I had a demo of a ASR5a two weeks ago and posted under the thread of Yeti ASR5 Vs Zesty. I said the following:
Thought I’d give a quick update following my demo ride on Sunday. Thanks to JD cycles of Ilkley for organising what seemed to be a great afternoon for all who came along.
I thought that up close the ASR5 ooozed class and fortunately was specced exactly as I would want it to be – Fox float 140mm up front with a predominantly XT groupset and Thomson seatpost and stem. So, no excuses regarding inferior kit.
The ride is very, very good indeed. The bike was light in weight, but not flimsy and climbed very well. I felt I could have stayed in the saddle all day as the levels of comfort were brilliant.
On the twisty singletrack descent, the Yeti was very steady and controlled (wasn’t too gnarley)but did lack the hooligan feeling I always get from the Zesty. Having said that, I didn’t miss it either – perhaps that is my age coming into play.
In summary, it’s an excellent bike (pricey) that covers all the bases in terms ofall day comfort, mountain goat climber and confident descender. Everything I now want in a bike.
I am seriously, seriously considering getting one.
Hope that helps and enjoy the demo