The YT Capra has been a firm favourite in the enduro segment since 2014 and has already had a few model cycles under its belt. The last update was in May 2021 and bears the name MK3. Three years ago, the geometry was updated and the typical silhouette with the asymmetrical bridge on the main frame was refined. The Capra is currently being ridden by German champion Christian Textor in the Enduro World Cup on the world's most exciting trails. A quick look at our geometry data measured in the test lab reveals that three years since the last update is a long time. The shortest reach, shortest wheelbase and slackest seat angle label the Capra MK3 as an old-schooler and fuel the desire for an MK4. But numbers alone are only half the battle.
As our test bike for 3499 euros is a limited edition Uncaged model and we were already in Kirchberg for the photo shoot of the riding photos at the end of 2023, the model is now sold out. As an alternative, there is the Core 3 model for € 3399, which rolls onto the trails with comparable equipment. The Core 3 can only be distinguished from our test bike with steel rear suspension by the wheels and the Fox Float X air shock.
For the fork, YT relies on the affordable Fox 38 with a simple grip cartridge and less powerful Sram Code R brakes. The whole thing is rounded off with a mechanical Sram GX drivetrain. In a direct comparison within the test group, this puts the affordable Capra in penultimate place in terms of component quality.
YT Capra Uncaged in practice: Intuitive handling...
Even though, or perhaps precisely because, Capra doesn't go to extremes in terms of geometry, the Enduro is wonderfully easy and uncomplicated to ride. One of the core competences of the bike from Forchheim is that you can sit on it and feel comfortable without having to get used to it. What's more, the rear suspension works very well and is absolutely plush.
The Capra is stable in all situations, but at the same time reacts quite sluggishly due to its high weight. Especially on flat sections, it is difficult to maintain speed and ride actively. The reach and the front end could be a little longer and higher for our taste.
Another point of criticism of the Capra is the limited freedom of movement. Due to the kink in the seat tube, the seat post cannot be lowered completely, which can restrict the range of action for riders with short legs.
... and efficient uphill
Despite the high weight and short reach, the Capra climbs quite well. The 50 mm stem increases the seat length and puts a little more weight on the front wheel when things get steeper. Even without the platform, the rear end doesn't pump much when pedalling.
This saves you having to reach for the shock and increases efficiency. There is another mounting point under the top tube to store a spare tube and cartridge. However, we will probably have to wait until the MK4 for a storage compartment.
Equipment of the YT Capra Enduro
- Fork: Fox 38 Performance
- Shock: Fox DHX Performance
- Gear system: Sram GX Eagle
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 32; 10-52 / 520 %
- Brakes: Sram Code R 200/200 mm
- dropper post/stroke: YT Postman / 170 mm
- Wheels: Crankbrothers Synthesis E
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai/Minion DHR II Maxxgrip/-terra Exo/DD 29/27.5 x 2.5/2.4
Measured values
- Total weight: 16.52 kg (without pedals)
- Weight of wheels: 5554 g
- Acceleration of running wheels: 4237 kg x cm²
Conclusion Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager
Even in its fourth model year, the YT Capra Uncaged remains competitive and fun to ride. Nevertheless, the bike has gathered dust in some places.
