The Yeti SB 165, which costs just under € 11,000, has been given small, subtle updates that should have a positive effect on its durability. The enduro bike with Switch Infinity rear triangle also offers excellent downhill performance.
Equipment Yeti SB165
- Fork Fox 38 Factory
- Damper Fox DHX2 Factory Coil
- Circuit Sram X0 AXS Transmission
- Translation / bandwidth 30; 10-52 / 520 %
- Brakes Sram Code RSC 220/200 mm
- Telesupport/lift Fox Transfer / 200 mm
- Impellers DT Swiss EX 1700 Spline
- Tyres Maxxis Assegai/Minion DHRII Maxxterra Exo+ 29 x 2.5 / 27.5 x 2.4
Measured values
- Total weight 15.99 kg (without pedals)
- Weight Wheels 5335 g
- Acceleration impellers 4063 kg x cm²
Yeti SB 165 T3 - the Iron
You have to look closely to recognise the other changes to the brand new SB 165 in addition to the 29er front wheel. Many subtleties are hidden in the details and are intended to improve durability and ease of servicing. For example, the Switch Infinity Link, the centrepiece of the Yeti, has been revised. New hardware, better seals and rust-free high-end bearings in standard size should ensure more time on the trail. This is where the high-end enduro bike, which at just under € 11,000 is the expensive reference in this comparison, belongs without a doubt.
With its steel rear suspension and the Fox 38 in Factory version, the SB 165 becomes a DH favourite after just a few runs on our test tracks in the Geißkopf bike park. The suspension responds super sensitively, feels confident even in high-speed sections and still offers defined support to actively push and generate speed. That's how it should be! The geometry is also immediately pleasing and requires little familiarisation time. Reach, wheelbase and steering angle are in the golden mean and ensure a smooth ride without drifting into extremes or becoming too bulky. The only drawback is the somewhat tame specification of the tyres with Exo+ casing on the rear wheel and only Maxxterra compound on the front. The Yeti is also a front runner on the climbs. This is not only due to the price-dependent weight, but also the efficient rear suspension, which doesn't pump much even in open mode. The slightly sporty riding position is also pleasing and increases propulsion. However, there is still room for improvement with the favourable DT 1700 wheels.
Conclusion by Laurin Lehner, Deputy Editor-in-Chief FREERIDE
The wickedly expensive Yeti SB 165 served as the reference in this test and lived up to its role as favourite. The chassis and intuitive handling completely won over all the testers.
Test judgement:
