Strength and travel are king here. Our exclusive Yeti/Easton RAD tubeset has been specially designed for big hit riding. The Active Suspension design and Progressive 5th Element shock allow an amazing amount of adjustment and tuning, and the OnePointFive head design adds maximum strength and steering precision. Our unique head tube design can also fit standard 1-1/8” forks.
Submitted by
Aaron Suits
a Weekend Warrior
from Roseville, California, USA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Livewire, Karpiel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
The Hub
Strengths:
Great Freeride bike, Pops up very easily, ok climber, pretty good race bike too.
Weaknesses:
135 mm axle
Similar Products Used:
Demo's, sx trail, every other yeti, stinky's, and High Octane's
Bike Setup:
Everything stock, but new pedals and el camino's
Bottom Line:
It's a very good bike that does what ever you want it to do. It can take a beatin but still run. So buy it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Miha
a Downhiller
from Slovenija, EU Date Reviewed: January 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Kranjska Gora
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
www.idsport.si
Strengths:
Bike is awesome FR bike, really stiff, and responsive. Climbs OK and descent is great...
Weaknesses:
i dont see any
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Gemini 900
Bike Setup:
marzochi 66RC, FOF 5.0 DHX, shimano XT, Hayes 9.0...
Bottom Line:
Gerat fully drive good, good climber, i think marzzochi 66 RC is great choise to for the baike. I recomand this bike all who like to bike uphill ejoy the nature and have a realy good time when they have to drive downhill bike is great even for bigger jumps and technicly pretendes sectors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
glenn gasson
a Weekend Warrior
from Old Blighty Date Reviewed: June 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
GR5 (Alps)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bromley Bikes
Strengths:
Handling, looks, exclusivity
Weaknesses:
rear seems to flex a little when you push it (although this may be my cheap maxis tyres flexing) gona put some sturdier sidewalled tyres on, so will see if it still flexes (a mate has the same bike with same tyres and has the same problem).
Similar Products Used:
SC Bullit & Heckler
Bike Setup:
2004 Black ASX (M) with 5th (TF tuned), Shermans 7", Hpoe Mono M4's with Goodrich hoses, Hone crank, RF s/post, Hope hubs on mavic 321's etc, etc. Had the rear shock tuned at TF tuning it works so much better than the stock shock, anyone in the UK with the same bike/shock sent it to time for a custom tune, you wont be disapointed.
Bottom Line:
This bike is the best fullsus bike I have ever owned (ive owned quite a few over the years - Bullit, Heckler, Big Hit, Superlight, Tracer, Kona Stab.) it climbs ok and handles technical single track superbly, on my first ride a mate who was looking at trading his old Bullit in had a go, a week or so later he had brought a ASX - proof that this bike rocks. It is a superb all rounder if you endure the climbs but love descending. I would definatley buy anothetr if I need to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nolongerayetifan
a Downhiller
from CHICO<CA Date Reviewed: September 16, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Yeti
Strengths:
was cool till it broke...light weight, tough?, uh..
Weaknesses:
Ruined the wheeles my first day out-got new wheels i'm pretty sure the rear triangle was mounted incorectly because it appears a bit crooked. i've ovalized my 7" pivot hole my FRAME SNAPPED right near the rear derailer on hte drop out!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Yeti Kokopelli
Bike Setup:
factory stock
Bottom Line:
i worshiped my bike until yesterday. basically the frame should not break, especially since the ride i was taking it on was not that brutal...hopefully yeti will replace the frame. i bent the rear triangle on my kokopelli, and the wanted nothing to do with me.."sorry man it's not our fault the frame bent" what the hell is that...this "reputable" company is OVER rated. I did get it through a Pro Deal though, so it was good for the amount i paid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Murphy
a Weekend Warrior
from Anchorage,Alaska,USA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Alaska mountain bike source
Strengths:
everything about this bike is strong
Weaknesses:
bolts coming loose every now and then so I had to order new bolts from yeti and then use lock tight to hold the bolts in place.
