$3,499 YT Tues Comp Review - Vital's Summer of Downhill 11

Developed at the World Cups but offered with an aluminum frame, 27.5-inch wheels and a budget-friendly price point for competitive weekend racers.

The days are beginning to grow shorter but temperatures are remaining high as we pass half way through our Summer of Downhill test session. So far we’ve tested three bikes with various wheel size configurations, component specs, price points and frame materials. If we have learned anything thus far, it's that no matter the brand, modern downhill bikes are incredibly capable machines with marginal differences separating each of them. With so many awesome bikes to choose from, riders can truly select a downhill bike based off unique characteristics to best suit their riding style. We only have two downhill bikes left to test this summer so let's keep this party rolling! Our next test bike is produced by yet another consumer-direct brand, built around 27.5-inch wheels with a full aluminum frame and offered at a banging price point - YT’s Tues Comp. 

The capabilities of YT’s Tues downhill bike were cemented into legitimacy under Aaron Gwin who piloted his Tues to two World Cup overall titles in 2016 and 2017. During his time with YT, Gwin not only proved the Tues’ abilities between the tape but helped YT make multiple adjustments to their downhill platform. Today, these changes are still helping riders and racers enjoy a highly capable downhill bike. Gwin has had many historical winning runs throughout his career, but the one that stands out for us during his time with YT was winning in the rain at Mont Sainte Anne in 2017. With proven performance at the highest level of racing we were excited to see how the Tues Comp would perform under the abilities of average riders like ourselves. Dive into the details below as we again touch on the pro’s and con’s of shopping with a consumer-direct brand and find out if the Tues excels beyond just being a race-ready downhill bike. 

 

YT Tues Comp Highlights

  • Full aluminum frame  
  • 27.5-inch wheels  
  • 200mm (7.8-inches) of rear wheel travel // 203mm (7.9-inches) fork travel  
  • 63.5-degree head tube angle 
  • Internal cable routing 
  • Replaceable down tube and bottom bracket protector
  • FOX 40 Float Performance Elite fork 
  • FOX FLOAT X2 Performance rear shock  
  • SRAM Code R brakes  
  • SRAM GX 7-speed drivetrain 
  • E13 LG1 DH wheelset
  • 27.5x2.50 Maxxis Assegai 3C Maxx Grip front and rear 
  • 150x12mm rear hub spacing 
  • Threaded bottom bracket with ISCG-05 chain guide mount  
  • 2 year limited frame and component warranty  
  • 14-day return policy
  • Measured weight (size X-large, no pedals): 38.2-pounds (17.3kg)  
  • Sizes: small, medium, large, X-large, XX-large (for riders from: 5' 1" to 6' 8")  
  • MSRP $3,499 USD 

Strengths

  • Incredibly stable at speed 
  • Value-packed build kit
  • FOX Float X2 Performance air shock
  • Drive side exiting shock hardware
  • Silent internal cable routing

Weaknesses

  • No geometry adjustments 
  • Lack of dealer-based support
  • Reach numbers may leave some riders between sizes

YT Tues Comp Overview

YT’s Tues downhill bike has existed in their lineup for over 10 years but was most recently updated in 2018 spearheaded by input from Aaron Gwin and his mechanic John Hall. Based on their feedback, suspension tweaks to YT’s V4L four bar linkage design sought to lower ending-stroke progression while increasing mid-stroke support. The goal was to achieve a more supple and compliant suspension platform over fast and rough terrain. Anti-rise values were increased by 15% to improve stability and traction under braking forces while anti-squat values remained high to keep the suspension supported for improved pedaling efficiency. Additionally, the Tues has always had a lower leverage rate due the long 89mm stroked shock. This allows for more precise suspension tuning and increased oil volume in the damper for consistent shock performance as temperatures change. Other frame improvements included full-complement, dual row pivot bearings with pivot hardware entering from the non-drive side. This change improved both durability and ease of maintenance. Frame protection was also beefed up with the addition of a removable plastic down tube and bottom bracket protector as well as a molded chain stay protector. Lastly, cable routing was moved internally with secure cable plugs for snug, rattle free routing. In the end, the frame updates made in 2018 produced a much more elegant Tues frame that boasts sweeping lines and smooth edges compared to the previous frame iteration. 

