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2020 Yeti Cycles Buyer's Guide

Explore the newest Yeti models and find your next gravity-loving cross country, trail, or enduro bike.

Why you'll want a Yeti Mountain Bike

Yeti builds mountain bikes for hardcore riders who want the best riding mountain bikes on the planet.

They build their entire lineup out of two grades of carbon fiber frames, the Carbon and Turq series of frames, and all of their bikes are known as some of the smoothest, silkiest and fastest bikes on the downhill. Not only that, but they also climb amazingly well thanks to the amazing Switch Infinity Suspension that has been the darling of mountain bike writers since its release in 2014.

How to Use this Guide:

  1. Pick your preferred style of riding (Enduro / Downhill, Trail - a Mix of Terrain, or Cross Country / Singletrack).
  2. Scroll Down and read about the different bikes in your preferred category.
  3. Pick your favorite style of drivetrain/frame material.
  4. Buckle Up and click through to explore the bike's product page more deeply.
  5. Call us when you're ready to make your purchase.

Want a hand picking? Send us an email and we'd be stoked to help.

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The 2020 Yeti Cycles Buyer's Guide

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Yeti Cross Country Bikes Yeti Trail Mountain Bikes Yeti Enduro Bikes Yeti History Yeti Faqs

 

Yeti Cross Country Bikes

These Yetis excel at climbing and are entirely dominant on the downhill.

The SB100

Yeti 2020 SB100

2020 SB100 - XC + Trail

Technical specifications:

Available Colors: Black, Turquoise

Frame weight: 5.50 lbs (2.5 kg)

Frame size: S, M, L, XL

Travel: 4.0 in (100 mm)

Wheel size: 29 inches

Rear wheel: 148 mm x 12 mm (boost)

Rear shock: 190 mm x 37.5 mm

Seatpost: 30.9 mm

Bottom bracket: BB92


Yeti SB100 Prices:

SB100 C-Series C1 - $5,099

SB100 C-Series C2 - $5,699

SB100 T-Series T1 - $6,499

SB100 T-Series T2 - $6,999

SB100 T-Series T3 - $7,899

SB100 T-Series Frameset - $3,399


This bike is described by Yeti as a "genre killing XC bike." In other words, this model is intended for XC, i.e. cross-country riding. 

Notably, not everyone sees it that way, even among those who also appreciate what Yeti is doing. In what can only be described as a glowing review in Bicycling, Matt Phillips praised the bike roundly but also described it as "the closest thing to a cross-country bike that Yeti makes.

As Phillips noted, the SB 100 has the lightest frame and shortest travel among all Yeti options. It has a little bit of a gravity tilt in its design, though, leading the architecture away from what would be considered a standard XC approach.

Phillips highlighted the bike's 68-degree head angle (combined with a 44 mm offset fork), longer-than-typical chainstay, and long front center. When you get the total model, it comes with a dropper post, broad bar, and thick tires built for sustained durability over rough terrain. Rather than the SB100 being a cross-country bike for someone looking for a traditional approach, Phillips suggested it should be considered a very speedy trail bike. Events for which he suggested it is tailor-made are 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo, the Breck Epic, and the BC Bike Race.

As Felton explained, the SB100 is a new model that was a smart move by Yeti because it effectively filled a gap it had in its catalog after the manufacturer terminated the ASR-c. In that sense, the SB100 could be considered a revamp of the ASR-c. The key ways that the bikemaker intended to improve the bike in the SB100 form are that the steering is a bit easier to achieve; the wheelbase and cockpit are extended a bit with a new evolution of the geometry; the Switch Infinity is utilized (which is a more sophisticated rear-suspension architecture); and the frame is noticeably stiffened. Finally, while 27.5-inch wheels were used on some of the smaller ASR-c sizes, the SB100 uses 29-inch wheels throughout all sizes.

 

Yeti Trail Mountain Bikes

These Yetis climb amazingly well for 5 inch travel full suspension mountain bikes and absolutely crush when you point downhill. 

Whether you want a 27.5, 27.5 Plus, 29er or 29er Plus these bikes set the bar for other companies to clear. 

The SB130

Yeti 2020 SB130

2020 SB130 - Trail + Enduro

Technical specifications:

Available Colors: Storm, Anthracite, Turquoise

Weight: 30 lbs

Frame size: S, M, L, XL

Fork: 150 mm

Frame travel: 5.1 in (130 mm)

Wheel size: 29 inches

Rear wheel: 148 mm x 12 mm (boost)

Rear shock: 210 mm x 52.5 mm

Seatpost: 31.6 mm

Bottom bracket: BB92


Yeti SB130 Prices:

SB130 C-Series C1 - $5,399

SB130 C-Series C2 - $5,999

SB130 T-Series T1 - $6,799

SB130 T-Series T2 - $7,299

SB130 T-Series T3 - $8,199

SB130 T-Series Frameset - $3,499


The folks at Yeti understand that it’s impossible to create a single bike that excels in all elements of aggressive mountain biking, but that sure didn’t stop them from trying. The SB130 might not be the bike for every single situation, but it certainly is for most.

