Few brands have the pedigree that Yeti has for efficient cross-country race bikes, which is why the new SB120 is such an appealing bike to us. Bumping the rear travel up to the trail category (or dare we say, downcountry?) and away from XC race territory, Yeti is sure to attract plenty of attention with this new 29er.

The bike sees a handful of key updates including a revised Switch Infinity linkage, SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger compatibility, and a new XX-large frame size. Further refinements include size-specific chainstays and a revamped downtube protector for enhanced frame coverage.

On the trail, the SB120 T3 build that we tested punches above its weight on the descents. Yeti finds the perfect balance between agility and stability with geometry and smartly specs powerful G2 RSC brakes and durable DT Swiss XM1700 alloy wheels. As you might expect, it climbs like a rocket ship with seemingly endless appetite for out-of-the-saddle pedaling and tricky switchbacks.

Gearhead Jono got the bike out on a classic Salt Lake City trail loop with a sustained, winding climb and a good mixture of steep bits and technical sections. The bike left him with plenty of energy for the descent (which many choose an enduro bike for) and to Jono’s pleasant surprise, let him easily maneuver his favorite downhill features.

So, what’s the final verdict? The SB120 is the cross-country rider’s trail bike, with a lightweight design and efficient pedaling feel that could easily entertain a local XC race series.

Check out the products featured here:

SB120 T3 X01 Eagle AXS Mountain Bike: https://www.backcountry.com/yeti-cycl...
All SB120 Builds: https://www.backcountry.com/search?s=...
Yeti Bikes: https://www.competitivecyclist.com/mo...
Men’s Backcountry Bike Apparel: https://www.competitivecyclist.com/me...
Women’s Backcountry Bike Apparel: https://www.competitivecyclist.com/wo...
All Things Bike: https://www.competitivecyclist.com/

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0:00 - Shredit
0:25 - Intro
0:50 - Differences from previous bikes
1:45 - Technical Details
5:53 - Ride Impressions
7:45 - Who's this bike for?
9:00 - Bike Tested Weight
9:22 - Outro