Yeti SB150 C1 Review
- Price: $6,600
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 29 inches
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: Long reach, slack head angle, steep seat tube angle, a geometry that satisfies all riders’ requirements.
What we don’t like about it: It doesn’t come with a chain stabilizer and needs to be purchased and installed by the rider.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Yeti SB150 C1 is equipped with 29-inch wheels and has 170mm of front and 150mm of rear suspension travel. Its excellent geometry and carbon fiber frame make it faster and faster during descents.
We will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Yeti SB150 C1. In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other bike models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
As a star performer with numerous awards in various competitions, the Yeti SB150 C1 possesses impressive downhill riding capabilities. When I got my hands on this star bike, I couldn’t wait to take it for a ride.
For this purpose, I took the Yeti SB150 C1 to Windrock Park (Tennessee) and booked a nearby hotel in advance using IHG. The park offers trails ranging from easy to challenging, with everything from gravel paths to extremely rugged mountain terrain. It’s truly a great place for riding.
Climbing
During climbs, the carbon fiber frame and excellent suspension design of the Yeti SB150 C1 allowed for efficient and direct power transfer.
With the SHIMANO SLX 30T 170MM crankset and SHIMANO SLX 10-51T freewheel, which provide a 1×12 speed range, the bike maintains powerful uphill riding capabilities even on steep climbs.
Additionally, the excellent geometry, steep seat angle, and short fork offset ensure that the front wheel stays grounded effectively. This greatly helps me maintain a good balance and center of gravity while climbing.
Lastly, the MAXXIS ASSEGAI 2.5 EXO+ tires offer excellent traction. They allow every pedal stroke to translate into forward movement without slipping.
In summary, this is a full-suspension enduro mountain bike with a powerful climbing performance. It has consistently maximized its capabilities to assist me during my climbing rides.
Descending
The Yeti SB150 C1 also performs admirably during descents, as if descending is its true stage.
The FOX PERFORMANCE 38 fork and FOX PERFORMANCE FLOAT X2 rear shock provide 170mm and 150mm of suspension travel respectively. This setup helps reduce impact and provides smoother landings during high drops.
Next, on long stretches of rocky descents, the slack head tube angle combined with the 29-inch wheels allows the bike to roll over rough terrain smoothly. It enables me to maintain stability while traversing this type of road.
When I need to brake frequently and slow down on winding trails, the SHIMANO DEORE 4 PISTON hydraulic brakes paired with the SHIMANO 203 brake rotors deliver excellent braking performance. The braking experience is also quite good.
In conclusion, the Yeti SB150 C1 is a high-performance full-suspension enduro bike. Its climbing and descending capabilities are almost at the top level within its bike category.
Specification
The Yeti SB150 C1 is available in four sizes (S-XL) with internal cable routing options. It has a clean and tidy appearance, making it easier to clean daily.
The bike features a dropper post with a dropper seatpost, the Fox Transfer SL Factory Kashima Dropper 31.6, with different travel lengths: FOX TRANSFER 31.6MM / SM: 125MM, MD: 150MM, LG/XL: 175MM. This allows for easy weight shifting during climbs and descents.
Protective stickers are applied to the chainstay and downtube to safeguard the expensive carbon fiber frame from debris during intense downhill rides. They also reduce the noise caused by chain slaps against the frame during riding.
The bike includes mounting holes for full-size water bottles.
Other Versions
The Yeti SB150 C1 is a high-performance full-suspension mountain bike with a top-notch lightweight carbon fiber frame. However, it comes with components that offer good value for the money, but may not fully unleash the potential of the top-level frame.
To address this, we offer another bike with the same frame but equipped with high-end components. This version fully unleashes the capabilities of the Yeti SB150 C1 and is better suited for experienced riders with a larger budget.
Yeti SB150 T3
Both the Yeti SB150 C1 and the Yeti SB150 T3 utilize the same carbon fiber frame. However, the latter comes with top-level components, making it more suitable for experienced riders with a larger budget.
In terms of suspension, the Yeti SB150 T3 features the FOX FACTORY 38 GRIP 2 fork and FOX FACTORY FLOAT X2 rear shock, providing better suspension support and smoothness.
For the drivetrain, the SRAM XX1 EAGLE is a top-level component from SRAM. It offers excellent shifting performance, drivetrain efficiency, and is among the best groupsets in terms of weight.
Lastly, the SRAM XX1 EAGLE brake components provide top-level braking power, and their responsiveness during braking is extremely precise.
Below, we will provide specific details and list comparable full-suspension enduro bikes from other brands with similar prices for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- Frame sizes (S-XL) catering to riders from 5’1″ to 6’7″.
- Clean and tidy appearance with internal cable routing, making it easier to clean.
- Dropper post maintains rider stability during climbs and descents.
- Very comfortable rear end providing ample traction and stability during rides.
- Excellent geometry with a steep seat tube angle and short fork offset, keeping the front wheel grounded.
- Quiet cable routing and chainstay protective stickers, reducing noise during aggressive riding.
What don’t we like about it?
- No included chain guide, riders need to purchase and install one themselves.
FAQ
- What is the maximum tire size this bike can accommodate?
It can fit up to 2.5-inch tires, and the SB150 has generous tire clearance.
- Does this bike have an ISCG mount?
It features an integrated ISCG ’05 mount.
- How to choose the right size?