With the SB130, Yeti has introduced a mid travel trail destroyer that holds its own no matter where you are on the mountain. The frame’s 130 mm rear travel feels like so much more thanks to Yeti’s Switch Infinity suspension design. 

It’s progressive enough to give you great compliance and tracking ability as you charge down the trail over rocks and roots, while still feeling bottomless when you take it off the drops. The 150 mm fork has plenty of confidence-inspiring cushion for huge hits and its progressive trail geometry ensures you’ve got agility, climbing capability, and descending chops wrapped into one.

We know it’s hard to find that quiver-killing, do-it-all mountain bike. It may not be possible, but the SB130 is about as close as it gets. Whether you’re looking for an enduro bike that climbs like a goat or a trail bike that throws down with the best, this Yeti has created a force to be reckoned with that we think riders everywhere will love.

The SB140

Yeti 2020 SB140

2020 SB140 - Trail

Technical specifications:

Available Colors: Inferno, Smoke, Turquoise

Weight: 30 lbs

Frame size: XS, S, M, L, XL

Fork: 160 mm

Travel: 5.5 in (140 mm)

Wheel size: 27.5 inches

Rear wheel: 148 mm x 12 mm (boost)

Rear shock: 210 mm x 55 mm

Seatpost: 31.6 mm

Bottom bracket: BB92


Yeti SB140 Prices:

SB140 C-Series C1 - $5,399

SB140 C-Series C2 - $5,999

SB140 T-Series T1 - $6,899

SB140 T-Series T2 - $7,399

SB140 T-Series T3 - $8,299

SB140 T-Series Frameset - $3,499


The SB140 is all about fun. This bike wants to find the most creative way down and and the fastest way back up. If you spend your days on the trail looking for berms to rail and opportunities to get airborne, this is your bike.

The snappy handling derived from playful geometry makes the descents a blast but it’s not all about the downs with this bike. While the 65-degree head angle stays true to Yeti’s love of gravity, the 77-degree seat tube angle ensures you’ve got the position of power when it comes to head up.

The SB140 expects to leave the ground, and with 160mm of front travel and a bottomless-feeling Switch Infinity suspension system provides you will all the confidence needed to send it big. Add in some fast-rolling 27.5” wheels on 2.6” tires and you’ve got yourself a party rig. Just play responsibly, ‘cause you’ll be feeling like Superman on this bike.

The SB165

2020 Yeti SB165 Mountain Bike

2020 SB165 - Trail + Enduro

Technical specifications:

Available colors: Black, Turquoise

Weight: 32.5 lbs

Frame size: XS, S, M, L, XL

Fork: 180 mm

Travel: 6.5 in (165 mm)

Wheel size: 27.5 inches

Rear wheel: 148 mm x 12 mm (boost)

Rear shock: 230 mm x 65 mm

Seatpost: 31.6 mm

Bottom bracket: BB92


Yeti SB6 Prices:

SB165 C-Series C1 - $5,599

SB165 C-Series C2 - $6,199

SB165 T-Series T1 - $7,199

SB165 T-Series T2 - $7,699

SB165 T-Series T3 - $8,799

SB165 T-Series Frameset - $3,999


The SB165 is built to shred the gnarliest trails out there. It’s an all-powerful trail bike that is equally at home on enduro courses. It’s backed by Yeti’s Downhill standards, which are some of the toughest in the entire industry.

This bike has plenty of features that make it the perfect bike for big terrain. The 63.5-degree head angle tube angle keeps things the geometry long and slack for taking on the steeps. There’s mounts for a chain guide that will keep dropped chains from hindering your performance.

180mm of front travel and 165mm in the back make this rig up for anything you’re brave enough to try. The Switch Infinity suspension system allows for a bottomless feel while still keeping the shock responsive on the smaller hits. At 27.5% progression, the SB165 is the most progressive bike Yeti makes.

27.5” wheels provide plenty of traction and confidence on the roughest terrain. So go ahead and let it rip. The SB165 will love you for it.

 

Yeti Enduro Mountain Bikes

The SB150

Yeti 2020 SB150

2020 SB150 - Enduro

Technical specifications:

Available Colors: Anthracite, Turquoise

Weight: 31.5 lbs

Frame size: S, M, L, XL

Fork: 170 mm

Travel: 5.9 in (150 mm)

Wheel size: 29 inches

Rear wheel: 148 mm x 12 mm (boost)

Rear shock: 230 mm x 60 mm

Seatpost: 31.6 mm

Bottom bracket: BB92


Yeti SB150 Prices:

SB150 C-Series C1 - $5,699

SB150 C-Series C2 - $6,299

SB150 T-Series T1 - $7,199

SB150 T-Series T2 - $7,699

SB150 T-Series T3 - $8,599

SB150 T-Series Frameset - $3,799


Yeti slots the SB150 in as a pure bred enduro racing mountain bike, and it’s easy to see why. With 170mm of travel up front and 150 in back, this trail crusher has all the suspension you need to take on the most challenging courses in the world.

The frame is built to Yeti’s downhill standards, providing you with a level of strength that will stand up to the demands of any course. The Switch Infinity system plays a huge part in the way this bike is able to conquer terrain like no other while still pedaling efficiently and taking on the transfers with speed. FOX builds their linear system in order to achieve maximum durability and tunability.