Similar Products Used:
2002 giant ac2,raleigh ram
Bike Setup:
17.5 inch Yeti ASX frame,XT R/D,LX F/D,XT shifters,5th Element shock,Sherman breakout fork,Hayes purple hydralic disc brakes,Maxxis 2.35 high rollers,Alex ESD25 antisnake bite downhill disc wheels,Truvativ Hussefelt cranks,Kona platform pedals,Thomson elite seatpost,Azonic seat,FSA stem,Yeti lockon grips,Cane Creek DoubleX headset,and lizard skin fork boots and shock cover.
Bottom Line:
This bike is assume. So far I havent done too much but a few jumps and drops. This bike just sticks on drops with no bounce and it is also very smooth over everything from small bumps to big g outs and hughe rocks. Under hard braking the suspension stays active. This bike jumps incredibly smooth and lands even smoother. Despite weighting in at around 40 pounds it still pedals very well and only shows any kind of bob when I stand up and mash on the pedals in an uphill effort and this can be adjusted by twisting down the beginning stroke compression on the shock. I also havent dropped a chain yet while riding this bike so I don't see the need for any kind of chain guide in the future. The bike also looks killer and it draws a lot of attention. So the bottom line is that if you want a bike that can do everything is strong as hell looks great and not everybody has one then this is the bike that you need.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jamie fenn
a Downhiller
from aspen colorado Date Reviewed: April 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
moab dh trail on the rim
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1.00
Purchased At:
not tellin
Strengths:
this bike is a yeti...really plush and great for jumpin and its ok for climbin
Weaknesses:
notin
Similar Products Used:
yeti dj
Bike Setup:
asx,triple 8, mavic deemax wheelset, yea yea yea/and the rest
Bottom Line:
this bike is perfect for dh or cross country...just matters at what you set your bike up to be. I love it for what i do-downhilling- but i also got a yeti dj bc i have alot of pedal bob because of the pedal bob from fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fatman
a Downhiller
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: February 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Lizard Rock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2875.00
Purchased At:
SIC Bikes
Strengths:
Stiff, Plush, Awesome build quality, Very stable.
Weaknesses:
A bit on the heavy side, but that's because it's so burly. I also bought this frame to put my spare parts on, but ended up buying all sorts of stuff to go on it.
Similar Products Used:
Gemini, GT DHi, AC1, DH Comp
Bike Setup:
Large Gravel frame,boxxer teams,Azonic bar & stem, Saint 165mm cranks,Sram X.0 rear with X.9 triggers,Minion tyres, Yeti Grips, Navigator 6 piston hydraulic brakes.
Bottom Line:
This bike has impressed me no end, I bought a Gemini for the same uses as this puppy but the AS-X makes the Gem feel as stiff as a wet noodle. The travel feels bottomless and it pedals pretty damn well for a bike this heavy. I have never felt instantly comfortable on any bike before this one. I would reccomend this bike to anyone who wants a damn tough freerider that could handle the odd DH race with ease.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrell
a Downhiller
from NC Date Reviewed: February 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Bee-hive/sink-hole
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
adrenaline bikes
Strengths:
This bike is awesome FR bike, really stiff, and responsive. Climbs OK. Price is right.
Weaknesses:
Dogbone linkage will wear out real quick if you are hardcore, and the !@@#$#@@## will not warrenty it. But you can fix their design screwup for only $80.00. Also the front derailuer is hard to adjust, due to clearances.