Since these changes were made, the 27.5-inch wheeled Tues has not seen any changes in either the carbon or aluminum frame option with both sporting identical geometry, frame details and leverage curves. There are no geometry adjustments present on the Tues which does makes setup easy but also limits how much tinkering riders have at their disposal. Across all sizes, the head tube angle is 63.5-degrees, bottom bracket height is 351mm and the effective seat tube angle is 73.5-degress. For size small, medium and large frames the chainstay length is 435mm while size X-large and XX-large frames jump up to 440mm chain stays. Not exactly size-specific chainstay lengths but we do appreciate YT increasing the chainstay on larger frames to proportionally match the longer reach and wheelbase.   

YT offers their 27-inch wheeled Tues in two build kit options. We tested the entry level Tues Comp which retails for $3,499 USD. The build kit is highlighted by FOX 40 Performance Elite fork, FOX Float X2 Performance rear shock, SRAM GX 7-speed drivetrain, TruVativ Descendant cranks, E13 LG1 DH wheels and Maxxis Assegai 3C Maxx Grip tires front and rear. Other noteworthy component details include an SDG I-Beam seat post and YT co-branded SDG I-Fly 2.0 saddle as well as RaceFace Atlas 35 cockpit and ODI Elite Motion grips. Most of our test bikes up to this point have used house-branded contact point components so it’s refreshing seeing an entry-level build kit rocking aftermarket parts. YT’s premiere Tues Pro Race build retails for $5,999 USD and is built around their carbon frame option. The build kit is highlighted by FOX Float Factory suspension, SRAM XO1 drivetrain and E13 LG1 carbon downhill wheels. In 2019, YT did launch their Tues 29 frame which uses its own unique geometry to accommodate 29-inch wheels. The Tues 29 is only sold as a carbon frame with the higher-end Pro Race build kit retailing for the same $5,999 USD. Riders purchasing any Tues build will also receive a YT toolbox which includes all necessary tools to assemble your bike.  

Tues Base Build - $3,499 USD
Tues Pro Race Build - $5,999 USD

Editors note: Since receiving our Tues Comp test bike YT has adjusted the build spec and name of their entry level Tues model. Still retailing for the same $3,499 USD, the new Tues Base build kit uses the same aluminum frame and shares identical components as our test bike except for the switch to RockShox Boxxer Select fork, RockShox Vivid R2C coil shock and RaceFace Chester cockpit components. Our review will consist of discussing how our Tues performed with the suspension and cockpit it came with as we do not feel the differences in component spec are drastic enough to alter the characteristics or performance of the bike.  

Test Riders

Piloting our Tues Comp test bike was Vital’s own Jason Schroeder and long-time contributor, Sean “Griz” McClendon. Both have an extensive history within the mountain bike industry. First between the tape racing downhill at the National and World Cup level followed by years working for multiple brands within the mountain bike industry. With a decade age gap and a few pounds between them, they each have their own unique preferences and riding styles.

Jason Schroeder

  • 26 years old
  • 8 years racing downhill
  • 168lbs (76.2kgs)
  • 6' (182cm)
  • Riding style: Relatively upright with weight more rearward than most. Enjoys a sneaking straight line and ripping jump lines.
  • @shredder_schroeder

Sean "Griz" McClendon

  • 36 years young
  • 11 years racing downhill
  • 190lbs (86.2kgs)
  • 5'10" (177cm)
  • Riding style: Feet up, back flat and neutrally displaced on the bike. Often seeking outside lines, side hits and enjoys flat landings.
  • @26griz

