The Yeti SB66 burst onto the scene as a testament to the idea that a long-travel trail bike can be incredibly light and exceptionally fast. For riders who demand peak performance and are ready to push their bikes to the limit, the SB66 was engineered to match their intensity. This review, originally featured in Dirt Magazine Issue 133 (March 2013), delves into why the Yeti SB66 quickly became renowned as one of the quickest 160mm travel mountain bikes available.
Yeti SB66C on a trail
First Ride Impressions: Speed and Responsiveness Redefined
More than anything, the Yeti SB66 immediately highlights the crucial role of weight in long-travel trail bikes. If you’re seeking a bike to fully utilize its travel at high speeds, you need components that are as capable as the frame itself. Yeti designed the SB66 for action, and from the first pedal stroke, its speed is undeniable. It stands out as one of the most rapid 160mm bikes ever experienced.
Much discussion can revolve around Yeti’s unique approach to suspension design, particularly the eccentric bearing ‘Switch’ system. This system is engineered to minimize suspension bob and pedal kickback, enhancing pedaling efficiency and overall responsiveness. The SB66’s performance validates these design goals, delivering on its promises of a highly efficient and fast ride.
Beyond the innovative suspension, Yeti nailed the fundamentals. The SB66 boasts a low standover height, a remarkably lightweight frame, a comprehensive size range, and dialed geometry. As mentioned, speed is its defining characteristic. Power transfer is instantaneous, steering is sharp and precise, and the suspension provides excellent feedback from the trail. Whether accelerating out of corners or maintaining high-speed stability, the bike feels like a dream to ride, inspiring confidence and pushing you to go faster.
Delving Deeper: Components and All-Around Capability
Achieving a sub-30lb weight for a 160mm bike typically requires a significant investment. This particular Yeti SB66, weighing in at 29.07lb with pedals and a price tag of £5299, achieves this benchmark. However, it’s worth noting that this weight is with lightweight Continental 1.8 Mud King tires. Swapping to a RockShox Reverb dropper post and wider 2.35 tires will push it slightly over the 30lb mark. Despite this, what you gain is a true 26×160 bike that excels in all-around riding scenarios. The Yeti SB66 is perfectly suited for demanding enduro races or multi-stage gravity events like Trans Provence, thanks to its blend of lightweight agility and robust suspension.
Tuning the complex Switch suspension system is surprisingly straightforward. For dynamic, “pick and place” riding styles, the SB66 reacts instantly, a trait further amplified by its low weight. The front end performance was commendable, featuring a Fox 34 fork that performed admirably without needing any oil adjustments to enhance progression. The rear suspension exhibited only a minor hint of weakness during repeated, larger impacts. At times, a slightly firmer mid-stroke might be beneficial for generating pop off trail features. However, these are minor critiques in an otherwise stellar suspension setup.
Yeti SB66C components detail
The component selection offers considerable customization. While a clutch-type rear derailleur might further quiet the drivetrain, the SB66 includes effective carbon frame protection and well-thought-out internal cable routing.
A Note on Wheel Size (for those sensitive to the topic): While the focus here is on the exceptional performance of the 26″ wheeled SB66, it’s important to acknowledge the evolving landscape of mountain bike wheel sizes. During testing, a 33lb Norco Range 650B x 160 bike (£2800) was ridden on the same day, demonstrating equally efficient pedaling but enhanced stability on descents. This raises the questions: When will Yeti introduce larger wheel sizes to this already incredible platform? And, in the context of tire availability at the time, what are the advantages of a 160x650B setup? These were pertinent questions as the industry debated the merits of different wheel sizes.
Verdict: A Charger, Not a Cruiser
In terms of weight and overall feel, the Yeti SB66 draws comparisons to the Specialized Enduro. While the Yeti SB66 has a slightly shorter front end, its aggressive and attacking character is very similar. This bike feels remarkably light in diverse riding situations, allowing for rapid changes in direction and nimble handling. Bikes that combine this level of performance and agility are rare. The SB66 is designed to be ridden hard and fast, not cruised casually. Yeti’s own description, “six pounds and six inches for backcountry rides and enduro races,” perfectly encapsulates its purpose.
In conclusion, the Yeti SB66 stands out for its exceptional drive and relatively straightforward design, representing a significant step in the direction of lightweight enduro bikes – a category that was surprisingly scarce at the time. Beyond its performance, the frame’s sleek lines and aesthetically pleasing color scheme are undeniable. It’s a bike that clearly received meticulous attention to detail in its design – well-proportioned, subtle, and visually effortless. The Yeti SB66 is a truly great mountain bike, offering an exhilarating ride experience, and it would undoubtedly be a top contender among 26” x 160mm bikes.
Price: £5299 (Carbon frame £2,699, Alloy frame £1,999)
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WEIGHTS AND MEASURES (Size L):
- Wheelbase: 46.3″
- Headangle: 67º
- Bottom Bracket: 13.4”
- Chainstay: 17.1″
- Front Centre: 29.2″
- Standover: 29.3″
- Bar: 780mm
- Stem: 50mm
- Weight: 29.07lbs
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Frame: Yeti SB66 Carbon, Large
- Shock: Fox CTD Adjust K+
- Fork: Fox 34 150 Kashima 15
- Stem: Thomson 4X
- Bars: Easton Haven Carbon
- Grips: Yeti Lock–On
- Headset: Cane Creek
- Shifter: Shimano XT 10 Spd
- Derailleur: Shimano XT 10 Spd
- Brakes: Shimano XT R–160/F–180
- Seatpost: Thomson Elite
- Seat: WTB Yeti Branded
- Crank: Shimano XT (24/32/42)
- Front Derailleur: Shimano XT Direct Mount
- Cassette: Shimano 10 Spd
- Chain: Shimano 10 Spd
- Wheelset: DT Swiss X1600
- Tyres: Maxxis Ardent
- Sizes: S, M, L, and XL
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- 2014 YETI BIKES LINE-UP RELEASED
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See Also:
- CANYON SPECTRAL CF 9.0
- CUBE FRITZZ 180 HPA SL
- EVIL INSURGENT – BIKE TEST
- MARIN HAWK HILL 2017
- NORCO OPTIC
