I'm stuck choosing between the YT Jeffsy Core 2 and Core 3 aluminum models, both on sale right now. The Core 2 is on sale for $1,899 (down from $3,699), and the Core 3 is $2,399 (down from $4,799). That’s only a $500 price difference, but the Core 3 comes with about $2,700 worth of upgraded components: a RockShox Lyrik Ultimate fork vs. the Fox 36 Performance, a Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock vs. a Float X Performance, and the full SRAM Eagle T-Type Transmission drivetrain vs. Shimano SLX/XT. The Core 3 also has Crankbrothers Synthesis Enduro wheels, a Renthal cockpit, and a Cane Creek Series 40 headset vs. mid-range alternatives on the Core 2. Basically, the Core 3 is a killer deal if you look at value-for-money and future upgrade costs. But here's my dilemma: I absolutely love the color of the Core 2 (Frost Blue), and only kinda like the Core 3’s color (Concrete Grey). I actually almost bought the Core 2 last year for $2,800, so the fact that it’s $1,899 now feels like a win. On the flip side, the Core 3 is a much better build and would cost me way more than $500 to upgrade the Core 2 later. So I’m torn between getting the color I love with solid parts, or spending $500 more for high-end parts on a bike I’m not totally in love with visually. Would love some honest opinions—what would you do?
by South_Art1939
20 Comments
If you’re looking at your bike while you’re riding it, something has gone terribly wrong…
Spend the extra. You’ll not regret it.
If you can afford it I would totally go with the core 3. The components are MILES better
Get the better build. Once you ride the bike, you will love it. The core 3 has Hayes brakes which are a dream and worth the price.
You can’t get the shit one just because of the color!
Just like an ugly baby, you will learn to love the boring grey with terrible blue accents.
Get the newer model. Especially for only $500 more. Color doesn’t matter. If you like the way the bike rides you’ll learn to like the color regardless trust.
You can add some frame protector decals to give it a color you like! Ground Keeper is a brand I’ve used before to design some purple decals for my gray bike.
https://groundkeepercustom.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopvNh5errOaZzHKmLeCsmFlPSgKgEsFN82MoVyZ1Nbc-lkZKkKY
Getting a deal on parts really only should be a factor if you’re already the kind of person who would slap on a $1000 drivetrain and misc. parts just so he can brag about having to change batteries on an analog bike. Otherwise you’re locking yourself into more expensive servicing and replacement part costs down the road.
Once the bike is set up and you’re used to it, the average rider won’t be able to notice much difference between specs. Pick the colour you want, save the money and spend it on a fuckin’ sick riding trip with some mates.
Edit: If you disagree with me, that’s totally valid, I simply don’t like sram transmission and I will die on that hill.
I just picked up the frost blue for my wife. She’s not really into riding but she loved the color. I’ve got a core 4 for myself which absolutely rips.
Always take the better spec if you can afford to! Unless you already plan on specific upgrades that negate the aavings.
Grey 1000000% – the lyric ultimate is awesome, I want one instead of my fox factory 36 grip x2.
As usual no one giving a nuanced answer. So not only is it not the color you prefer, and believe me changing bike color aint cheap to do it right. Changing parts is arguably cheaper…
But it also comes with transmission which is heavier, slower to shift, and requires charging and all that nonsense.
Both bikes are totally fine. Suspension is always weird, both models are fine but I’d prefer a RS shock and Fox fork… But that build don’t exist.
I’ll play devil’s advocate for ya, the parts upgrade is not a massive upgrade and depending on your perspective its a downgrade in terms of reliability, ease of use, weight, etc.
All while paying more for a color you don’t like.
Get the blue one with reliable SLXT mix.
It’s a bike. It’s gonna get used. Damaged. Parts are gonna change. But it still costs a lot of money… So don’t get one you don’t appreciate lookin at.
Again, both bikes will be fine.
Ride Wrap it, I used to work there and but no longer now, you’ll want to protect your nice new bike but you can also get graphic wraps now I believe so maybe give them a look.
Cheers
At the end of the day both bikes are very good. In reality as a new rider you won’t out perform the 2.
However. If you’re the type of person who will inevitably want to upgrade in the future then get the 3.
In the long run you’ll learn to love the look of your bike.
Tools not jewels. This shouldn’t even be a question.
I’d also say spend the extra for the Core 3 but honestly can’t figure which one of the two bikes is supposed to be the blue one. I see green and grey.
Core 3. No brainer.
Honestly as soon as I saw Hayes brakes I was convinced. You should REALLY get the higher spec model. TBH a lot of the changes are pretty marginal but cane creek headset and Hayes convinced me. I don’t really think T-type is that much better than SLX/XT and I hate crank bros wheels but yeah…. Just go for it.
Get the cooler looking one, you will never be satisfied if you don’t
Not sure what we’re voting on but always number 2 💩
Dude my bike’s color is called DRYWALL. If I can love it, so can you.