Shiver DC, raceface and xt drivetrain. hayes 8", Maxxis highrollers, d321 4x with woodman hub in rear, doublewide 3x with sunringle front.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that this bike is awesome for a freeride bike, and can be built up from the low 30's and up. The 5th element is awesome, and after riding about 50 miles a week , the only problem I have run into is the linkage wearing out from a bad design,(it's been fixed for 04), and they will not warrenty it. If your wanting a free 8, this is the bike to buy if you can't find one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a Weekend Warrior
from Swampscott Date Reviewed: November 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1299.00
Purchased At:
www.bikemedics.com
Strengths:
1.5 head tube 71/2" rear travel 5th element shock Sherman Breakout plus
Weaknesses:
hard to change sping on rear shock
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit ,Titus Quasi Moto, Balfa BB-7 ,Tuner RFX
Bike Setup:
Sherman 1.5 Breakout plus hayes brakes scram attack thumb shifters( love them) Xt del , ryno light wheels , Kenda Stickee tyres, Thompson 3/4 offset seatpost, Race face Dioblo 70mm stem, Azonic Bars, Truvative Craanks and BB
Bottom Line:
This is the 04 model ASX updates include 1/2" more travel less leverage on the rear swing link beefed up shock mounts on top tube . This bike is everybit as good as the the Bullit with the addition of 1.5 head tube and a stiffer rear end as well as a tad lighter (with out all the cool colors choices)bike builds up easily around 37lbs and pedal a lot lighter. Can take just about any thing you can dish-out Big drops steep downhills and freeriding. Its the perfect combination of durabily , realativly light (9lbs for frame and shock)and good value. Just plain fun to ride
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kornphlake
a Downhiller
from Hesperia, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2.00
Purchased At:
go ride
Strengths:
I put this bike together with the parts I had and added what I could afford, however the strengths lie in the frame itself not in the components. It's pretty stiff for a FS bike, pedals okay, feels comfortable at any speed, the rear derailur cable routing is cool... it says Yeti
Weaknesses:
I don't like the way this bike makes me keep spending money, first it was a super T, then new tires, new shifters, new bla, bla, bla. But the ride just gets better and better
Similar Products Used:
bullit, enduro, gemini
Bike Setup:
Super T, Rhynolite XL, FSA V drives, custom bashring, XT derailurs, deore shifters, Avid mech brakes, diabolus stem, ea70 bar, sram pc-59 chain, maxxis tires, cane creek XXc headset
Bottom Line:
it's a good bike, I wish the rear end was a little more compliant over small hits but it may be due to the shock setup I have righ now. I kind of feel like the 1.5 thing is just a hoax because this bike really wants a 7" DC fork, but it seems to be working out okay. I was mislead by Yeti's website that claims their unique headtube design allows for use of a 1.5 or 1.125 fork, really they mean one company makes a headset that will accomodate either and a couple of other companies make chintzy adaptors, nothing too unique there. I haven't tried the 6" setting yet and I don't think I'll need to, I find ways to bottom the 7" so I guess I need all of it.
The bottom line is that I was expecting a little more out of this bike. don't get me wrong I like it and as the first FS bike I have ever owned it is probabally the best I could have gotten for the price but somehow I expected it to feel magical or something which it simply doesn't. I do like it better than the other bikes I test rode with the exception of the bullit which I feel is quite comparable only without the versatility of a 1.5 which may become an issue in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yetifan
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: September 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Yeti.
Strengths:
This bike rules, I've been riding it now for 3 months, every weekend,and at least twice in the week, despite the fact its a heavy bike to pick up (mine is about 38lbs) means ZERO, it pedals very very easily, and has made me leave my XC bike in the garage! Downhill its amazing and super stable. I love the 5th E shock and the Shermans are great.
Weaknesses:
I've not really found any yet, stock tyres are not so good?? Oh and rear hub came loose once, but not again.
Similar Products Used:
~Kona Stinky- Lawwill is that similar??