Setup, Fitment and Suspension Settings 

To match our two test rider heights of 5-foot-10-inches and 6-foot, YT provided a size X-large Tues Comp. With a 474mm reach this is the largest downhill bike we will test this summer. Combined with its 440mm chain stays, the total wheel base taps out at a generous 1278mm. Why did we go with a size X-large Tues? While all the downhill bikes we've tested thus far have been a size large (Trek Session size R2 tested), the size large Tues Comp is too small for our test riders with only a 453mm reach. We opted for the size X-large as often it is easier to shorten reach via stem length than it is to increase the reach via headset cups. Plus, the descent focused nature of downhill riding is often aided by a longer and more stable bike. Due to YT’s consumer-direct model limiting opportunity to test ride and insure fitment of a YT bike, it is worth noting that YT operates an extensive demo tour within the United State (currently on hold due to Covid-19). Riders who are questioning what size is right for them should contact YT to see where the nearest demo to them will be occurring in the future. In the case you purchase the incorrect size or are unhappy with your YT bike, they do offer a 14-day return policy. Returned bikes must be unridden, in new condition and repackaged the same as the bike was received. Signs of wear or cosmetic damage will result in an adjusted refund amount. 

Moving onto component setup, the Tues Comp cockpit is handled by a RaceFace Atlas 35 handlebar and stem along with ODI Elite Motion V2.1 grips. The Atlas handlebar measures in at 800mm wide with a 35mm rise while the Atlas stem has a 50mm reach and zero degrees of rise. The ODI Elite motion grips use a classic ODI diamond pattern with a thinner diameter and single inner clamping lock. A component we haven’t highlighted yet with our prior downhill test bikes has been the saddle as most are unbranded and generic. On the Tues Cop, YT uses a co-branded SDG I-Fly 2.0 saddle that sits on a SDG I-Beam post. Definitely a low-priority component spec, especially on entry-level price point complete bikes, we loved the clean, race-bred aesthetic of the SDG setup. The Tues Comp we tested uses FOX suspension with the 40 Float Performance Elite fork and Float X2 Performance air shock. Both FOX components have only compression and rebound external adjustments along with internal air spring adjustment via bottom-out spacers. Our fork came stock with two bottom-out spacers while our shock had four. YT does not specify an exact sag amount for the Tues but simply recommends 30-40% sag due to the amount of travel. We used this recommended amount as a starting point and then adjusted pressure and bottom-out spacers according to rider preferences. 

Sean's Tues Comp Setup

My goal with cockpit setup was to compensate for the lengthy reach of the Tues Comp. To do so, I rolled the handlebars back an extreme amount to more easily reach the handlebars and tighten up the reach. However, this was simply a bandaid that did not fix the underlying issue that the X-large was undeniably too big for me. Jason already touched on why we opted for the X-large frame but if I was looking to purchase a Tues Comp for myself, I would opt for a large frame. I never felt like I could legitimately put the Tues Comp through the paces it is capable of because of my discomfort in managing the size of the bike. My final effort to help pilot the X-large Tues Comp was opting to ride clipped in. Initially while riding with flat pedals, I noticed my toes were pointing downward when I needed my heels dropped and this is incorrect technique for flat pedal riding. Why were my heels not dropped? To displace my weight over the front wheel, I had to stretch so far forward that my heels were naturally lifting. By clipping in, my feet remained secure and I could better get a feel for how the rear suspension was working despite my foot technique being off.

FOX 40 Float Performance Elite Fork

  • Pressure: 95.5 psi
  • Rebound: 6 clicks from closed
  • Compression: 5 clicks from closed

FOX Float X2 Performance Shock

  • Pressure: 200 psi
  • Low-speed rebound: 14 clicks from closed
  • Low-speed compression: 15 clicks from closed

The Tues Comp was the first dual 27.5-inch wheeled bike I rode after riding the Pivot Phoenix and Trek Session 8, so adapting to the smaller front wheel was the first element I tackled. To keep the front end riding high for stability during deep compressions, I set pressure higher on the FOX 40 Float Performance Elite fork than I did on the Pivot Phoenix’s FOX 40 Factory fork. Eventually, I settled on 95.5 psi which kept the fork generally higher in the travel for a more level ride height across rough terrain. From there I simply set rebound and compression relatively open for what felt balanced for my forward riding style. When setting up the FOX Float Performance X2 air shock I did use less low-speed compression damping to keep my feet more stable on flat pedals. As I mentioned above, the size of the X-large frame caused my toes to point downward when my heels should have been dropping, This led to my feet not sinking into my flat pedals and instead floating off. Anyone that has ever taken a Griz Institute of MTB class knows how much I advocate dropping those heels! Once clipped in, I dropped in on the very chunky G19 trail at The Basin and was immediately relieved I was able to ride the Tues Comp with an eased mind. Even when clipped in, I chose to leave low-speed compression mostly open as this kept the initial stroke smooth for chatter bumps and helped minimize feedback through my feet. Additionally, once I settled on a setup that allowed me to best manage the size of the Tues Comp I was continuously impressed with the mid-to-ending stroke support of the Float X2 Performance shock. 

