Is YT Industries new Capra Core 3 an ultimate enduro bike contender?

Fresh off the back of the January launch of the all-new Capra Core 1 and updated Core 2 GX. YT Industries hasn't rested on its laurels and has now launched the latest Capra Core 3. The updated model lights up the spec sheet with race-proven components that YT Industries says make the Capra Core 3 ready to bring the heat in the best enduro bike market.

YT offers a wide range of mountain bikes and they regularly feature high in most lists of the best downhill mountain bikes and enduro bikes. Founded by Markus Flossmann in 2008 they have also recently dipped their toe in the crowded best gravel bike market with the Szepter Core 4 and 3. However, they remain focused on mountain biking and gravity, and the Capra, first launched back in 2014, remains central to the brand as they continue to expand the number of options available.

Core 3 frame features

The high-modulus carbon frame of the Core 3 includes the same features and geometry as its recent aluminum counterparts. Tool strap mounts under the top tube, a geometry-adjust flip-chip makes adapting the Core 3 to local trails super straightforward. 

The mullet wheeled MX variation (29-inch front and 27.5 rear) aims to please bike park fiends, featuring shorter chainstays and a more progressive kinematic. The 29-inch wheeled model ups the chainstay length for improved climbing performance, while providing a more linear curve for maximum traction. Larger frame sizes also receive an increased rear center length, ensuring balanced handling for riders of all heights. Both the MX and 29-inch versions are rated for a 180mm travel fork for getting extra sendy at the bike park or squeezing out extra seconds between the tape.

The drool-worthy spec

The Core 3 comes with top-end, fully adjustable suspension, starting with the highly rated 170mm RockShox Zeb Ultimate. It strikes gold with all the latest tech, including the new Charger 3 damper with HSC/LSC adjustment, updated Debonair+ spring, and vibration-reducing buttercups. 

Combined with the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate, which gives a major step up in feel, control and easy tuning, and now also features external HSC/LSC adjustment. This level of on-the-fly tuning means dialing in your ride doesn’t require a trip to the workshop, especially with the handy YT Suspension Guide giving recommended base setups to get you out on the trails riding.

The spec sheet continues to impress in the form of SRAM GX Eagle AXS wireless derailleur, proven to deliver repeatable and reliable shifting even in the filthiest of trail conditions. Additionally, the overload clutch protects the mech when your desired line choice doesn’t quite go to plan.

The cockpit features include Renthal componentry with the all-new AL2014 bar and stem combo clad with cult classic ODI lock-on grips. More finishing touches come in the form of an SDG Bel Air 3.0 saddle, a YT Postman dropper (with up to 200mm drop for size XXL), SRAM Code R brakes, and an E13 TRS Plus chain device.

The Crankbrothers Synthesis Enduro wheels should enable the Core 3 to hold a line when the trail gets out of hand and comes in differing rim profiles and spoke counts for each end of the rig. Lastly, the Core 3 now features a super sticky and proven Maxxis Grip Assegai and Maxxis Terra DHR II combo for some of the best grip in a wide array of conditions.

Pricing and availabilty

Both the 29-inch model and the MX models are now available to order from www.ytindustries.com. With both starting at $4,599 / £4,599 / €4,599. Colors come in Deep Yellow, Lava Red and Black Magic.

The YT Mill Showrooms in the UK, USA and Germany offer test rides for all available models in the YT Core range, all year round. If your location isn’t near a Mill, then the Rolling Circus demo events bring the whole demo fleet to a variety of locations across the globe. The dates for this year’s demo tour will be announced soon and find more information at YT Industries.com.