Hey felix, i have the same setup, have a fox factory 34 at 140mm, 2.5 minion front, 2.4 rekon rear in tanwall. No issues with twitchyness, pushing in corners etc. Good choice of kit bro.
I've got an old 25lb XC hardtail. Okay it's got 2" tyres, 80mm fork etc. but yes the lack of weight is just amazing for any climb. My 33lb everyday hardtail does most things better but feels like a boat anchor at times. Last year I went from 230lbs to 190 but I swear the difference in weight between those two bikes makes more of a difference.
You are 100% correct about the DT Swiss ratchet upgrade. You can actually carry a spare ratchet with you and change it in the trail. Plus with this system all the teeth are engaged, not just 2-6 teeth on the pawls.
That’s it, I’ve put the deposit on the Arc today. With bit of a luck it should be with me by end of the month. XT 4 pots brakes all around, XTR 12sp, 130mm fork. Cannot wait to build it. Was looking into the HT frames way too long now, but at the end just couldn’t pass the offer once my bike shop called me and said they are getting the frame in.
Great review.. 100% right on the head angle... Sb115 has a similar issue. I just did the slackr mod on it and it is a game changer. Before slackr I was falling all over but after that change the bike is flawless..
I'm a Yeti Fanboy- SB5.5, SB100 currently. I just finished building my ARC - Large up this past weekend.. Sadly only 1 ride on it thus far. I need some more time on it, but I definitely noticed the steeper seattube. I have a 35mm long stem on it and noticed that it was twitchy so i need to maybe take it out to 50mm as its factory spec'd. I did feel a lot more upright which was good as well. I'm running all recon's 2.4 in the rear and 2.3 in the back and its VERY zippy. Getting out of the saddle to pedal up ½ mile steep hill ~was no problem what so ever and i could just feel the power going directly to the drive train which was just a great feeling. No rear tire slip when I was standing up so my positon didn't feel too far forward . It felt really balanced. Might change with the 50mm stem but we'll see. Really intersted in your follow-up review.
You nailed this review Steve. I did an ARC demo and had the same reaction. Feels long, very light, very quick, but too steep in the head angle. Very good, but it didn't hook me.
Great review!! Been waiting for the Yeti's review on the channel. Would still love to see some riding action if you get the chance to film with it again. Thanks!
Don't forget to use coupon code "HARDTAIL15" to save 15% off your first order (exclusions apply). Muc-Off Chain Lube (my favorite) - bit.ly/3nLGpCG Timber Bell - bit.ly/3qnjU8E DT Swiss 54t Ratchet Upgrade - bit.ly/2Kj958o Feedback Sports RAKK (Note, I use the Rakk XL, but it's out of stock). Here's a link to the regular Rakk - bit.ly/3qlYpFd Check out the Yeti builds Comptitive Cyclise has in stock: Yeti ARC Frame Only (Turq) - bit.ly/3igGrRC Yeti ARC Carbon C1 Complete- bit.ly/3qno9Bm Yeti ARC Carbon C2 Complete - bit.ly/35DV3FK Yeti ARC Carbon Turq T1 - bit.ly/3bHh9eb Yeti ARC Carbon Turq T2 - bit.ly/3suooMz Sorry i lost the original footage. I spent the better part of a day filming an entire onboard ride review, but i somehow lost the footage. Nobody is more disappointed than me right now. Still, this review gives you an idea of what I found with the bike after a few rides. While this bike didn't quite check all the boxes for me in stock form, I truly believe there's an incredible bike lurking beneath the surface. I think with a few tweaks, we'll be able to unlock it. They got the frame compliance and ride fee down, which is arguably the toughest part to do on a hardtail. This is one of those weird cases where the bike didn't feel like the geo numbers suggested. The ett feels WAY longer than the numbers. The seat angle feels slacker than the claimed 76* esta. I had a few friends throw a leg over it during the review period, and they all commented on how large it felt. I'd be tempted to run 9point8's dropper post with the forehead pointed forward to get a slightly shorter seated riding position. I'm excited to get experimental on this thing.
I bought the DV9 based on your reviews. I built it up in cross country mode. It’s running to the RockShox SID 100 mm. The reach is perfect for me. Frame is stiff but very comfortable.
I've just built a large, I'm 5 10 with a mrp ribbon sl fork. I'm running 29x2.3 both ends and I've been to Coed Llandegla once for a shake down ride. I've been off the bike for a long time with covid and my fitness is poor. I actually thought I was starting to lose my biking mojo. In the past year I've built a new Following, paradox v3 and a moxie 3. All of which are either unridden or ridden max once. This Yeti just blew me away. I couldn't stop grinning like a child at Christmas and every single mile was just full of speed and a huge buzz. The seat tube angle must of been made for me as the climbing in those Welsh hills was the best I've had in years. Hands down my favourite bike I've ridden. Now to find a yeti saddle....... Keep up the good work mate your channel is the number 1 mtb channel out there.
The "get up and go" is what I like about my Pivot LES. It really wants to climb and on some of the steep rollercoaster terrain where I live it flies down the hill so fast I can make mostly to the top of the next hill and only pedal the last few feet. It is a very fun bike for me! Doesn't have the long reach and slack head angles you like, but perfect for me with the trails in Northern CA.
I totally agree. If a hardtail doesn't have "get up and go", what's the point? That should be a requirement for all hardtails. That's what makes them special. I actually like a short reach when paired with a steep seat angle. That allows me to run a 60mm stem and have a great setup. I think your les is perfect for where you ride.
@@hardtailparty I have been absolutely loving it . The trails have gotten super packed down with all the hikers so it absolutely flies, is silent, and with no skitter And no one complaining about your speed as they want you out of their air bubble as quickly as possible! I'm not sure I have it dialed in in terms of sag and the fork, but I will try to tweak with it as time goes on.
I think switching to 27.5+ would be a great experiment too. In addition to the head angle change. Thanks for the great review. I really like that you explain your thought process.
@Allan Shpeley If both wheels are switched to 27.5+ then the head angle stays the same but bb height goes down. If you did only the front tire or used a shorter fork it would steepen the head angle but that is not the intent. 29 front 27.5 rear (mullet) would slacken the head angle but also slacken the seat tube. The intent is change both wheels so no angles are changing
Steve - excellent and thoughtful review! I ordered mine with the 4 piston brakes so it's solid in that department. The reach also feels spot on to me (I'm 5' 10" on a size large) I don't have your terrain or skills so I wouldn't appreciate the HTA note. All that being said, I cannot wait to see the ARC-HT optimized sequel!!