Jason's Tues Comp Setup

When this summer of downhill bike testing kicked off I was most excited to ride the Tues Comp because the sizing was an outlier among the rest. With the previous three bikes coming out to a median reach of 461mm, the 474mm reach on the Tues Comp X-large frame was on the limit of how big of a frame I will ride. However, initial parking lot impressions did not have me too worried. The roomy cockpit was immediately apparent and I found my torso bent forward and low with my elbows pushed out wide. A comfortable attack position that had me ready to smash some descents. Often I tinker the most with bar height, settling on a higher than stock height. With the Tues Comp, the only cockpit height adjustment I made was actually lowering the front end. I did this by sliding the stanchions of the FOX 40 Float Performance Elite fork up 10mm in the crowns. This kept my weight more centered over the larger frame and made it easier to shift my weight forward when needed to minimize front wheel pushing. Other than that single change, I did not have to make any other cockpit adjustments to feel comfortable on the Tues Comp or to compensate for the size of the bike. Lastly, for the first time this summer the stock ODI Elite Motion V2.1 grips that came on the Tues Comp were comfortable and suitable for downhill riding. The diameter is not the thickest but was perfect for my medium-sized paws.

FOX 40 Float Performance Elite Fork

  • Pressure: 65 psi
  • Rebound: 10 clicks from closed
  • Compression: 6 clicks from closed

FOX Float X2 Performance Shock

  • Pressure: 180 psi
  • Rebound: 14 clicks from closed
  • Low-speed compression: 12 clicks from closed

Yet another entry-level downhill bike with mid-level suspension components and I am again impressed with the performance! Both the FOX 40 Float Performance Elite fork and Float X2 Performance air rear shock offer only low speed rebound and compression as well as air damper adjustment. But turns out, that is all I need to compliment my set-it-and-forget-it mentality. Adjusting suspension on the Tues Comp was the simplest yet as the bike did not require any particular setup to maximize comfort and speed. Beginning with the rear shock, YT states that the Tues has a lower leverage rate with plenty of mid-stroke support. On trail this translated to a very planted yet active rear suspension that required minimal compression damping to make up for a lack of mid-stroke support. There was great initial stroke suppleness so I opted to run low-speed compression mostly open. For rebound, there were no negative characteristics that needed particular rebound damping to help resolve, so I settled on a fairly open setting, per my preferences. In general, I will lean towards a more open compression setting to let the shock cycle oil more easily and rely on air pressure or the suspension design to compensate for mid to ending stroke support. For pressure in the Float X2 shock, I ran 180 psi which was simply what I settled on where the bike felt most balanced. With the 40 Float Performance Elite fork, I settled on 65 psi with both compression and rebound adjustments set a few clicks open from neutral. Again, this was my personal preference as I was focused most on having an active fork to respond to the late summer chatter bumps that had formed on most trails without being too soft and blowing through travel.

World Cup Caliber Race Bike With A Budget Friendly Pricetag 

Trails Ridden 

All testing on our Tues Comp was split between The Basin Gravity Park and Tamarack Ski Resort. Both bike parks are close to our home base of Boise, Idaho, and offer a variety of trails between them. The Basin is mostly machine-built trails with countless flowing berms and jumps with an average higher speed. In contrast, Tamarack is mostly raw, single track with limited built-up features. It offers some proper rough, technical, and rocky descents. Summer weather in the mountains brings dry, dusty and loose conditions with most test days reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Sean's Impressions

Let me just start off with restating that I do not feel as though I was able to put the X-large Tues Comp through the paces I know it is capable of due to simply not fitting the bike. At the end of testing, my impression was that the Tues Comp could achieve speeds far greater than what I was willing to manage. But with that said, the standout feature of the Tues platform was how stable the bike remained once at speed and in rough, demanding terrain. Jumping and cornering were again compromised due to the excessive reach and length of the bike in relation to my rider size. 

