Yamaha’s YDX-MORO PRO is an eBike that certainly brings a lot of unique and interesting things to the table. From the twin tube frame design to their own PW-X2 motor and control unit, awesome Quad Sensor technology and a sub-$5,500 price tag. Yamaha stands by their geometry convictions and while we applaud them for thinking outside the box, we’re sure some will write the bike off because of it. We felt that the geometry wasn’t a deal breaker, but that it also could have felt better as the low stack height and seat tube put us in a slightly stretched out position. We also think a larger battery would be great to have for riders wanting to ride in higher power modes or get out for big rides. Despite some critiques, the YDX is a fun and capable bike all around. It will suit many riders just fine and we liked how playful it was and how it handled landing into the chunky Utah rock. We look forward to seeing where Yamaha goes with their eMTB line in the future as they’re onto some cool stuff with this PW-X2 system.
Climbing: The climbing position on the YDX-MORO was awkward at first and seemed long due to the relaxed seat tube angle and low stack height. We talked with Yamaha at length about their geometry and found they had tested almost a dozen prototype frames with many different geometry and suspension platforms. The decision was made to go with a slacker seat tube angle to give the bike the most rear wheel traction possible and allow riders to climb up steep pitches without the rear tire spinning out. With a wheelbase of 1,253mm the front wheel stayed planted on steep climbs without sacrificing agility navigating tight switch backs, which could be in part due to the somewhat low-feeling front end. The smooth power delivery in MTB mode kept wheel spin at a minimum and allowed you to get the power to the ground. A common issue we have on bikes, especially eMTB’s is dropper length, to achieve a proper saddle height with the 150mm dropper we had the post quite a way out of the seat tube. With the seat tube being nearly completely straight having a 180mm dropper would be appreciated.
Descending:
When it comes to descending the YDX-MORO PRO had a bit of a mixed response. After getting on the fresh bike we had a much better experience and thought the suspension performed way more how we hoped it would. When it comes to handling, the 27.5” wheels are snappy through tight corners and make it a fun bike overall. We liked how the YDX-MORO blended playfulness and stability, although the 66.3-degree head tube angle won’t be ideal for riders who live on super steep downhill tracks and regularly achieve mach-speeds, unless of course you’re name is Brian Lopes.
We had a bit of an issue with feeling off-balanced on the bike in certain instances. We’re not sure if it is the 666mm top tube length in conjunction with the 70.3-degree seat tube angle but when in an attack position the front end seems long and low. This was confirmed by a number of riders during our eMTB Shootout in St. George, Utah. While I do not think this really impacts the bikes performance, it does give the rider a bit of an unsure feeling through long flat corners until you learn how it likes to be ridden. The YDX-MORO really likes you to ride in a forward position, once accustomed to that riding position, confidence in longer flat corners comes back.
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12 мар 2021
