Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Ketchum Date Reviewed: May 8, 2002
Favorite Trail:
doesn't have a name
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
from a bonehead on mtbr.com
Strengths:
customer service, beautiful work
Similar Products Used:
Marin Team Ti, Fisher X-Calibur
Bike Setup:
two wheels and a handlebar
Bottom Line:
This review is about the customer service @ Moots. I bought this frame a couple of weeks ago from a classified ad here on mtbr.com. the ad said that the frame was in "Very Good" shape. When I talked to the bonehead selling it, he said everything was in great shape and made no mention of having clipped the derailleur on something hard enough to undoubtedly "air mail" his ass to the ground very quickly and almost rip off the derailleur hanger. When I received the frame, the first thing I noticed was the severely tweaked derailleur hanger and the egg-shaped hole that the derailleur bolt is supposed to thread into. This is a 2000 frame and does not have the replaceable hanger, so I thought that the only option would be to cut it off and weld a new one on. I called Moots and spoke directly with the person that performs such repairs. He said that in 99% of these cases, he can fix it without replacing it. So, I sent it to Moots, it was received, repaired, and shipped back out in the same day. Cost me a whopping $25. That's about as good as customer service can get. Thanks Bruce!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Marshall
a Cross Country Rider
from Steamboat Springs, CO, USA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
All of them in Routt County - especially the secret ones I can't tell you about.
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
$2300.00
Strengths:
Everything - period.
Weaknesses:
None - still
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS-1, Stumpjumper Pro M4, GT Xizang
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z2 Atom 80, Mavic Cross Max Tubeless Wheelset, Hutchinson 2.0 Mosquito's, Race Face Next LP Crankset, Shimano 858's,King Headset, Moots Hi-Rise Bars, seatpost, stem, Bontrager Ti seat, XT shifters/front derailleur, XTR brake levers/rear derailleur.
Bottom Line:
Follow-up review from July 2000 - still loving this bike - rode 1000 miles off-road summer 2001. Made some changes in bike setup since new - Zoke oil/coil, 858 pedals - but best addition was going tubeless - running the Mavic CrossMax/Hutchinson Mosquito combo - simply amazing - running 35 rear, 30 front psi it makes me a technical god on the trails - I slide up and over tree roots, rocks, everything without sacrificing handling/edging at speed around big sweeper corners.
Bike itself is still tight and I still love it - only maintenance I have had to do after 1500 miles is I replaced the soft-tail slider as recommended by the Moots/Sore Saddle guys at signs of appreciable wear (measureable mushrooming at full length of travel) - done in 5 minutes and the part costs $40.
Am thinking about the new Smoothie, though, adds a pound to the overall weight (I am at 24.5 now with the addition of the Zoke) but having dampening/rebound control of the pogo on your rear shock would be the only plus I can think of for the YBB.
If you have not tried one of these bikes, do it; this is the standard by which all other mtb's should be measured for the serious cross-country rider. It still allows me to ride serious high-altitude (10,000 ft.) 20 + mile rides almost every day - I am now 50 - and still function, work, etc.
It is not a race bike - they do have the YBB Air which seems to work well for that mode - but for most of us we are not racers anyway.
Buy it!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Levy
a Cross Country Rider
from Playa del Rey, CA USA Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001
It's hard to find components that are as good as the frame.
Bike Setup:
17.5", SRAM 9.0sl shifters, brake levers & rear der. Cane Creek Ti WAM wheelset w/ XTR cassette body, XTR cassette, XTR front der., XTR V-brakes, Moots Ti seatpost, stem and bars, Litespeed stubby Ti bar ends, Phil Woods Ti bb, Kooka crank, Raceface chainrings, 747s and a comfy saddle.
Bottom Line:
At the end of my first singletrack ride on the YBB I stopped for a few minutes to reflect on the experience - I was smiling ear to ear and my eyes were wide with amazement at how the bike literally straightened those nasty switchbacks and flattened the climb. It's a competent climber, it navigates singletracks better than any other bike I've ridden, and the combination of the rear shock and titanium do a wonderful job of taking the edge off road hazards. Others have used "telepathic" to describe the YBB's handling and I agree. Simply put - I love my bike and look forward to riding it as often as possible!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Stewart
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: March 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All Single Track
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
ABE
Strengths:
Build Quality, Durability, Telepathic Handleing
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Various hardtails and FS bikes
Bike Setup:
XTR and Race Face Components
Bottom Line:
I have owned this bike for over five years now and when I bought it was worth more than my car. It hurt to shell out the dough, but I have never regretted spending the money on this bike. If you enjoy long rides over varied terrain, enjoy climbing what you decend, and you want a bike that will never hold you back... then this bike is for you. The bottom line is this: If my Moots was stolen I would not even consider replacing it with anything but another Moots - even after five years. Can you say that about your current ride?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee Sindet
a Cross Country Rider
from Harmony, New Jersey Date Reviewed: March 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
They are all my favorite!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4900.00
Purchased At:
Sore Saddle Cyclery
Strengths:
Beautiful craftmanship, rigid and compliant at the same time.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Nothing is similar to a MOOTS!!!!
Bike Setup:
Answer ti lite limited edition fork, XTR, Chris King headset,Mavic UST, Moots stem,seatpost and handlebar.