Congrats! I'm glad you found a bike that fits you so well. We'll see how the slack-r experiment goes. It may totally wake this bike up, or it may make it worse...
@@hardtailparty Thanks Steve! If the ARC/HT is a hit, I'll be tempted to make the changes! Also want to say that your talent and experience are at such a high level, I wouldn't be surprised if companies have you test their bikes while they're in development to get them dialed just right.
Oh man, that would be the dream. I'd love to consult for bike companies. So far, there are 2 models for 2021 that I've had input on, including a complete design of a frame from the ground up to my specs. I'm not allowed to say more, but it's going to be a VERY interesting year.
@@antihope It depends on what you want/need in a bike. Neither of them will say "yeti" on them, and neither will be carbon, so if carbon and yeti are your jam, go for the ARC.
Great job of describing the ARC in the absence of video. Glad you still have it so we can see some on trail video when you've made your changes to the bike. Surprised you found the seat tube slack with the stated spec of 76*. But as you often say, the numbers don't tell the whole story.
I'm 5'8" with a long torso. Sounds like this bike's longer reach might be what I need. I'm currently on a Medium Specialized Fuse with a 140mm fork and it feels just a bit cramped. I just hope the PF BB doesn't creak after a while. I have a creaky Trek Boone which drives me nuts.
IMO this bikes geo would work great as a rigid. Also I have 2 timber bells. To me theyre essential even on the ride home from the trails on the road. Being able to warn people (and wildlife) of your presense while keeping both hands on the grips is great.
@@hardtailparty Slackening the bike might also make the bike feel a bit shorter. As a rigid though i think the head angle would be just right with a nice high offset compliant fork. In that setup some swept back bars 15 to 20 degrees would also be nice.
Very Interesting... Similar feelings on my big honzo carbon: very good on carving turns and at low speed, the bike is a little stiff, but not at high speed or on a big hit. The arc abd the big honzo have a closer similar géo. The hta on my bike is a little steeper for my style of ride, now i change for the honzo esd for my all mountain/enduro / fun trails on single speed.
Almost the same conclusion I came to on my Kona Big Honzo carbon. Climbs and accelerates like a dart, but flat out scary on the downhill twisties. I ended up trying it in mullet mode and found it to be way more confidence inspiring. Unfortunately still never became the rowdy all arounder I was looking for.
The big honzo is a great bike, especialy for downcountry, but on all mountain/enduro, he's less tolerant. On big days, he's a little bit tiring, because it demands a very energic ride
Great review, Steve!!! I’m friends with MTB yum yum and my bro runs (Mountain Bike Enthusiasts of Utah)MTBEU. Love your channel. You inspired me to buy my first hardtail in over 20 years.🤘
@@hardtailparty yeah, Corner Canyon is in my backyard. I’m 1 mile away from the trailhead. I also ride St George a lot as well. Would love to hit Sedona.
@@hardtailparty I am building one with the 1.6 degree slack-r and a 120mm SID. The 10mm of stack underneath the headtube should easily make up for the slackening.
I liked this style of review. You are so right about not being able to test ride bikes. Even before Covid it wasn’t always possible to get the model and size you wanted and typically where I live we are limited to the main manufacturers that will do a demo through a bike shop. I really like this bike but I want it to be just right for me. I appreciate your honesty Steve and thoroughness of your reviews. Hopefully, the 9point8 will fit and we get to see what it does for the bike. Thanks again.
HTP you can tell Yeti, your review sold at least one ARC. Put a deposit on a large C2 build today. All I can say is if you are on an old or mid level bike, don’t demo one unless you have 4K.
I have this bike in a medium with the upgraded carbon DT Swiss wheelset I have the same impression as you I am by no means an expert but my thought s mirror your I have added 30mm rise carbon bars and a shorter stem I have also switched tires to Maxxis 2.4 tires to reduce some weight I am very interested as to what changes you will make to the bike and the effect they have on the ride.
Hello C F. Congrats on your bike. Can you tell me how tall you are? I’m considering buying one but I’m between medium and large sizes. I’m 5’11”. I appreciate your feedback.
@@rjprez588 I am 5'9" i did put a shorter stem on mine I went from a 50mm stem to a 32mm stem I have really ridden it since changing the stem because I live in Michigan and its frozen everywhere right now.
@@cf7758 thanks for your response I really appreciate your feedback. I find myself between large and medium with most of the frames I buy. For the most part I choose medium. Medium for this Yeti might also be the right choice. My Litespeed Pinhoti is medium but is slightly cramped. I don't want that again. Thanks again and ride on!
@@rjprez588 I think this is a big bike I think I could get away with a small actually but all of my bikes are medium I bought this bike on Labor day weekend and it was the only one available Im not sure where you live but there are two dealers in Michigan that have them in stock
@@cf7758 Well that certainly helps. I was pushing myself towards the large because of the Arc’s top tube is almost the same as the Pinhoti. However, the reach is longer on the Arc. I just don’t know how to relate the top tube to reach. I might be okay with medium. Thanks again.
Great review just wish it had a threaded BB to. Thinking about building up an arc as a single speed pump track bike and just something to ride around the street to help get my fitness back up would u recommend the arc for this? Will be running no front brake or dropper.
They're very different feeling bikes. The Yeti feels much more burly, and it feels like an all mountain bike hidden behind an xc head angle and brakes. The dv9 feels like an xc bike with a longer fork. The yeti has a more compliant ride feel.
@@hardtailparty super interesting (said the DV9 owner!). I wonder if the difference in feel is the way longer reach on the ARC -- party reach + XC head tube angle = split personality. Whereas the DV9 is much more traditional and as a result less "conflicted." I'd love to see that Niner EBB put that into that pressfit BB for some SS fun! I run my DV9 SS and I love it. Except for the creaking. Keep up the great work. Love your videos.
Love my ARC. Good review. What did you think about the rear? Plush or harsh? One thing I would change is having the brake post mounts on the seat stay instead of the chain stay. They have the brake tucked in that corner of the triangle instead of on top of the seat stay and it’s annoying because I have to take my caliper off to bleed, change pads, and the max rear rotor is 180 which is totally sufficient but I like to run 203 in rear if I have the option.
