The Yeti SB120 competes in the high-end segment and requires a hefty investment of 9,900 euros. Typical of the US cult brand is the Switch Infinity rear suspension, which works instead of a classic rocker link and ensures a confident, efficient riding experience. We tested the SB120 in the LR version (Lunch Ride: with longer fork) and Sram X0 equipment.
This test was conducted as part of a duel with the Pivot Trailcat SL. The other articles in this series can be found here in the links:
Features Yeti SB120 LR X0:
- Fork/damper: Rockshox Pike Ultimate / Superdeluxe Ultimate
- Circuit: Sram X0 Transmission AXS (520 % bandwidth)
- Brakes: Sram Code RSC (200/180 mm)
- Impellers: DT Swiss XM 1700 (aluminium)
- Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHF MaxxTerra / Aggressor Exo (29 x 2.5/2.3)
- Telescopic support: Fox Transfer (200 mm stroke)
From the BIKE test lab
- Total weight: 14.11 kg (without pedals)
- Impeller weight: 4.882 g
- Impeller inertia: 4025 kg x cm²
- BIKE Note: 1,8
Relaxed and yet efficient
The SB120 feels pleasantly familiar as soon as you sit on it: the riding position is sporty, but never uncomfortable, which makes long tours possible without back pain. The bike remains confident on steep climbs: the rear suspension is extremely stable and hardly sags - even if you put a lot of pressure on the pedals when pedalling out of the saddle. This saves energy and provides marathon level efficiency.
A particularly positive aspect is that you don't have to use the shock platform. The suspension reliably filters out bumps without wasting energy. Our laboratory certifies that the Yeti has medium to high frame stiffness. The rear in particular is quite stiff and offers sufficient precision even for heavy riders.
| Yeti SB120 LR X0 | data |
| Price | 9.900 € |
| Weight | 14.11 kg (without pedals) |
| Impeller weight | 4.882 g |
| Impeller inertia | 4025 kg x cm² |
| Guarantee | for life |
| Max. system weight | 120 kg |
Confident on the downhill
When going downhill, the Yeti shows its great strength: Smoothness and safety. The slack head angle, the longer chainstays and the lower bottom bracket ensure a balanced, plush ride. On fast, rough descents, the SB120 is "like on rails", builds up a lot of traction when braking and always instils you with confidence - even when you push it to the limit. Even when the trail gets rough or confusing, you remain in control. The higher weight makes it less playful, but much more confident.
Character: A real all-round trail bike that impresses both uphill and downhill - with a focus on stability, safety and efficiency.
Strengths and weaknesses
Positive: superior and efficient chassis, very high-quality workmanship
Negative: Comparatively heavy wheels, no storage compartment or mounting points, very stiff rear triangle
Conclusion from Peter Nilges, BIKE test manager:
The Yeti SB120 is a downhill-orientated trail bike that, despite its relatively high weight, is also convincing on the climbs. A top companion for demanding trails.
