YETI CYCLES SB-66

The alloy SB-66 marked a change in direction for the boys in Golden, CO, as it was the first platform to receive Yeti's innovative approach to suspension design -- Switch Technology. Developed to both climb and descend aggressive backcountry trails, the 152mm travel SB-66 represents the current direction of progressive mountain biking.

Key to the SB-66's multifaceted ability is its distinctive Switch Technology, rear suspension design. Technically, it's a mini dual-link system. And while there're a number of iterations currently on the market, Yeti's application offers something a bit different. Switch Technology refers to the rotational movement of an eccentric housed in the lower pivot.

Essentially it's a pivot within a pivot, with 12mm separating the centers. As the rear suspension compresses into its travel, the eccentric (and the pivot) rotate counter-clockwise as viewed from the drive-side of the bike. It moves this way through the first 100mm or so of travel to provide an anti-squat, neutral characteristic to the suspension.

When riding, it feels as if the SB-BB has a built-in pedaling platform, and since it's a result of the eccentric, it doesn't rely on heavy compression damping. This gives the SB excellent traction and control on choppy trails. At the same time, the SB-66 is ready for larger hits. Once the mid-stroke is exceeded, Switch Technology changes direction and rotates clockwise. This keeps chainstay growth at a minimum for a reduced pedal kickback and lively handling on tight and twisty trails. It also ramps up the leverage ratio. For the most part, Switch Technology produces a flat curve, but once the rear suspension is pushed towards the limit, it firms up to provide a bottomless feel.

There's another benefit as well. Since the bottom bracket, eccentric, and lower pivot for the swing link are all machined into a single, forged aluminum structure, they're in perfect alignment on every bike. This translates into a rear swingarm that moves freely throughout its travel range, and to a longer life for the Enduro Max sealed cartridge pivot bearings.

Each of the SB-66's 6061-T6 frame tubes are shaped for a purpose. Take the seatstays for example -- they flare in the vertical plane towards the dropouts. On the left side, this helps distribute loads from the post mount. Otherwise, the larger cross-section handles compression loads without flexing. The down tube is ovalized at the bottom bracket to enhance stiffness, and it bears flattened sides to channel and distribute stress from the shock mount.

Attached to that shock mount is a Fox Float CTD shock with the Kashima coating. Since Yeti partners with FOX for its World Cup team, it's no surprise that they spec the latest from Fox. The Kashima Coat creates a slicker, more durable finish on the shock shaft, allowing the suspension to respond to bump input with greater sensitivity. The dampening system has been revised with a simplified user experience as the main objective. CTD offers three pre-tuned compression dampening options for Climbing, Trail, and Descending.

The Yeti SB-66 has a 73mm bottom bracket with splines that accept removable ISCG 03/05 chainguide mounts. The tapered head tube (44mm ID top and 56mm ID bottom) takes a zero-stack tapered headset. Out back, it comes equipped with chip-style dropouts that accept a standard quick-release. If you're interested in added swingarm stiffness, a 12 x 142mm chip kit is also available. The post-style caliper mount allows a direct fit for a 160mm rotor. It takes a direct mount top-pull front derailleur, and the top tube bears cable guides for a dropper seatpost.

The Yeti SB-66 is available in four sizes from Small to X-Large and in the colors Black, Lime, Turquoise, White, and Yellow.

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2013 Yeti Cycles SB-66 Geometry