The Szepter Core 2 is cheaper but still looks to provide a solid spec list
(Image credit: YT)
YT has expanded its Szepter gravel bike range with the addition of a new Core 2 model, joining the Core 3 and 4 in the Szepter lineup. The new model slips into the range at €2,499 / $3,499; Eight hundred euros less than the middle Core 3 model, but still looks to provide a solid spec list.
The Szepter is the mountain bike brand YT's gravel bike. We tested the Szepter Core 4 model when it launched and got on so well with the more affordable Core 3 model that we gave it the 'most fun' award in the Cyclingnews Awards gravel bike group test last year.
The Core 2 shares the same carbon fibre frame as the Core 3 and 4 models, complete with small integrated rear fender and multiple frame mount points. Like its stablemates, the Core 2 also features a 69.3-degree head angle and 74.3-degree seat tube angle. The brand says these numbers help provide stability on high-speed descents whilst creating an efficient position for climbing. The frame also features an ASTM 3 classification which means it's ready to tackle a range of rough off-road riding.
(Image credit: YT)
The Szepter is built around a suspension fork and the Core 2 features a Suntour GVX 32 model with 40mm of travel, rebound adjustment and lockout. The Core 3 and 4 models feature RockShox Rudy and Rudy Ultimate forks respectively.
A Shimano GRX RX610 mechanical groupset is fitted, paired with a 10-51 Shimano SLX mountain bike cassette. Wheels are from DT Swiss in the form of the G1800 wheelset and wrapped in WTB Resolute 42mm tyres and a max clearance for up to 45mm rubber. Easton rounds out the spec with an EA50 bar and 70mm stem. Finally, topping things off is an SDG Bel-Air 3.0 saddle.
(Image credit: YT)
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Tom joined the Cyclingnews team in late 2022 as a tech writer. Despite having a degree in English Literature he has spent his entire working life in the cycling industry in one form or another. He has over 10 years of experience as a qualified mechanic, with the last five years before joining Cyclingnews being spent running an independent workshop. This means he is just as happy tinkering away in the garage as he is out on the road bike, and he isn’t afraid to pull a bike apart or get hands-on with it when testing to really see what it’s made of.
He has ridden and raced bikes from an early age up to a national level on the road and track, and has ridden and competed in most disciplines. He has a keen eye for pro-team tech and enjoys spotting new or interesting components in the wild. During his time at Cyclingnews, Tom has already interviewed some of the sport's biggest names including Mathieu van der Poel, Tadej Pogačar and Alberto Contador. He's also covered various launches from brands such as Pinarello, Ridley, Specialized and more, tackled the Roubaix Challenge sportive aboard his own rim-brake Cannondale SuperSix Evo, tested over 20 aero helmets in the wind tunnel, and has created helpful in-depth buying advice relating to countless categories from torque wrenches to winter clothing.
