New YT Capra Core 1 promises big-name enduro performance on a budget

By Nick Clark

Published: Thursday, 19 January 2023 at 12:00 am

The new YT Capra Core 1 is the direct-to-consumer brand’s cheapest enduro bike, coming in at  £2,699 / $2,699 / €2,699 / AU$5,599 for a SRAM NX build.

The Capra 2 NX has been upgraded with a SRAM GX groupset and is now priced at £3,299 / $3,299 / €3,299 / AU$6,599.

The new bikes, like the rest of the range, will be available in either an MX (YT lingo for a mullet setup) or 29er configuration.

Both bikes will share the Capra Mk III’s aluminium frame. Higher-spec builds come with the option of a carbon frame.

On paper, the Core 1 presents excellent value considering the addition of a RockShox ZEB fork and Super Deluxe Select R shock.

The Core 2 continues to use the Fox 38 Float Performance fork and Float X Performance shock.

YT Capra Core 1

""
The new entry-level Capra looks ready for challenging enduro trails.
YT Industries

The new Core 1 is intended to be an inviting entry point for those wanting a serious enduro mountain bike, with spec decisions that could make it a great choice for gnarly trails.

Four-piston SRAM DB8 brakes should ensure confidence when trails get steep.

SRAM’s 12-speed NX Eagle groupset also features an 11-50t cassette for climbing back up the hills.

""
The Postman is YT’s own dropper post and is cable actuated.
YT Industries

YT includes its Postman dropper post, with the post length changing depending on the frame size. Size XXL bikes get a hefty 200mm drop, 170mm for XL and L, 150mm for M, and 125mm for the size S.

""
All bikes in the range feature the Thirstmaster 6000 bottle.
YT Industries

The bike also includes tool strap mounts and a water bottle dubbed the Thirstmaster 6000.

The bike comes in either Sludge Green or Black Magic colours.

YT Capra Core 1 spec and pricing information

""
The Capra Core 1 is available in Sludge Green or Black Magic.
YT Industries
  • Fork: RockShox ZEB Base
  • Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Select R
  • Drivetrain: SRAM NX Eagle
  • Brakes: SRAM DB8
  • Wheels: Sunringle Duroc SD 37 Comp
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai (front), Maxxis Minion DHR II (rear)
  • Price: £2,699 / $2,699 / €2,699 / AU$5,599

YT Capra Core 2 GX

""
The Capra Core 2 GX features the same specs as the outgoing Core 2 NX, apart from the groupset.
YT Industries

The Capra Core 2 GX will replace the outgoing NX-equipped version. The updated model remains similar to the original in terms of spec, apart from the addition of SRAM’s GX Eagle groupset.

The price has increased by £200 over the NX model, which considering rising prices across the industry and the better componentry, doesn’t feel outlandish.

As with the Core 1, the bike will feature the Postman dropper post in varying sizes depending on frame size.

""
SRAMs Code R brakes are powerful stoppers and shouldn’t leave you wanting.
YT Industries

A notable improvement over the Core 1 is  SRAM’s Code R brakes, which should offer plenty of stopping power when descending.

YY Capra Core 2 GX spec and pricing information

""
The Capra Core 2 GX is available in Machine Light Grey or Black Magic.
YT Industries
  • Fork: Fox 38 Float Performance
  • Shock: Fox Float X Performance
  • Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle
  • Brakes: SRAM Code R
  • Wheels: Crankbrothers Synthesis
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai (front), Maxxis Minion DHR II (rear)
  • Price: £3,299 / $3,299 / €3,299 / AU$6,599