Yeti SB66

Yeti's latest installment to their Cross Country mountain bike range is the SB66.

SWITCH TECHNOLOGY is an optimised dual-link design that utilizes an eccentric mechanism that switches direction as the bike moves through travel. Built into a compact assembly, the eccentric creates a micro-link that continously repositions the lower pivot of the swing arm, allowing us to create a suspension system with no compromises.

Efficient pedalling. At the begining of the travel the eccentric link is rotating in a rearward direction, guiding the lower pivot of the swing arm rearward. The counter-clockwise motion coupled with the initial rearward wheel path creates an excellent pedaling platform, making the SB-66 pedal and climb crisply without sacrificing small bump sensitivity.

Responsive mid-stroke. The flat linear shape of the leverage ratio coupled with Switch Technology allows the bike suspension to be more responsive, especially in the mid-stroke of the travel. This essentially creates a larger "sweet spot", keeping the rider higher in the travel throughout that portion and allowing the suspension to react better to bigger hits. There are no unexpected spikes or wallows so cornering and jumping feeling comfortable and consistent throughout travel.

Contoinous travel. Once the SB-66 reaches the inflection point (about 100mm into the travel), the eccentric link starts to rotate in the forward (clockwise) direction. This means the rate at which the chain stay grows drops off quickly, allowing the suspension to work independently of chain forces and pedal feedback. Because the suspension isn't being impeded by chain growth in the last third of the travel, the smooth feel in the middle of the stroke continues all the way to the full compression without a harsh bottom out feeling.