Vital MTB Test Session - Downhill Bike Recap 8

Scott Gambler 930

As we covered in the video, we had originally planned to test Scott’s Gambler 930 downhill bike as our fifth and final test bike. Unfortunately, due to unique circumstances, we were unable to conduct a full review of our Gambler test bike. As the last bike scheduled for testing, our Gambler was being ridden throughout summer by Vital videographer and contributor, Logan Brown. Always eager to gather as many rider impressions as possible during testing, Logan logged a few runs on the Gambler while we tested and filmed the other four downhill bikes. When we were finally ready to toss a leg over Scott’s Gambler 930, Logan had four days of bike park laps on the bike. 

As we began our initial impressions and bike setup, we were able to get two days of testing under our belts. Unfortunately, on the third day of testing and the fourth run of the day, the X-Fusion Vector R coil rear shock had a reservoir blow-out, puking oil all over the bike. With the shock out of commission and Summer coming to a close, we realized sourcing a replacement shock was out of the question. We also became aware that since receiving our test bike in the Spring, Scott was no longer selling the 930 build kit and had updated their complete bike options. Left with an unrideable bike and a build kit that no longer exists, we are unable to provide a full review of Scott’s Gambler downhill bike. However, from our few days of testing, we were able to acquire some initial on-trail impressions that hinted at the capabilities of the Gambler. 

We rode the heavier and less expensive aluminum-framed Gambler which still features the same geometry adjustments found on the carbon-framed Gambler, allowing riders to run either 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels while maintaining suspension kinematics. During our short time riding the Gambler, We only rode with dual 29-inch wheels. The size large Gambler we rode had a 460mm reach and 435mm chainstay length. With very similar geometry numbers to our other test bikes, the size and length of the Gambler was immediately comfortable and confidence-inspiring. The combination of an appropriately long wheelbase and 29-inch wheels made the Gambler a stable and planted machine at speed.

In more technical and rough sections of trails, the virtual four-bar suspension design performed well, providing a predictable ride. As is expected from a four-bar design, in chattery bumps there was some feedback transferred through to our feet. We did manage to squeak in a few flow trail runs on the Gambler and felt that is where the bike excelled most. We immediately felt comfortable tackling jumps on the first run and the suspension platform provided great support to push against when pumping the bike. Overall, our initial impressions lead us to believe that the cheaper, aluminum Gambler option is ideal for intermediate free-riders or racers looking to receive a fun downhill bike that remains controlled in the rough at a reasonable price. There are no gimmicks or fancy frame features - just a classic, 4-bar suspension design with the added benefit of being able to play around with geometry adjustments and mixed wheel variations. 

If Scott’s Gambler sounds like it might suit your riding style, head over to www.scott-sports.com and check out their current build kit options!

Of the bikes we tested, which downhill bike would you choose to ride? Or if you love another downhill bike that we didn't test this Summer, let us know in the comments and maybe we can put it to the test next season! And for all of you long-time downhill rippers, we'd love to hear why your 2006 Iron Horse Sunday is still the best downhill bike ever made.