Bike Setup:
Shermans, Hayes, XT, Truativ, 5th Element, RaceFace post, Yeti grips and seat, WTB tyres, Yeti rims and Hubs.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great, and I'm not saying that because I love Yeti's! I had to pay money for it,and will rate it accordingly. I have heard about the oval dog bone problem, BUT the link should not be under any pressure to do this, mine is fine, and I think it could be down to the bolt coming loose. Time will tell, but the bike seems super tough. I love the looks, and the way it rides, and the brakes, everything is great. www.yetifan.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from North Carolina Date Reviewed: September 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Go-Ride, Utah
Strengths:
Indestructible construction, Versatile headtube(1.5,1 1/8), 5th Element, 4 bearings at main pivot, and most of all, excellent attention to detail, design.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Ellsworth ID, Giant AC
Bike Setup:
Sherman Breakout, Mavic DeeMax wheels, Hayes Mag brakes, XT, Race Face Diabolus stem, Atom Lab pedals, WTB saddle
Bottom Line:
I was waiting as long as possible to right this review so I could give an accurate account of the bike. I was prompted a little early though by the review a couple of posts down. The fellow who claimed this is an XC bike and not a freeride bike. He is ,IMO, way off base. This is a freeride bike in every sense of the word. I had a SC Bullit last year, a bike many consider a freeride standard. This bike is every bit the equal of a Bullit with a couple of nice additions. Notably, the swing link reduces lateral flex on the rear end and the 1.5 headtube gives you more fork options. The problems he had with the swing link hole ovalising sounds like poor riding skills to me. I haven't heard of that happening to anyone else-ever check your linkage bolts for torque? Anyway, sorry about the rant, I just thought some facts needed clarifying. I can't say enough good things about this frame, it simply rocks!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Downhiller
from UK Date Reviewed: August 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light weight for the amount of travel. good value for money. looks really sweet.
Weaknesses:
bushings collapsed in forks - has been fixed. blown fifth element after 1 month. - has been fixed ovalised 7" pivot hole (has happened to others AS-X's.)- not been fixed
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, RM7, Big Hit, Supercross, Joker, Stab.
Bike Setup:
XTR, woodman, RaceFace Diablus BAR n Stem, Northshore Cranks, signature DH BB, MRP, HOPE M4's and Bulbs on 521's
Bottom Line:
NOT A DOWNHILL/FREERIDE BIKE. its a sheep in wolves clothing just an xc bike
If you bottom out the bike too often it will result in you ovalising the 7" pivot hole. (apparantely not covered under warranty)
If you are feeling a rattle in the back of your AS-X take a look there.
Other than that huge gripe. It looks trick as hell, rides good, the head tube is just trick as - just a pitty i am getting rid of mine after only two months after waiting months for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a
from Grand Junction, CO Date Reviewed: August 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Holy Cross
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Ruby Canyon Cycles
Strengths:
Everything! This bike kicks a**. It climbs like a 30 pound XC rig, and then descends like a demon.
Weaknesses:
FSA Pig headset. (barely sealed?) I don't care much for the ARC wheels.(bearings developed play quickly)
Similar Products Used:
None. (recent HT convert)
Bike Setup:
Stock plus FSA's cartridge 1.5 headset, FSA's freeride stem, Specialized BigHit h-bar, FSA's Ti BB, Mavic CrossMax XL wheelset.
Bottom Line:
Killer all purpose, all mountain, all day trail bike. This bike does it all! It takes the abuse and just wants to be ridden faster. I have been a professional bicycle mechanic for six years and have never been this stoked on any bike ever before. The last and ONLY bike you'll ever need.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a
from Pisgah Forest, NC, USA Date Reviewed: August 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
All of Pisgah national forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline bikes
Strengths:
Eats up the trail bumps and drops like they are not even there. 20mm front axle + 6" Sherman fork + 1.5" head tube + 31.88 mm handle bars = the most solid bike I have ever ridden. No bob on pedal stroke, although bobbing doesn't bother me that much anyway. My yeti ASR bobs but I don't even notice it. ASX is a Very cool looking bike. Progressive 5th element frame shock works hassle free. 2003 ASX main pivots and rear triangle create a very smooth and solid feel. This bikes pedals so smooth and absorbs everything. You just pedal and point it. Do not bother to pick hard tail lines, it will go over it if you pedal and point it.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet except uphill climbs are a bit more laborsome.
Similar Products Used:
Yeti ASR, but this is only a 4 inch cross country bike. No comparison to the ASX with 7 inches of travel in the rear.
Bike Setup:
Black ASX, manitou sherman breakout, 5th element shock, Bombshell fatboy wheelset, tioga 2.3" tires.
