The new Plasma 6 from SCOTT Sports was specifically developed for the needs of triathletes; and, in contrast to the Plasma 5, is not UCI compliant. In a release, SCOTT noted…
‘We had one goal in mind when we started this project 4 years ago – to simply build the fastest bike the triathlon world has ever seen. To develop the bike you want to have when you strive for Kona glory or to smash your previous bike split records. To make this possible our engineers came up with completely new ways to look at aerodynamics, cockpit adjustability and storage integration.’
Aerodynamic features
SCOTT added that aerodynamics as a key objective is influenced substantially by the position of the back wheel. The closer the tyre is to the seat tube the more aero it is. In contrast to the front end, the back wheel is always aligned with the seat tube.
To give every rider the chance to ride the most aerodynamic position no matter the wheel or tyre choice, there are six different wheel mount positions.
Down tube position
The most aerodynamic optimized position of the down tube would be exactly behind the front tyre, but the slightest movement of the front wheel can create strong turbulence and significantly increases the drag.
Extensive testing by SCOTT revealed that the second fastest position is to have a significant gap between the front tyre and the down tube, ‘which makes it then the fastest one in real world conditions.’
Storage integration
The new Plasma 6 has had hydration, nutrition and storage integration considered as a cornerstone of the design from the first day. The hydration and nutrition systems, integrated into the frame and cockpit, allow the rider to drink and eat without leaving the aero position, plus it is easy to refill on the fly.
The storage box and seatpost are designed as a unique airfoil, while also serving as a spot for spare parts.
“The integration of the hydration system, bottle and spares is a huge improvement,” said 2x Olympic Champion Alistair Brownlee. The SCOTT sponsored athlete added, “It’s both more practical and aerodynamic. It’s also considerably more adjustable than the Plasma 5, which means I could try new positions. All of this showed as saved watts from the wind tunnel data.
“The Plasma 6 is made for the needs of triathletes with no compromises when it comes to nutrition or storage. Being able to stay on the aero bars during fuelling makes the system even faster. On top, it‘s easier to travel with, it has a huge range of adjustment, it brakes far better and it‘s stiffer. In short, yes it is faster.”
Adjustability
SCOTT points out that both the pedalling efficiency and aerodynamic performance hugely depend on the riding position of the rider. The company’s Syncros engineers focused on creating a complete system of base bars, extensions and saddle positioning to allow for a wide range of adjustability.
The new Plasma 6 will be available in two different tri focused specs and one frameset in stores by early December 2020:
- Plasma 6 Premium (€14,999)
- Plasma 6 RC (€8,999)
- Plasma 6 Frame set (€6,999)
