Issue: January 2002, pg. 30
Price: $2799
Purpose: Dual-suspension trailbike
Contact: Yeti Cycles (303) 278-6909
A Value
B Weight: 24.5 pounds
B Frame design
C Fork performance: Manitou Mars Elite, 3" travel
C Rear suspension: Fox Float R, 3.7" travel
B Component selection
B Climbing performance
A Cornering ability
B Descending prowess
Test highlights: What makes the Yeti such a big hit is that it requires absolutely no acclimation. From the start a ride can jump aboard and ride flat out without hesitation. The simple suspension is a modified Mac Strut with a swing link. While the 3.5 inches of suspension travel smooths out the ride the AS-R still doesn't need a lockout to accelerate fluidly. The non-pivoting dropouts cause the suspension to tighten up under hard braking. The Yeti suspension pivots on plain bushings and longevity could be suspect.
Best quote: "It was one of those rare bikes that feels like you've owned it for a year with the first revolution of the cranks. Few true cross country racers imbue their pilots with a sense of invincibility like the Yeti does."
MBA's Bottom line: Well engineered and beautifully executed, the AS-R is definitely a keeper. It is perfect as a racing platform.
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