Is the Yeti SB130 a good climber?

The SB130 is a very solid climber, thanks in large part to the Switch Infinity suspension platform, which ensures minimal bob and power loss off the top of the suspension travel. It also provides excellent traction during climbs to make sure you can maintain your line and not put a foot down. Weight (around 32 lbs +/-), slack, and geometry are right where you want them for a good climber. The Yeti SB130 strikes a good balance of climbing efficiency, comfort, and traction.

How much does an SB130 weigh?

A Yeti SB130 frame with its carbon fiber construction weighs between 7 and 8 lbs, depending on size. A stock build of an SB130 weighs around 31 lbs, depending on the size.

2022 Yeti SB130 Lunch Ride T2 - Weight, Specs, Price

Geometry: 

If working with gravity is more important than working against it, Yeti offers a configuration called The Lunch Ride Kit, aka TLR. It takes the same frame and adds a fork with more travel, 7mm of extra rear travel, a half-degree slacker head tube angle, and more gravity-friendly components, like burlier brakes.

2022 Yeti SB130 Review - A TPC Quick-Take

The 2022 Yeti SB130 is billed as a trail bike that can climb as well as descends. In our quick test we were keen to see if this bike could serve as the one bike to rule all trails.

Pros

Confidence-Inspiring on Descents

The SB130, with its long and low geometry, Switch Infinity suspension, and lightweight frame, is an absolute beast on the descent. Whether tackling fast, open trails or tight, technical terrain, the SB130 offers a confident and stable ride.

Strong Climbing Ability

Yeti's suspension design shines not only in descents but in climbs too. The efficient pedaling platform and the 77-degree seat tube angle make for an effective climber, proving that the SB130 isn't just a one-trick pony.

High-Quality Build Kit

The SB130 features top-of-the-line components, including Fox Factory suspension, SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain, and DT Swiss wheels. These parts work seamlessly together to deliver a smooth, reliable ride.

Cons

Not Light on the Wallet

This level of performance comes at a price. The SB130 is a premium bike with a hefty price tag, which might be prohibitive for some riders.

A Little Less Playful

The very attributes that make the SB130 so confident on descents can make it feel a little less playful and agile on mellower trails or during slow-speed maneuvers.

Press-Fit Bottom Bracket

While not a deal-breaker for most, the press-fit BB92 might be a turn-off for some riders due to potential creaking issues and more complex service requirements.

The Bottom Line

The 2023 Yeti SB130 is an impressive trail bike that thrives in most conditions. It's a true quiver killer, equally adept at grinding up climbs as it is descending. However, its high cost and less playful nature on mellow terrain might give some riders pause.

From the moment you throw a leg over the SB130, you can sense its urge to charge hard and fast. It's a bike that encourages you to push your limits, conquer steeper climbs, and take the descents with newfound confidence. If you're a rider seeking a high-performance, do-it-all trail bike and you're willing to invest in premium quality, the SB130 is a compelling choice. Just be prepared for it to challenge your definition of what you thought was rideable.

Shop all Yeti bikes. For detailed size info, visit our Yeti SB130 size guide

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