Bottom Line:
A bit heavy compared to my Yeti ASR but I have traded some added weight for some of the best on the trail action that I have ever experienced. Let's face it, the most fun part of a ride is not a gravel road climb, but single track and downhill. Which is more dangerous, climbing a fire road at 6 mph or dropping a wet, mean, rock ladden section in Pisgah? Which makes more sense, going uphill a tad faster without any added safety/fun or riding faster and feeling way more secure on single track and downhills? This bike lets you ride over roots, rocks, logs, etc at a way higher speed at twice the confidence level of a cross country bike. I know this because I have owned a super light Ti Litespeed hardtail and a Yeti ASR. I don't ride either of those bikes anymore. Once I got a taste of the Yeti ASX, I was spoiled forever. It seems many people are scared to ride a heavier bike, but I can tell you this, once the climb is over and you hit the single track or the descent, you will not want to ride any other bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
B-don
a Downhiller
from Omaha, NE (yeah that's right, nebraska) Date Reviewed: July 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
hmm... my fav's not in state
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
the Bike Way
Strengths:
It is quite laterally stiff, which is helped by the swing link. The frame design/5th element setup actually allows it to pedal really well. Though I haven't taken it off any huge drops to flat yet, it absorbs the big hucks and bumps like it should, and it is still pretty compliant over the little bumps. The swing link setup also helps with making the shock more progressive and helps to take care of single pivot characteristics. Frame build quality and attention to detail is first rate; they even face the brake mounts at the factory.
Weaknesses:
I can't complain about weight because it is built strong to be strong. One thing that isn't really a weakness but should be noted is that while the 5th element works wonders in keeping the wheel on the ground and helping pedaling stability, it feels less playful than other shocks, and it takes a while to get used to the feeling of it in order to be able to load it up to hop and such.
Similar Products Used:
most of the good small company, american made stuff available
Bike Setup:
Sherman up front, hope Big'un hubs and M4 brakes, truvativ cranks/BB, easton carbon DH bar, the usual high end stuff all around etc.
Bottom Line:
I am not truly a straight up downhiller. I use it as a great all around bike that can still hang with the baddest rides out there. The point is that I could only afford to build up one badass ride, so it had to be able to do anything. It's expensive, but still way less than anything else anywhere near it in quality, so I gotta give it a 5 for value. Frame buid quality is really amazing, with beautiful welds, formed tubing, and the YETI name stamped on everything. The way I have it built up it's pretty damn heavy for a do anything bike, and I am no longer the first one to the top of the hill; what's important however, is that I CAN pedal it to the top, and usually I'm not in too much more pain than the guys on the XC rigs. But on the way down the hill; it's all worth it; nothing but grins. I would definately buy this bike again, but I better not have to, or the guy that steals it will be in the ICU.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bunny Hopper
a
from California Date Reviewed: July 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
This bike/ machine is build like a brick s!@#house. The geometry and stlye far surpass its competitors in the same category. The 5 element in one word..."plush". I can't believe how fast this set-up allows you to go. Speed is not an issue... it's unlimited. As far as stlye is concerned, the combination of the green upper half and black bottom is a real head turner. Some might confuse it with a 125cc without the engine. :) I think the real eye catcher is the bright and shiney 5th hovering between the two massive green girders.
Weaknesses:
It could be considered a litle heavier than an XC if your chichen legs weren't conditioned.
This bike rocks! If you're lookin to throw down a few grand on a ride, this ones worth considering. Stepping it up to a free ride is the only way to go. The 03'Yeti ASX allows you to climb the uphills and bomb da down hills. Cause as we all know...that's what's all about, da downhills.
Life’s too short to deny oneself from the extreme pleasures of a solidly built toy. "Keep Riding"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph Foster
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: June 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
dakota ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
singletrack
Strengths:
everything.
Weaknesses:
FSA headset
Similar Products Used:
Nothing is like this bike.