Bottom Line:
I have had the pleasure of owning many high end bikes (Brew 200 Proof, Indepedent Fabrication Deluxe, Mountaingoat Wiskeytown Racer, ect.) but none have come even close to my 2001 Moots YBB! My first ride was a religous experience. The whole ride felt like the bike was five feet ahead of me. It wanted to go but I was holding it back. Going over rough terrain was like riding over water. When riding twisting singletrack, it felt as if the bike was on rails. If you can afford one of these go out and buy it today... heck, even if you can't afford one, buy it! The ride alone will justify your purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Thorsness
a Cross Country Rider
from Laramie, WY Date Reviewed: December 10, 2000
'99 Sid XC, Ritchey crank, Phil Wood bb, 8 spd XTR, Moots bar and stem, King headset, Bebop pedals
Bottom Line:
So, about three years ago I moved to a used Moots YBB -- a really old one, probably one of the orginal titanium frames. I thought I had died and gone to heaven -- what a great bike. Once I put a decent shock up front, it was a dream. For various reasons, I hooked up with a brand new YBB, a 2000 model. It's a whole new ballgame -- the new Moots is even better than the old one! The major difference is the lateral stifness of the frame -- it's just as vertically compliant (it smooths out the trail), but it tracks like nothing I've ever before experienced. The bottom line -- it goes where you point it, and it goes there fast. It's not for everybody, but it sure is for me.
Why is the YBB right for me? Well, I like to ride long distances. I like to ride up what I ride down. I like a bike that requires minimal maintenance. I like a suspension system that doesn't break. I like a constant seat-to-pedal distance when the suspension is active. I like investments that last for years and years. I like works of art.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin Ridgway
a Racer
from Overland Park, KS Date Reviewed: September 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Landal
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$6000.00
Purchased At:
the Bike Rack
Strengths:
rides fast and comfortable, climbs with ease, it's titanium with perfect welds and a perfect finish, custom bike
Weaknesses:
weight, the frame is around 4lbs. for a 19"
Similar Products Used:
99 homegrown fractory team 00 trek STP 97 k2 pro flex
Bike Setup:
SID race, racelite wheels, hutch. air lite tires, avid single digit mags, rf next lp cranks, rf ti bottom bracket, xtr cass, deraliers, chain, and shifters, speedplay ti frogs, king headset, moots ti post and stem, and moots carbon bars.
Bottom Line:
the bike weighs in at 21.5 lb. with all the choices moots gives you with stems and seatposts its a perfect fit. rear travel is just enough to ease the big hits. very few people own them. ouch! six grand on a bike to race and beat up! no it will not make you a better rider, it will just rule out any bike related excuses. buy this bike if you have extra cash to burn and love to ride, or your not afraid to pay for serious quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Marshall
a Downhiller
from Steamboat Springs Date Reviewed: July 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wyoming Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Everything! Silky ride, you flow like water down the roughest trails.
Weaknesses:
None that I know of save the price.
Similar Products Used:
GT Xizang, GT LTS-1, Specialized M4
Bike Setup:
XTR Gruppo, Mavic CrossMax Wheelset, RaceFace Next LP Crankset, Moots High-Rise Bar, Stem, and Seat Post, Shimano 747's, Bontrager Seat, Panaracer Fire XC Pro's, Marzocchi Z1 XFly Front Shock.
Bottom Line:
You truly get what you pay for! Wonderful machine. Living in Steamboat you are surrounded by people riding Moots' and I resisted for years because it seemed like a cult bike vs. a real mountain bike.
I had a full suspension GT LTS-1 which I sold to a friend and I still get to ride - that bike is a HumVee on the downhill, but the YBB is just a dream to ride for all-round riding and the (lack of) weight on the uphills - 23 lbs. vs. 28 lbs.- certainly makes a difference. Highly recommended.
I have been riding mountain bikes for 10 years and this is the best ride I have ever owned - not a competition downhill machine, but neither am I. At 48 I like to ride a 20 miler, up and down type trail and then go home. This bike keeps me from taking up golf!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tony
a Cross Country Rider
from so plainfield, new jersey, usa Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
round valley, chimney rock
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
* build quality (check out the welds) * super solid (but not harsh), no flex ride * moots customer service
Weaknesses:
* glass-bead finish wears off very easily (had to find something)
Similar Products Used:
none - first non-hardtail
Bike Setup:
xtr: shifters, f&r deraileur, ti rear cogs, cranks, b.bracket
zokie: z2 xfly
moots: flat bar, stem, layback seatpost
time: atac carbon pedals (fantastic)
cris king: headset
hope: xc4 disc brakes, xc front hub, xc ti rear hub
sun: ds1 rims
bontrager: jones kevlar f&r tires
wtb: sst.98 saddle
Bottom Line:
ok, let's remember here, we are rating a frame, not a bike. each setup is completely different from review to review, so it is not like we bought some homogenous trek or cannondale. that being said, this is a great xc "bike."
i love the setup, the hope brakes and the zokie fork are awesome! Make sure you get the IS mounts on the frame if you are going to use the hope XC4 brakes. The moots layback seatpost supplements the short travel rear to make for a really nice ride. The XTR stuff is nice but definitely not worth the extra bucks, but may as well go all the way IMO. custom wheels combo of hope hubs, sun rims, and jones tires is super solid (forget about king hubs, too wide, if you want to use the XC4 disc brakes).
the bike has tenacious hookup on the steep climbs and tracks very well on the fast technical downhills, it actually feels like it floats over the terrain. overall, just a solid, solid feel without the harshness of an aluminum hardtail. this characteristic is probably attributable to the properties of a ti frame and the rear suspension.
A few caveats to potential owners:
1) remember that you are not buying a plush long-travel bike or you will definitely be disappointed.
2) no, a $5000 bike is not going to make you a better rider than a $2500 bike would (or even a $500 bike for that matter).