Fast-rolling 29” wheels power through the chunkiest terrain and maintain superior levels of traction needed in high-stakes competitions. This bike is all about winning races, and once you climb aboard this rocket ship you’ll see exactly what we mean.

 

The Yeti Cycles Story

Yeti was founded in 1985, in the crazy early days of mountain biking. After all, it wasn't until 1996 that mountain biking first was included in the Olympic Games. 

Yeti has always offered top tier tech without any of the distracting frills. Yeti was intended for people who were serious about mountain biking, as they say, “We Build Bikes we want to Ride.” 

The corporate culture at Yeti is part of what drives the development of its products in 2018. Development is powered by the riders of the Yeti bikes, according to the official story on the Yeti website. 

Yeti claims that the insights it obtained through listening to its riders boosted the quality of the bikes it produced and allowed it to outdo the competition. The company is committed to an extensive and robust research-and-development process, and that has improved the manufacturing process it uses, resulting in better suspension designs, stronger materials, and more powerful frame geometry.

Since 1985, Yeti has recruited well-known riders – including Jimmy Deaton, Juli Furtado, Missy Giove, and John Tomac – in the process of building one of the highest profile mountain biking race teams. As Yeti continued to become a more prominent force in defining the direction of the sport and industry, it was able to prove itself through victories at National and World Championships.

The extent to which the bikemaker was making a name for itself is still evident in journalists and reviewers to this day, with Vernon Felton of Adventure Journal noting that Yeti grew into "one of the most influential mountain bike brands of the 1980s and 1990s."

Felton also pointed to the figure behind Yeti Cycles, John Parker, as one of the primary reasons for its intrigue in the early years. Parker is seen as a magnetic figure because he was an outsider when he entered mountain biking, as opposed to the many other mountain bikes companies that were started by cycling industry leaders.

 

Yeti Cycles FAQ

What makes a Yeti a Yeti?

The Yeti brand is known for its proprietary Switch Infinity Suspension System. The attempt with this system is to allow for mechanically superior suspension. As the system moves through its travel (linear rather than traditional), there is very little resistance. You can achieve incredible small-bump sensitivity and get great efficiency out of your pedaling toward the start of the travel. You are able to flawlessly adapt in response to square-edge impacts via a strongly supported suspension as the travel gets farther along.

As a Yeti bike moves through its travel, a patented translating pivot within the Switch Infinity system automatically changes direction. Due to this pivot, the bike is given a strong anti-squat edge, allowing it to offer incredible suspension attributes and pedaling capability as it proceeds through the travel. Within the Switch Infinity are two greased bushings that rise and fall on rails coated with Kashima. 

Is there routine maintenance for the Switch Infinity system?

The Switch Infinity system is completely contained. However, in order for people to be able to lubricate the seals and bushings, there are external grease ports. Lubrication should be performed after about every 40 hours of riding, according to Yeti. Note that it is possible and detrimental to excessively lubricate. While you do not want to lubricate more than is recommended, it is a good idea to wipe away any dirt or dust that starts to accrue throughout the week.

What is the difference between Carbon & Turq?

A standard Carbon frame will have a lower price. Turq uses a higher grade of carbon and weighs less. A Turq Series bike achieves a blend of compliance and stiffness through use of the highest grade of carbon that is available. The bike is aggressive, durable, and comfortable. A Carbon frame will not use quite as high a grade of carbon, resulting in slightly lower performance in terms of both stiffness and strength. Turq is ideal for the highest echelon of riders competing to mount the podium and Carbon is perfect for the rest of us.

What is a 1x drivetrain?

A 1x, or one-by, drivetrain combines a cassette of any number of gears with one chainring at the front. These drivetrains are often recommended related to their ease-of-use, as indicated by QBP. Front shifting is often a maintenance issue. A simpler and more effective drivetrain can be achieved when the front shifting is taken out of the mix. 

Typically the drivetrain that comes with a Yeti bike is one of the quality levels of a SRAM Eagle 1x drivetrain. The SRAM drivetrain offers more gear options than any other supplier does through a 1x system. Shimano drivetrains are used as well. 

What is the difference between SRAM and Shimano drivetrains?

Yeti drivetrains may be SRAM Eagle or Shimano XT / SLX. The difference between those options is as follows:


  • Shimano 1x drivetrains –  A Shimano 1x setup uses a single ring at the front in combination with various gear options at the rear. The gear range for Shimano is very wide at 420%. Shimano drivetrains offer 11 speeds. 
  • SRAM Eagle – The standard SRAM Eagle drivetrain setup is a GX Eagle. The X01 Eagle™ drivetrain is more expensive but represents stronger innovations so it is more precise, tougher, and lasts longer, as well being quieter. Finally, the XXL Eagle variation is optimized for cross-country riding. Bringing in the lightest possible materials, it uses them within the construct of the latest SRAM 1x™ drivetrain technology, for greater durability and stronger shifting precision via a broader gear range of 500%. These drivetrains have 12 speeds; the one extra speed over the Shimano makes it much simply to ascend hills (10% easier).