Recently, I got the itch to get back on a mountain bike. After being off the saddle for a few years, I knew it wouldn’t be easy to get back to where I was physically. So, I started looking into e-mountain bikes and came across Yamaha’s line of pedal-assist bicycles. I’ve always been familiar with Yamaha’s build quality from their motorcycles and ATVs, but I had no idea they were in the e-bike game. Here’s our 2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review.
A little research blew my mind—turns out, Yamaha’s been making e-bikes since 1993. Back then, I was riding a Specialized HardRock with an RST suspension fork that I ordered from the back pages of a mountain bike magazine. The idea that Yamaha had an electric bike at that time is wild. Fast forward 30 years, and now they have five different versions of the YDX Moro mountain bike, as well as city and gravel bikes, all with pedal-assist technology. After comparing specs we decided on the YDX Moro 07. So here’s what we have to say.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Design and Build Quality
The YDX Moro 07 is built on Yamaha’s dual-twin frame concept, which houses both the battery and motor within its sturdy aluminum chassis. This innovative design helps lower the center of gravity, ensuring improved stability and handling on difficult terrain. The bike’s full-suspension setup, paired with 160mm of front travel and 150mm rear, makes it highly capable of absorbing shocks, whether you’re tackling rocky trails or navigating steep descents.
Key Features:
Dual Twin Frame: The dual-tube structure increases rigidity, enhancing control on rough terrain.
Fox Float Suspension: A top-tier system that’s fully adjustable.
Internal Cable Routing: Clean, sleek aesthetics with fewer exposed parts.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Power and Motor Performance
The Yamaha PW-X3 motor offers up to 85 Nm of torque, the motor is responsive and powerful, especially in demanding situations like steep climbs or fast sprints. It features a 250W motor, which is industry-standard for e-MTBs, but Yamaha’s system stands out for its seamless integration of power delivery.
The motor is nearly silent, and the power delivery feels natural, almost like you’re riding a non-assisted bike, but with a little extra strength when needed.
Five Assist Modes:
Eco+ Mode: Great for conserving battery on long rides.
Standard Mode: A balanced assist for everyday use.
High Mode: Provides an extra punch when needed.
Auto Mode: Automatically adjusts assist based on terrain.
EXPW (Extra Power Mode): Delivers maximum torque for the toughest climbs and technical sections.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Battery and Range
The 500Wh integrated battery offers a respectable range for a day of serious trail riding, though heavier use in higher assist modes may reduce its overall endurance. For most riders, the YDX Moro 07 can cover up to 30-40 miles on a single charge in lower assist modes. However, for more aggressive riding in the highest modes, you can expect around 25-30 miles.
The Yamaha Interface X display is a minimalist yet functional control system mounted on the handlebars. It provides essential ride information, such as battery life, speed, and assist mode, without being overly complex or distracting.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Handling and Ride Experience
One of the standout qualities of the Yamaha YDX Moro 07 is its handling. Thanks to the frame geometry and the central positioning of the motor and battery, the bike feels balanced and nimble, even on technical, root-filled trails or tight switchbacks. The 27.5-inch wheels, equipped with Maxxis tires, grip well on various surfaces, from loose gravel to hard-packed dirt.
Riders will appreciate the dropper post, which allows for quick seat height adjustments on-the-fly, making it easier to transition from climbing to descending without missing a beat. Additionally, the Magura MT5 hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, giving you confidence to push your limits on descents.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Weight
Weighing in at around 53 lbs, the Yamaha YDX Moro 07 isn’t the lightest e-MTB on the market, but it manages its weight well thanks to its efficient power system and thoughtful design. While the weight can be noticeable when riding without motor assist, the bike’s natural pedaling feel and smooth assistance make this less of an issue.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful and smooth motor with natural-feeling assist.
Excellent suspension setup for aggressive trail riding.
Solid and durable frame with great handling and stability.
Easy-to-use interface with minimal distractions.
Versatile battery range suitable for most riders’ needs.
Cons:
The battery range can be limiting in high-power modes.
Heavier compared to non-assist bikes, making it slightly cumbersome in motor-off situations.
Price point might be a consideration, as it is on the higher end of the e-MTB spectrum.
2024 Yamaha YDX Moro 07 Review
Conclusion
After spending some time on my local trails, which feature long, steady climbs and tight singletrack, I found the bike to be a blast to ride. The 27.5″ wheels handled the tight turns surprisingly well. Just drop the seat post, shift your weight over the rear wheel, and you’re good to go. The FOX suspension package is the best l’ve ever ridden. That said, it did take some fine-tuning. After a few adjustments to the compression and rebound, I found a setup that I was finally comfortable with.
The motor is compact, quiet, and barely noticeable, but when you need it, it kicks in effortlessly and helps you power through any obstacle. Some might find the battery capacity on the smaller side, but for my 20-30 mile rides at mid-level assist, it’s more than adequate.
The Magura MT5 brake setup, with its four-piston calipers and single-finger brake levers, stops you on a dime. It did take a bit of getting used to relying on just one finger on the brake levers, but that’s all it takes to slow this machine down
The higher-end Shimano 1X XT 12-speed group set delivers miles of worry-free riding. When you’re 20 miles out, it’s reassuring to know you have the reliability of Shimano beneath you. Initially, I had some sticker shock when I saw Yamaha’s lineup — $6,500 for a bike is hard to swallow. But Yamaha made things much more attractive with their Fan Promotion, dropping the price to $2,559 and including a second battery with a five-year warranty. Check them out at http://yamahabicycles.com.