3) this bike is not a superlight; mine weight about 25lbs with some pretty light components.
4) spend a lot of time on the fit. frame, stem, and crank size are extremely important when buying a bike this expensive (to a lesser extent seatpost and handle bar). sizing is where you will see the biggest difference between a custom bike and one off the rack.
5) be very careful in your choice of bike shop if you plan on buying over the web. yes it will definitely be about $500-$600 cheaper if you purchase it online, BUT, remember that there is a lot to be said for being able to physically take the bike to your local shop for fitting, tweaking and dealing with any problems you may encounter. i bought my bike over the web and had a less than satisfying experience. if you are going to buy over the web, i HIGHLY recommend speedgoat.com. these people know their moots builds backward and forward and the people there are GREAT. they are so cool that they kept giving me advice even though they knew i was not going to buy the bike from them (one of my biggest mistakes ever, dont ask what was going through my head). check out their "customer bikes" page, these guys build a ton of bikes for people all over the world, they have an almost cult-ish following, one that is well deserved.
6) i think someone else mentioned this as well, be ready to step up your game. i feel the pressure of trying to be worthy of such a bike on every ride, whether alone or not!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Harris
a Weekend Warrior
from TX Date Reviewed: June 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The one I ride the most
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I got the YBB over a year ago and decided to give it a year before I put a review up. When you drop that kind of coin on a bike, you expect a lot. The Moots exceeded my expectations. You're results may vary, but for me and the trails I ride, this bike is awesome.
Weaknesses:
Starting with $2,200 in an tax defered retirement account, over 20 years (at a rate of return 10% compounded monthly), you will save $16,122.
I may feel different in 19 more years, but that's going to be lots of sweet riding on my YBB. When I ride, I never think about how much it costs.
Similar Products Used:
I looked at and rode lots and lots of bikes before and since and some were "like a Moots", but they'll never be the real deal.
Bike Setup:
Superfly fork, XMax Wheels, Chris King HS, Syncros bars&seatpost, XTR, Cook Bros Cranks, Raceface BB and some more nice stuff. I'm not sure what it weighs, but it accelerates like a scalded dog and climbs like a rocket.
Bottom Line:
This bike really changes my rating system for this site. The YBB and the Chris King Headset are the only parts I've every purchased that deserve 5 stars.
It's that much better. Sure, there's a lot of things I haven't tried, but the Moots is in a class by its self.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Weekend Warrior
from Glens Falls, NY Date Reviewed: June 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
CRAFTSMANSHIP!! allignment is perfect which translates into perfect handling.
Weaknesses:
1+ inch of travel is not very noticeable under my 160 pounds. I know it is not a downhill bike, but I wish I noticed it a little more.
Similar Products Used:
DeKerf (great bike), Merlin (the bike felt out of shape).
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z2 Atom Bomb, Moots post and bars, LP barends, Chris King headset and hubs, Avid arch supremes and ultimate L levers, Mavic 517 CD ceramics, Ibis ti stem, WTB tires and saddle, XTR drivetrain, Time ATAC pedals.
Bottom Line:
I just shipped my bike back home after being away for a while. It had been two weeks and I still hadn't heard from UPS. When I called them with the tracking number they had no idea where it was. I had had it insured for 5K, not quite enough to cover the retail value of my bike, but close enough. I started looking around to decide what I wanted for a new bike. After hours of searching I realized I wanted my YBB back. I wouldn't trade that bike for anything else. It is the greatest bike I've ever owned. It actually makes me a better rider. The next day UPS found my bike. I love that bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Farmington, Ct. US Date Reviewed: May 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The handling is amazingly, just keep your legs moving and the bike will get you through all kinds of gnarly stuff. The front end has a super light feel that makes it very nimble and easy to get over logs and baby head rocks without sucking up to much energy. It seems perfectly balanced so you just stay seated and pedal. I was sorted of stressed about going from a real full suspension bike (Amp B4) to a soft tail, but I don't notice that big a difference. The suspension takes the harshness out of the trail. The YYB climbs like a rocket.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet. Remember it's not a super plush suspension bike
Similar Products Used:
rode a Amp B4 for about 4 years - went through about 20 rear shocks.
You get what you pay for - if you have the bucks go for it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent Wilson
a Cross Country Rider
from Vail, Colorado Date Reviewed: May 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fruita - Horsethief area
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Nimble yet stable, great climber, steady descender.
Weaknesses:
Costly (yet worth it)
Bottom Line:
After 3+ years, still the best bike I have ever ridden. That about sums it up. I love my Moots.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
louie
a Cross Country Rider
from Half Moon Bay, CA Date Reviewed: April 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
customer service, product support, workmanship, material
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
bridgestone hardtail, bianchi RC hardtail
Bike Setup:
19.5"(now called a 19") superfly fork, xtr brakes/shifters, white ind. hubs/517 rims, revolution spokes, white ind. cranks/bottom bracket, moots stem/post, flight saddle, easton bar, Icon bar ends. 22.4 pounds
Bottom Line:
After riding for a full year,I have to give my second imput. I think this is the sweetest bike out there for cross country riding, this is the last bike I will buy, the bike and rider become one, so sweet on single track, am able to stay in the saddle on rough cross country riding, great customer support. Expensive, yes, I would do it again. I do not understand the complaints about the price, you know going in what it cost.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jo Dean
a Racer
from Dallas, TX Date Reviewed: April 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
The geometry is far superior to all the other Ti bikes I researched before purchase, I love the welding on each & every Moots I have seen & so do non-Moots owners, esp Litespeed riders. The handling on the technical stuff is Zen like, one with the bike. Moots were the first with the soft tail design which has been whored about by other bike makers. Others may lust after the trendy Ti du jour bikes - go for it. Understated. I cannot see myself buying another bike! If you can afford one, take into account all the bikes etc you will probably own, go for it & get the BEST! If riding is going to church for you, here is your cathedral! The service I found to be so consistently helpful & patient, especially leading up to purchase as I vacillated about dolling out the $ & kept calling for info, putting off the purchase etc but they were super - and I have no regrets!! The after sales service is thoughtful - the guys call often to see how things are going. When my Moots was stolen they were extremely helpful (found 2 weeks later). I have found NO people who have trouble with the service. One guy who races State in TX even traveled from Houston to Steamboat to meet the guys & visit the shop after trying out my bike at a race & buying one, now that's satisfaction!
