Yeti Cycles

SB66 Mountain Bike Frame - 2014

While carbon fiber seems to have taken over in virtually all disciplines of cycling, there is still a place for such solid performers as the alloy Yeti SB-66. The SB-66, in fact, was the first platform to utilize Yeti's innovative Switch Technology suspension design. Developed by the boys in Golden, Colo., this 152mm travel bike was designed to handle the rigors of hair-raising descents, as well as lung-busting climbs.

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 are 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-66 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 toward the limit, it firms up to provide a bottomless feel.

Each of the SB-66's 6061-T6 frame tubes is shaped for a purpose. Take the seatstays for example—they flare in the vertical plane toward 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.

Since Yeti partners with FOX for its World Cup team, it's no surprise that they spec the latest from them. The SB-66 uses the latest version of the FOX FLOAT CTD. The Kashima coating 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. It features a post mount out back and takes a direct mount top-pull front derailleur, and the top tube bears cable guides for a dropper seatpost.

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