Here we have a size chart for you. Of course, it doesn’t have to be according to this standard, and the best way to find the most suitable size is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’7″ | S |
| 5’5″ – 5’11” | M |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | L |
| 6’1″ – 6’7″ | XL |
Yeti SB150 C1 Specs
Build
| Frame | C/Series carbon fiber frame, Switch Infinity suspension technology, press-fit BB92, internally tunneled cable routing, 148mm x 12mm BOOST dropouts. sealed enduro max pivot bearings, integrated derailleur hanger, and axle.BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, ThreadedColors: Turquoise; Moss; Raw Carbon |
| Fork | FOX PERFORMANCE 38/170MM Upgradable |
| Rear Shock | FOX PERFORMANCE FLOAT X2 Upgradable |
| Bottom Bracket | SHIMANO XT BB92 |
| Headset | CANE CREEK 40 INTEGRATED |
| Stem | RACE FACE RIDE 35X50MM |
| Handlebar | RACE FACE AEFFECT R 35X780MM |
| Saddle | SILVERADO CUSTOM |
| Seatpost | FOX TRANSFER 31.6MM / SM: 125MM, MD: 150MM, LG/XL: 175MM |
| Grips | ODI ELITE PRO |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SHIMANO SLX |
| Crank | SHIMANO SLX 30T 170MM |
| Shifters | SHIMANO SLX |
| Cassette | SHIMANO SLX 10-51 |
| Chain | SHIMANO SLX |
| Brakes | SHIMANO DEORE 4 PISTON |
Wheels
| Rims | SHIMANO SLX 30T 170MM |
| Tires | MAXXIS ASSEGAI 2.5 EXO+ |
| Disk Rotors | SHIMANO 203/SHIMANO 203 |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Travel | Frame material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Trek Slash 9.8 GX AXS | Click View | 160mm rear, 170mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 Electronic |
| Canyon Spectral 29 CF 8 | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Expert | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Santa Cruz BRONSON XT / Carbon C / MX | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
Yeti SB150 C1 vs Trek Slash 9.8 GX AXS
Comparing these two bikes, to be honest, they are both exceptional full-suspension enduro bikes with their advantages.
In terms of the drivetrain, the latter utilizes the SRAM GX AXS components, which offer a crisper and more precise shifting feel compared to the SHIMANO SLX M7100 components used in the former.
Regarding the suspension system, the SB150 C1 is equipped with FOX PERFORMANCE 38 front and rear shocks, which provide better support and stability during large drops compared to the RockShox ZEB Select+ fork on the Slash 9.8 GX AXS. However, the latter offers better sensitivity in the initial stages, resulting in a more comfortable ride on high-speed rough terrain.
Both bikes feature excellent braking components, with the former using SHIMANO DEORE 4 PISTON and the latter using SRAM Code R 4-piston brakes. These brakes deliver reliable performance for downhill riding.
Between these two bikes, the Yeti SB150 C1 has an outstanding frame with greater potential, while the Trek Slash 9.8 GX AXS features more advanced components.
Learn More: Is Trek Slash 9.8 GX Worth Buying? [Trek Slash 9.8 GX review]
Yeti SB150 C1 vs Canyon Spectral 29 CF 8
These two bikes both feature carbon fiber frames and have a cool appearance.
In terms of suspension, the former has a FOX PERFORMANCE 38 fork with a larger diameter and longer travel compared to the FOX 36 Performance fork on the latter. This allows it to handle more challenging riding conditions.
Regarding the drivetrain, the Spectral 29 CF 8 utilizes Shimano XT M8100 components, which are one level higher than those on the SB150 C1. It offers faster and smoother shifting with the ability to change four gears at once.
When it comes to braking components, the Shimano XT M8120 on the latter bike provides stronger braking power and more responsive speed compared to the SHIMANO DEORE 4 PISTON brakes on the former.
Lastly, between these two bikes, I would still choose the Yeti SB150 C1. Its frame is truly robust, with plenty of untapped potential waiting to be discovered.
Learn More: Is Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review]
Yeti SB150 C1 vs Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Expert
They are both highly acclaimed endurance full-suspension bikes from their respective brands.
Firstly, in terms of suspension, the former utilizes the FOX PERFORMANCE 38 fork, which features a larger diameter and longer travel compared to the Fox Performance Elite Float 36 fork on the latter.
This gives it an advantage in handling large drops and more aggressive downhill riding.
In terms of drivetrain, the Stumpjumper EVO Expert uses the SRAM GX Eagle AXS shifting system, which offers a crisper and more precise shifting feel compared to the SHIMANO SLX M7100 used on the SB150 C1.
Additionally, the SRAM system is easier to fine-tune, while Shimano provides a smoother shifting experience.
Lastly, they both employ reliable braking systems, with the former equipped with SHIMANO DEORE 4 PISTON brakes and the latter equipped with SRAM Code RS 4-piston brakes. Both systems offer simple and efficient braking performance.
Overall, these two bikes are exceptional choices for endurance full-suspension riding. You won’t regret choosing either one of them.
Yeti SB150 C1 vs Santa Cruz BRONSON XT / Carbon C / MX
Let’s take a closer look at these two bikes, both of which feature carbon fiber frames with tremendous potential and have a dedicated fan base.
In terms of suspension, the former utilizes the FOX PERFORMANCE 38 fork, which has a larger diameter and longer travel compared to the Fox Performance Elite Float 36 fork on the latter. This allows the Yeti SB150 C1 to handle larger drops and more aggressive downhill riding.
In terms of drivetrain and braking components, the Santa Cruz BRONSON’s Shimano XT components are of a higher level than the Yeti SB150 C1’s Shimano SLX components. As a result, the shifting performance is smoother and the braking response is quicker.
Overall, both of these endurance full-suspension bikes have significant untapped potential. Your choice may depend on your preference for brand and suspension design.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz BRONSON XX1 A Good Bike? [Santa Cruz BRONSON XX1 Review]
Summary
Above is my review of the Yeti SB150 C1. In our opinion, it is a high-quality enduro full-suspension bike with impressive overall performance, which is why we have given it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other endurance full-suspension bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes with various price points, all of which are equally fascinating. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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