Weaknesses:
Au contraire mon ami - the service is GREAT! Maybe those who complain have some agenda & like most things in life you can't please everyone. Any reported bad service (...?..come on, I am sure every other brand POs more people in an hour) I recognize that the weakest product on the bike is ....me. A Moots is an elite bike and maybe on a lesser bike one may feel less responsibility for their potential - it's a choice.
Bike Setup:
Moots YBB SL, Moots Ti seatpost, SID shocks, XT 9 speed groupo, Serfas seat, Hugi hubs, Mavic wheel set
Bottom Line:
Handmade with heart, ridden with courage, owned with soul, Stop playing with the kiddies and get something real - a Moots - you'll discover more about yourself & about cycling.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jedo
a
from Sparta, SC Date Reviewed: April 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
There is not a weakness, superior craftsmanship, superior people there
Bike Setup:
XTR, Sid Race, Cane Creek, Race Face, Kings
Bottom Line:
It simply rocks, solid, stiff, just the right give. I can't gig some of these reviews....the people there are super solid and answered everything I needed. i had the same gig with Seven ...so there! I was told three weeks and it was taking over 2 months. Ifya know what you need, it just isnt too hard, yknow?? Ifya don't, then ask....but ask, I dont know any mind readers. Check out Woodys in TN, he'll hook you, and Ellijay and Mike P.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blake
a Racer
from Denver Date Reviewed: April 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Design and materials
Weaknesses:
Customer service and lack of consistent welds from bike to bike. Too much turnover of framebuilders
Bike Setup:
White bros. sc72, XTR crank with SRAM halfpipe and Sram levers with Avid mag brakes, crossmax
Bottom Line:
Moots makes a great bike, however, their customer sevice is woefully inadequate. Regardless of the problem they make it your fault. I know of at least 3 individuals who called Moots prior to buying and where so turned off that they went elsewhere.
Moots, Merlin and Seven are all targeting a similar markey, but Seven, especially, doesn't jerk you around with customer service. If I had to do it over again I would go with the Seven soft tail.
Let's face it, you are already spending $2300 on a frame with the Moots, what's the difference if you pony up another $400 on the Seven, plus you will get Custom geometry.
For Moots to survive, they need new direction in customer service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Maryland Date Reviewed: March 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Shults Tank, Flagstaff
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Awesome craftsmanship (sometimes I just stand there and stare at it)unbelievable handling.
Weaknesses:
What weaknesses?
Similar Products Used:
Litespeed Unicoi
Bike Setup:
SID XC, Hayes hydro disk brakes, King Disco-tech hubs with Valiant rims, RaceFace crank, XTR shifters and Rapid rise Derail., Kore stem, Easton carbon riser bar, Thompson post and WTB saddle.
Bottom Line:
I only have three rides on the bike, but I just had to send in this review. The bike is incredible! I'm not just saying that to justify my purchase. A previous reveiwer used the term "telepathic" and says it all in a nut shell. We ride a lot of trails with rocky technical sections and this bike allows me to clean more of them than I use to. About a year and a half ago I bought a Unicoi because I got a good deal. It's a decent bike, but the Moots is better and I'm glad I finally realized my dream. I let a friend ride the Moots and he came back, eyes wide, and just said "wow" and walked away. Mine 19.5" frame weights 24lb. with the Hayes brakes and light (500 gram) tires. With King "classic" hubs and v brakes, I think one could build a sub 23lb. bike without a problem. BTW, Hayes brakes are excellent and I don't regret the weight penalty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CHAD CAPECE
a Cross-Country Rider
from EASLEY S,C Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
ISSAQUEENA LAKE TRAIL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
NONE
Weaknesses:
TO EXPENSISEVE
Similar Products Used:
ALL MOOTS BIKES
Bike Setup:
STOCK FOR RACING
Bottom Line:
DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS BIKE UNLESS YOU LIKE WASTING MONEY
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross-Country Rider
from Tustin,Ca Date Reviewed: December 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Handling/geometry,awesome craftmanship
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
This is my first soft-tail. Most recent previous bikes: GT Zaskar (ouch!), Ventana Marble Peak.
Bike Setup:
White Bros SC72UL, XTR Rapid Rise (quit knocking it), Crossmax's, LP carbon post and bars, SDG, Time carbon's.
