Scott Addict RC 10 – Honest Review

Scott Addict RC 10 – Honest Review. Nestled within the expansive Addict range from Scott, the RC 10 model finds itself in a notable position, three spots shy of the zenith in an eight-bike lineup that exclusively employs the Swiss manufacturer’s HMX carbon fiber technology. This range spans from the elite models ridden by the WorldTour DSM team down to the more accessibly priced RC 40, bridging a significant £10,000 gap.

This difference in price is attributed to the variance in groupsets, wheels, and finishing kits across the models. Despite their differing specifications, distinguishing among the eight models on Scott’s website can be challenging due to the uniform appearance and the somewhat monotonous color schemes that permeate the range.

However, the RC 10’s unassuming grey/beige facade belies the thoughtful design and integrated features it houses, reminiscent of the pleasant surprise of finding a forgotten banknote in an old pair of trousers. Priced at £7,599, this road bike gradually reveals its meticulously designed aspects and integrations, which cumulatively enhance its appeal over time.

Scott Addict RC 10 – Frame Analysis

Under its subdued exterior, the Scott Addict RC 10 boasts a frame constructed from Scott’s proprietary HMX carbon fiber, a material lauded for its exceptional qualities. HMX stands out by incorporating fibers that are two micrometers thinner than those found in standard high modulus fiber, achieving a reduction in overall frame weight without compromising on strength. This nuanced approach results in our test bike tipping the scales at an impressive 7.60kg.

The bike’s design, featuring conventional road bike aesthetics with modern refinements like truncated tubes, lowered seat stays, and a pronounced headtube, aligns with current market trends. Despite its resemblance to other models like the Vitus Venon Evo and Specialized SL8, the Addict RC 10’s design effectiveness is underscored by its adherence to UCI design standards, demonstrating that within these constraints, functionality and aesthetic appeal can coexist.

Scott Addict RC 10 – Detailed Build Features

One of the standout design features of the RC 10 is its innovative rear mech sandwich dropout. This design forgoes the traditional bolt-on mech hanger for a more robust solution where the hanger integrates directly into the rear dropout, secured in place by the thru-axle cap and additional bolts. This arrangement not only enhances the rear end’s durability but also raises questions about its ability to effectively manage forces without transferring undue stress to the frame. Additionally, the minimalist design of the hanger ensures that it would yield or break under significant impact, thereby protecting the integrity of the frame.

The bike’s axle system, particularly the rear axle with its 1.5mm thread pitch, represents a thoughtful design choice aimed at simplifying wheel changes—a feature highly valued by professional mechanics. However, the compatibility with indoor trainers is limited, as noted by Scott’s explicit warning against the use of their carbon road bikes on such devices. This caveat, alongside the nuanced integration found in the front axle’s design, which cleverly houses a torx head screwdriver and a hex key, exemplifies Scott’s commitment to both functionality and user convenience.

Equipped with Scott’s own Syncros Capital 1.0 40mm carbon wheels and complemented by 28mm Schwalbe One tyres, the RC 10 delivers a ride quality that transcends its racing lineage, offering an unexpectedly plush experience. Yet, the snug fit of the tyres may present challenges for manual removal, a consideration for riders when faced with roadside repairs.

Scott Addict RC 10 – Ride and Performance

Reflecting on previous experiences with the Addict series, the RC 10 maintains its legacy of delivering a lightweight, responsive ride, now further enhanced by the transition to wider tyres and advanced carbon layup techniques. The frame’s design, particularly around the bottom bracket, ensures robust power transfer without flex, accommodating high-output efforts with ease.

However, the Syncros Belcarra saddle’s profile may not suit all riders, highlighting the importance of personal fit and preference in saddle selection. The bike’s integration of SRAM’s wireless groupset further emphasizes its performance capabilities, offering a seamless riding experience that rivals top-tier groupsets.

Reasons to Buy:

• Neat Integration: The Scott Addict excels in integrating its components seamlessly, enhancing both the bike’s performance and its sleek appearance. This thoughtful design extends to the bike’s overall functionality, ensuring a cohesive ride experience.
• Solid Ride Feel: Riders can expect a robust and responsive ride from the Addict series. The frame’s construction and the choice of components work in harmony to deliver a ride that’s both energetic and comfortable, suitable for competitive racing and rigorous training sessions.
• Power Meter Included: A notable feature is the inclusion of a power meter with the wireless SRAM Force groupset. This addition is a significant advantage for riders focused on training efficiency and performance monitoring, providing valuable insights into their efforts and progress.

Reasons to Avoid:

• Plastic Stem Cap Feels Cheap: Some components, like the plastic stem cap, might detract from the bike’s overall premium feel. While this is a minor detail, it’s an aspect where there’s room for improvement to match the quality found elsewhere on the bike.
• Saddle Clamp Limits Choice: The design of the saddle clamp may restrict the selection of compatible saddles, potentially limiting customization options for riders seeking specific seating configurations.

In essence, the Scott Addict series remains a standout choice for cyclists who value precision engineering, integrated design, and performance-oriented features. Its minor shortcomings are far outweighed by its strengths, making it a bike that’s likely to draw admiration on the road and serve as a reliable companion in races. The combination of Scott’s expertise in carbon frames and the inclusion of advanced components like a power meter solidifies the Addict series as a top contender in the race bike category, offering a blend of aesthetics and performance that’s hard to beat.

Scott Addict RC 10 – Honest Review