In fairy tales or historical reports, it is always said: "Once upon a time... the bike manufacturer YT had just hatched from the egg and brought a dirt bike onto the road that was as fitting as it was cool called "DIRTLOVE". In the year of the gentleman (and lady) 2008, the Dirtlove offered an affordable, high-performance dirt jump frame. This hardtail - almost "historic" by bike industry standards - has evolved into an aluminium platform that is getting an update right now, today and in 2024: welcome to the now, new YT Dirtlove AL.
DIRTLOVE is the bike that put YT on the map, and I'm stoked to be part of that legacy. Being given the freedom and opportunity to take the platform to the next level is the dream, and I can't wait to see where it takes me this season. - Erik Fedko, YT MOB Athlete
(Translated: DIRTLOVE is the bike that made YT famous, and I'm stoked to be part of that legacy. Getting the freedom and opportunity to take the platform to the next level is a dream, and I can't wait to see where it takes me this season).
If you would like to clarify an important question in advance:
>> DO I NEED A DIRTBIKE? 7 dirt bikes at a glance
Or as an alternative:
>> DIRTBIKE FROM EUROPE: The new XPro Digga Cream
And we recommend a tip for your next trip:
>> Rock it! 14 hotspots for dirt bikers
Overview: The models of the YT Dirtlove AL 2024
The YT Dirtlove CORE 1 in Bruise Purple is the entry-level model in the series and features a Manitou Circus Expert suspension fork, a Sram Level brake (160 mm), 165 mm Sram X1 cranks, Maxxis DTH tyres and a YT handlebar with 30 mm rise.
In the most innocent Dove White comes the YT Dirtlove CORE 2 and is equipped with a Marzocchi Bomber DJ suspension fork, Sram Level T brakes (160 mm), brand new DT-Swiss D1900 wheels and Sram Descendant cranks.
The Forchheim-based mail order company is also launching the limited edition YT Dirtlove Framekit in the colour Phoenix Red, just like Erik Fedko rides. Phoenix? Fire and ashes? Wasn't there something? That's right: each paint job is unique and uses a Bunsen burner to create a special smoke effect on the frame. This makes every frame kit unique and provides the ideal starting point for your custom builds.
Frame & features
Erik Fedko was involved throughout the development phase of the YT Dirtlove AL and helped the Forchheim-based manufacturer to mould the frame with tight geometry. YT says the Dirtlove carries the typical features of a YT frame, including the characteristic YT headbox design and the hydroformed aluminium tubes. You won't find any bulky gussets (reinforcements).
With the short 375 mm chainstays, you can quickly reach the manual. The bolted and sliding dropouts with built-in tensioners ensure a bombproof connection and reliable chain tension. The cable routing is optimised for use with the Title G1 Gyro system, which is compatible with the existing Cane Creek headset and spacer setup. Bar spin, olé!
Two sizes are available ("regular" and "long"), which should fit riders from 150 cm to 200 cm. With its adjustable dropouts and size-dependent chainstays, the YT Dirtlove AL should make it easy to find the right balance point.
Weight, geometry & price
- YT DIRTLOVE CORE 2 AL: 11.6 kg - Dove White - 1399 Euro
- YT DIRTLOVE CORE 1 AL: 11.8 kg - Bruise Purple - 999 Euro
- UNCAGED frameset: 2.5 kg - Phoenix Red - 499 Euro
Marc Strucken
Editor