Bottom Line:
I wanted to build the ultimate bike. Only negative is that it ended up heavier than anticipated at a little over 23lbs. No big deal, because I still climb faster and more comfortably than w/ previous bikes, mostly because the fit/geometry is perfect for my body. I love the feel of the soft tail..not super noticeable, just enough to take the edge off. Compared to my Zaskar, it's obviously a more comfortable ride -and faster through downhill and technical/scetchy sections, but it's not comparable to a good full suspension bike in these areas. Reasonably light, very durable, great technical (climbing and decsending). Great race bike as well as all condition trail/fun.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dug
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver, Colorado Date Reviewed: November 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
colorado
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
awesome bike. period
Weaknesses:
none
Bottom Line:
BOB the rider who only gave the ybb 3 stars. As I understand it - he was trying to install an incorrect diameter seatpost into the 27.2 seat tube. He is blaming MOOTS. after umpteen calls, bob sent it back, a MOOTS 27.2 fit perfect. gosh>go figure. so did other 27.2's. The moots crew finally had it with this dude and basically told him so. They do NOT treat people like criminals, they just treat jerks,like.... well JERKS! (at least after the 20th phone call)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
All Moots
a Racer
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
18th Street Trail in Fruita
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Solid Performance, Perfect Welds, Acts like a hard tail climbing but smooths out the bumps
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Most Mountain Bikes
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, Sid SL, Carbon Bars, Ti stem & seat post, SPOX rims.
Bottom Line:
I have been searching for the right bike for a long time and I have finally found her. This bike does everything asked of her and more. You can't go wrong with it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ketchum,Id. Date Reviewed: October 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
hoo koo e koo to ind.fire trl.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
good all-around xc frame.
Weaknesses:
had a defective seat tube. terrible customer service at moots. they treat you like a criminal!
Bike Setup:
white bros sc-72ul fork, mavic 517 ceramics, shimano xtr
Bottom Line:
Dealing with the defective frame, and the arrogant attitude at moots surely offsets any gratification by owning this frame.i sure hope i don't have anymore warranty issues with moots!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eugene, OR Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Boyscout Loop - Brianhead, UT
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
It's perfect! Perfectly built Handles perfectly Finished perfectly
Weaknesses:
There's isn't one
Similar Products Used:
Seven, Merlin, Lightspeed, DeKerf
Bike Setup:
YBB, Marzocchi Z2 Atom Bomb, XTR drivetrain, Avid brakes and levers, Chris King headset and hubs, Mavic rims, Ibis Ti stem, Moots Ti post and bars.
Bottom Line:
Obviously Brett and Mark have never really ridden one of these bikes. As for the price - it wasn't like you bought it and then they told you the price. You knew how much it was and still bought one. If you couldn't afford it that's your fault. Besides, this bike is a bargain it rides so well. As for the finish - you will never find a better finished Ti bike than a Moots. If they want to attack the Moots to make their inferior bike look better that just shows how pathetic they are. Those of us that actually own one of these perfect bikes know that there is nothing better.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bret
a Cross-Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: September 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The Outback
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Fine finish, Light weight, Good product rep.
Weaknesses:
Price,price price
Similar Products Used:
Dean Jester
Bike Setup:
Full xtr, chris king, kore elite stem, thompson elite seatpost, race face cranks.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. The ride is plush, and the welds are magnificent. Others are just not comparable. Feels like a hardtail on the straights, flies like a full sus when downhilling. However the price is a killer and has set me back for to months
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eugene, OR Date Reviewed: August 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
I like most trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Unbelievable craftsmanship. I have not seen any other Ti bike that can compete with the Moots on quality. Plus, Moots has been doing this design longer than anyone else in the business.
Weaknesses:
I really don't see price as a weakness for this bike. In fact I see the YBB as a bargain.
Similar Products Used:
DeKerf, Dean, Seven, Merlin.
Bike Setup:
Atom Bomb, XTR drivetrain, Avid Arch Supremes and Ultimate L Levers, Chris King hubs and headset, Mavic Ceramic rims, Ibis Ti stem, Time ATAC Carbons, Moots post and bars, WTB tires and saddle.
Bottom Line:
Okay, so I got the YBB mostly because I thought it was a cool bike. I didn't honestly think it would be noticeably better than my previous ride ('97 Rocky Mountain Thin Air with upgrades - for sale). I finally got to put this bike to a true test on the McKenzie River Trail here in Oregon (see the cover of this month's Mountain Bike Magazine). I figured the rear suspension would only contribute to comfort. It's amazing what it does for control and handling. This is far and away the best bike I have ever ridden! I was able to climb almost effortlessly. There was a noticeable improvement in descending. I felt like the bike did everything I asked of it. Handling was nearly telepathic. This is not a light build. My YBB weighs about 24.5 pounds. I don't know how it is possible to build a 20 pound bike. I'm using fairly light parts (aside from the shock) and it's still heavy for a five + thousand dollar bike. However, it rides very light and handles like a dream. I won't need to buy a new bike for a long time because Titanium is so durable (after my first major ride my chainrings were scratched to hell, but there wasn't a mark on the frame). But, I won't want to buy a new bike for a long time either because I can't imagine a better bike coming along any time soon. I hope this does away with any doubts anyone has about this bike. It is the first bike I've ever owned that made me a better rider.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BC
a Cross-Country Rider
from Morristown, NJ Date Reviewed: August 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Welds, Craftsmanship Geometry Handling
Weaknesses:
Cost, Cost, Cost
Similar Products Used:
Various
Bike Setup:
White Bros SC72UL, Chris King hubs w/ Mavic 517s, Time ATAC Carbon, Gripshift Plasma, XTR derailleur, Moots stem, laidback seatpost
Bottom Line:
The bike is phenomenal. The strengths are many - incredible singletrack bike, softtail design is easy on the back, sticks on the climbs, etc. The bike does exactly what it is intended to do - fly on cross country courses. It is not a downhill bike but still is a quite capable descender. I just completed the Leadville 100 where the bike performed flawlessly. It never slipped out on a climb (even with Bontrager Revolt SS tires) and stayed with full suspension bikes on the downhills (even rocky, washed out, sandy downhills).Is it worth the money? I have no regrets. Like most high end products, I'm sure you could find a similar product for less but there is only one Moots. This bike is right for the person who wants a light bike (23 lbs - ignore the people who say theirs weighs under 20 lbs), likes the idea of a smooth hardtail, disklikes the bouncing of some full suspension bikes, likes to sprint down singletrack, and has $4 - $5k to make their dream come true.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gordon Schuck
a Cross-Country Rider
from Steamboat Springs, CO Date Reviewed: July 29, 1999
Titanium, steel and aluminum hard tails and full-suspensions.