I actually went out and filmed an entire ride review this time, but i accidentally deleted the footage. I'll have some ride footage of this bike before i give it back.
Excellent review Steve as always! I'm a bit confused on the effective top tube and reach measurements. The medium effective top tube is fairly close to the effective top tube on my medium Litespeed Pinhoti but the reach on the Arc is almost 2" longer. I'm 5'11". What size would you recommend? I have XC background. Thanks and great job.
Can anyone comment on bottom bracket drop? It’s not listed on the Yeti site. I’ve seen 44mm (Geometry Geeks) and 64mm listed on different sites. I doubt it is 44mm, based on the 310mm bottom bracket height of 12.2” with 2.6 tires. Looking at buying one without chance to test ride. Thanks!
Interesting first ride review. I take delivery of mine hopefully February/March but custom build with 120mm Fox 34SC and 2.25 Maxxis Aspens so far more XC orientated. I also spoke with Yeti about this setup and they said it would lower the BB height a tad and steepen the head angle slightly but would be a great set up for what I would use it for . This set up is also very similar to how Jared Graves has his A.R.C. ( and yes, I always pronounce it as the A.R.C and never ARC). Looking forward to your further review of the A.R.C. with visuals hopefully - fingers crossed!
@@hardtailparty yes I think it will be low 20lb, maybe around 22-23lb? Getting parts sourced is a nightmare though. Frame has been on order since August! Still waiting on hubs, rims spokes, headset and of course the frame. 😊
Sounds like the same sort of agrro XC light build im going for. I spoke to Travis @ Yeti and he advised the same. DT XR391/Vittoria Barzo 2.35's. Just need to find a fork now and I can get it built. Going to be either a RS SID Ultimate/Pike Ultimate or the 34 SC. Really want the SID but can only get one in blue due to stock shortages (probably wont look great on a turq frame tho).
Awww bummer on the lost footage...my worst nightmare. Nice review though, long have been a fan of Yeti and I think this is probably the bike I could actually see myself indulge in some day. I’d ride it more on the XC side of things anyways. Sounds like this bike proves to old engineering adage, light/strong/cheap, pick two!😂
It depends on what I'm looking for in a bike and where I'll ride it. They're very different bikes. I don't love the carbon chameleons but i love the aluminum chameleons.
Excited to watch your review on this bike. Thanks a lot. So hard to find a chameleon frame online. When i saw this frame 2 days ago, had some thought maybe this is the one. Thanks again have a good day. 👍🤝
Thanks for this video 👍 I was looking forward to it. One thing, you mentioned sag - Fox recommend either 15 or 20% on the 34s so maybe you had them to soft hence the HTA feel?
Interestingly enough, most hardtail geo charts that measure at sag measure at 25-30% sag (even though we normally run 15-20% sag). I set my fork up to fox's recommendations and it felt great. The hta feels off by 2* to me.
Great explanation!! This bike is exactly what I’m looking for. Right in the middle of CX and AM. I’m gonna over fork to 140mm and 51mm offset. I might get a Cane Creek angleset for it if necessary.
Pretty sure you just single handedly sold out all XL Yeti ARCs today. Yeti, give the guy a shred stipend. I’ll patiently wait for mine arriving in April/May :(
@@hardtailparty Gotcha, thanks. I'm mainly concerned about the low bb height as I also would likely throw on a 120mm sid ultimate. And I run 2.35 tires. And then there's the resulting change in headtube angle. Maybe it's time to book a consultation!
A lot of the ride photos on Yeti's website show this being ridden with a Sid Ultimate 35mm - a 120mm fork. Any thoughts on how this would change the ride characteristics? I wonder if Yeti originally intended the 120mm fork, but eventually decided against it...
It would make the head angle 0.5* steeper. It would have more of an cc feel with a 120mm fork on it. Yeti has a long history with fox. Most of their bikes come with fox suspension (their switch i finite links are built by fox). Some yeti riders are soonosred by RockShox, so occasionally you see RockShox on yeti bikes.
You’re a handsome man and all, but I would have liked to see the ARC it in action. I think you should have reshot the review if you lost the video. I’ve been watching your reviews for a few months and sometimes things happen on the trail in the moment that you can’t recreate after the fact. Thanks for what you’re doing, really enjoying the content.
By the time I realized the footage was gone, it was too late. I've already sent the bike back to Yeti. So I'm not able to reshoot it. Accidents happen. I promise to release an onboard ride review with the slack-r installed.
So sad that the riding footage has bin lost 😕 But it is what it is. Great video anyways! What about a lot longer fork but 27,5 wheels? Also this makes me wonder what an Mmmbop with a 130-140mm fork and with an Angleset to get back to the original headangle would feel like hmm🤔
I want a 2021 Chameleon alloy frame based on your review but i cant get it due to bike shortage. Do you think this ARC besides the price is a better frame than Chameleon frame?
@@hardtailparty One more question if you don't mind... if price is not the issue for you and they are both available for purchase, which one would you get based on your riding style, 2 to 3 hrs trail ride and fun factor? Thanks in advance
Awwww man no footage 😫😫 Great review all the same. Got mine due any day now. Already upspec’d to bigger front rotor, longer dropper and high engagement hub kit. I hope the ‘experimental’ video won’t be too long a wait. See if the Slack-R is a worthwhile upgrade. Though not sure we have the chunk or I have the skill for it. Please don’t keep us waiting too long 😝😝
I'll promise to include riding footage with the slack-r installed. I spent 5+ hours searching for the footage I accidentally deleted. I was so mad to have lost it.
Wrecked my ARC yesterday and broke the seat stay. Oops! Considering my options--crash replacement frame or a different frame. Yeti ARC vs Banshee Paradox v3 vs Spot Rocker...Any thoughts? I ride all sorts of stuff in Santa Fe, NM--from steeps and chunk to loamy highcountry to desert kitty litter.
@@hardtailparty yep. unless you ride pure MTB only trails you should have one. Hikers and other trail users are always so happy to hear me coming in advance. In fact I've even had hikers cheering me on going DH when they hear the bell coming... has saved me with Horses many times too. Oh you have an I9 hub? so do i.... not nearly the noise made by this bell!
