As title really, an experience of either? Or both? Not for racing, but getting some decent xc miles in.
Why those 2?
generic carbon vs steel question?
you might get less "hurtyback" on a well designed 853 steel frame
I'd expect a carbon scale to be faster yet less adaptable
Seven month wait for a Holt isn't it?
Why those 2?
Those are the 2 that I like currently, open to suggestions for alternatives
Seven month wait for a Holt isn’t it?
not in any rush,
I loved my Scale. Comfortable, fast, fantastic frame. I'd get the 925.
And yes I've owned decent quality steel
My gut feeling is that it’s worth deciding if you plan to ride with luggage.
These days you can get for luggage to any bike. But imho a bike with attachment points made of metal is probably better in this regard
I have a 2016 Scale RC700 so a gen or 2 older and on 27.5 wheels with 100mm SID. It is light, lively and responsive, great fun on pedally stuff, even uphill, and terrifying on loose rocky alpine bike parks.. I think it's a smidge over 9kg with pedals and bottle cages.
I have a holt for sale if you're interested?
If a Holt is on your list then surely a Mason Raw is worth a look too? Maybe not so xc focused but versatile for that and more.
I loved my Scale. Comfortable, fast, fantastic frame. I’d get the 925.
And yes I’ve owned decent quality steel
Ditto. The current 925 is effectively the same frame as mine here:
https://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/nbd-scott-scale-xc-razzer/
I absolutely love it, I rally it pretty hard on proper MTB trails (not just using it like an gravel bike). That 925 carbon build at £1599 currently with Fox, XT, decent spec wheels and tyres etc is really good, not that much more than I paid for the frame! It will comfortable take a 120mm fork too, and you'll want a good long dropper post.
I have owned multiple fancy 'UK hardtail' style steel frames and it would take some serious, serious mental gymnastics for anyone to convince me that weight doesn't matter and steel feels better again after this Scott.
If you want bike packing and all the nonsense that goes with it, absolutely the wrong bike, but if you want a really good, really fast all round hardtail mountain bike - highly reccomended.
Thanks Snotrag,
Lusted after a Fairlight Holt for ages, ended up getting a Santa Cruz Highball in Stif sale. Absolutlely love it. Similar-ish to the Scott I think. Probably would have loved the Holt too, but using the Highball for less extreme trail centre, long XC, gravel, bikepacking- but bought as a gravel bike really- have just done Dalwhinnie - Loch Ossian-Laggan bikepacking on it. Fantastic for all this, would consider - if you can get a deal at least!
Not directly answering your question, but I'm currently building up a Scott Addict CX and the finish on the frame is just lovely. Best workmanship/attention to detail on a carbon frame I've had bar none.
If it's an option then Trendz (i.e. Halfords) have various Scale's in stock which are even better VFM on Cycle 2 Work (I was looking because we can only use the Halfords scheme).
Or if steel is your thing then Singular have Swifts in stock again. Personally I think light bikes feel faster, but probably aren't. I'm currently lusting after a Strael (or Brother Stroma) but in my head know I'll probably just get a Cannondale Synapse because it'll be 2lb lighter (frame weight plus putting the money saved towards some lighter bits).
As for bikepacking mounts: If I had mounts under the downtube or on the top tube I'd use them, but they're nothing some velcro straps or rubber strap-on cages can't resolve.