The Nukeproof Scout 290 Race: A hardtail, but make it rad

A graduate from the school of gravity, this aggressive long-travel trail hardtail is a finely tuned weapon prime for attacking trail.

There’s a reason the Nukeproof Scout has earned a cult-like following.

The bike fosters creativity on the trail, pushing even the most technically capable riders to see new lines and find ways to be smoother, faster and more aggressive. In a mountain bike world hyper-focused on big bikes and bigger travel, there’s something special about a bike that cuts through the noise and gets to the core of what really matters — getting out and having an absolute blast on the trail.

How it Rides

Tweaked to be the finest vintage of Scout, this third generation of the frame features some slight changes from its predecessor — namely in tweaks to the geometry and small (but notable) refinements to the frame.

The seat tube and head tube angles are updated, we’ve added frame protection in critical areas, given it a Universal Derailleur Hangar and bettered its ability to run a wide variety of tire sizes. Small changes, yes; but why make big changes to something that’s already so damn good? All added up, these little tweaks have led to the most refined Scout yet.

We’ve also developed a new pedaling position based off our Saddle Offset Principle, which adjusts seat tube angle across the size range to ensure the seated riding position is perfect, no matter the rider’s height. Built around a 130mm fork, 29-inch wheels, size-specific chainstays and an aggressive trail-oriented geometry, the bike feels planted but playful in terrain typically above your average hardtail’s paygrade.

Those with sound bike handling skills will reap the benefits of the Scout’s playful nature and burly attitude, and those looking to improve will find a bike that challenges them to find flow through the most chaotic trails. No matter how you’re looking to use it, one thing’s for certain: Don’t underestimate what this hardtail is truly capable of.

The humble hardtail: Often overlooked, but not by us.

The Nukeproof Scout 290 Race Component Details

RockShox Recon Silver RL fork
Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain
Shimano MT4100 2-piston brakes
Nukeproof Neutron V2 29-inch tubeless wheels
Schwalbe Magic Mary Snakeskin 29x2.35 front tire & Nobby Nic 29x2.35 rear tire

Material	6060-T6 Triple Butted Aluminium Alloy
Fork Travel	0/30mm(RS)
Axle to Crown	395mm/425mm(RS)
Fork Offset	48mm
Wheels Size	27.5''/700c
Max Tyre Size	700Cx45C / 650Bx47C (700x40C WITH MUDGUARDS)
Headtube	IS42-28.6 Top - IS52.1/40 Bottom
Seatpost	31.6mm
Seat Clamp	34.9mm
BB	Threaded 68mm BSA
Hubs	100x12mm Front /142x12mm Rear
Axles	M12P1.5120L Front / M12-142P1.5161L Rear
Chain Guide	N/A
Brake Mount	Flat Mount
Protection	3D Contoured Rubber Frame Protection for CS