The story on the Yeti stand at the Cycle Show this year is their ZeroLoss suspension system on the Yeti 303 DH bike. It looks quite novel to me so I thought I'd take a closer look

First of all it is a nice looking bike and there is lots new for what is the official DH rig of the Yeti / Fox Factory racing team. It has a new look with hydroformed tubes and a nice makeover paint job. These new hydrofromed tubes enable a weight drop to 12.5lbs

So the 303 DH rig uses this thing called ZeroLoss technology which in the words of Yeti delivers you efficient force transmission and optimum rate control. It does this by employing two Gliding Pivots (horizontal and vertical) that work in concert to provide an extremely efficient suspension system. Leverage ratio, the rotational aspect of the wheel path as well as overall travel are all controlled by the horizontal gliding pivot. The vertical gliding pivot is responsible for the vertical aspect of the wheel path and isolates all pedaling and braking forces.

One of the key elements of an efficient suspension system is to create a rearward and upward wheel path. They have tailored the wheel path to follow the direction of the impact so that it transfers directly into the suspension system with a minimal effect on the momentum of the rider. Additionally all of the force goes directly into the shock rather than into flexing the frame. By controlling these forces, they are able to build frames that are more durable and handle with more precision. Simply put, when you encounter an impact, you roll through it, keep your speed and have more control.

I understand that the one model down the more affordable Yeti 303 R-DH has eliminated the vertical rail (for cost savings). Still it has 8.5inches plus of travel and is a bit lighter so you going to be really seriously big and fast to need it's big brothers full spec.

Overall the system looks a a tad bulky to me but that may just be because it is an innovative design we aren't used to seeing on bikes. Overall looks wise she is just lovely. If it delivers the goods then this is a neat advancement in suspension systems.

Photo's (Phil Moran)

There's more to say on the geometry and components on this steed so you can check them out at www.yeticycles.com/