YT DECOY MX Core 1, 3 and 5: Back on the hunt!
The DECOY treads the line between e-bike and mountain bike, striking a silhouette and gravity-focused ride quality akin to its non-assisted counterparts. While the look and handling remain much the same, a host of changes under the hood elevate the riding experience – the race stage winning Shimano EP801 motor, AUTO/FREE SHIFT functionality, a custom 720Wh battery, and revised YT Postman V2 dropper all contribute here, increasing the performance of this latest DECOY CORE range.
FRAME, DRIVE and POWER
Right out of the start gate, DECOY launched with a bang in its double-flipping debut. Not only good when airborne, the balanced geometry, MX platform, and 165mm of rear travel enhanced its on-trail performance when lapping descents and covering maximum ground.
These latest CORE models build on this winning formula: the CORE 3 and 5 feature the latest Shimano EP801 drive unit for maximum performance, boosting peak power to 600W, 100W more than its predecessor, and pack 85Nm of torque, all fed by a custom-designed, high-capacity YT 720Wh battery. The new CORE 1 model utilizes the new EP6 motor and a YT 540Wh battery, retaining much of the features and customization of the EP801 models at a lower entry cost.
CORE 5
Atop the product tree, CORE 5 pulls out all the stops. The big news here is the inclusion of Shimano’s latest drivetrain technology within the XT Di2 12-speed system – AUTO SHIFT and FREE SHIFT. Building upon the proven reliability and speed of Di2 electronic shifting, AUTO SHIFT keeps tabs on rider input, cadence, and speed to ensure optimal gearing is automatically selected for the terrain under tire, so no more crunching gears at the bottom of a climb. FREE SHIFT enables the rider to change gear whilst freewheeling and can be activated manually or in combination with AUTO SHIFT. The XT Hyperglide+ 12 speed cassette and chain make for a smooth shifting system, even under power, and solidify this as one of the most advanced drivetrain/motor combinations on the market.
Top-quality suspension is on offer here, with the 170mm FOX Factory 38 delivering composure on even the biggest hits, while the 2024 FOX X2 factory remains one of the best-performing and adjustable shocks to date. An SDG Bel Air V3 Max saddle provides proven comfort and is attached to the latest YT Postman V2 dropper post with a max drop of 230mm. A Renthal Apex stem and Fatbar combo keep the cockpit looking factory, and SRAM Code RSC brakes with HS2 rotors keep Scandi- flicks on the agenda. Rounding out the spec are the Crankbrothers Synthesis aluminum wheels with Industry Nine 1/1 hubs, ensuring exceptional quality and engagement speeds.
CORE 3
Sharing the same EP801 motor and 720Wh battery as its CORE 5 big brother, the CORE 3 gets into the mix with a hard-hitting freeride spec. Highlights include the FOX DHX Performance coil shock, FOX 38 Performance fork, a 12-speed Shimano SLX drivetrain, Renthal cockpit, YT Postman V2 dropper, Crankbrothers Synthesis wheels, and SRAM Code R brakes.
CORE 1
Last but not least, the new CORE 1 marks the entry point to the DECOY MX platform. A coil shock features here in the form of RockShox’s Deluxe Coil, which keeps setup simple with rebound adjustment and increasing spring rates through the five-size range: 300lbs (S), 350lbs (M+L), 400lbs (XL), and 450lbs (XXL). The 38mm stanchions of the 170mm RockShox Domain fork deliver precise steering in the chunk, and powerful, low-maintenance SRAM DB8 brakes offer potent stopping power. Further highlights include a 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, e*thirteen cockpit, durable Sunringle Duroc wheels, and the YT Postman V2 dropper.
Whatever price point you choose, you’ll find premium, high-end rubber. All DECOY CORE models feature Maxxis Double Down casing tires; an Assegai up front, and a Minion DHR II in the rear, with high levels of grip provided by the 3C MaxxGrip/MaxxTerra compounds.
Note: DECOY Core 1/3/5 batteries are compatible with Shimano’s Gen 2 EP801 & EP6 motor systems only.
