Scott Speedster 20 (2015) : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The aero foil inspired design and technology is evident in the overall build. The bicycle has an optimized double-butted 6061 'Aero alloy frame' that prides itself on a race proven aero geometry. The virtual tail technology results in carbon aero front forks, blunt bottom tube and seat stays. In riding terms all this leads to better efficiency in tackling side wind gusts, and also improves the aerodynamics of the bicycle to help it create a 'Virtual tail' that tricks the wind into believing that it's a full foil, thereby again improving efficiency. The company claims a 20% increase in aerodynamic performance, over a round tube. The 'Virtual tail' technology has it's roots in the auto racing world.

Without getting more technical, the overall frame is light, stiff and extremely well balanced. This Speedster 20 is a compact road bicycle that is aggressive and fast, and during our test we felt the aero design kick in to give us a marginal edge in terms of sudden sprints or stability at a considerable click. The overall ergonomics and dimensions of the frame provide a good riding posture to help you deliver maximum output from every position.

We test-drove the Blue, red and white colour variant of the bicycle and it screamed 'Amercian' from every angle. The Speedster 20 looks compact and sleek with it's aerodynamic design and contours.

The proven Shimano 105 groupset complimented the frame and other components really well. The overall combination was so well put together that we found ourselves gaining considerable pace without getting off the saddle and pedaling. The Scott speedster 20 comes equipped with 22 gears with Shimano 105 Black FD-5800 for front derailleurs and Shimano 105 Black RD-5801-GS. The gearing was spot on and precise, as expected from the Shimano 105 family.

The brakes on the Speedster 20 work well. They are Shimano's BR-R561 Black Super SLR Dual pivot calipers that are employed in the front and back. While you would expect most road bicycles to be responsive and agile, you would have to think again. The Scott Speedster 20 is super responsive and extremely agile, which is a result of it's light weight and aero frame. Be sure to get used to this level of responsiveness before you head out on the road.

The Syncros Anatomic RR2.0 alloy¾handlebar is anatomically shaped rather than the compact style we are used to seeing on this type of ¾a road bicycle, and offers plenty of hand positions plus a comfortable, unrestricted ride. The drop isn't massive, so every part of the bar remains usable on a longer ride.

The wheel set on the Scott speedster 20 is well weighted. They come with 700 * 23c Kenda Kriterium tires, that are hooked on to Syncros Race 27 Aero profile¾ rims (20 —– Front / 24 —– Rear). Staying true it's racing heritage and positioning, you get the Formula team 24 H hubs, which were smooth and efficient on our test.

Don't be fooled by the alloy frame on this quick roadie, it is well put together to offer a fairly pliant ride barring the odd hard recoil and rattles that is expected of a rigid framed road bicycle. The forks on the Speedster 20 are carbon, and they do their bit in insulating a bit of the vibration while keeping the steering light and agile. The saddle on the Scott Speedster 20 is a well designed 'Syncross Road endurance' unit with a perforated center strip with sticky material to keep you well grounded on your saddle, while pedaling hard.¾