Yeti left the Lycra game a good decade ago. In the current model range, the SB120 is the 29er Fully with the shortest suspension travel. However, even the SB120 with its elaborate Switch Infinity rear triangle is more suited to trail than cross-country use and takes after its big brothers, the SB160 and SB140. A lightweight full-suspension bike specially tailored for cross-country use was missing. Yeti has now closed this gap with the new edition of the ASR. The ASR has a Flex Stay rear triangle with 115 millimetres of travel and a 120 mm suspension fork.
Yeti ASR: Frame only 1448 grams
The new ASR is the most elaborate carbon project that Yeti has ever undertaken, according to its own statements. The result is the lightest fully in Yeti's long history. The centrepiece of the new ASR is a completely revised flex-stay design that meets today's kinematics standards and promises high sensitivity on small bumps, the best traction and good usable suspension travel. The ASR frame should weigh just 1448 grams in the lightest configuration without the shock. In order to realise this slim weight, a total of 36 different carbon layups were produced during development. Another aim was to develop the same riding characteristics for the individual frame sizes so that all riders get the same riding experience, regardless of their height. Each ASR frame therefore has a size-specific carbon layup in which the stiffness and flex of the frame are precisely adapted. The T-Series Ultimate takes weight optimisation to the extreme. It offers a special frame that is optimised for modern, wireless drives. There are therefore no unnecessary cable connections.
Of course, the geometry has also been optimised to be able to cope with modern cross-country courses. The ASR has a 66.5 degree head angle paired with a 75.5 seat angle. In size L, the reach is 465 millimetres long, which in combination with the 55 mm stem should result in a sporty riding position. For a balanced riding behaviour, the chainstay length grows with the rider. In frame size XS, it is 433 millimetres and increases to 441 millimetres in size XL.
Good usable suspension travel
To counteract the characteristics of XC shocks with a small volume, the kinematics on the ASR were designed to be linear. This is intended to avoid the strong end progression often found on race fullys. In other words, the ASR rear suspension should have a high degree of sensitivity and good usable suspension travel. Specially tuned Rockshox SID Luxe shocks with 40 millimetre travel are used on the complete bikes. The top model for 15,990 euros (yes, not a typo!) is equipped with the electronic Flight Attendant suspension from Sram. The T-Series and C-Series models feature a TwistLoc lockout with 3 positions.
Clever details
With space for two water bottles, the ASR is perfectly equipped for the greatest endeavours. In frame size XS, a 650 millilitre bottle fits on the seat tube and a 450 millilitre bottle on the down tube. The specially developed chain guide is efficiently mounted in the lower pivot point and offers a light, clean and effective solution. For improved durability, a cover protects against dirt in the joint gap. Despite its light weight, a down tube protector is also on board. The bolted bottom bracket also makes maintenance easier. The new ASR only has to do without a storage compartment in the down tube.
Prices of the new Yeti ASR
In Europe, the C2, T3 and T5 Ultimate models will be available from 1 April. The cheapest complete bike will be priced at 6290 euros, the most expensive version at almost 16,000 euros!
