Features
Gambler Alloy Frame

FOX 40 Performance Elite 203mm Fork

FOX VAN RC 200mm Shock

SRAM GX DH 7 Speed

Shimano 4 Piston disc brakes

Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ DH Tires

Technologies
SW Dropouts: On the Scale, Spark, Genius, Ransom and Gambler Scott have redesigned all the parts that can give you significant benefits in terms of performance and functionality. On the previous model the support of the dropout was a bulky additional part molded to the carbon chain stay. The new dropouts are designed to be integrated on the thru-axle system thanks to a hollow tubular design that allows a simple and light weight structure. Available for SRAM and Shimano DM derailleurs, this dropout increases the stiffnessand avoids damage to the frame in case of impacts on the rear derailleur.

One Frame Two Wheel Sizes: With Scott’s mountain bikes, they try to achieve ultimate versatility. The Gambler can switch from 29″ to 27.5″ wheels with nothing more than the flip of a chip. No need to change the fork, all you need to do is flip a shock mount chip, change your wheels and off you go. The flip chip allows Scott to maintain a similar BB height when switching from one wheel size to the other which is key to keeping handling similar for both wheel sizes. With 27.5″ wheels, you can run either 2.5″, 2.6″ or 2.8″ tires. For the 29er, anywhere from 2.4″-2.6″ is good to go.

29 Wheels: Improved roll-over is the most noticeable attribute when it comes to 29” wheels. The big wheels are great for rolling over nasty roots and rocky sections, essentially making it easier to ride these conditions. Improved traction is also a key factor with the increased wheel diameter compared to 27.5” wheels as tire contact to the ground is larger.

• Best Roll-Over Performance
• Carries Momentum
• Maximum Traction surface
• Best stability on easy trails
• Lowest suspension stress
• Great for larger frame sizes
• Increase stability on long curve

Gambler Adjustability: Scott’s downhill bikes have always pushed the boundaries of adjustability. Both a rider and a bike need to be able to adapt to tracks, weather conditions and choice of shock (air or coil.) The new Gambler allows you to switch between wheelsizes without changing any other components on the bike.

Chain stay length can also be adjusted, independent of wheelsize choice. Short with 29″, sure thing. Long with 27.5? Yep, that too. The Gambler also comes with spare angled headset cups, so that you can adjust head angle relative to wheelsize, fork choice etc.

It also has a 4-way chip to allow not only bottom bracket height adjustment relative to wheelsize, but more importantly for geometry/kinematic tweaks depending on tracks, shocks or rider preference. They want the bike to be optimizable for each shock and rider given the track.

All this adjustment allows Scott to focus on balance. And by balance, they mean on the perfect combinations to find traction. Geometry and shock curve options help get a rider’s center of mass in the perfect spot between the wheels for optimum levels of balance and traction. However, as race tracks change, this balance point changes, and not all bikes can change with it – Scott wanted to be able to do so.

For instance, a bike with geometry for a steep track will roll slowly and push wide in turns on a flatter track, whereas a bike set up for flatter tracks will make it difficult for a rider to keep their center of gravity far enough back for steep tracks.

Gambler Integrated Bashguard and Chain Device: It seems like it shouldn’t make a huge difference on the bike, but it turns out it does. Scott even joke saying that it dictated the design of the entire bike. Why make this a proprietary piece? Chain devices are normally made to work with many different bikes and are therefore compromised. They only need to make it work for this one frame and a specific range of chainring sizes, so it can be easier to setup, better performing, lighter and allows them to gain some advantages on the frame construction, further reducing weight and increasing reliability/durability.

Historically, designing around a chain guide / bash guard was akin to designing around a front mech – not ideal. They require a heavy, in molded alloy mount in the frame that can bend under impact, and leaves threads in the frame that can be damaged. These would restrict the frames main pivot width and chain stay shape. In addition, the chain guide and bash guard were connected by a backplate, further increasing weight.

With their design, they no longer have in-molded alloy mount, nor do they have threads in the frame. More importantly, they’re able to design a wider main pivot, making for a stiffer connection and better bearing life. Scott have been able to optimize their chain stay shape, helping them to better maintain stiffness and strength. It is easier to set up and adjust and lighter.

Scott use built in rubber shock absorbers with the bashguard, reducing further the potential for frame damage. Finally, as the bashguard and chain guide are separate pieces, should either get damaged, you don’t need to replace the entire system, just the piece itself.

Frame Geometry (units in mm unless otherwise indicated)