Yeti is best known for its 6in+, slack superbikes; however, the ASR Carbon SLX Complete Mountain Bike demonstrates that the Colorado brand also knows a thing or two about XC speed machines. Since we spec'd the bike ourselves, we do take some credit for its capabilities, though. Yeti's responsible for the 4in of single-pivot suspension and the moderate head tube angle, but we're the ones who chose to hang Shimano's SLX M7000 drivetrain on a set of Mavic or DT Swiss hoops on it, depending on size. So credit where credit's due: Yeti built the skeleton and we fleshed it out. Regardless of how it came to be, though, any rider will agree that this ASR is a lively ride.

The ASR is pretty similar to the burlier SB4.5 are less travel, a steeper head tube, and a single pivot suspension rather than the heftier Switch Infinity. This suits it for the XC racer who wants to get to the top first and demonstrate bike handling skills by dissecting terrain that enduro sled bruisers would just plow through. If Yeti's Super Bike line is made of enduro chainsaws, then the ASR is the surgeon's scalpel.

That's not to say that the ASR gets timid when grueling climbs let onto jarring descents littered with baby heads, loose shale, and twisty roots. This is where other cross-country bikes would be begging for mercy, yet the ASR shines across abusive terrain and white-knuckle descents. The ASR is built to pair with 27.5 or 29in wheels, depending on size, so the big (or bigger) hoops steamroll anything lying in their path, allowing you to ride over trail impediments with effortless composure.

Because it's distinctly Yeti at heart, the ASR proudly retains a gravity-friendly persona with a head tube angle of either 68 or 69 degrees, again depending on size. This more relaxed geometry won't chuck you over the bars like other cross-country bikes when the going gets steep, allowing you to confidently descend on only four inches of suspension where other riders are packing longer-travel bikes.

The ASR eschews Yeti's applauded Switch Infinity in favor of a significantly lighter single-pivot suspension. Not only does this design save a ton of weight for efficiency, but it also simplifies regular maintenance for riders and racers servicing their own bike. The exceptionally stiff high modulus carbon frame and swing arm complement the lightweight suspension platform, translating into uncompromising acceleration needed for tearing the competition apart.