The test bike is based on the C1 model with a Factory upgrade (Fox Factory suspension instead of the Performance series). Because the bike had to serve as a platform for various product tests, it was initially modified to suit personal preferences and repeatedly equipped with new test products over the course of the year. The frame from the more affordable C-series is equipped with the previous Switch Infinity system, which has to make do without the revised bearings, bushings and seals. There is also no Kashima coating in this series. The current Switch Infinity version is reserved for the higher-quality Turq series. New in 2023 are the bolted bottom bracket, a UDH derailleur hanger and the new wishbone link of the shock mount. Not new, but optimized: The cables routed through the frame are now fitted with screw-on covers. As the model name suggests, the rear has 14o millimetres of suspension travel, the front even one centimetre more. The Yeti rolls on 29-inch wheels.

The bike in action

Yeti's Switch Infinity system has already impressed in the past and the revised geometry and new shock mount have improved the downhill characteristics in particular. Uphill, the Amis has always boasted the best climbing performance, and this is still the case. The rear end literally glides over steps and rocks. Going downhill, the all-mountain bike tempts you to play with the terrain. Not particularly agile, but very agile, it is pushed into the tightest bends without much physical effort. When things get rough with fast and violent bumps, you'll be amazed that 140 millimeters feels like so much more. The SB140 does not lose its composure. The Fox suspension provides good counter-pressure and doesn't bottom out. Nevertheless, the full travel is always used. Even in the bike park, there was no hard bottoming out. If the suspension is well tuned, the rear end really sticks to the ground and continues to work efficiently even during hard braking maneuvers. If you have to react in borderline situations, the bike obeys you and makes many a wild maneuver to get back on course. Those who like jumplines will benefit from good counter-pressure when jumping off and also when landing. The SB140 is also easy to control in the air, as it is well balanced and neither rear- nor front-heavy.

The bike has not shown any weaknesses, but the Switch Infinity system also has its disadvantages. It requires a little more maintenance than conventional suspension systems. After a dozen washes, it's a good idea to run some grease through the grease nipples to get everything running smoothly again. Unfortunately, the axle of the main bearing has to be removed for this, as one of the two grease nipples is covered by the rear frame triangle.

Conclusion

From a day tour with 1700 meters of elevation gain to hour-long shuttle tours and relaxed rides in moderate terrain: the SB140 was always a good fit. Even on easy flow trails, you never feel like you have too much suspension travel. This Yeti can really do it all and if you only want to own one bike, this is definitely the right one for you. However, to call it "the" mountain bike is an American exaggeration. Because in the end, the handling of bikes is always a matter of preference.