Yeti returns to cross-country with the ASR – its lightest full-suspension mountain bike yet

Many years have passed since we last saw a new Yeti cross-country bike, but we have one for 2024 in the shape of the completely redesigned and modernised Yeti ASR.

The new XC bike is set to hit the market in six distinct builds and a frame-only option.

Three models – the C2, T3 and Ultimate – plus the T-series frame will be available in the UK towards the end of April.

Yeti ASR frame and suspension details

In alignment with industry trends, the ASR comes with 120mm travel up front and 115mm at the rear via a single-pivot suspension system, enhancing the bike's adaptability on contemporary XC circuits and rugged terrain beyond the race course.

Geometry and kinematics have been tweaked to cope with modern XC tracks, aimed at producing a bike that can handle drops, rail corners and take on rock gardens without losing the pedalling efficiency needed to win races.

The top-spec T-Series T5 Ultimate is tailored for wireless drivetrains and comes with the new Flight Attendant suspension system, eliminating the need for unnecessary cables and ensuring the lightest frame possible. Yeti claims this to be its lightest full-suspension bike yet.

Designed for versatility, all frames accommodate chainrings ranging from 28 to 36t (38t MD-XL), while the provision for two water bottles on the frame caters to those wanting to push the distance.

Mechanics will also appreciate the absence of headset cable routing on any of the models, along with the inclusion of a threaded bottom bracket, making servicing straightforward.

Optional custom chain guides and an integrated rear mudguard add the finishing touches to Yeti’s latest offering in the realm of short-travel full-suspension bikes.

Geometry

The ASR comes in five sizes, ranging from XS to XL, accommodating a height range of approximately 4ft 10in (147cm) to 6ft 7in (200cm).

Regardless of size, all variants feature a 66.5-degree head angle, giving the ASR a slightly more relaxed feel compared to other 120mm cross-country/downcountry bikes such as the Orbea Oiz, which boasts a 67-degree head angle.

Across all frame sizes, the seat tube angle remains consistent at 75.5 degrees.

The bottom bracket sits at 335mm for all sizes, which Yeti says is the ideal height for clearing rocks, but still sits below the axles for a planted feel when hitting corners at speed.

Reach measurements are on the smaller side compared to the likes of the newly released Specialized Epic 8 and the Scott Spark RC. The Yeti ASR size large comes in at 465mm, while the Specialized and Scott are both over 470mm in large (475mm and 471mm, respectively).

Spec and pricing details

There will be six models on offer, alongside a frame-only option priced at £3,799 / $4,000.

Four will have Yeti’s Turq carbon-series construction, while the remaining two feature the C-Series carbon frame.

All models come equipped with a threaded bottom bracket and 148x12mm Boost dropouts, and are outfitted with SRAM groupsets and RockShox suspension systems.

The T5 Ultimate XX SL Transmission stands out for its wireless setup, eliminating the need for cable ports on one side.

This build also boasts the new wheelset from DT Swiss, the XRC 1200. Constructed with asymmetric carbon rims, straight-pull spokes and DT 180 hubs with ceramic bearings, the wheelset weight is claimed to be 1,303g.

For those looking to customise their ride further, upgrades are available on all models, except for the T5 Ultimate XX SL Transmission.

You can opt for upgraded wheels for the Turq series models or enhanced suspension for the C-Series bikes.

Yeti ASR Turq T5 Ultimate XX SL Transmission

• Frame: Turq series carbon fibre
• Fork: RockShox SID Ultimate Flight Attendant 3p, 120mm
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant 3p
• Drivetrain: SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission
• Brakes: SRAM Level Ultimate
• Wheels: DT Swiss XRC 1200
• Tyres: Maxxis Rekon 2.4in EXO (f), Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35in EXO (r)
• Post: SRAM Reverb AXS 31.6mm / XS-SM:125mm, MD:150mm, LG-XL: 170mm
• Price: GBP £13,999 / $13,900

Yeti ASR Turq T3 XO Transmission

• Frame: Turq series carbon fibre
• Fork: RockShox SID Ultimate 3p remote, 120mm
• Shock: RockShox SID LUXE Ultimate 3p remote
• Drivetrain: SRAM XO Eagle AXS Transmission
• Brakes: SRAM Level TLM
• Wheels: DT Swiss XM1700 30mm
• Tyres: Maxxis Rekon 2.4in EXO (f), Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35in EXO (r)
• Post: Fox Transfer SL Factory 31.6mm / XS-SM:125mm, MD-XL: 150mm
• Price: GBP £8,399 / $8,600