Bike Setup:
XTR, Rock Shox SID, Moots stem and Post.
Bottom Line:
Living in Steamboat, you can't shake a stick without hitting a Moots. I am somewhat of a retro-purist, simple is better. It was my belief that hardtails are always going to be faster than suspension bikes and more nimble in technical singletrack. Well, eventually I started listening to all the soft-tail proponents and decided to take the plunge. It was the best move I made. I worried about excessive power-robbing bobbing during climbing but provided you have a relatively smooth pedal stroke this is not a problem. If anything, you can go faster because the YBB takes the edge off the bumps. I was also concerned about durability. Well, let me just say that we have a local race series and there are Moots of every vintage racing, even 10+ year old steel ones! And since the Moots is a pivot-less design, it's virtually maintenence-free. So in summary, after almost two years of nay-saying I have finally seen the light...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BBN
a Cross-Country Rider
from TEXAS Date Reviewed: July 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
HILL COUNTRY NATURAL AREA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
FLAWLESS WORKMANSHIP, GEOMETRY, ALL AROUND XC PERFORMANCE
Weaknesses:
PRICE-BUT YOU DO GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR
Similar Products Used:
DBR, BARRACUDA, ALPINESTAR FS, YETI HT
Bike Setup:
XTR FD, SRAM BRAKE LEVERS/SHIFTERS/RR DER, SC70UL, SYNCROS BB, KING HUBS ON VALIANT RIMS,IBIS BAR/HYPERENDS, KORE STEM, SYNCROS POST, WTB98SST, ARCH RIVAL 50'S, ETC.
Bottom Line:
I READ EVERY REVIEW IN MTBR/ELSEWHERE AND RODE THIS FRAME BEFORE PURCHASE AND HAVE READ ALL OF SAME SINCE THEN AND HAVE TO RESPOND TO SOME OF THE NEGATIVE REVIEWS I'VE SEEN HERE. LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD-IF A FREERIDE BIKE DIDN'T CLIMB VERY WELL BUT DESCENDED LIKE IT WAS ON FIRE, WOULD YOU GIVE IT A ONE BECAUSE IT WAS A POOR CLIMBER-HELL NO. YOU'D PROBABLY GIVE IT A FIVE BECAUSE THAT'S WHY YOU BOUGHT IT-TO FLY DOWNHILL. SO CONSIDER THE IDEAL USE FOR A YBB-ALL AROUND XC. NOT THE BEST, BUT VERY CAPABLE IN EVERY VENUE. AT 185#, I HAVE FOUND MY 19.5 FRAME LATERALLY STIFF AND OTHERWISE COMPLIANT BUT NOT SLOPPY IN THE BACK-AND THE SC70UL IS PERFECT UP FRONT. I CAME FROM A GOOD FS RIDE WITH 2.5-3 TRAVEL FR/RR AND LIKED IT A LOT, BUT DON'T EXPECT SAME CHARACTERISTICS FROM MOOTS. FOR THE REASONS I BOUGHT IT-LIGHT WEIGHT, RELIABILITY, EXCELLENT HANDLING AND SUPERB WORKMANSHIP-MOOTS GETS FIVE BIG ONES. TAKE ANOTHER LOOK AT YOUR ORIGINAL CRITERIA AND SEE IF IT STILL GETS A 'ONE'.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: July 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Slickrock
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I hate hype but this bike is so smooth. The combination of the Ti and the rear travel make this the best feeling bike I have ever ridden. It by no means feels like a FS bike(which I am not a big fan of). It just feels like a tremendously smooth hard-tail. It climbs great and carves up single-track like nothing else. I couldn't be happier. By the way, people that ride hard-tails off huge dropoffs are idiots.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Slaughter
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eugene, OR Date Reviewed: July 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Boyscout loop, Brianhead, Utah
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
beautiful craftsmanship. Owning the original and still the best
Weaknesses:
As one friend put it, that's a lot of money for a bike nobody's heard of.
Similar Products Used:
DeKerf, Dean, Litespeed, Seven, Merlin.
Bike Setup:
Atom bomb, XTR and a lot of REALLY nice parts.
Bottom Line:
I had wanted to wait until I got my bike entirely built up before placing a review (it will be done in about a month) but I had to respond to those people that chose to use this forum as an opportunity to attack something they can't have. This is, without a doubt one of the nicest bikes on the planet. Everyone knows that it is absurd to give this bike anything less than 4 stars. If I misuse a Ferrari and use it in a Baja race and it gets a dent does that mean the Ferrari is not good? Of course not. It would mean I was an idiot. However, this is one burly frame, so I question the honesty of some of these tales. The Moots YBB rocks and everyone knows it. So let the detractors try and asail its perfect reputation. Those of us that are lucky enough to have this bike know that there is nothing better. Long live Kent and Mr. Moots.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Cummings
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: July 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything on or around Mt. Tam
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Craftsmanship (oooh the welds!) light weight absorbtion all around bodaciousness
Weaknesses:
None (but it ain't cheap...)