Bike Setup:
mani-ton one point five, diabolos stem, stock yeti really
Bottom Line:
This bike is everything. It really is that good, eats bumps, the fifth-element is amazing, the maniton is more than I need, did anyone say plush yet? Rides like a Cadillac. My bike built is fourty one pounds, but it rides like a lot of 30 pounders, the bike has an incredible balance, at home in tight winding singletrack as well as huge drops. Everyone complains about the climbs but...well climbs will kill on anything with this much suspension, I don't care what it is. This bike has made me a better rider. Look at how much people say about this bike. We can't gloat enough. Only four chili's cause the price was way over my budget, but worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kartman
a Weekend Warrior
from manila Date Reviewed: June 15, 2003
Favorite Trail:
tagaytay
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
velo city
Strengths:
-plush plush plush! -hardly any pedal bob. -quiet (hardly any chain clatter, especially in stutter bumps). -very stable on descents. not skitterish on loose gravel -no brake jack
Weaknesses:
with my set-up, not the best bike for climbing (as my leg cramps will attest) but hey, that's not why i bought this puppy!
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
03 jr. t, race face/shimano drivetrain, avid mech brakes
Bottom Line:
best bike for the buck! i'd recommend it to anyone who wants to upgrade to a full suspension rig.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from westchester new york Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
dear ear
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
yeti
Strengths:
beautifully built bike. stiff front end. Good parts spec. pedals pretty good, I am very suprised an happy with its climbing ability
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
sherman breakout 1.5, yeti freeride kit, switched out wheels for King iso disk and rynolite xl rims
Bottom Line:
bike goes down hill super smooth. have done 6 foot drops with no problem. bike pedals pretty good for its weight. I manage to get up everything, but it is painful at times. Almost bought an ellsworth joker 1.5 but am glad I bought the yeti. I use the sherman in the 5 inch travel mode on technical single track. The bike seems to handle much better in the 5 in mode.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Weekend Warrior
from Denton, TX Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Troy Bilt, Fruita, CO
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Mad Duck Adventure Sports
Strengths:
Stiff rearend, stable handling, superb build quality, fit and finish top shelf, components are correct for the intended application, no creaks, squeaks or rattles. Very solid bike.
Weaknesses:
If I have to come up with one....the paint seems to chip fairly easy, but That kind of thing isn't a real concern to me.
Similar Products Used:
2001 AS-X, Balfa 2 step, C-dale gemini
Bike Setup:
03 AS-X in orange, Hussefelt 28/38/bashring cranks, Mavic Dee-Max UST wheelset, Hayes 8" hydro's, XT shift and der, Lock on grips, XT cassette, Conti 2.3 tubeless tires, Time Z control pedals.Total weight: 37.8 pounds
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review.
I have been riding this bike almost daily for a little more than 3 months now, and I am just as impressed as I was on the first day. On technical terrain it just swallows up rocks, mows over roots, and takes sudden drops without breaking stride.
Although long, steep climbs will take their toll, the downhill and technical abilities will more than make up for it. A quick note: my cranks are 28/38/bashring; I think a 22/32 would greatly help keep the climbs manageable.
The 5th Element rear shock has so far exceeded my expectations; one must be patient setting it up, but when you get it set up to your liking...WOW! I have experienced no noticeable bobbing on climbs, no bottoming out, although the largest drop I have tried is only 6 feet (give me a break, I am almost 35 years old and I am not as courageous as I used to be!!).
Reliability
I have had zero mechanical problems with the bike or any of it's components. The Sherman fork just keeps eating up rocks and obstacles, staying very stiff and really plush. The Dee Max wheelset hasn't made even the smallest complaint about the abuse, staying true and stiff. The Hayes brakes make a phantom rubbing noise on occasion, which usually stops just as suddenly and mysteriously as it starts. The FSA stem and bars are very stiff and strong, as are the Truvative cranks. The chain shifts crisply and precisely from one ring to the next every time. The tubeless tires are really working out better than I had expected; I am running about 32psi, and they just spread out over roots and rocks to give outstanding traction.
Adjustable travel:
The AS-X lets you choose between 6 and 7 inches of rear travel. This was important to me, as i have been riding a 4 inch XC rig for a couple of years now, and I wanted to make sure I did not get "too much bike". I use the travel adjustment on the Sherman fork fairly regularly, but I have never even considered using the rear adjustment. The bike just handles and performs every task so well in the 7 inch setting there is no need to change it.
On the other hand, a rider could go with a 5 inch 1 1/8" fork up front, a lighter component selection, and set the rear at 6 inches, and have a low 30 pound trail bike that just blows everything else away! I have seriously considered buying another frame and doing just that. Yes, I like this bike that much.
