YT reacted to the calls for high-performance aluminum E-MTBs with coil shocks by offering the Decoy and CAPRA, both of which feature the latest suspension technology from FOX. Both models raise the bar for enduro rigs by adding an additional 170 mm of travel.
YT also includes their trusted Shimano drivetrain for climbing power and descending control, a 12-speed XT system that shifts with ease and has plenty of range. For stopping, YT has included powerful SRAM Code RSC brakes with large 200mm rotors front and rear.
The frame is made from YT’s high-modulus carbon for lightness and strength, with some neat touches like in-built chain slap protection on the seatstays and chainseats, which can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement. There are full-length internally routed cables with foam wrapping to reduce cable rattle, and the pivots use double-sealed industrial bearings that have a third seal for longer service intervals.
For climbing, the Decoy is a solid choice thanks to its powerful EP8 motor and three output modes: Boost for mowing down fire roads, Trail for ripping up singletrack, and Eco to get a better workout or save battery. Its slightly conservative geometry plays against it on gnarly descents, however, and can’t match the competence of the Nukeproof Megawatt, Giant Reign E+ 1, or Mondraker Level R when it comes to tackling techy, power-assisted play.
YT’s Kashima-coated Fox factory suspension on the Decoy is one of our favorite punishment-eating combos, with a balanced fork and rear end that offers great responsiveness and stability, even when the trail gets really gnarly. The only dings on our test bike are the small water bottle mount and the slightly limited capacity of the 540Wh battery, but neither should prevent you from putting this rig on your shortlist if you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line power-assisted playbike.
