Hey Bro,stop smocking, drinking and don`t mess around with women, so u spend a lot of money. buy u a bike like that, and u can ride strait to the sunset like Lucky Luke.
Ah thanks. I was paying more attention to your riding skills than the bikes. I'm torn between 27.5 and 29er so this vid was perfect. I'll rewatch it and look at the Garmin. These were sick trails.
Doesn’t matter how many videos or reviews I watch or read. It all comes back down to what you like more. What feels better and makes you more confident. I have both wheels sizes and use them for different things. Love them both and wouldn’t be able to answer the question. Cheers.
I know you said it was not a bike review but that was probably the most relevant bike test/review I have watched in a long time. Great info and done on real trails by real bikers. Great stuff dude!!
Man that means a lot! I just meant that we are not a bike mag and we are not pro riders.... we're just a couple dudes that love riding and have no reason to give you anything but the honest opinion!
Yeah, I think you knocked the nail on the head. I truly believe that is what people would prefer and need to see. Keep at it Alex, your doing a great job! (I need to get you on my MTB-TRIBE Podcast sometime in the near future!) Have a great week. Ride it like a marine!
I liked Mr Tonka's attitude on your bike crash. Shows the spirit of a true mountain biker. Kudos to him. And thank you Alex for taking us along. I can't wait for the next vid.
I love the fact that your showing off more of Florida. Also, not that I could ever afford a yeti, I love how you did this. The way you did this make me like the 5 over the 4.5... Your riding them right and showing two different styles of riding, and I think the way your capturing this, can help people make a choice without ever even getting on one....
You're awesome man you're energy and your always happy when you're on a bike I love watching that excitement it makes me want to go ride an I love that! Always love to see the notification of a new video keep it up bro!
Recently upgraded to a 29er hardtail from a 10+ year old 26er. The new bike feels like a damn giant under me. I still don't feel entirely used to it yet but I think I will come to love it very soon. It already feels great, just very different from what I was used to. Funny how you preferred one bike over the other in certain situations, but maybe that's not too surprising. Fun video! And thanks to the baller ($$$) who owns both and let you do this video.
I think it really depends on how and where you ride. I've demoed 4.5, 5, 5+, 5.5, and 6 over the last couple years. I'd go for the 4.5 now that I recently moved back to Michigan if I were still thinking of a new bike. I'm happiest on my hardtails now though. Would have gone 5.5 or 6 to replace my aging SB66 if I had not moved back from Colorado for family reasons.
I am building up my first official 29er (Evil Following MB). I had a 27.5+ before this build. So I'd go with the 29er. They are fast and maneuverable and with the volume spacers that can be added to the suspension, the bike can handle pretty much anything you throw at it.
I know you said it wasn’t a bike review, but I thought it was one of the best comparison/reviews I’ve seen. Nice job..looked like a lot of fun to boot! I’m an inch away from ordering a 4.5 Turq x01 Eagle...this vid might be the nudge I need! Keep shredding man!
Most important thing, get past all the techy stuff and go ride! I have a Enduro comp 29er, so much fun. The most miserable part of my mountain biking experience was finally deciding on "the bike." It was fun research, but when it came time to pay, so difficult. Just glad to be riding now.
Two great bikes. I'd love to have either one. If I lived and rode primarily in FL I'd probably go with the 4.5, but he's got both so best of both worlds. And IMO people make too big a deal about 27.5 or 29. Try both and see what works for you. There isn't a right or wrong size.
Something to keep in mind is the fork differences, not only in travel but in damping. You can make the same bike feel dangerous or confidence inspiring just with a change in damper valving. You can also make a bike jump better with damping.
Hey Alex, first I have to compliment you on how your channel has developed, I love your videos and I look forward to them. I'm a 40 year old guy with a family and full time job who loves to ride but obviously can't ride as much as I want, so I get to live through you! I know you make your videos to share the stoke and that's exactly what I get out of them! I liked your last video comparing your trail riding experience between the 29er and 27.5 and I'm not surprised that's how it turned out, but I'd be super excited to see the same video done at a bike part or downhill trails. I've been riding a carbon framed, carbon wheeled 29er trail bike for the last year and it's super fast and capable, but I really miss the agility and fun of my 27.5 bike so I'm considering switching back. LFRHGS!!!
I think that the feelings versus data is extremely relevant and appreciate the perspective. Curious what is your height/reach? Wondering if your leverage and body size may make the 29 more comfortable than someone of a shorter, stockier stature like Seth.
Thanks dude! I'm 5'10" but not sure about my reach.... I definitely think that height can have a big impact on wheel size. I wouldn't expect a kid to feel great on a 29er for instance
Alex I think the reason why the 29er feels more natural is the way it holds or carries momentum. It makes obstacles and such easier to handle. Great review. I only ride 29er's and and recently got a Slash 29er...very similar to the SB5.5 which I think if you went Yeti the SB5.5 would be the go to bike.