Yeti ASR Turq T4 XX1

• Frame: Turq series carbon fibre
• Fork: RockShox SID Ultimate 3p remote, 120mm
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate 3p remote
• Drivetrain: SRAM XX1 Eagle
• Brakes: SRAM Level TLM
• Wheels: DT Swiss XM1700 30mm
• Tyres: Maxxis Rekon 2.4in EXO (f), Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35in EXO (r)
• Post: Fox Transfer SL Factory 31.6mm / XS-SM:125mm, MD-XL: 150mm
• Price: US $7,900

Yeti ASR Turq T2

• Frame: Turq series carbon fibre
• Fork: RockShox SID Ultimate 3p remote, 120mm
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate 3p remote
• Drivetrain: SRAM XO1 Eagle
• Brakes: SRAM Level TLM
• Wheels: DT Swiss XM1700 30mm
• Tyres: Maxxis Rekon 2.4in EXO (f), Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35in EXO (r)
• Post: Fox Transfer SL Performance Elite 31.6mm / XS-SM: 125mm, MD-XL: 150mm
• Price: $7,200

Yeti ASR C-Series C3 GX Transmission

• Frame: C-Series carbon fibre
• Fork: RockShox SID Select 3P, 120mm
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Select 3p
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission
• Brakes: SRAM Level TL
• Wheels: DT Swiss M1900, 30mm
• Tyres: Maxxis Rekon 2.4in EXO (f), Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35in EXO (r)
• Post: Fox Transfer SL Performance Elite 31.6mm / XS-SM: 125mm, MD-XL: 150mm
• Price: $6,600

Yeti ASR C-Series C2

• Frame: C-Series carbon fibre
• Fork: RockShox SID 3P, 120mm
• Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Select 3p
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle
• Brakes: SRAM Level TL
• Wheels: DT Swiss M1900, 30mm
• Tyres: Maxxis Rekon 2.4in EXO (f), Maxxis Rekon Race 2.35in EXO (r)
• Post: Fox Transfer SL Performance Elite 31.6mm / XS-SM: 125mm, MD-XL: 150mm
• Price: GBP £5,499 / $5,600

Yeti ASR T3 XO Transmission ride impressions

I took the ASR T3 XO Transmission, in size large, for a quick spin on a cross-country loop in South Wales, enduring over an hour of blustery weather and persistent rain.

The conditions made for a challenging ride for my first impression of Yeti’s new cross-country bike.

What initially struck me about the bike was its compact feel, despite riding the recommended size for my height of 5ft 11in.

While it never felt too short, I noticed a more forward-leaning position compared to other cross-country bikes I've ridden.

Yeti's emphasis on a 'forward bias' geometry for responsive steering and predictability became evident during my short time on the bike.

The ASR felt like a decent climber, although traction was a struggle due to the adverse conditions and inappropriate tyre choice.

The Maxxis Rekon Race on the rear had difficulty finding grip on wet rocks and slippery roots, hindering a clear assessment of its climbing capabilities.

On the descents, the ASR excelled. Pointing it downhill and leaning into berms instilled confidence as I sped down the trail.

The 120mm of fork travel provided ample support, with the rear end offering notable compliance over rough terrain and small bumps.

After a long, rough descent, I noticed some buzz through the fork, leading to hand fatigue.

However, it takes me a while to dial in my settings, so this may be mitigated with more time to set up the bike to my preferences.

The three-position lockout, operated via the bar-mounted TwistLoc remote, proved intuitive to use.

Due to the terrain, I opted to keep the suspension open for the entirety of the ride. However, experimenting with the lockout in the car park revealed its effectiveness and ease of use.

While the SRAM Level TLM two-piston brakes performed adequately, I found myself craving more stopping power, particularly in the wet conditions.

Nonetheless, they got the job done without making the ride nerve-wracking.

Although the front end appears cluttered with cables, the absence of headset cable routing is a trade-off I'm willing to accept.

The top-spec T5 model, designed for use with wireless drivetrains and droppers, offers a cleaner, lighter bike at a higher cost.

In my brief time with the ASR, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and recognise its potential to excel between the tape. Stay tuned for a comprehensive review of the Yeti ASR later this year.