Yeti Cycles introduce the new SB165

Yeti Cycles has launched a new SB165, and, as with any product the Golden, Colorado, headquartered brand introduces, there is plenty of expectation, and much to say.

As the launch announcement rightly points out, the new bike has big shoes to fill. Previous iterations have “been ridden off many cliffs in competition, won International DH races and still proven to be an enjoyable ride around your local woods or trails.”

The latest update to the SB165 sees a mixed wheel setup and improved frame features – as seen in the updates to the SB120, 140 and 160.

At launch, Yeti is calling out the following:

The SB165 continues to deliver the most progressive rate in the Yeti Cycles lineup (22%), with a refined curve for mid-stroke composure when slashing turns, loading the bike for more versatility on more terrain.

A patented, two-piece shock wishbone is said to optimise the leverage rate while moving the shock forward in the frame. This positioning allows for a greater range of shock compatibility, decreases stand-over height, reduces shock tab sizes, increases water bottle compatibility, and boosts downtube clearance. For long-term ownership and maintenance, this also makes shock removal quick and easy.

T-series builds will be equipped with Yeti’s latest Switch Infinity system with improved seals, bearings and hardware, all an integral part of the next generation of translating pivot suspension designs. Here the brand is keen to set new expectations for kinematics, longevity, sensitivity, and strength.

Linkage, bearings, maintenance, and long-term ownership

For anyone running a bike park trail slayer (or, for that matter, any other kind of full suspension MTB) based here in the UK, what comes next is arguably as important as any suspension platform innovation.

“What good are proprietary bearings (AKA “impossible to find”) when it comes time to replace? Yeti Cycles design uses standard-sized bearings secured with precision-machined floating collet axles.

“Replacement is also made easier with all bearings pressed into the linkage assembly itself instead of the swingarm or front triangle Their new floating collet pivot design uses standard sized cartridge bearings in precision and machined floating collet axles boosting longevity. The end result is perfect alignment and smooth suspension motion every time.”

Here it also makes sense to mention that Yeti Cycles offers a lifetime warranty for the SB165 frame, and all of their other frames, from 2019 onwards.

Commenting on the new SB165, Neil Cousins, media and sponsorship manager from Silverfish said “With all the amazing bike parks we have here in the UK, rider skill levels are going through the roof, we’re really excited to be able to offer the perfect bike that can meet the demands of those really pushing the boundaries.

“With an excellent dealer network and top customer service, the SB165 should be at the top of the list for that next bike park or trail bike purchase”

SB165 frame highlights:

• 63.5-degree head tube angle
• 76.9-degree seat tube angle
• 165mm rear travel paired with a 170mm fork
• Sizes: SM-XL (compatible with long dropper posts*)
• Threaded bottom bracket
• High-clearance downtube
• Dual-density downtube protection
• Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH
• 100% standard sealed Enduro Max bearings
• Floating collet axle pivot design
• Compact-wishbone shock extender
• Boost spacing
• Secure, fully enclosed internal cable management

*As the capability of mountain bikes continues to increase, so does their ability to run modern-day, full-stroke dropper posts. The SB165 seat tube is shorter to allow for longer dropper posts. Most riders will be able to use a 150mm dropper posts on Small frames*, 175mm on Medium frames* and 200mm+ dropper posts on L-XXL frames* respectively. *Dependent on actual seat height on specific bike size.