In this comparison, I’ll dissect two popular bike models; the Scott Foil RC vs Specialized Venge.
I’ll compare their lineups, bike specifications, and suggested retail prices in USD, then discuss the carbon fiber technology (Scott High Modulus Carbon and Specialized FACT) and frameset technologies.
The goal is to give you a better understanding of Scott Foil RC and Specialized Venge to help in your decision-making.
| Scott Foil RC | Specialized Venge | |
|---|---|---|
| Type of bike | Aero | Aero |
| Frame material | HMX-SL carbon HMX carbon | OCLV 800 carbon OCLV 500 carbon |
| Frame sizes | 47, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61 | 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, 64 |
| Groupset | Shimano, SRAM (12-speed) | Shimano, SRAM (12-speed) |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc | Hydraulic disc |
| Cabling | Internal | Internal |
| Price (USD) | $4,799 to $15,999 | $5,199 to $13,199 |
Scott Foil RC
The Scott Foil RC was refreshed in mid-2022, just in time to debut at the Tour de France. Scott worked with aerodynamics expert Simon Smart, the founder of Drag2Zero. Simon is also the man behind the design of Enve wheels.
According to wind tunnel testing, the new Scott Foil RC is 9% lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the HMX-SL Carbon fiber layup, and 10% more aerodynamically efficient.
There are five models available in disc and electronic shifting only.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott Foil RC Ultimate | Carbon (HMX-SL) | SRAM Red eTap AXS | Zipp 454 NSW | $15,999 |
| Scott Foil RC Pro | Carbon (HMX) | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | Shimano Dura-Ace C50 | $10,999 |
| Scott Foil RC 10 | Carbon (HMX) | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | Syncros Capital 1.0 50 | $6,999 |
| Scott Foil RC 20 | Carbon (HMX) | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | Syncros Capital 1.0 50 | $6,299 |
| Scott Foil RC 30 | Carbon (HMX) | Shimano 105 Di2 (R7100) | Syncros RR2.0 | $4,799 |
Scott Foil RC vs others
Specialized Venge
Scott vs Specialized carbon fiber
Scott High Modulus Carbon
Scott implements two primary types of carbon fiber technology in their bicycle frame construction; HMX-SL, HMX, and HMF carbon.
- HMX-SL (High Modulus Xtreme, Super Light) carbon is the pinnacle of Scott’s carbon fiber technology. This innovative blend of carbon fiber is designed for ultimate stiffness and minimal weight. Scott uses HMX-SL Carbon in their highest-end models, such as the premium version of the Scott Addict RC Ultimate and Foil RC Ultimate road bike. These bikes, with HMX-SL Carbon frames, are the go-to choice for professional cyclists competing in world-class races.
- HMX carbon is a level below the HMX-SL, and is still a top-tier carbon material offering a fantastic blend of stiffness and lightweight construction, albeit not as light or rigid as the HMX-SL. It’s an excellent choice for serious and experienced cyclists looking for a high-performance bike without the additional premium.
- HMF (High Modulus Fiber) carbon, may not be as light or stiff as HMX carbon, but it’s still a superior material that contributes to a robust, light, and efficient ride. Scott uses HMF carbon in their bikes that strike a balance between affordability and performance.
Specialized FACT Carbon
Specialized FACT (Functional Advanced Composite Technology) is an advanced carbon fiber technology used in high-performance Specialized bicycles. It offers a lightweight yet strong frame construction with precise carbon layup, resulting in optimal strength-to-weight ratio and improved ride quality.
FACT carbon frames are engineered to efficiently transfer power, absorb road vibrations, and provide a comfortable riding experience. With continuous innovation and refinement, FACT Carbon demonstrates Specialized’s commitment to delivering top-notch performance and enhancing the overall cycling experience.
The carbon is available in three grades. The choice between FACT 12r, 11r, or 10r carbon depends on the bike model, your preferences, riding style, and budget.
- Specialized FACT 12r Carbon is the highest-grade carbon used by Specialized. Bikes (S-Works models) with frames made from FACT 12r carbon are the lightest and stiffest in the Specialized line-up. These frames are manufactured using the most advanced techniques and materials.
- Specialized FACT 11r Carbon used to be the highest-grade carbon until the S-Works Tarmac (SL5). Today, it’s the highest-grade carbon for the S-Works Roubaix.
- Specialized FACT 10r Carbon is two steps below 12r in the Specialized carbon hierarchy. While it doesn’t provide quite the same level of weight savings and stiffness as 12r, 10r frames are still very light and stiff, providing a high level of performance. FACT 10r carbon is used in all non S-Works models and is ideal for riders who want a balance of performance and value.
Frameset technologies and innovations
Scott Foil RC and Specialized Venge framesets incorporate advanced technologies to enhance their bikes’ performance and ride characteristics.
Here’s an overview of the technologies used in each bike model.
Scott Foil RC
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| F01 Airfoil Technology | Scott’s proprietary F01 Airfoil Technology ensures that each tube and junction on the Scott Foil RC is optimized for the best aerodynamic performance. This technology, backed by extensive computer simulations and wind tunnel testing, allows the Scott Foil RC to claim the title of the fastest road bike Scott has ever produced. |
| Oversize Bottom Bracket | The Scott Foil RC features an oversized down tube and bottom bracket intersection, among the widest on the current road bike market. This extensive cross-section and smooth transition handle loads effectively, reducing unwanted frame flex and ensuring efficient power transfer to the drivetrain. |
| Hollow Frame Structure | The entire frame set of Scott Foil RC is built with a hollow structure and has an immaculately clean inside, which significantly reduces the overall weight. |
| Oversized Head Tube | The Scott Foil RC sports an oversized head tube. Besides allowing for fully integrated cabling for both mechanical and electronic shifting systems, it functions as an airfoil, splitting oncoming air to reduce aerodynamic drag as you speed forward. |
| One-Piece Handlebar | The Syncros Creston IC SL Aero handlebar and stem combo is an integral feature of the Foil RC’s aerodynamic design. This combo, which was taken from the popular Scott Addict RC, has undergone wind-tunnel testing and slimmed down to cut through the wind and improve the bike’s overall aerodynamic efficiency. Interestingly, it adapts to load changes, providing more compliance under light loads and stiffening up for power delivery when you’re in full race mode. |
| Aero Seatpost | The Syncros Duncan SL Aero CFT is a patented, innovative seatpost designed for comfort and power efficiency. Its unique two-part construction, featuring a carbon fiber load-bearing piece, flexes on rough surfaces to keep you comfortably seated and capable of delivering maximum power. It can also accommodate the separately sold Syncros Campbell 20 Aero iL Rear Light, which provides 20 lumens of output for safe rides in all conditions. |
| Dropped Seatstays | The Scott Foil RC features dropped seat stays for rider comfort and improved aerodynamics. Angled at 10º, these seat stays channel the passing air into the spinning spokes, resulting in substantial aerodynamic benefits. This design also cleverly hides the disc brake calipers, reducing aero drag and contributing to a cleaner aesthetic. |
| Evo-Lap Technology | Scott applies Evo-Lap technology in designing the Scott Foil RC, using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software to simulate different forces on the frame and optimize the carbon lay-up. By modeling the frame and testing stress distribution in different areas, Scott has optimized carbon layers throughout the frame, creating a lightweight yet resilient structure. |
Where to buy
Scott retailers
- Scott retailers. Use this tool to find your nearest Scott retailers.
- Scott distributors. Use this tool to find your local Scott distributors.
Specialized shops
- Specialized online shops. Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States
- Specialized retailers. Use this tool to find your nearest Specialized retailers.
Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.
He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.