Overall Impressions:
I was a little apprehensive when I ordered this bike; after all, the SC Bulitt is the Tried-and-True big hit bike on the market, and the AS-X is an all new design this year. The yeti costs about as much as a Bulitt, but you just seem to get a lot more bike, with very high quality, hand made in colorado no less, for your money. I ride this bike as an all around trail bike, urban assault bike, and big hit bike, and I love it.
I would highly recommend this bike to anyone looking to pull the trigger on a long travel bike; It is an excellent pedaling bike, excellent on technical terrain, and superb at the downhills. As far as the long climbs go, it will only make me a stronger rider. Do yourself a favor: go ride one of these!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark "Hora" Horacek
a Weekend Warrior
from London, UK Date Reviewed: March 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Twisty, aggressive singletrack
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
The frame detailing is brilliant, looks solid and reassuring. I owned the 2002 AS-X and onbe of my beefs was it great for people upto 12stone but when your 15stone it does flex too much at the rear when climbing/dropping (the 2003 seems to be improved).
I test rode the medium at Bromley bikes and the shock was set too soft, plus I thought the Manitou's were set too high for hill climbing. However I'm smitten by the frame, deeply smitten- I'm thinking of dropping the geometry at the front by using my 125mm travel Fox vanilla forks and setting the 5th element as super stiff for small bumps but smooth for bigger hits. Then throw on a triple clamp for Morzine. New owners- what do you think???? I'm planning on buying in the next two months ready for Les Gets in Morzine
Mark
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Howard
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: March 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.Bromley Bike.com
Strengths:
Frame design and strength. It's a work of engineering art. How many OnePointFive bikes have a frame that looks so clean, not as if the big head tube has just been stuck on as an after thought. Very, Very stiff. Point and go, super direct steering. Pedals very very wel for a 7" bike. No pedal bob with the shock set up well. Can climb up hill all day, just take your time. It's a Yeti, your part of the Yeti thing.
Weaknesses:
None so far...
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Heckler, Orange Patriot, Ellsworth ID
The ASX is one smooth bike. The Manitou's are the best single crown fork I've ever used, Sooo plush and super stiff. All helped by the hugh frame tubes. The ride and feel of the bike just want to push you quicker and bigger over everything.
I've been using mine as a heavy duty trail style bike. It keeps up with all the XC types. Just sit and spin up the climbs and hold on to the big smile on your face on the way down. Built up it weighs in at 35lbs, but rides much lighter with a killer turn of speed.
I would put this bike up there as the perfect do everything bike. If you get a 5" trails bike it will snap when shown some big drops, flex when pushed. It may go up hill well, but so does this. Kit it out for DH, Drops/hucking, Trail riding you cant go wrong.
I'll agree as well, go try other bikes like the Heckler, ID, Giants etc. but make sure You try the ASX, You'll never look back. Just dont try one after you've bought something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wes
a
from Highlands Ranch CO, USA Date Reviewed: March 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Enchanted Forest, APEX
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2650.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Pedal'r
Strengths:
The frameset overall, I don't think my abuse will break it. The 5th Element, the Manitou Sherman Breakout, and the FSA bars, stem and headset.
Weaknesses:
I haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
just for kicks- RM 7, Bullit, Kona (various), Jeckyl, Big Hit, AC-1
Bike Setup:
Free ride F/S kit from Yeti, 7" rear, 6" front. I added Time Pedals, and an MRP Long Range Patrol chain guide (this was a bad idea)
Bottom Line:
I've always been a Yeti fan, and it sure has paid off. I waited 5 months for this bike, and it was well worth the wait. The guys at Bicycle Pedal'r did their best and they have done a good job, now that the props are out of the way I'll get to my Love affair with my bike.
