An Ode to Nino Schurter: Custom SCOTT Spark RC World Cup AXS Build

We're going to say it: more people ought to talk about the run Nino Schurter has had in the past ten years. With seven men's cross-country world championship wins, six overall UCI World Cup wins, and a gold medal in the 2016 Olympics, Schurter's dominant run is nothing short of legendary. More impressive is that he's done it all on the SCOTT Spark. Think of this custom Spark RC World Cup build as just as much a dedication to Schurter's prowess at the highest level as it is a cool bike build. The build went as follows: the bike's owner wanted something to replace their well-used cross-country bike, with something that could handle myriad riding conditions without sacrificing a lightweight feel or pedaling efficiency. The Spark RC and specifically this 2019 SCOTT Spark RC 900 World Cup N1NO Edition was the go-to. TwinLoc was imperative for them, as it gives the rider control over when and what part of the suspension is and isn't locked out on the bike. With more discussion, they decided to add in a SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS groupset and Shimano XTR M9100 race brakes, and eventually the ENVE M525 to Industry Nine Hydra wheelset. The aim was low weight, but reliability and serviceability were essential to their needs. The trick piece here is the Rockshox Reverb AXS wireless dropper post and how it's controlled. SCOTT mountain bikes already have the TwinLoc suspension remote on the bottom of the handlebar, precisely where a standard Reverb AXS lever would go. To rectify that, we went with a SRAM Blip button cut into an ESI grip, which made for a clean install that allows riders to control both the dropper and TwinLoc remotes at the same time. If it is good enough for Nino's and Kate Courtney's bikes, it is good enough for us. There are not a ton of ways to pay homage to riders as dominant as Nino Schurter. We think that this build does a good job of it out of the box. The best way to pay homage to Nino's success is to go out and ride; good thing this bike's owner plans to take this bike all over the world and cover it with dirt and grime. We had a ton of fun with the opportunity to build this bike. Contact us by phone during business hours, or send an email any time to info@contenderbicycles.com with any questions.