Yeti SB5+

Field Notes: Some recent rain left the trail a bit slick with some muddy patches and standing water – perfect for the Yeti SB5+ plus tires. Though loose and bumpy, the tires and geometry were grippy and efficient, and the plush travel and added landing pads meant there was no reason to back off on the descents. Suffice it to say the bike – and rider – got a bit muddy and had lots of laughs.

Tester Comment: “This is as smooth and consistent a suspension as I’ve ridden. Good suspensions should not be too noticeable, and on this bike, it was so smooth I forgot all about it – until I really needed it.”

Pros: The frame and suspension system on the Yeti SB5+ are as good as it gets for an all-around bike with Trail capabilities. These combine for impressive climbing with negligible pedal bob (and none when locked out) and outstanding handling and descending. The combination makes this a true all-around performer.

Cons: At almost $5,000 the bike is pricey, especially for a build that includes Shimano SLX – generally saved for lower-end rigs. If you’re willing to spend this kind of dough, we’d actually recommend upgrading to the SRAM Eagle XO1 build for about $1,000 more – it’s a far better group overall and worth the extra cost. Also it’s a bit heavy if you’re planning to do any racing, especially on hillier terrain.

Key Attribute: Ride Quality

Bottom Line: This is one of our tester’s favorite all-around bikes, providing plenty of speed and quickness as well as a plush, forgiving ride on technical stuff – with an absolutely uncanny ability to do all of the above without any sacrifice. This is an excellent choice if your riding style is all over the place and you can only swing one bike.