Awesome video, Alex! I liked the fact that you were sessioning stuff and changing bikes constantly. It was very interesting to hear your comments, and I was quite surprised that you preferred the 4.5 over the 5 for jumps. What you said makes a lot of sense, though. Those trails looked fun but fairly tame; the gnarly stuff wasn't high-level. LFRHGS, bro!
Absolutely. I think that if we did this test in Pisgah, NC or at a bike park it may be a completely different story. Thanks though dude, stoked you enjoyed it!!
The SB5 "Lunch Ride" is a Yeti limited bike and it is essentially an SB5 with a 160 fork instead of a 140 fork. It is what the workers of Yeti prefer to take out on their lunch rides, thus the name. Had it had the 140 fork the SB5 would have been even nimbler. So if you were to go on an all out downhill I think the SB5 would have been the clear ' winner', but you truly can't lose when you are on a super bike like that. Both are so amazing. Plus you're pretty tall right? The 29er wheels might just feel better with your body. They look amazing too.
great vid def some helpful tips... just one thing its always funny to see two totally diff personalities together.. Your boy is sooooo laid back could almost fall asleep just looking at him... LMAO sorry just being honest. and u r more like me just letting all your emotions loose, yelling over jumps in excitement, to me thats livin man.. I love it keep up the good work and awesome riding along with your great vids... Thanx for doing them!!!!
I noticed that the 4.5 had an oval chainring that the owner said was an upgrade he installed. Do you think that had anything to do with the "better" climbing that you remarked on?
steve yeager This is really worth consideration. For the last two weeks I've been trying on my excellent Canyon Spectral a 28-tooth oval (WolfTooth) and a 32-tooth oval (same) as well as the 30-tooth round (RaceFace) that came with the build. The difference is significant, though not surprising. I think I'd go with the 28 oval for ease of climbing, the 32 oval (effectively 34 on the downstroke and 30 over the top) for power. Not sure there's any advantage in a round chainring except that it has a more familiar feel (at first). Interesting topic, but probably too detailed for Alex or Seth or Jeff to consider for a video. As to Yetis, my older trail bike is a Yeti 575 from 2004: steep fork angle, easy to get bucked over the bars if your form isn't that great....not at all like the geometry of the newer SB series; all the same I loaned it this summer to a nice gal who proceeded to win her enduro class on it. Lovely bikes. Wish I could afford a good build of the 4.5 or 5!
I feel like the huge difference in handlebar lengths would play a big role in how you described the 4.5 feeling more nimble. I also think, based on the components you mentioned, the 4.5 is probably lighter.
Great video!! I rode the 4.5 on a demo day last year and it was my favorite bike ever until I rode the 5.5!! If I lived anywhere other than the Pacific Northwest, I'd buy a 4.5 all day long, but here I need that extra travel.
Silly question but what brand is that strap that he has for the tube, CO2, levers?? I really like it and I feel like a dork riding with a saddle bag...aside from that it does take away about 10 mm of travel from my dropper.
Cool info. But when I use to test many moons ago. We would have to change Stems and bars to make sure they are what we always used racing, plus the pedals. Air in forks and rear shock needs to be recorded for the tight turns and jumps. Over all out of the box test wasn't that bad.
Very nice trying out a 29ers vs. 27.5s expensive bikes though for pros only not for causal riders definitely. Good video capture is amazing on what you expect on a trail. I like more rides than talk when comparing these. Really great comparison.
For all the people who hate on guys with money and kick ass bikes.. A. Land Rover boy can ride and B. how cool was that to let TSS thrash his bike.. Great Video!! 4.5 all the way!
And C) you can't in good conscience hate on Joe, dude is as solid, chill and friendly as it gets. He's no playboy either, after you know him a bit you can tell that every Yeti of his is an investment.
Cool comparison, back to back. I do wonder how much the carbon hoops on the 29 made it feel much better. They do make a huge difference, especially compared to heavy enduro rims.
I thought your comment about the 4.5 feeling playful was pretty interesting. I have one, and that was one of the things I loved about it when I took one on a demo. Being more of a cross-country / trail oriented guy, I really enjoy the ability to get up to speed and keep the speed up that the 29er has. Anyhow, it was great to get your opinions and see the bikes in action.
If I had to guess I'd say the reason you prefered the SB4.5 is that the shorter suspension made it more springy and easier to get airborne. Not as much suspension to absorb your jumps. But who knows, there are a lot of variables. This just shows how important it is to demo stuff and not buy a bike based on what you think you need.
Always putting out great content. Besides your live streams this has been one of my favorite video of yours. Keep up all the good work. Pumped me up to go on a ride today. Smeeeaaaassshhhh!
Where is this riding location? Looks tropical! Both bikes look killer! I've demo'd an SB5 and really liked it. I normally ride an Ibis Ripley V1 and love this bike to death. Whenever I demo a bike I compare it to mine. I felt the SB5 climbed well and was very playful on the descents - I guess the advantage to 27.5 is the descents?
