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Hardcore Hardtail: Build write-up part 2
4th June 2007 - James
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In the last article we explained why we wanted a hardtail for an all-round rig. Especially a hardtail as light as the Yeti Dirtjumper has proved to be. We then started off the build with the forks, drivetrain, seatpost and steering.
This second section finishes off the build, with the wheels, brakes, tyres, saddle and finishing kit.
In order to get this bike up to speed fast, a low rotational weight was essential. This is where DT Swiss stepped up to the plate, their 5.1 rims, 440 hubs and DT spokes creates a very lightweight build, as well as being incredibly strong. This is the wheelset that the Athertons are using on their DH bikes for the 2007 season, and with their exploits its safe to say these wheels can live with it.
The hubs use DT Swiss' very simple and effective star ratchet system, two 18 tooth ratchets to provide awesome pedal pickup, and while they make a very different noise to other hubs, instead of the loud whirring and clicking you would normally expect it makes a very low pitch click, and is almost silent on the trails. Stealth or what?
  
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We did mention a DT product which was quite exciting in the last article, this is the 10mm quick release axle from DT. This will fit (with the conversion kit from QR) into any standard QR dropout, and increases the strength and rigidity of the rear of the bike dramatically. Currently we are using a QR to bolt the back end, later in time we will switch over to the DT Swiss system and report on the differences between the two.
 
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To keep the wheels glued to the ground Kenda was called into action, recently we had on test a set of Nevegals and these impressed us. While being extremely difficult to get onto the rims, once located the folding 2.3 inch tyre has provided excellent grip, and the folding design has meant that the wheelset is even lighter which further helps the acceleration of the bike.
 
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The final major components is brakes, now being of larger frame I needed something pretty powerful but still lightweight. 185mm rotors were called into action along with Avid Juicy Carbon discs. While having used Hayes before, the Avids will be a learning curve. They are identical to the Juicy 7's, just with a bit of carbon splashed out to cut weight and look pimp. They should be more than ample to stop me.
 
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Now finishing kit is almost as important as the major build components. An FSA Pig Pro DH headset was used, for brute strength and overbuilt design, dont think i'll be breaking this anytime soon. The Yeti's headtube is huge, that wont be flaring either.
An SDG Bel Air RL saddle cushions impacts and is actually very comfy, having previously been a slave to WTB's range of saddles the SDG is perfect.
Finally to finish the build off perfectly, Yeti Lock-ons grips, a personal favourite of mine and also looking pretty good on their namesake.
  
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The bike is now fully built, from when it began like this..
To the finished product..
Nice arty shot to finish..
We will be bringing a long term test of this bike sometime in the future, I will be experimenting with chainguides too in order to see what is the best compromise bike, after all it will suffer on a downhill track with three rings up front. Keep it checked here to find out what happens. Big thanks to all involved for their help in putting this bike together. Check out their links below.
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