Even pumping rollers or trail undulations was hindered as my arms were fully extended before my weight could reach the sweet spot to drive into the rear wheel. However, this isn’t a knock on the Tues Comp as I know the firm mid-stroke support of the rear suspension platform is typically ideal for pumping, slapping berms and jumping. If my on bike impressions are any indication, there is increased importance on analyzing YT geometry charts before clicking add to cart. With limited ability to test ride a Tues prior to purchasing, understanding what size is right for you is key. If I was going to purchase a Tues Comp for myself, I would obviously go with a size large frame. Even though the 452mm reach is on the shorter end of the reach spectrum, I would rather be a little cramped on the bike but better suited to manage the size of the bike during gnarly descents. Plus, coming from the 26-inch wheeled era I’m pretty used to riding bikes that are too small by today's standards.

Jason's Impressions 

The input and changes implemented from Aaron Gwin’s feedback in 2018 were obviously focused on maximizing speed and the Tues Comp is proof in the pudding! Easily one of the more stable bikes I've ridden in recent memory, I was surprised how fast I could push the bike. I chalk this feeling up to both the size of the X-large frame as well as the supportive and active rear suspension. I’ll touch on the suspension more below, but I felt incredibly capable of diving head first into the roughest sections of trail knowing the Tues Comp would power through most situations. With my body position pulled forward and my elbows pushed outward, my rider weight was nicely centered and compressed into the Tues Comp. From this location on the bike I was able to attack any trail feature. However, even though I felt ready to go bar-to-bar against Gwin himself, the biggest downside of the X-large frame and long reach was how quickly control would slip from grasp on the Tues Comp. For example, I had multiple occasions where I would come blazing into a rough, choppy rock garden and would begin sliding on loose rocks with dust over them. Typically, I’m able to man-handle bikes to a certain degree and pull in the reins when things get a little hectic. Not the case on the Tues Comp. While I never did crash, once the bike began to get away from me the combination of the long wheelbase and how stretched out my arms were quickly reminded me I had a lot of bike to reel back in.

When riding bike park jump trails, I was still able to maneuver the Tues Comp around but my inputs equated to minor bike movements. Lastly, I felt most balanced cornering on Tues Comp compared to all the other downhill bikes we’ve tested this summer. The longer reach forced me to make a conscious effort to get my weight over the front wheel. Combined with the smaller, 27.5-inch wheels, the Tues Comp surprisingly cornered easier than the 29-inch wheeled downhill bikes we tested previously.   

Rear Suspension Performance

Sean's Impressions

Utilizing a four-bar linkage design, the Tues Comp provided minimal feedback into my feet and ankles during small bump chatter. This rings especially true compared to the Canyon Sender 6 we tested previously that also utilized a four bar linkage design. Support between mid-stroke and bottom out was fantastic. I found that the Tues Comp ate up harsh impacts and rode fairly high in the travel which created a very fast rolling steed. This also aided in creating an adequate pedaling platform that lacked the sluggish feel downhill bikes are typically known for. 

Initial travel suppleness is one area where the Tues Comp could be improved compared to the buttery smooth feel of the Pivot Phoenix 29 and Trek Session 8 we tested earlier this summer. To compensate, I ran low-speed compression two clicks open from neutral to assist with keeping the bike active early in the travel for improved traction. My conclusion is that the Tues Comp suspension platform shines as a solid do-it-all-well design that does not “fall short” in any regard. Perhaps this is why so many brands utilize the timeless four-bar linkage system.

Jason's Impressions

For being another familiar four-bar suspension design, YT’s V4L platform did a great job handling rough sections of trail with composure. Compared to the Canyon Sender 6 we tested previously which also uses a four-bar design, I felt less feedback through my feet. I believe part of this was due to how supportive yet forgiving the FOX Float X2 Performance air shock remained around mid-stroke. The leverage curve changes made back in 2018 were noticeable when riding as the mid-stroke support of the Tues Comp stood out amongst our other downhill test bikes. 

