Price: $3,500 as tested ($1,500 frame only)
Weight: 23.5 lbs.
Frame material: 3/2.5 titanium
Sizes available: 14, 16, 17.5 (tested), 19, 20 in.
Fork/travel: Rock Shox SID SL/3 in.
Cockpit: Titec Flattracker handlebar, Titec Fat Al stem, Cane Creek SL5
headset, Titec seatpost, Titec Berserkr KTi saddle
Drivetrain: Shimano XTR crankset, cassette, shifters, brakes and derailleurs
Wheels: Mavic Crossmax
Tires: Michelin Comp S 2.1
Website: www.yeticycles.com
The Yeti is, in essence, a titanium version of the companys vaunted ARC. The familiar-looking frame is constructed of seamless , straight-gauge 3/2.5 Ancotech tubing. It stays true to its ARC roots by offering the signature computer bent, one-piece chain/seatstays found on virtually every hardtail Yeti has ever made. The one-piece construction means that the seat- and chainstays are made from a single, continuous tube. The wide-radius loop tail gets a 6/4 titanium dropout welded to it. However, the bent stays provide more than a brand signature. Vertical compliance is a noticeable attribute of this design. One long-standing Yeti characteristic missing from the Ti ARC is an ovalized top tube; in its place is a standard round tube.
The three inches of air-sprung travel from the SID SL provide an un-air like ride. With the negative air spring, initial movement is on par with coil-sprung models. The extra travel is a welcome feature as trails become faster and more extreme.
Ride:Just as the construction of Yetis Ti ARC differs from other makers Ti bikes, its ride is also significantly different. The Yeti ride can be characterized as high-performance with compliance. It feels extremely comfortable hammering out the toughest climb, no doubt aided by its light weight. When the trail heads downhill, the bike delivers confidence-inspiring stability through the rough. The tail end of the Yeti yields additional in-the-saddle comfort when motoring over irregularities on the flats. This can be traced to the bent stays, a feature that absorbs shock by design.
Verdict:If you have a shred of practicality that doesnt require you to show up at the trailhead with a boutique bike, yet you still yearn for a quality-made Ti hardtail with racing in its veins, step up to the plate and order yourself a new Yeti Ti ARC.
-Chris Burgeson