The audience for this bike will be made up of nostalgic Yeti fans and/or carbon hardtail frame fans. We hear the opinions of many people say that this carbon is forgiving or supple. You have rode and reviewed enough frames to notice the marginal differences of hardtail’s but the bottom line is the wheels and tires will determine most of that feel that translates to how your bike rides.
wheels and tires are definitely part of the equation, but this frame feels great. I've run compliant wheels on stiff frames, and it was still stiff and uncontrolled.
Dude I’m trying to calm down on my mountain biking spend, this has been in my sights for a while and I told myself I don’t need it, I have an orange p7 that I can swap out the parts to even have an extra dropset 3 in blue. If I get comp cycles to honor the 15% I’m buying not sure if I go grey or blue.
@@hardtailparty no unfortunately they wouldn’t do it taxes and shipping puts it way over what I have budgeted. I keep going back and forth on it don’t really need it but want it at the same time. I don’t have all the tools so I have to keep in mind cost to have someone swap over the parts.
Possibly, but the big 2.6 tires with minions on it suggest otherwise. I've ridden a lot of xc bikes, and this didn't quite have the advantages of an xc bike to me. With some lighter and narrower tires, less travel, and less stack, it could be a killer xc bike I'm hoping that by slackening the head angle it'll wake this thing up and make it a killer all-rounder.
It often depends on the brand too. In some brands I'm a L/xl. In others I'm a S. I size based off reach and my intended use for the bike. If I were wanting to primarily use this bike for xx or really long days in the saddle, I'd consider sizing down to a small. If i wanted an all-rounder that i could push hard, I'd try a medium with a slack-r installed.
@@hardtailparty right I know this but thos lil dudes like leconday that have moto backgrounds 5'8" on large free ride rigs. Wouldn't feel right to me I'm 5'9" mediums have always worked for me bought a small once and didn't like it but it was an entry level giant years ago I gave it to my buddy🤙
@@johnsonjay60 Ironically, I'd ride a Large YT tues if I were in the market for one. It's got a 452mm reach, which is the same as a small in other brands. It just goes to show how different brands size differently.
It depends. There's no one right answer for every riders which is why my bike consultation service is individualized for each rider, where they live, and what they're looking for in their next bike.
I bought the Yeti but test rode the Ibis DV9 and the Santa Cruz Chameleon carbon and a used Kona Honza Carbon in my opinion the only other bike i would consider other than the Yeti is the Kona but then again everyone has their own personal preferences
@@kevdad3587 surprisingly, this bike rides nothing like the dv9. The dv9 feels like an xc bike with a little more travel. This bike feels like a bike that wants to be an all-mluntain bike, but the hta is holding it back. This bike wants to charge a lot harder than the dv9, but that head angle fights it.
Well off you go and get these tweaks done then! Lolololol Off u go Steve, we’re waiting 😉 FYI - I’m only joking 🙃- love your videos Buddy 👍🏻👍🏻 #iwaitpatientlyforeachvideo
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I'm building one... 140 fork, Shimano XTR everything... 4 piston breaks, 30mm stem. 2.4 tires ✌🤞
Nice! 😃
Hey felix, i have the same setup, have a fox factory 34 at 140mm, 2.5 minion front, 2.4 rekon rear in tanwall. No issues with twitchyness, pushing in corners etc. Good choice of kit bro.
Glad to hear you aren't experiencing the pushing feel I've been feeling. I'm betting that extra 0.5* slacker head angle isn't hurting.
How much does it weigh?
I have this bike and I absolutely love it. I am 55 y/o with bad shoulders. The compliancy of this frame is amazing!!!
Just pulled the trigger on the ARC C2 build with SRAM GRX to keep my SB115 company.
Once you go YETI you stay YETI.
I've got an old 25lb XC hardtail. Okay it's got 2" tyres, 80mm fork etc. but yes the lack of weight is just amazing for any climb. My 33lb everyday hardtail does most things better but feels like a boat anchor at times.
Last year I went from 230lbs to 190 but I swear the difference in weight between those two bikes makes more of a difference.
You are 100% correct about the DT Swiss ratchet upgrade. You can actually carry a spare ratchet with you and change it in the trail. Plus with this system all the teeth are engaged, not just 2-6 teeth on the pawls.
That’s it, I’ve put the deposit on the Arc today. With bit of a luck it should be with me by end of the month. XT 4 pots brakes all around, XTR 12sp, 130mm fork. Cannot wait to build it. Was looking into the HT frames way too long now, but at the end just couldn’t pass the offer once my bike shop called me and said they are getting the frame in.
Great review.. 100% right on the head angle... Sb115 has a similar issue. I just did the slackr mod on it and it is a game changer. Before slackr I was falling all over but after that change the bike is flawless..
I’m glad it feels large because I’m over 6’, 5”. I’ve been happy with my XL. Great review!
I'm a Yeti Fanboy- SB5.5, SB100 currently. I just finished building my ARC - Large up this past weekend.. Sadly only 1 ride on it thus far. I need some more time on it, but I definitely noticed the steeper seattube. I have a 35mm long stem on it and noticed that it was twitchy so i need to maybe take it out to 50mm as its factory spec'd. I did feel a lot more upright which was good as well.
I'm running all recon's 2.4 in the rear and 2.3 in the back and its VERY zippy. Getting out of the saddle to pedal up ½ mile steep hill ~was no problem what so ever and i could just feel the power going directly to the drive train which was just a great feeling. No rear tire slip when I was standing up so my positon didn't feel too far forward . It felt really balanced. Might change with the 50mm stem but we'll see.
Really intersted in your follow-up review.
You nailed this review Steve. I did an ARC demo and had the same reaction. Feels long, very light, very quick, but too steep in the head angle. Very good, but it didn't hook me.
designed to be an XC/downcountry....for that reason, head angle is spot on
Great review!! Been waiting for the Yeti's review on the channel. Would still love to see some riding action if you get the chance to film with it again. Thanks!
I promise I will include riding footage in the next one.
Don't forget to use coupon code "HARDTAIL15" to save 15% off your first order (exclusions apply).
