Yeti riders don’t just wave to one another – they stop and shake hands. At least, that’s what my mate Paul claims. He’s the only Yeti rider I know. I can’t verify this, as I don’t own a Yeti. Although I was allowed to ride one for a limited time for this test, I didn’t come across any other Yeti enthusiasts whilst doing so. So the mystery remains unsolved.
The cult brand from Colorado has got a lot right. Since 1985, its mountain bikes have been synonymous with unique frame designs and genuine innovation – and the marketing strategy paid off too. ‘For Racing Only’ was the slogan for a long time. Yeti invested in racing teams, gave its bikes a timeless turquoise-green finish and thus ensured high brand recognition – whilst its competitors racked their brains every year trying to work out which colour combination would be all the rage the following year. Many got it wrong.
As a reward, Yeti can set prices around the 10,000-euro mark – yet the fan base still pays up. In fact, they’re happy to, says mate Paul: “When you buy a Yeti, you’re buying exclusivity and passion at the same time.” I find myself thinking: “I’d tell myself the same thing if I’d spent that much money on a bike.”
All new? The Yeti MT
Following the launch of the Yeti LT enduro bike, the Yeti MT is now here. The abbreviations stand for Long Travel and Mid Travel; both bikes share the same frame platform. As well as having shorter suspension travel, the MT is available exclusively as an All-29er – meaning there is no option to adjust the geometry. A third difference from its big brother: the MT also lacks adjustable dropouts for varying the chainstay length. The MT replaces the SB135 and the SB145, thereby streamlining the American brand’s product range. The combination of suspension travel is somewhat unusual, though not for Yeti customers: its predecessor also featured 160 millimetres at the front and 140 millimetres at the rear. Enduro at the front, trail bike at the rear?
The geometry
At 1.78 metres, you’ll fall between frame sizes M and L – we opted for M and found it worked very well for us. Ultimately, however, it’s a matter of personal preference. The differences in geometry remain minor. The reach remains the same for each size. However, the XXL frame size is no longer available on the new MT. The head angle is now 0.5° flatter, and the chainstays are slightly longer – but they increase more significantly with each size. Whilst the Yeti team have fitted a rather short 440-millimetre rear triangle to the medium frames, the XL frame has been fitted with a 452-millimetre rear triangle. Why? This is intended to give taller riders a more balanced position on the bike.
The centrepiece: the Sixfinity rear triangle
According to the company itself, the team led by chief developer Stretch spent a full ten years perfecting the six-link rear suspension, which is already used in e-bikes. The idea is that the six links are designed to distribute forces optimally, provide greater control and have a positive effect on anti-rise and anti-squat. The shock now operates vertically within the frame rather than horizontally. There is also a chip on the lower shock mount that allows the progression to be adjusted.
Pedalling hard
The MT is a pleasure to ride. The rider sits centrally on the bike, and thanks to the steep seat tube angle, you can still apply plenty of pressure to the front wheel even on steep climbs. The shock absorbs bumps without interfering with propulsion – the ‘platform’ effect only becomes noticeable when riding out of the saddle. Weighing in at 14.8 kilos in the XO version, which costs 9,900 euros, it’s mainly the weight and the thick Schwalbe tyres that hamper forward momentum. Our tip: if you want to expand the bike’s range of use, start with the tyres.
On the trail
The MT accelerates nicely and briskly on undulating trails and is easy to push up to speed. The geometry, with its still relatively steep head angle, feels very much like a proper trail bike – and that’s meant as a compliment. Direct, nimble, spot on.
When the trail drops steeply, the MT keeps you calm – and the new rear suspension really comes into its own. Responsive handling, plenty of control and traction, even when the trail really starts to throw things at you. At some point you do feel the limited travel, but the Sixfinity rear suspension remains composed. It strikes an exemplary balance between resistance and letting you ride right through. We rode with the progression set to the middle position – and had no reason to change it. The Fox 36 Factory does a solid job up front – but the real star is the rear suspension. This makes the difference in travel feel more balanced and harmonious.
Whilst playing
Bunny hops, root-covered sections, dips – the MT handles them all, with its geometry encouraging plenty of playful riding. Doing the odd manual is a breeze too. It’s just a shame that a mullet setup, like on its big brother the LT, isn’t possible on the MT.
In a nutshell: a winning combination? The new Yeti MT is a success and the rear suspension is a real cracker. But for anyone who owns the previous model, it’s worth noting that the SB140 is still absolutely up to date and works brilliantly with the Switchfinity rear suspension too. So, is everything great then? Nah, the price makes the bike unattractive. And one thing’s clear: there are similarly good all-mountain bikes available for significantly less money.
Yeti MT XO Quick Facts:
- Rear suspension travel: 140 mm
- Fork: 160 mm
- Steering angle: 64.5°
- Seat tube angle: 77°
- Bottom bracket height: 342 mm
- Impeller size: 29"
- Prices: MT XX €11,500 · MT X0 €9,900 · MT XT Di2 €8,900 · MT X0/90 €8,200 · MT 90 €7,200
Conclusion on the new Yeti MT
The Yeti MT is a flagship trail hardtail. It’s playful and fast, whilst still offering plenty of forward drive. The star of the show is the new Sixfinity rear suspension – it’s responsive and powerful in equal measure. In short: everything’s great, except the weight is only so-so and the price is a bit steep. It’s a shame the Yeti MT isn’t available in a ‘mullet’ version.
Laurin Lehner, BIKE test editor
Yeti MT XO Specifications:
- Front fork / Shock absorber: Fox 36 Float / X Factory
- Circuit: SRAM X0 AXS
- Brakes: SRAM Maven Silver
- Wheels: DT-Swiss XMC 1700
- Tyres: Front: Schwalbe Albert Trail Pro Ultra Soft Radial 2.50 / Rear: Romy Trail Pro Soft Radial 2.5
- Seat post / travel: Fox Transfer / 180 mm
- Special features: Flip-chip progression, storage compartment
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Laurin Lehner
Editor