There was also noticeably less progression towards the end of the stroke. Sometimes, too much bottom out control can create a harsh ride during deep compression as the suspension pushes back against forces. For example, the Trek Session 8 we tested had great support but during repetitive bottom outs, it had a tendency to keep me too high in the travel. This then resulted in more feedback transferred to my body. With the Tues Comp, the bike was able to reach full travel comfortably without feeling too firm or stiff on big impacts. Overall, whether riding a rocky, technical trail or a bike park jump trail, the Tues Comp remained planted and supported, which made it easy to stay composed at speed.  

Tues Comp Build Kit

Sean's Standout Components: FOX 40 Float Performance Elite Fork, SRAM GX 7-Speed Drivetrain, Maxxis Assegai Tires

YT did a superb job with component spec on the Tues Comp from top to bottom as there were multiple standout performers during my testing. First was the FOX 40 Float Performance Elite fork. The fork is a breeze to set up with accessible external adjustments and active, flawless performance while descending. Second was the SRAM GX 7-speed drivetrain which I have enjoyed across two of our other test downhill bikes this summer. Flawless, crisp shifting and impressive noise cancellation from the clutched rear derailleur. Lastly, I have to mention the Maxxis Assegai tires mounted front and rear that worked flawlessly providing ample traction in our moon dust conditions! 

Sean's Least Favorite Components: RaceFace Atlas 35 Handlebar

The Tues Comp component spec is honestly difficult to poke holes in as everything functioned flawlessly during testing and complimented the abilities and intended use of the bike. If I must nitpick, my least favorite component was the RaceFace Atlas 35 handlebars. Purely for personal preference reason, the 8-degree backsweep was a tad straight as I typically enjoy more backsweep to ease pressure on my wrists. The 20mm rise was spot on however! Overall YT did a great job of making this paragraph short and sweet – outstanding build!

Jason's Standout Components: FOX Float X2 Performance Air Shock, SDG I-Fly 2.0 Saddle

If you’ve read any of my notes above there should be no surprise my time on the Tues Comp was highlighted by the FOX Float X2 Performance air shock. While you don’t have high-speed compression or rebound external adjustments like you do with the Factory Float X2 shock, I still had plenty of adjustments to fine tune performance. The mid-stroke support kept the Tues Comp supported during descents without feeling like I was cycling through travel too easily. This also kept the bike from feeling sluggish when pedaling. The other standout component for me was the SDG I-Fly 2.0 saddle. This has less to do with the performance of the saddle and more to do with the value riders receive. YT did not skimp on the saddle spec, offering a quality, downhill saddle combined with a very slick SDG I-beam post. 

Jason's Least Favorite Components: SRAM Code R Brakes, RaceFace Atlas 35 Stem

It’s not often I find myself stretching to find a least favorite component spec on a test bike but the Tues Comp had minimal weaknesses. Instead of picking my least favorite component spec, the SRAM Code R brakes and RaceFace Atlas 35 stem are the two components I would personally upgrade in the short term. Both parts functioned flawlessly during testing with no issues to mention. However, the lack of a pad contact adjustment on the Code R brakes led to differences in lever throw between the front and rear brake. As is typical, the rear brake pulled closer to the handlebar as we burned through the rear pads quicker than the front. I would upgrade to SRAM Code RSC brakes as they offer a pad contact adjustment to maintain level throw as you inevitably wear down the brake pads from blasting down descents. My main beef with the RaceFace Atlas 35 stem was the six bolt design. If you remove the stem for traveling or cleaning, the handlebars will immediately slide in the stem losing your handlebar roll position. I would opt for an aftermarket, 8-bolt style direct mount stem fairly immediately to avoid any headaches. 

Noise

During testing the Tues Comp remained a silent and solid bike regardless of the abuse we put it through. The internal cable routing was executed exceptionally well by YT and kept the cables rattle free. The simple yet effective molded chain slap protector deadened the majority of chain slap even without the use of ridges we see used on many modern bikes. But similar to the other downhill bikes we’ve tested this summer, the majority of noise cancellation was managed by the SRAM GX 7-speed drivetrain. In particular, the clutched rear derailleur. Regardless of how aggressive the terrain was, the derailleur excelled at minimizing chain movement or clanking.

