Luke McKenzie’s Scott Plasma 2
For our series "the bikes of the pros", we look closer at the Scott Plasma 2 of Luke McKenzie. The fast Australian switched mid season to this new ride and we wanted some numbers and details.
ST: Luke, what are the initial impressions of the new machine?
Luke: It was a big difference switching to Carbon after years of riding Titanium. I kept saying to Amanda on my first ride "it feels like I am riding on Silk"! For a TT bike it handles really well. I felt like I was on a road bike the first day I road in the mountains. The Plasma 2 is really light compared to other TT bikes. Even with training wheels my bike comes in around 7.5kg. Add the Zipps and we are looking at around 7kgs! My position hasn't changed any from my last ride although I instantly felt more comfortable on the Scott.
ST: Why the switch mid-season to a completely different bike?
Luke: I had been riding for my previous bike sponsor for four years. Unfortunately this year things didn't work out and we parted ways. Loyalty has always been so important to me so when it was time to change we went after the bike and components that I really wanted to ride not just what was on offer. Scott was my number one choice. I feel they are leaders in the triathlon industry and are showing the most commitment to progression in our sport. The Plasma 2 was a perfect fit!
ST: What can you say at this time about the SRAM Red components?
Luke: Love the SRAM! The shifting is awesome. It is my first time riding it and I have to thank Alex at SRAM for hooking me up to build this new bike. SRAM have really raised the bar since they have been into the road market and I am stoked to be riding with them.
ST: Your relationship with Zipp is new too. What is the word?
Luke: When I had a choice of wheels to ride on this bike I looked around at what was on the market and thought Zipp was the perfect match. Scott and Zipp already have a close relationship and I am looking forward to racing on them for years to come.
ST: You stayed with some FSA components. Can you share those reasons?
Luke: FSA has been a long time sponsor of mine and make quality products. I was comfortable in my aero bar set up and have always been a fan of the cranks so I thought "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Luke McKenzie bike details and numbers:
– frame: SCOTT PLASMA 2 LTD
– size: 54cm
– saddle height: 725mm ( A )
– saddle setback: 10mm ( B )
– cockpit (nose to extension tip): 750mm ( C )
– armrests to extension tip: 320mm ( D )
– bar drop: 100mm ( E )
– fork: Scott integrated
– seat post: Scott integrated
– saddle: Fi’zi:k Arione
– stem: FSA Carbon OS99
– bars: Vision Carbon Base bar
– extensions: Vision Carbon
– cranks: FSA Neo Pro Carbon 54/42 172.5
– rear derailleur: SRAM Red
– front derailleur: SRAM Red – shifters: SRAM
– cassette: SRAM 12-22
– chain: SRAM
– brake levers: Vision Aero
– brakes: FSA K-Force – wheels: ZIPP ZED 8
– tires: Continental Grand Prix 4000 Tubulars
– bottle cages: ZIPP Carbon
– pedals: Speedplay Titanium