Muc-Off Chain Lube (my favorite) - bit.ly/3nLGpCG
Timber Bell - bit.ly/3qnjU8E
DT Swiss 54t Ratchet Upgrade - bit.ly/2Kj958o
Feedback Sports RAKK (Note, I use the Rakk XL, but it's out of stock). Here's a link to the regular Rakk - bit.ly/3qlYpFd
Check out the Yeti builds Comptitive Cyclise has in stock:
Yeti ARC Frame Only (Turq) - bit.ly/3igGrRC
Yeti ARC Carbon C1 Complete- bit.ly/3qno9Bm
Yeti ARC Carbon C2 Complete - bit.ly/35DV3FK
Yeti ARC Carbon Turq T1 - bit.ly/3bHh9eb
Yeti ARC Carbon Turq T2 - bit.ly/3suooMz
Sorry i lost the original footage. I spent the better part of a day filming an entire onboard ride review, but i somehow lost the footage. Nobody is more disappointed than me right now. Still, this review gives you an idea of what I found with the bike after a few rides.
While this bike didn't quite check all the boxes for me in stock form, I truly believe there's an incredible bike lurking beneath the surface. I think with a few tweaks, we'll be able to unlock it. They got the frame compliance and ride fee down, which is arguably the toughest part to do on a hardtail. This is one of those weird cases where the bike didn't feel like the geo numbers suggested. The ett feels WAY longer than the numbers. The seat angle feels slacker than the claimed 76* esta. I had a few friends throw a leg over it during the review period, and they all commented on how large it felt. I'd be tempted to run 9point8's dropper post with the forehead pointed forward to get a slightly shorter seated riding position. I'm excited to get experimental on this thing.
It's one of them days. Nevertheless thanks for the review.
All right! Been waiting for this one!
Me too 🤙
I’ve been waiting to see a review of this Yeti, thank you.
ST is already 76 degrees, seems about right IMO. I would try a 1 degree Angleset and a 140 fork maybe?
I thought the same when looking at it on paper, but it doesn't feel nearly as steep as 76* when you ride it.
Put a fox factory 140 in mine. Gold.
I bought the DV9 based on your reviews. I built it up in cross country mode. It’s running to the RockShox SID 100 mm. The reach is perfect for me. Frame is stiff but very comfortable.
sounds like a rocket!
I've just built a large, I'm 5 10 with a mrp ribbon sl fork. I'm running 29x2.3 both ends and I've been to Coed Llandegla once for a shake down ride. I've been off the bike for a long time with covid and my fitness is poor. I actually thought I was starting to lose my biking mojo. In the past year I've built a new Following, paradox v3 and a moxie 3. All of which are either unridden or ridden max once. This Yeti just blew me away. I couldn't stop grinning like a child at Christmas and every single mile was just full of speed and a huge buzz. The seat tube angle must of been made for me as the climbing in those Welsh hills was the best I've had in years. Hands down my favourite bike I've ridden. Now to find a yeti saddle....... Keep up the good work mate your channel is the number 1 mtb channel out there.
The way this man talk 🙉 one day this man will build his own frame and he will call it “THE PERFECT FRAME!”
The "get up and go" is what I like about my Pivot LES. It really wants to climb and on some of the steep rollercoaster terrain where I live it flies down the hill so fast I can make mostly to the top of the next hill and only pedal the last few feet. It is a very fun bike for me! Doesn't have the long reach and slack head angles you like, but perfect for me with the trails in Northern CA.
I totally agree. If a hardtail doesn't have "get up and go", what's the point? That should be a requirement for all hardtails. That's what makes them special.
I actually like a short reach when paired with a steep seat angle. That allows me to run a 60mm stem and have a great setup. I think your les is perfect for where you ride.
@@hardtailparty I have been absolutely loving it . The trails have gotten super packed down with all the hikers so it absolutely flies, is silent, and with no skitter And no one complaining about your speed as they want you out of their air bubble as quickly as possible! I'm not sure I have it dialed in in terms of sag and the fork, but I will try to tweak with it as time goes on.
I'm glad I have my DV9, you made it very clear to me that I have a great bike.
Solid content! thanks for giving me something to look forward to for study breaks
I think switching to 27.5+ would be a great experiment too. In addition to the head angle change. Thanks for the great review. I really like that you explain your thought process.
I would love to see a video of that, super interested in building one of these 27.5 myself
Wouldn't that steepen the head angle? I'm super interested in doing the same, but HTP was saying that's it's already not slack enough with 29ers.
@Allan Shpeley If both wheels are switched to 27.5+ then the head angle stays the same but bb height goes down. If you did only the front tire or used a shorter fork it would steepen the head angle but that is not the intent. 29 front 27.5 rear (mullet) would slacken the head angle but also slacken the seat tube. The intent is change both wheels so no angles are changing
Steve - excellent and thoughtful review! I ordered mine with the 4 piston brakes so it's solid in that department. The reach also feels spot on to me (I'm 5' 10" on a size large) I don't have your terrain or skills so I wouldn't appreciate the HTA note. All that being said, I cannot wait to see the ARC-HT optimized sequel!!
Congrats! I'm glad you found a bike that fits you so well. We'll see how the slack-r experiment goes. It may totally wake this bike up, or it may make it worse...
@@hardtailparty Thanks Steve! If the ARC/HT is a hit, I'll be tempted to make the changes! Also want to say that your talent and experience are at such a high level, I wouldn't be surprised if companies have you test their bikes while they're in development to get them dialed just right.
Oh man, that would be the dream. I'd love to consult for bike companies. So far, there are 2 models for 2021 that I've had input on, including a complete design of a frame from the ground up to my specs. I'm not allowed to say more, but it's going to be a VERY interesting year.
@@hardtailparty So do you think I should wait for these new frames instead of buying the Yeti Arc? 👀
@@antihope It depends on what you want/need in a bike. Neither of them will say "yeti" on them, and neither will be carbon, so if carbon and yeti are your jam, go for the ARC.
Great job of describing the ARC in the absence of video. Glad you still have it so we can see some on trail video when you've made your changes to the bike. Surprised you found the seat tube slack with the stated spec of 76*. But as you often say, the numbers don't tell the whole story.
I'm 5'8" with a long torso. Sounds like this bike's longer reach might be what I need. I'm currently on a Medium Specialized Fuse with a 140mm fork and it feels just a bit cramped. I just hope the PF BB doesn't creak after a while. I have a creaky Trek Boone which drives me nuts.
Alright, stock bike review outta the way, time for the interesting part. Literally cannot wait for you to get experiMENTAL with the Arc.
IMO this bikes geo would work great as a rigid. Also I have 2 timber bells. To me theyre essential even on the ride home from the trails on the road. Being able to warn people (and wildlife) of your presense while keeping both hands on the grips is great.
