Review -

ENDURO Long-term Test 2014: Introducing the Yeti SB95c

The long term test bike of US Editor Daniel Dunn will see some racing, a lot of rugged rocks in the desert towns of Fruita, CO and Moab, UT, and a multitude of high alpine, backcountry miles around Daniel’s hometown of Breckenridge, CO. Long, screaming descents thrown in for good measure.

The Yeti SB95c in bright yellow gets a lot of attention. Good or bad, the bike catches people's eyes, and I get a lot of comments on it.
The Yeti SB95c in bright yellow gets a lot of attention. Good or bad, the bike catches people’s eyes, and I get a lot of comments on it.

The Yeti SB95 seems to be tailor built for the local trails around my home of Breckenridge, CO. Knowing the trails in my area as well as I do, I can imagine the SB95 will be perfect for an all-out, everyday, aggressive trail riding bike. As soon as the snow melts, I’ll let you know.

I stand 5’11”, a touch over 180 cm, but have a relatively short inseam. The Medium size fits me almost perfectly. Stand over height is great, and I feel comfortable in the cockpit with the stem and handlebar combo that comes equipped with the bike.

Fox Float CTD is a solid performer. Having just reviewed the new Cane Creek DBinline, I can't wait to get that shock on here for hard testing.
Fox Float CTD is a solid performer. Having just reviewed the new Cane Creek DBinline, I can’t wait to get that shock on here for hard testing.
Shimano XT brakes are outstanding performers. Lever feel is great.
Shimano XT brakes are outstanding performers. Lever feel is great.
Some racers might want bigger rotors, especially in the rear, as the SB95 comes with 160 in back. 180 up front.
Some racers might want bigger rotors, especially in the rear, as the SB95 comes with 160 in back. 180 up front.
Love the Thomson dropper. I do prefer other brand's levers, but the action of the seat post is top notch.
Love the Thomson dropper. I do prefer other brand’s levers, but the action of the seat post is top notch.

One change, or upgrade, that you can do directly with Yeti, is getting the Thomson dropper post. For this year, Yeti stocks all of their bikes with standard seat posts, but offers the Thomson dropper for slight up charge. Look for droppers to become standard in upcoming years.

It’s a fun bike, and I’m pumped to put a lot more miles on it. I think it will be pleasure to ride on some of the huge, 50 mile type backcountry loops that are possible in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. I can’t wait to report back to you and tell you what I find out.

The Thomson stem will last forever, but is a bit long at 80mm. I'll be replacing with a 50mm stem.
The Thomson stem will last forever, but is a bit long at 80mm. I’ll be replacing with a 50mm stem.
Easton Havoc carbon bar is the surprise of the bike for me. At 750mm wide, it has a confidence inspiring feel.
Easton Havoc carbon bar is the surprise of the bike for me. At 750mm wide, it has a confidence inspiring feel.
Rear Maxxis Ikon rolls fast, but doesn't have enough grip when the going gets rough.
Rear Maxxis Ikon rolls fast, but doesn’t have enough grip when the going gets rough.
Graphics are cool on the Yeti. And again, that bright yellow attracts questions.
Graphics are cool on the Yeti. And again, that bright yellow attracts questions.
Bit of a blustery day in Fruita, CO, but was so psyched to be riding the SB95!
Bit of a blustery day in Fruita, CO, but was so psyched to be riding the SB95!
Working on a new line in Fruita, CO-Mojo trail, 18 Rd. Photo-Whitney James
Working on a new line in Fruita, CO-Mojo trail, 18 Rd. Photo-Whitney James

Born: 1970’s (early 70’s) | Biking since: 1989 | Size: 180cm | Weight: 66kg | Job: US Editor

Words, Photos: Daniel Dunn

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