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Ventana
Bike Setup:
Manitou SX Carbon XTR Chris King wheels & headset WTB Stealth pedals & SST 98 saddle Bontager Jones tires
Bottom Line:
Unbelievable. I've been reading about and lusting after the YYBeat for several years now, but nothing prepared me for how amazing this bike is in person. It has all the control and efficient energy transfer of the best hardtail with just enough bump absorbtion in the rear triangle to take the edge off all but the gnarliest bumps. And, it climbs like a demon, accelerates like a rocket, and handles like a thoroughbred. The turkeys who gave this steed 1 chili below should be shot. It's great not having to worry about buying another bike again. Ever!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from columbia,mo Date Reviewed: June 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
craftsmanship, weight,climbing, handling
Weaknesses:
none- best bike I've ever owned
Similar Products Used:
Otis Guy Ti-Guy Homegrown FS Super V Ibis Szazbo Trek Y33
Bike Setup:
Superfly fork, xtr group,king headset
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! I'm 6'4 and 195 lbs, but my 22 YBB makes me feel like Pantoni on the hills. I've experienced no problems at all with this bike being too flexy which is saying quite a lot for someone my size riding a ti bike. I've owned several high-end custom road and mountainbikes in the past, and I can say without any doubt that the construction of this bike is beyond anything I've ever experienced...pure artistry. The bike is obviously not designed for downhillers, or for extreme use... if that's what you're looking for, buy an Intense, or look at the Moots mootaineer. If, on the other hand,you're looking for something that levitates itself up hills and handles singletrack as though on rails, you won't be dissapointed with the YBB. All my riding buds have tried my bike and are saving up their coin to buy one too.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
louie
a Cross-Country Rider
from half moon bay, CA Date Reviewed: June 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
material,workmanship,factory support/help,ride
Weaknesses:
none at this time
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
19.5 frame, superfly shock,moots stem/post, white bottom bracket and crankset, mavick rims and white hubs, xtr brakes and shifters
Bottom Line:
this is my first softail bike, having a bridgestone ridgid and then a bianchi reparto corso hardtail. the ybb is a sweet ride, first time out I could not believe how smooth it was, it cuts single track without any input, bike and rider become one. As of this time it is the best riding bike I have been on.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver, Co Date Reviewed: May 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
excellent workmanship, company experience, smooth, yeyt hardtail-like ride
I totally disagree with the guy who gave this bike a 1. He acted as if the YBB is supposed to be a full sus bike! If you want full suspension, look elswhere. The YBB is meant to be a smoother riding hardtail. I haven't owned my frame for very long, but I've put lots of miles on it. I race often, and ride 4 times a week. I have ridden this machine over hairy drop-offs, through rocky descents, and on smooth hardpack in Colorado, and I have no complaints other than the price tag (though I hope to make up for it by riding this thing forever). My bike weighs 22.5 lbs thanks to the 3.83lb frame, and it feels much smoother than my harsh, rigid CAAD3. The effect of the rear shock is a dampening effect. It deadens the blows enough so that you don't get that tinge in your tail bone when you really nail something, but it is far from being a power-robbing FS bike. It may not make a good bike for heavier riders because the flexy rear triangle also has some lateral flex. I give this bike 5 chilis, and I won't count off for the price because it is worth it if you are a serious XC rider that wants something that will last.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tone
a Cross-Country Rider
from SF,Ca Date Reviewed: April 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
One of the best damn bikes I have ridden.
Weaknesses:
Weaknesses??
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey Softtail(I own)
Bottom Line:
I was looking through the reviews and I was suprised to see that the Moots didn't have a 5.00. I found out that Ryan was the evil one who has soiled the GPA of this lovely bike. I am supposing that he is more into the Caddilac bikes as opposed the the McLarens of the bike world. I suppose that he can post whatever he choses but it is unfair to expect a racer/trail bike to ride like a nice, soft, comfortable, ride the chairlift, mountainbike park bike. I do admit that the luxury bikes are nice to ride, because of the reduced skill/work required to ride them(kinda relaxing), but don't expect it to ride the same as an all out performance bike. On the Moots you can tell whats happening under you, and thus must know how to handle it (which is part of the fun of riding)just like the McLaren (which I will never be able to drive)which requires a driver that knows what the hell he is doing to fully enjoy it and use it the way it was ment to be used. I don't own a Moots, which is a good thing because it rules out cognitive dissonance, I own a Ritchey Sofftail. The only reason I got a Ritchey is because its steel and I like his steel version better, but if i ever buy another MTB it will probably be a Moots or maybe a Custom HT.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert O
a Cross-Country Rider
from CDM , CA. Date Reviewed: March 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
Ryan,learn to ride. If had a dime every time I passed a kook like you on the trail ( on my hardtail) I would be a rich man.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thako
a Cross-Country Rider
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: March 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
River Bottoms MN
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Even with the large frame size I still get a sub 24Lb bike. Quick accelerator, climbs like goat wheels, easy on the back. Never let you down kind of a bike.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
I've owned a Bontrager Race, and a Trek 850. None come come close to the Moots. I haven't ridden any other soft-tails, but I've seen litespeeds offerings and the welds just don't compare.
