However, apart from the brand’s cult following, it is above all the unusual design details that make a Yeti so special. Similarly, in the latest range (SB120, SB140, SB160), all Yeti full-suspension bikes feature a rear triangle with Switch-Infinity kinematics. At first glance, the rear triangle looks like a standard self-steering design, were it not for the two pistons that allow the main pivot to move just a few millimetres up and down. The pistons thus act, so to speak, as a short lever, creating a virtual pivot point. Interestingly, as the suspension compresses, the main pivot point initially moves upwards but later moves downwards. This generates a very high antisquat value in the SAG range, giving the Yeti bike first-class sprinting performance. As the ride progresses, the antisquat drops sharply, allowing the suspension to work actively and freely.
Key figures and measurements for the SB 140:
- Suspension travel: 150/140 millimetres
- 29-inch wheel size
- Total weight: 14.4 kg with GX kit (weighed, excluding pedals)
- Steering angle: 65.2 degrees
- Seat angle: 77 degrees
- Reach: 479 millimetres in size L
- Chainstay length: 441 millimetres
- Available from the end of January in two trim levels and four colours
- Prices: 8,190/9,790 euros
With the new SB 140, Yeti has once again opted for a tailored, modern geometry. The seat angle is now steeper, positioning the rider even further forward as the frame size increases. To improve weight distribution, Yeti’s engineers have also increased the reach slightly. Our test bike in size L had a reach of 479 millimetres. To ensure every rider enjoys the same riding experience, the chainstays also grow in length as the frame size increases. A great deal of attention has also been paid to the details. For instance, the Switch Infinity derailleur hanger is slightly more compact, which eliminates the bulge at the rear of the frame. This creates more space for a water bottle.
The tyre clearance, a weak point in previous models, has also been increased. To make maintenance easier, the new SB 140 features a BSA bottom bracket, a SRAM UDH derailleur hanger and standard-size bearings. Yeti has retained the cable and hose guides laminated into the frame for easy assembly. However, as excessive play in the guides had occasionally caused rattling noises whilst riding in the past, the cables on the new generation are now additionally clamped at the frame exit.
Yeti SB140: initially just two body styles for the German market
As the name suggests, the SB 140 is designed to have over 140 millimetres of rear suspension travel. The standard models are fitted with a 150 fork. Those who prefer a more downhill-oriented ride should opt for the Lunchride models with a 160 fork. On the German market, however, the SB 140 will initially be available – from the end of January 2023 – only in the standard version with a 150 fork and in two different configurations. You’ll also have to wait a little longer for a frame kit for custom builds. The C2 model, fitted with a SRAM GX groupset, will be available for 8,190 euros, whilst the T1 version, featuring a mix of SRAM GX and X01 components, will cost 9,790 euros. At Yeti, the designations ‘C’ and ‘T’ indicate the different frame grades. The more expensive Turq variant (T) uses higher-quality carbon fibres than the slightly cheaper C-Series. This is reflected in the frame weight, which is around 150 grams lighter. There are four frame colour options: Raw Carbon, Turquoise, Sage and Sangria.
You can find the first test ride report on the Yeti SB140 from BIKE 1/2023 right here:
Thanks to the steep seat angle of 77 degrees, you sit in a fairly compact and upright position despite the 479 reach, with plenty of pressure on the front wheel. With the shock open, the rear suspension isn’t the smoothest around and tends to bob a little when riding out of the saddle. On the other hand, the rear end responds with extreme sensitivity, generates first-class traction and literally clings to the ground. Even on the trail, the unusual Switch-Infinity rear suspension impresses at all times and feels like it has more than 140 millimetres of travel. Even on rough sections, the SB140 proves to be a real workhorse and craves speed.
When it comes to the head angle, Yeti relies on tried-and-tested figures (65.2 degrees), in keeping with the all-mountain category. Only the chainstays are relatively long at 441 millimetres. As a result, the bike is a little reluctant to lift the rear wheel. On our test bike, fitted with SRAM GX components and DT Swiss XM 1700 wheels, the weight came in at 14.4 kilos without pedals.