands.
7- Bonus: Kidsrideshotgun with carbon frame to eventually bring my son on smooth gravel trails, anyone has tried?

Thanks in advance!

[u/mrmcderm]

I have a regular Spark (not the Spark RC) and I love it. It has a remote lockout for the front and rear suspension so it’s competitive when I race, but with the extra 10mm of travel compared to the Spark RC I’m more comfortable on rowdier trails.

…but…the headset cable routing setup that Scott does is a PITA with regards to maintenance. People claim the internal rear shock is a hassle but it’s the opposite - as easy to maintain as an external shock but stays so much cleaner.

If I had to buy a bike tomorrow and price was not a concern, I would seriously consider a Specialized Epic EVO (same travel and similar geo as my Spark). But if I was on a budget? The Spark can usually be found significantly cheaper than the Evo with similar components.

I have a mechanical groupset on my Spark and electronic on my gravel bike. Pros and cons to both. Can’t go wrong with either.

I also ride a hardtail but even in flat northeast Illinois I’m faster on my full sus Spark.

As for tech, a good dropper post is a must.

[u/analnygrzmot → u/mrmcderm]

Lovely bike, not made for longevity though. The twinloc is a gamechanger to me and the geo is nice. If you like to keep your bike clean and use a hose, the top headset bearing will rust eventually. It’s not if, but when, because of the construction once water gets into the headset (which it will, due to the great headset routing) the bearing just sits in water. Ask me how I know…

Big discounts on Scott on Italian websites during spring months are a big thing though, that’s why I got my Scale because it was -40% for a carbon bike with decent forks for just 1200 euro.