THE NUKEPROOF SCOUT 290 COMP: A HARDTAIL, BUT MAKE IT RAD

A graduate from the school of gravity, this aggressive long-travel trail hardtail is a finely tuned weapon prime for attacking trail.

There’s a reason the Nukeproof Scout has earned a cult-like following.

The bike fosters creativity on the trail, pushing even the most technically capable riders to see new lines and find ways to be smoother, faster and more aggressive. In a mountain bike world hyper-focused on big bikes and bigger travel, there’s something special about a bike that cuts through the noise and gets to the core of what really matters — getting out and having an absolute blast on the trail.

HOW IT RIDES

Tweaked to be the finest vintage of Scout, this third generation of the frame features some slight changes from its predecessor — namely in tweaks to the geometry and small (but notable) refinements to the frame.

The seat tube and head tube angles are updated, we’ve added frame protection in critical areas, given it a Universal Derailleur Hangar and bettered its ability to run a wide variety of tire sizes. Small changes, yes; but why make big changes to something that’s already so damn good? All added up, these little tweaks have led to the most refined Scout yet.

We’ve also developed a new pedaling position based off our Saddle Offset Principle, which adjusts seat tube angle across the size range to ensure the seated riding position is perfect, no matter the rider’s height. Built around a 140mm fork, 29-inch wheels, size-specific chainstays and an aggressive trail-oriented geometry, the bike feels planted but playful in terrain typically above your average hardtail’s paygrade.

Those with sound bike handling skills will reap the benefits of the Scout’s playful nature and burly attitude, and those looking to improve will find a bike that challenges them to find flow through the most chaotic trails. No matter how you’re looking to use it, one thing’s for certain: Don’t underestimate what this hardtail is truly capable of.

The humble hardtail: Often overlooked, but not by us.

THE NUKEPROOF SCOUT 290 COMP COMPONENT DETAILS

• fox 36 performance elite 150mm fork 
• Shimano Deore M6100 12 Speed Crank, 170mm, 30T, 52mm Chainline
• Shimano Deore M6100-IR, 12-speed Rapidfire Plus, I-Spec EV
• Shimano Deore M6100, SGS 12-Speed, Shadow Plus
• Shimano Deore M6100 12-Speed
• Schwalbe Magic Mary Snakeskin 29x2.35 front tire & Nobby Nic 29x2.35 rear tire
• slx 4 piston brakes