FREERIDE trail bike test 2022YT Jeffsy Core 3

Laurin Lehner

 · 31.10.2022

FREERIDE trail bike test 2022: YT Jeffsy Core 3Photo: Wolfgang Watzke
The YT Jeffsy from Forchheim celebrated its premiere in 2016. That was a long time ago. The YT designers made the last update in 2019. At 14.7 kilos, the Jeffsy Core 3 is more than a kilo heavier than its mail-order competitor, the Propain Hugene, but still comes in second place in terms of overall weight.

The geometry can be adjusted using a flip chip, allowing the already steep steering angle (66°) to be steepened by a further 0.5°. The stroke is slightly reduced in the slack setting. On the trail, you hardly notice the YT Jeffsy's impressive reach. All testers liked the geo straight away. Striking: The Jeffsy Core 3 rides very quietly (we love it!). The trail bike steers directly through turns, always reacts predictably and quickly gains the rider's trust.

Celebrity tester Steffi Marth tips over the drop with her favourite test bike.Photo: Daniel RoosCelebrity tester Steffi Marth tips over the drop with her favourite test bike.

The suspension of the YT Jeffsy works on a similar level to Propain and Specialized, but differs significantly in character. The Jeffsy is not a comfort miracle, but it provides pleasant feedback and gives you that race feeling. On rough, fast sections, we appreciated the sporty counter-pressure and quickly felt comfortable with the Jeffsy Core 3. The geo supports the rider with a plush feel and a high front end. On tour, the Jeffsy pedals well uphill with its steep seat angle. The three modes in the shock could be better defined.

The YT Jeffsy allows a lot of speed, the Sram G2 can't keep up. Otherwise, we really liked the spec of the Jeffsy. Availability is currently good according to the manufacturer's website. The Trailduro is due to get an update in 2023. 
Photo: Wolfgang WatzkeThe YT Jeffsy allows a lot of speed, the Sram G2 can't keep up. Otherwise, we really liked the spec of the Jeffsy. Availability is currently good according to the manufacturer's website. The Trailduro is due to get an update in 2023.

STRENGTHSChassis, geo, price/performance

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WEAKNESSESWeight, brake

Conclusion

The YT Jeffsy Core 3 is the raciest bike in the test. It has a sporty, plush suspension, a comfortable geometry and enough playfulness for the undulating home trails.



Alternative to the YT Jeffsy Core 3:

The entry-level model Jeffsy Core 2 is already available for 2999 euros. The aluminium Jeffsy is available with either 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels. According to the manufacturer, the 27.5-inch version with Fox Performance suspension comes in at 15.1 kilos without pedals.

Entry-level model YT Jeffsy Core 2 for 2999 eurosPhoto: HerstellerEntry-level model YT Jeffsy Core 2 for 2999 euros

Technical data YT Jeffsy Core 3

Manufacturer information

  • Distribution YT Industries GmbH
  • Material / Sizes: Carbon / S, M, L (tested size), XL, XXL
  • Price / weight without pedals: 4199 euros / 14.7 kg

Medical data

  • Front / rear suspension travel: 150 mm / 150 mm
  • Rear suspension system: four-link
  • Reach: 468 / 474 mm
  • Stack: 630 / 625 mm
  • BB drop: -31 / -24 mm

Equipment

  • Fork / Shock: Fox 36 Float Performance Elite / Fox Float DPX2 Performance Elite
  • Cranks / gears: Sram Descendant / Sram GX Eagle
  • Brake system: Sram G2 R
  • Wheels: DT Swiss M 1900 Spline 30 system wheelset
  • Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHR II Exo Protection 2.4 / Maxxis Minion DHR II Exo Protection 2.4
YT Jeffsy Core 3 - Geometry dataPhoto: FREERIDE-TestabteilungYT Jeffsy Core 3 - Geometry data
YT Jeffsy Core 3 - Riding behaviourPhoto: FREERIDE-TestabteilungYT Jeffsy Core 3 - Riding behaviourFREERIDE test judgement YT Jeffsy Core 3Photo: FREERIDE-TestabteilungFREERIDE test judgement YT Jeffsy Core 3

Statement from Steffi Marth, racer and guest tester:

If I had to choose a test bike to race on - I would go for the YT Jeffsy. I like the geometry and the direct, aggressive suspension, which generates a lot of propulsion. The Jeffsy is still playful enough. My favourite.
Steffi Marth, racer and FREERIDE guest tester (height: 1.72 m)Photo: Daniel RoosSteffi Marth, racer and FREERIDE guest tester (height: 1.72 m)

Born in South Baden, Laurin Lehner is, by his own admission, a lousy racer. Maybe that's why he is fascinated by creative, playful biking. What counts for him is not how fast you get from A to B, but what happens in between. Lehner writes reports, interviews scene celebrities and tests products and bikes - preferably those with a lot of suspension travel.

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