Value

The second consumer-direct downhill bike we’ve tested this summer and another impressively value-packed complete build. The Canyon Sender 6 we tested previously retailed for $3,399 USD and was geared towards bike park rippers and freeride huckers. We raged about the package Canyon provided riders and the difficulty you would have finding a better bang for your buck downhill bike. Well let us introduce the YT Tues Comp! For only $100 USD more, riders will receive the same SRAM GX 7-speed drivetrain, SRAM Code R brakes and Maxxis 3C Maxx grip tires as the Sender 6 but with FOX Performance suspension instead of Marzocchi Bomber suspension. Between the two bikes the forks are almost identical but the Float X2 Performance air shock provides a higher quality ride experience over the Marzocchi Bomber CR coil shock. The air shock also saves weight and offers further tuning with adjustable air volume reducers. For $100 USD, riders will have a hard time upgrading the suspension on their Sender 6 to compete with the mid-level FOX products. But, this isn’t to say the Sender 6 is not a capable downhill bike in the hands of the right riders. At the end of the day, the biggest separating factor between the two consumer-direct bikes is their intended use. Free riders wanting to get jiggy on their local flow trail should stick with the Sender 6. Whereas amateur or pro riders looking to be competitive at the races will be set up for success on the Tues Comp.

As we mentioned in our last review of the Sender 6, if you choose to shop with a consumer-direct brand like YT, you may end up dealing directly with them via phone or email to remedy any issues you have and could be left performing services on your own. This is not to say you couldn’t walk into any shop with your Tues Comp and receive general maintenance assistance. However, most shops carry a handful of bicycle brands that they deal directly with and have mechanics who are familiar with wrenching on those brands. For those who want to drop off their bike and have their local shop deal with sourcing replacement parts and service, we would recommend making sure your shop is willing to work on consumer-direct bikes. For riders who have no issue performing their own service, you might even enjoy getting to go straight to YT for technical support. Good news is YT does provide replacement bearings, hardware and derailleur hangers directly on their website. There is also a support page on their website which provides information on handling warranties, returns and crash replacements. At the end of the day, riders will have to weigh out if the cheap price tag outweighs having to perform maintenance without the complete assistance of a bike shop. 

What's The Bottom Line?

YT’s Tues Comp should immediately grab the attention of any downhill racer on a budget looking to maximize their funds without compromising performance and stability at speed. We did endure some challenges wrangling the size of our X-large test bike so we strongly suggest riders do their research and study geometry charts prior to purchasing. Highlighted by the best value-packed build kit we have tested this summer, there is no need to make any immediate component changes to feel comfortable on the Tues Comp. With a suspension platform that excels across a variety of terrain, highlighted by superb mid-stroke support, the Tues Comp has the ability to remain composed at speeds higher than most riders will be comfortable achieving. 

For more information on the YT Tues lineup, head over to www.yt-industries.com

To view key specs and compare bikes, head over to the Vital MTB Product Guide.


About The Testers

Jason Schroeder - Age: 26 // Years Riding MTB: 15 // Height: 6' (182cm) // Weight: 168-pounds (76.2kg)

A once-upon-a-time World Cup downhill racer turned desk jockey, Jason has spent years within the bicycle industry from both sides of the tape. A fan of all day adventures in the saddle or flowing around a bowl at the skatepark, he doesn't discriminate from any form of two wheel riding. Originally a SoCal native now residing in Boise, Idaho, you can find Jason camped out in his van most weekends at any given trailhead in the greater Pacific NorthWest.

Sean McClendon - Age: 36 // Years Riding: 21 // Height: 5'10" (177cm) // Weight: 190-pounds (86.2kg)

Griz" is a battered veteran of MTB gravity racing. Following a major crash during the 2010 USA National Championship Pro downhill race, he put in the hours and fought his way back to health and the fun that is two wheels. Griz has ridden for a number of the USA's top teams throughout his racing career, testing prototype frames and components along the way. Currently managing US Dealer sales and the Fresh Blood amateur development team at DEITY Components, he remains motivated by the mantra "whips don't lie." You'll often find him perfecting his high-flying sideways aerial maneuvers while living the #pinelife in Idaho.

MORE SUMMER OF DOWNHILL BIKE TESTS

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