A rigid build would be very interesting. O think I'd love it as an xc bike if it had a 10mm shorter reach.
@@hardtailparty Slackening the bike might also make the bike feel a bit shorter. As a rigid though i think the head angle would be just right with a nice high offset compliant fork. In that setup some swept back bars 15 to 20 degrees would also be nice.
Great honest review Steve!! Thanks again
I love these kind of shorter review...almost better than your usual one. Love your channel anyway!
Very Interesting... Similar feelings on my big honzo carbon: very good on carving turns and at low speed, the bike is a little stiff, but not at high speed or on a big hit.
The arc abd the big honzo have a closer similar géo. The hta on my bike is a little steeper for my style of ride, now i change for the honzo esd for my all mountain/enduro / fun trails on single speed.
Almost the same conclusion I came to on my Kona Big Honzo carbon. Climbs and accelerates like a dart, but flat out scary on the downhill twisties.
I ended up trying it in mullet mode and found it to be way more confidence inspiring. Unfortunately still never became the rowdy all arounder I was looking for.
The big honzo is a great bike, especialy for downcountry, but on all mountain/enduro, he's less tolerant.
On big days, he's a little bit tiring, because it demands a very energic ride
Wow! Great, honest review. I love that. I can’t wait for the mental mod video and the ride video on the modded rig.
Did you ever unlock this handling? Just picking one up.
Great review. Very good points!
Just ordered it last week. Can't wait.
I love your honesty and wish you reviewed full squishes as well. Nobody is giving this much detail to reviews.
I wish I had the bandwidth to review full squish too
I picked mine up last week. I love it. I added enve AM30 wheels and M7 handlebar and it rides like a dream. I’ll probably update the brakes next.
Great review, Steve!!! I’m friends with MTB yum yum and my bro runs (Mountain Bike Enthusiasts of Utah)MTBEU. Love your channel. You inspired me to buy my first hardtail in over 20 years.🤘
Awesome! Jason's a good dude and I love MTBEU's posts. Small world. Congrats on owning this fine machine. Do you mainly ride corner canyon?
@@hardtailparty yeah, Corner Canyon is in my backyard. I’m 1 mile away from the trailhead. I also ride St George a lot as well. Would love to hit Sedona.
@@jordanboogaard7290 I think the arc would be amazing at corner canyon and af canyon.
@@hardtailparty I 💯 percent agree!!! Stoked to put in some miles. I’m training for a couple of races and excited to put the ARC to the test.
1° slacker and a 120 fork. Bring the seat tube ° steeper and I think it would be bang on.
I like the way you think. Stay tuned as I experiment with a slacker head angle on this thing to see if I can wake it up.
@@hardtailparty I am building one with the 1.6 degree slack-r and a 120mm SID. The 10mm of stack underneath the headtube should easily make up for the slackening.
I liked this style of review. You are so right about not being able to test ride bikes. Even before Covid it wasn’t always possible to get the model and size you wanted and typically where I live we are limited to the main manufacturers that will do a demo through a bike shop. I really like this bike but I want it to be just right for me. I appreciate your honesty Steve and thoroughness of your reviews. Hopefully, the 9point8 will fit and we get to see what it does for the bike. Thanks again.
I promise not to lose the future riding footage when it's got the skack-r installed. :)
What exactly is a slacker upgrade?
Great review - what would recommend = Yeti Arc or Niner Air RDO??
I was looking forward to this one. And now I can’t wait what you can tell about it once you’ve slackened the headangle 👍🏻
Thanks Steve! Looking forward to your analysis on the ride with Slack-R. Wish it had a threaded BB (:
I wish it had a threaded BB too, but that's not a deal-breaker for me.
HTP you can tell Yeti, your review sold at least one ARC. Put a deposit on a large C2 build today. All I can say is if you are on an old or mid level bike, don’t demo one unless you have 4K.
Yeah, it's dangerous taking one of these for a spin. It will haunt you ever after. Congrats on your new purchase.
I have this bike in a medium with the upgraded carbon DT Swiss wheelset I have the same impression as you I am by no means an expert but my thought s mirror your I have added 30mm rise carbon bars and a shorter stem I have also switched tires to Maxxis 2.4 tires to reduce some weight I am very interested as to what changes you will make to the bike and the effect they have on the ride.
Hello C F. Congrats on your bike. Can you tell me how tall you are? I’m considering buying one but I’m between medium and large sizes. I’m 5’11”. I appreciate your feedback.
@@rjprez588 I am 5'9" i did put a shorter stem on mine I went from a 50mm stem to a 32mm stem I have really ridden it since changing the stem because I live in Michigan and its frozen everywhere right now.
@@cf7758 thanks for your response I really appreciate your feedback. I find myself between large and medium with most of the frames I buy. For the most part I choose medium. Medium for this Yeti might also be the right choice. My Litespeed Pinhoti is medium but is slightly cramped. I don't want that again. Thanks again and ride on!
@@rjprez588 I think this is a big bike I think I could get away with a small actually but all of my bikes are medium I bought this bike on Labor day weekend and it was the only one available Im not sure where you live but there are two dealers in Michigan that have them in stock
@@cf7758 Well that certainly helps. I was pushing myself towards the large because of the Arc’s top tube is almost the same as the Pinhoti. However, the reach is longer on the Arc. I just don’t know how to relate the top tube to reach. I might be okay with medium. Thanks again.
Great review just wish it had a threaded BB to. Thinking about building up an arc as a single speed pump track bike and just something to ride around the street to help get my fitness back up would u recommend the arc for this? Will be running no front brake or dropper.
Great review as usual Steve! Is the ARC as compliant as the Ti middlechild, Paradox V3, or Niner Sir 9 though?
It feels different than the bikes you mentioned, but it's in the same ballpark.
Sounds like the bikes writing checks the head angle can’t cash! Great review.
Yeti ARC or Ibis DV9??
They're very different feeling bikes. The Yeti feels much more burly, and it feels like an all mountain bike hidden behind an xc head angle and brakes. The dv9 feels like an xc bike with a longer fork. The yeti has a more compliant ride feel.
@@hardtailparty super interesting (said the DV9 owner!). I wonder if the difference in feel is the way longer reach on the ARC -- party reach + XC head tube angle = split personality. Whereas the DV9 is much more traditional and as a result less "conflicted." I'd love to see that Niner EBB put that into that pressfit BB for some SS fun! I run my DV9 SS and I love it. Except for the creaking. Keep up the great work. Love your videos.
