As with the predecessor model, Scott relies on the same carbon frame for the new "Contessa CR1" that is also used for the "men's" CR1. This shows all the experience Scott has gained with the material as a leading supplier of carbon frames: high rigidity, low weight, good damping on the saddle. The Contessa bike is characterised by its tasteful design and a few details such as the uncranked seat post and the short stem - both of which shorten the distance between the saddle and handlebars. This does not make the bike unsporty - on the contrary. As one tester put it: "This bike is not for pleasure riders." She meant that in a positive way. The Contessa is a well-rounded package thanks to its high-quality equipment, with the only drawback being the somewhat simple tyres. The rest is almost perfect.
Purchase/info: Scott Sports AG, phone 08131/31260, www.scottsports.com
Weight frame/fork/ headset bearing*: 1.029/404/65 g
Frame sizes**: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Seat/ steering angle: 74.5°/73.5°
Seat/ top/ head tube: 520/535/145 mm
Wheelbase/caster: 971/54 mm
Stack/reach***: 557/378 mm
EQUIPMENT
Fork: Scott
Steering bearing: FSA, 11/ 8 inch
Brakes/gears/bottom bracket: Shimano Ultegra (50/34 t.)
Wheels/tyres: Shimano Ultegra/Continental UltraRace
Handlebar/stem: Scott/Scott
Saddle/post: Fizik Vitesse CP/Scott (31.6 mm)
*Weighted weights; **Manufacturer's specification, test frame size greased; ***Stack/reach: projected vertical or horizontal dimension from centre of bottom bracket to top edge of headset cap
