Scott Aspect 680 (2017) : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Aspect 680 2017 had a 6061 full alloy frame. The frame geometry had nothing unusual and the same structure has been retained from the previous yearês bicycle. The build was slightly different with the welds being smoother and the tube shaping has been given little more thought. Even though there has been no conscious effort to reduce the weight of the frame, it still did not feel too heavy during climbs on the test ride. There is a fine line between aggressive rider body positioning and a relaxed straight back position and Scott has got it spot on with a comfortable riding position.

The HL Zoom front suspension fork on the Aspect 680 is the most basic suspension fork out there with a mere 80mm travel. The fork pistons arenêt the smoothest while on operation, but their presence could be felt while getting off the curb.

Scott are one of those brands who make sure the bicycle looks better than the price. This means that no compromises on design and paint quality. The Aspect 680 is the cheapest adult MTB in the 2017 range. But this bicycle definitely looks much more expensive than it is. Thanks to Scottês simple frame design with top notch paint quality and graphics. The text fonts have changed from last year and it looks better and gives a refreshing new look to the Aspect range. The bicycle we test rode came in a dark grey and green colour which was equally spread over the cycle. The colour coded suspension fork and saddle added to the aesthetics of this bicycle.

There is no real surprise in the gearing department of the Scott Aspect 680 2017. This bicycle is equipped with the entry level Shimano Tourneys at the front and rear. An entry level component on an entry level MTB is what we expected. During the test ride, the gearing was smooth when ridden on flatter surfaces. But the flaw was evident when I took it on climbs where I felt the need for more gears. Also speed transitions from the rear derailleurs were slower than expected. The Shimano ST-EF41 shifters were comfortable to use with no real discomfort.

The ProMax V-brakes on the Aspect 780 2017 are the basic type of braking seen in most hardtail MTBês in this price range. The brakes were functioning decently on flat surfaces on dry conditions during the test ride. But that might not be the same during wet conditions when we expected the stopping power to drop and also result in occasional skidding when the brakes are jammed. The brake levers were a tad bit shorter on length and if you have small fingers you might have to reach out a little extra do grab on to them.

The 640mm Aspect MTB handlebar was simple in design with a minimal raise. The grips could have been little more bulky with extra cushioning for handling those vibrations from the trails.

Scott have gone with the exact same tires from last year for the Aspect 680 2017. The Kenda Slant 6 26êê x 2.1êê MTB tires are tough enough to handle flatter trails and uneven urban surfaces. It is important for a 26êê hardtail MTB to be light and fast as well and the Slant 6 does zip through on flat surfaces, especially on city roads. The treads are thick and spaced evenly to provide good balance and traction even on wet surfaces. The Syncros M 3.0 saddle on the Aspect 680 is of perfect width and length with an ergonomic design to make sure there is no room for saddle soreness. The overall ride quality was slightly bumpy but can handle uneven urban surfaces well.