Bike Setup:
Riding a Judy SL with Englund Total Air, basic XT setup, Ritchey WCS OCR wheelset built by Dan The Man at Grand Performance in MPLS. The shock tops out kind of annoyingly but really works well. The air cartridges need loving hands though. Keep checking pressure and tightness etc. Very light though, and great on the trail...very nice feel when you can't feel the bumps right?
Bottom Line:
Ryan is dead wrong and that's not an opinion! I rode that Trek 850 for 3 years, jumping, trialsin, etc. And you know what, the full suspension guys were always the ones wussing out on the air...all decked out with all the gear. you see the conditions weren't what they were used to. I'm going to take up this word...yep they were Ryaning. The Moots is awesome. Be realistic, it doesn't claim to have mega-travel. It is what it is and it's very nice indeed. So to be fair to this product, I give it what it deserves, five chiles all the way.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from So Cal Date Reviewed: March 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
Having read Ryan's review, it becomes obvious why companies such as Specialized continue making soft, bouncy, special bikes - Ryan has most certainly fallen on his head so many times that any technical skills he once had are now gone. My YBB is the greatest thing on 2 wheels. I recently rode the Kokapelli's Trail from Grand Junction to Moab with about 10 other riders. Most had Spec. FSR's, Klein Mantras, etc., primarily bouncy kid's bikes. The guides both rode hardtails. On a particular stretch of downhill called the Rose Garden (not because of the flowers, only 3 people stayed on their bikes. Every one of the Ryans had to get off and walk their plush babybouncers down the hill (some even slipped even walking.) Ryan has criticized the Moots (or the Merlin counter-part) simply because he is unable to handle it. Other than that, he knows nothing about the bike. The Moots is the best handling, best built, best designed mountain bike around. It is lifetime guaranteed. (I'm sorry, what did you say about your warranty Specialized?) I believe that the word whining should be replaced by Ryaning and that perhaps people in general with poor technical (or other) skills should be referred to as Ryans.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a cross-country rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: March 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
Softails are not for everyone. If you ride it like a FS bike, you're asking for trouble (see Ryan below). If you actually know how to ride though (grew up on full rigid bikes), want a little more comfort and traction than a hardtail, and don't want the extra weight, maintenance and complexity that a FS bikes brings, then pony up the $$$ and buy a YBBeat. I've been riding mine for about 9 mos now (having switched from a Klein Mantra, and fully rigid bikes including Salsa and Curtlo before that), and I can say that it is PERFECT.Again, if you don't know how to pick a line or ride soft...buy a FS squishy bike (like Ryan). If you DO understand the subtlties and want the best, get a Moots.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sparky
a
from racer Date Reviewed: February 15, 1999
Bottom Line:
First a comment on Ryan's useless drivel below. The Merlin Echo is NOT the same bike as the Moots YBB. If you're going to spew garbage, at least do it in the appropriate review section. The ONLY similarities between the two are the frame material and the suspension design (you know, kinda like DBR and Specialized are similar designs, but still different rides...magic isn't it?). The Moots and Merlin differ in EVERY aspect of frame geometry not to mention the subtle differences. With that said, it is hard to determine whether the MERLIN review was placed here out of laziness or ignorance. Judging by the no hope for pivotless rear suspension comment, I would have to vote for the latter. As for the review, the Moots is far from the design that Ryan claims. It's pretty obvious that those with real knowledge ie. Ruthie Mathes, Tom Ritchey, Merlin, Litespeed, Dean, know a good thing when they see it. There are few companies' products that set the standard in design and reliability that others are judged against. The King headset is one, and the Moots YBB is another. It is a perfect example of the whole being greater than the sum of the parts. The modified Breezer dropouts stiffen up the rear end torsionally and allow a greater weld purchase from the chain and seatstays. The wishbone design accomodates the suspension system and stiffens the brake platform. The tube selection is modified according to the frame size, as is the suspension setup. But the ride quality is better than the collection of details can explain. It's lightweight, efficient on the ups, fast on the downs, and comfortable on the epics, without the penalty of pivot maintenance or weight. No other frame I have ridden is as much fun as the Moots, period. And no other company has been as easy to deal with.I wish I could give it ten chilis to balance the BS post below, but 5 will have to do.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a racer
from Colorado Date Reviewed: February 12, 1999
Bottom Line:
Costly yes...worth it? Positively. This is the finest bike I've ever ridden bar none. Climbs great, tracks really nice, great, great workmanship. If you want THE cross country bike...look no further than a YBB. I could not be happier with the bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from Albany, NY Date Reviewed: January 25, 1999
Bottom Line:
Came into some cash and decided to spec out a new ride. I was riding a Specialized Stumpjumper which I liked ok but decided to go deluxe. Narrowed things down to a YBB based on reviews, word of mouth, and my riding style. Make no mistake, this bike is HUGELY expensive and I was suffering a bit of buyer's remorse right after the sale but once I got in the saddle and took that first ride..............man........heaven! Wow what a difference from the Stump. This bike handles so nicely--very responsive, light, easy to manuver, and that rear suspension is just enough to smooth out the ride. The craftsmanship of the bike is second to none---beautiful. I get this huge shit eating grin whenever I look at it. After i've pumped sufficient mileage I will post another review but for now I LOVE IT. Thanks Moots.....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry Baumbach
a cross-country rider
from Penna. Date Reviewed: December 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
Coming from a hardtail background, this bike sure gives my butt a break. Beautiful welds Nice overall finish. Great on technical single track as long as the rocks aren't too big. Climbs great , handles quick. Does it make me a better rider? Maybe. For the price? After all it's only a toy anyway.
Overall Rating:
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