This is YT’s take on a lighter-weight trail bike, targeted at fast post-work rides and all-day epics.

The Izzo’s carbon fibre front triangle is connected to its alloy back end via a four-bar linkage that provides 130mm of rear-wheel travel. Geometry sits in the middle of the trail bike range, with ample reach figures (472mm, large), a moderately slack 66-degree head angle and a steep 77-degree seat tube.

Finishing touches are top-notch: neatly guided and clamped cables run silently through the frame; bearing access is second-to-none; and the included large, magnetic Fidlock bottle sits neatly under the shock.

For the money, the kit doesn’t stand out, as it used to on YT bikes. The 130mm-travel 34 fork is from Fox’s lower-tier Performance range but is smooth, and is paired with a matching Float DPS shock. SRAM supply their NX Eagle drivetrain – which feels a touch sub-par compared to the GX Eagle and Shimano kit on others here – and their G2 R brakes, which lack power. The DT Swiss M 1900 wheels are solid, although the Forekaster tyres are limited in scope – they’re fast and light, but not super-grippy.

The Izzo is stable under normal pedalling loads, despite having a supple early stroke. This means the back end generates as much grip as the Forekaster rear tyre can give, for competent off-road climbing. Set up with 22 to 24 per cent sag, the bike has a perky feel that encourages you to put that little extra effort in. On tarmac, you might want to lock out the shock, but its location deep in the frame makes accessing the lockout lever tricky while pedalling.

The 76-degree seat tube angle is comfortable and efficient, though.

Fire the Izzo around a trail centre and it’s a rocket ship. The tyres pick up speed fast and the nimble handling is a joy as you weave between trees and pop it over rolls and risers. Start attacking rougher tracks harder, though, and if the Forekasters haven’t given up their grip, the rear end starts to struggle. Rather than provide a composed, sofa-like feel, it rattles through, struggling to recover from previous hits quickly enough, and the thin tyres ping from rock to rock.

A stouter set of rubber would add composure and build confidence, but you’ll then find the limits of the brakes.

For fast laps, YT have done their job well, but riders looking to push their limits may find the Izzo lacking when the going gets tough.

Nimble handling and fast acceleration mean the Izzo can be a blast, but you’ll soon find its limits on steeper tracks