Love my ARC. Good review. What did you think about the rear? Plush or harsh? One thing I would change is having the brake post mounts on the seat stay instead of the chain stay. They have the brake tucked in that corner of the triangle instead of on top of the seat stay and it’s annoying because I have to take my caliper off to bleed, change pads, and the max rear rotor is 180 which is totally sufficient but I like to run 203 in rear if I have the option.
Frame feels great, not harsh. Good feedback on the brake, I never ride these bikes long enough to have to bleed brakes or change pads.
I was waiting this video! Hope you can record it next time 👊
I actually went out and filmed an entire ride review this time, but i accidentally deleted the footage. I'll have some ride footage of this bike before i give it back.
One of the bikes I should have ridden
Can you run a 100mm / 120mm travel fork on this bike?
Excellent review Steve as always! I'm a bit confused on the effective top tube and reach measurements. The medium effective top tube is fairly close to the effective top tube on my medium Litespeed Pinhoti but the reach on the Arc is almost 2" longer. I'm 5'11". What size would you recommend? I have XC background. Thanks and great job.
Can anyone comment on bottom bracket drop? It’s not listed on the Yeti site. I’ve seen 44mm (Geometry Geeks) and 64mm listed on different sites. I doubt it is 44mm, based on the 310mm bottom bracket height of 12.2” with 2.6 tires. Looking at buying one without chance to test ride. Thanks!
Why do I dislike the press fit
Bottom Brackets so much? Any idea why Yeti chooses Press fit over A threaded bottom bracket?
Great review. This bike is very high on my list for my Midwest trails. Please review the Spot Rocker geared.
Coming soon...
Interesting first ride review. I take delivery of mine hopefully February/March but custom build with 120mm Fox 34SC and 2.25 Maxxis Aspens so far more XC orientated. I also spoke with Yeti about this setup and they said it would lower the BB height a tad and steepen the head angle slightly but would be a great set up for what I would use it for . This set up is also very similar to how Jared Graves has his A.R.C. ( and yes, I always pronounce it as the A.R.C and never ARC). Looking forward to your further review of the A.R.C. with visuals hopefully - fingers crossed!
Sounds like a killer build! Yours will come in super light.
@@hardtailparty yes I think it will be low 20lb, maybe around 22-23lb? Getting parts sourced is a nightmare though. Frame has been on order since August! Still waiting on hubs, rims spokes, headset and of course the frame. 😊
Sounds like the same sort of agrro XC light build im going for. I spoke to Travis @ Yeti and he advised the same. DT XR391/Vittoria Barzo 2.35's. Just need to find a fork now and I can get it built. Going to be either a RS SID Ultimate/Pike Ultimate or the 34 SC. Really want the SID but can only get one in blue due to stock shortages (probably wont look great on a turq frame tho).
Awww bummer on the lost footage...my worst nightmare. Nice review though, long have been a fan of Yeti and I think this is probably the bike I could actually see myself indulge in some day. I’d ride it more on the XC side of things anyways. Sounds like this bike proves to old engineering adage, light/strong/cheap, pick two!😂
Which frame would you choose, the yeti or santa cruz chameleon?
It depends on what I'm looking for in a bike and where I'll ride it. They're very different bikes. I don't love the carbon chameleons but i love the aluminum chameleons.
Excited to watch your review on this bike. Thanks a lot. So hard to find a chameleon frame online. When i saw this frame 2 days ago, had some thought maybe this is the one. Thanks again have a good day. 👍🤝
Sick!! hopefully you can review the Lynskey Livewire Ti' hardtail. 👍🏼
regarding steering... would getting a shorter stem (50mm down to 35mm) be a solution? curious to see how you would go about improving steering.
that would actually make it twitchier. I want less twitchy
Thanks for this video 👍 I was looking forward to it. One thing, you mentioned sag - Fox recommend either 15 or 20% on the 34s so maybe you had them to soft hence the HTA feel?
Interestingly enough, most hardtail geo charts that measure at sag measure at 25-30% sag (even though we normally run 15-20% sag). I set my fork up to fox's recommendations and it felt great. The hta feels off by 2* to me.
Great explanation!! This bike is exactly what I’m looking for. Right in the middle of CX and AM. I’m gonna over fork to 140mm and 51mm offset. I might get a Cane Creek angleset for it if necessary.
Pretty sure you just single handedly sold out all XL Yeti ARCs today. Yeti, give the guy a shred stipend. I’ll patiently wait for mine arriving in April/May :(
What a beautiful looking bike. Any chance I could run this frame with 27.5s?
You can always put 27.5s on any 29er
@@hardtailparty Gotcha, thanks. I'm mainly concerned about the low bb height as I also would likely throw on a 120mm sid ultimate. And I run 2.35 tires. And then there's the resulting change in headtube angle. Maybe it's time to book a consultation!
A lot of the ride photos on Yeti's website show this being ridden with a Sid Ultimate 35mm - a 120mm fork. Any thoughts on how this would change the ride characteristics? I wonder if Yeti originally intended the 120mm fork, but eventually decided against it...
It would make the head angle 0.5* steeper. It would have more of an cc feel with a 120mm fork on it.
Yeti has a long history with fox. Most of their bikes come with fox suspension (their switch i finite links are built by fox). Some yeti riders are soonosred by RockShox, so occasionally you see RockShox on yeti bikes.
You’re a handsome man and all, but I would have liked to see the ARC it in action. I think you should have reshot the review if you lost the video. I’ve been watching your reviews for a few months and sometimes things happen on the trail in the moment that you can’t recreate after the fact. Thanks for what you’re doing, really enjoying the content.
By the time I realized the footage was gone, it was too late. I've already sent the bike back to Yeti. So I'm not able to reshoot it. Accidents happen. I promise to release an onboard ride review with the slack-r installed.
@@hardtailparty yep, bummer for sure. No worries. Look forward to your next one. Cheers from Southern AZ (Tucson).
So sad that the riding footage has bin lost 😕 But it is what it is. Great video anyways!
What about a lot longer fork but 27,5 wheels?
Also this makes me wonder what an Mmmbop with a 130-140mm fork and with an Angleset to get back to the original headangle would feel like hmm🤔
I want a 2021 Chameleon alloy frame based on your review but i cant get it due to bike shortage. Do you think this ARC besides the price is a better frame than Chameleon frame?