Yeti did an excellent job with the design of this bike. Scott from Yeti told me that if you've gat a pair the bike will do it. So I took my best investment in fun down town for some 6' drops to flat and the bike ate it up. We went to the dit jumps and the bike flowed through the doubles as smooth as could be. Then my friend and I went to Moab and the AS-X got a true test of initial durability. I flew down the rocky sections of Porcupine Rim and still felt as though I needed to go faster, so I began to pedal down the rocky sections and the bike just ate it up. I found off trail drop after drop and laughed in the face of fear that detoured me from dropping these sections months before on my Kokopelli, (another excellent bike from Yeti by the way, just not built for huge drops).
So the bottom line, yeah, this bike is a bit heavier, and you're probably not going to win an uphill race, but when you get there, your rewards will shine through your sweat drenched brow and your eyes will be open to new lines on an old trail. Free ride bikes are not just for the guys who won't pedal uphill, or for the urban or dirt jumps. I think "5 Flamin' Chilis" is an understatement for the engineering, craftsmanship, excellent component package, and true passion that Yeti puts into the AS-X.
One more consideration, you're putting your life, your future, your health into the reliability of your bike and your skill to land all of the big hits,the huge drops, and all of the speed you've got energy for. You should at least make sure the bike will do it's part.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Weekend Warrior
from Denton, TX Date Reviewed: March 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Troy Bilt, Fruita, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Mad Duck Adventure Sports
Strengths:
Quality build, Yeti's attention to detail, 5th Element shock, superb geometry, plush yet stiff. great component picks, very solid frame, 1.5 headtube.
Weaknesses:
Just a bit heavy for a trail bike.
Similar Products Used:
Balfa 2 Step, 2001 AS-X, C-Dale Gemini
Bike Setup:
'03 AS-X, Mavic DeeMax wheelset, Hayes 8" disc brakes, Manitou Sherman Breakout fork, FSA stem & bars w/31.8mm bar clamp,XT shifters/dre. Hussefelt cranks, Conti tubelsee 2.3" tires, lock on grips, Time Z-control pedals.
Bottom Line:
The bike does not bob while pedaling, regardless of the gear, and brake jack is nonexistant. The geometry is perfect. I have been riding a Superlight for a couple years, and it took only a short time to become accustomed to this bike. The 5th Element really lives up to the hype; no bob, but responds to the small chatter bumps, all the way to large drops. The wheels stay planted on the ground, unless you want them to come off. The bike is a very stable handler; Even when my landings weren't smooth, I need not worry, the bike smoothed them out for me.
The 1.5 headtube, Sherman fork, and Beefy tubeset, which, while being a sight to behold, all combined to make a very stout bike. There is no detectable flex front or rear, and rough terrain is swallowed up with glee! The 8" hayes disc brakes, once bedded in, are the epitome of strength and modulation.
I have always considered steep downhill sections my weakest skill; now I can scream down these sections without brakes, a first for me. I have also been able to take on larger, steeper drops. The AS-X has given me a great deal of confidence.
Climbing. Ah, now we get to the only apparent drawback. Although while pedaling, the AS-X actually feels more efficient than my Superlight, it also weighs 12 pounds more. Get ready to settle in to the granny gear and grind up the long climbs. The short, steep ones can be attacked by stomping on it, but the long ones can be brutal.
Components: The Time Z control pedals are worth thier weight in gold. When you can't get clipped in on a technical section, your foot feels good on the platform. The Mavic DeeMax UST wheelset really shines; stiff, smooth rolling, and very strong. FSA has really come out with an outstanding stem; that thing looks like it is made from a cannon breech!
The legendary Yeti quality and attention to detail are readily apparent on the AS-X. Brake hose mounts, plenty of them, cable routing, paint, machine work, welding-it's all superior.
If you are in the market for a long travel bike, Bullit, Uzzi, etc. Do yourself a favor, and check out the AS-X, if not, don't ever ride one, or you will certainly have regrets.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom muccully
a Downhiller
from san francsico Date Reviewed: March 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
sticks and stones at northstar
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2650.00
Purchased At:
shop
Strengths:
5th element,headset.
Weaknesses:
hard to pedal
Similar Products Used:
bullit,heckler,joker
Bike Setup:
jnr t,full hayes, cris king etc..
Bottom Line:
kick ass bike with plush ass travel
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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