They ride quite differently and have very different personalities.
@@hardtailparty One more question if you don't mind... if price is not the issue for you and they are both available for purchase, which one would you get based on your riding style, 2 to 3 hrs trail ride and fun factor? Thanks in advance
What is a comparable bike with less of a reach. I ride Medium but I have short arms lol
I'm pretty sure it feels long sitting down cause it's designed for aggro xc
In my experience, most xc bikes feel fairly short when seated
Awwww man no footage 😫😫
Great review all the same. Got mine due any day now. Already upspec’d to bigger front rotor, longer dropper and high engagement hub kit.
I hope the ‘experimental’ video won’t be too long a wait. See if the Slack-R is a worthwhile upgrade. Though not sure we have the chunk or I have the skill for it.
Please don’t keep us waiting too long 😝😝
I'll promise to include riding footage with the slack-r installed. I spent 5+ hours searching for the footage I accidentally deleted. I was so mad to have lost it.
@@hardtailparty yeah, Nightmare Steve. Looking forward to it!!!
Wrecked my ARC yesterday and broke the seat stay. Oops! Considering my options--crash replacement frame or a different frame. Yeti ARC vs Banshee Paradox v3 vs Spot Rocker...Any thoughts? I ride all sorts of stuff in Santa Fe, NM--from steeps and chunk to loamy highcountry to desert kitty litter.
Darn, sorry to hear that. I do my bike consultations over on Patreon. I'd be happy to help you over there.
Love my timber bel. Never ride without it
Agreed. It's a life saver on sedona's busy trails
@@hardtailparty yep. unless you ride pure MTB only trails you should have one. Hikers and other trail users are always so happy to hear me coming in advance. In fact I've even had hikers cheering me on going DH when they hear the bell coming... has saved me with Horses many times too. Oh you have an I9 hub? so do i.... not nearly the noise made by this bell!
@@williamkinzel3635 loud hubs dont help hikers at all. By the time they hear them, they still don't know what they are.
How do you get your cassette of without tools
Tools are required to remove any cassette.
@@hardtailparty exactly
I have a cpl of those bike racks. Work good 🙂
How did you figure out what the head angle was when weighted and unweighted?
Math
The audience for this bike will be made up of nostalgic Yeti fans and/or carbon hardtail frame fans. We hear the opinions of many people say that this carbon is forgiving or supple. You have rode and reviewed enough frames to notice the marginal differences of hardtail’s but the bottom line is the wheels and tires will determine most of that feel that translates to how your bike rides.
wheels and tires are definitely part of the equation, but this frame feels great. I've run compliant wheels on stiff frames, and it was still stiff and uncontrolled.
Dude I’m trying to calm down on my mountain biking spend, this has been in my sights for a while and I told myself I don’t need it, I have an orange p7 that I can swap out the parts to even have an extra dropset 3 in blue. If I get comp cycles to honor the 15% I’m buying not sure if I go grey or blue.
Small tip for everyone caps for the discount code
Did the discount work on the frame? If so, that's AWESOME!
@@hardtailparty no unfortunately they wouldn’t do it taxes and shipping puts it way over what I have budgeted. I keep going back and forth on it don’t really need it but want it at the same time. I don’t have all the tools so I have to keep in mind cost to have someone swap over the parts.
Man I must be shopping at the wrong store cuz I cannot find all these cool looking flannels
link in bio
What's your opinion on mullet hardtails
Mullets are good in some places and not in others. I don't want one as my everyday bike.
I don't know about you guys but I buy Hardtails to Party! I need more party than this. 😉
Sweet let's go!
I want to try one of the angle sets you talk about. Do you know how much the bottom bracket drops from say, a 1 degree slacker ht?
See my video on the skack-r, along with the comments section of that video.
hardtail party Thank you!
i think it is more cross country oriented?
Possibly, but the big 2.6 tires with minions on it suggest otherwise. I've ridden a lot of xc bikes, and this didn't quite have the advantages of an xc bike to me. With some lighter and narrower tires, less travel, and less stack, it could be a killer xc bike I'm hoping that by slackening the head angle it'll wake this thing up and make it a killer all-rounder.
It's crazy how so many pro riders that are short like us, ride larges.
It often depends on the brand too. In some brands I'm a L/xl. In others I'm a S. I size based off reach and my intended use for the bike. If I were wanting to primarily use this bike for xx or really long days in the saddle, I'd consider sizing down to a small. If i wanted an all-rounder that i could push hard, I'd try a medium with a slack-r installed.
@@hardtailparty right I know this but thos lil dudes like leconday that have moto backgrounds 5'8" on large free ride rigs. Wouldn't feel right to me I'm 5'9" mediums have always worked for me bought a small once and didn't like it but it was an entry level giant years ago I gave it to my buddy🤙
@@johnsonjay60 Ironically, I'd ride a Large YT tues if I were in the market for one. It's got a 452mm reach, which is the same as a small in other brands. It just goes to show how different brands size differently.
@@hardtailparty yeah thats crazy
This or the Ibis DV9?
It depends. There's no one right answer for every riders which is why my bike consultation service is individualized for each rider, where they live, and what they're looking for in their next bike.
For sure! I have the DV9, and I love it. This looks like a great bike as well.
@@hardtailparty surprised that there were not more comparisons to the DV9 in the review.
I bought the Yeti but test rode the Ibis DV9 and the Santa Cruz Chameleon carbon and a used Kona Honza Carbon in my opinion the only other bike i would consider other than the Yeti is the Kona but then again everyone has their own personal preferences
@@kevdad3587 surprisingly, this bike rides nothing like the dv9. The dv9 feels like an xc bike with a little more travel. This bike feels like a bike that wants to be an all-mluntain bike, but the hta is holding it back. This bike wants to charge a lot harder than the dv9, but that head angle fights it.
Pleeeease review the nuke proof scout
I've been trying for years. No luck yet.
@@hardtailparty Oh ok
Well off you go and get these tweaks done then! Lolololol
Off u go Steve, we’re waiting 😉
FYI - I’m only joking 🙃- love your videos Buddy 👍🏻👍🏻 #iwaitpatientlyforeachvideo
Please review the vitus nucleus vr
It's vitus that needs convincing, not me
😞