When I bought my mountain bike it was still 26" all the way. I couldn't ride for a number of years because of health issues, but I recently started to do so again. When looking a multiple comparison videos it seems to me the number one question should be: can I have my favourite riding position on the bike? Something that shouldn't be a problem for most, but it is for small riders. Yes, a larger wheel rolls more easily over obstacles and smaller wheels can be lighter so they can accelerate more easily, but almost all other stuff is down to geometry choices from the manufacturer, which even seem to change for the same brand/model when they change wheel size. For most people those design choices are much more important to determine how much fun they have on a certain bike. I managed to break a bone last time on the bike, so no cycling for me the next couple of weeks, so I know how Seth feels ;-) and I hope my bike can still survive a couple years to come. Sadly price is also a very important aspect for me, so besides the fact I do want a fully with dropper post next time almost nothing is decided yet. Years ago a fully was a lot more expensive and didn't/doesn't give a great advantage in my area compared to a hardtail with cane creek seat post suspension. Since I like to play with my bike the next one needs a dropper post, so no choice but go for a fully..
Alex! Cool vid man. I really liked and related to what you said around 9:05. Ive been on monster bikes like the Trans Sentinel or 2018 Kona Proc 153 and dropped areas I hadnt taken on the trails ever. Then I aquired my Evil Following and had after first initial set up rides, not only had the confdnce to hit these tech sections, but also just had a good feeling on the bike, but was a little more "aware" of my line, but still had gusto to take it, and even beat PRs on these trails at that on a shorter trav bike! It is crazy I dont know 100% of the answer either like you, but I am incredibly stoked on my bike on everything that is thrown at me while on trail. In fact, I have MORE confidence to smash down these trails. I think you also hit the nail on the head is that these bikes have the capability, but you need to be more aware and are actually using better handling skills than a monster truck bike that, like you said in another vid, like your on a couch! lol Awesome vid, this was a great info vid on these 2 bikes, best Ive seen to date!!
Funny at the end review you say " I don't think I'd take tis bike to a bike park". In 2017 in the BME at Keystone bike park ALL 5 podium spots were the Yeti team in pro men and almost all 5 in pro Women! Keystone is the most knarly techy park in Colorado.
AWESOME VID....! Thanks. I'm looking at getting a SB 5.5 (29") versus a SB 6 (27.5"). I assume the same comparison applies with a little more focus on downhill (travel)? I also appreciate the amount of time it takes to set up the video shots....well done!
Excellent video and I like the idea of comparing the bikes back to back like you did. It was a bit difficult to tell which bike you were talking about when you were saying "this bike" and "that bike" due to the fact that they both have the same color scheme but once I saw that the SB 5 had a bike computer on it's handlebar I could figure it out. Thanks for the video!
Nice! I'm glad you caught that because it was really the best way to tell. I did my best when giving final thoughts to be a little more specific about which bike I was talking about :D
Arguably a better comparison would have been the 5 and 5.5 (29er with comparable suspension to the 5) -- maybe another episode! I'm sure the light wheels on the 4.5 helped mitigate the common criticism of 29ers (harder to get up to speed and more effort turning at speed).
Hey I think your “not a comparison but my opinion” was good. I liked the in the moment critique. I’m considering a new purchase and this perspective helps
I am in this conundrum at this moment. I know the 29'er is a faster, more capable climber, but I also like to play in the air. Where do you compromise? Unfortunately I can't even afford one high specc'ed Yeti let alone 2. I am leaning towards Transition Sentinel or the Patrol, so this video was super useful. Thanks for being so thorough and honest.
Both bikes are fantastic. I got to rent a 4.5 a while back and was really impressed with how well it pedaled over my SB5+ and still took on descents like a champ. I'd love to go to the extream and try the 5.5, it'd be a hoot to go full enduro for a day. :D
I demoed the 5.5 in Boulder and with Eagle on the 5.5 it climbs just like the 4.5 non eagle. Pretty much effortlessly. But the suspension is ridiculously plush. I overshot a jump at Valmont and landed on the flat and swore it felt like landing on transition. Beast of a bike the 5.5. If i lived in Colorado, i think that's the bike i'd have.
I have looked at a Yeti mountain bike. Then I looked in my wallet, and that was the end of that...
hahahaha you and me both my friend
Nick Hepler haha, great 😂
Hey Bro,stop smocking, drinking and don`t mess around with women, so u spend a lot of money. buy u a bike like that, and u can ride strait to the sunset like Lucky Luke.
😂😂😂😂😂🤭
Nick Hepler , don’t say that .. say I want that bike .. then miracles happens , soon enough u get a awesome ride cheers
Hey Joe, you're a good dude. Anyone who can be so gracious to let someone shred their Yeti, has to be a good dude.
You kept saying "this bike" and "that bike" but since you kept switching I couldn't tell which bike you were talking about. LOL.
+ZillaYT pro tip: Garmin is on the yet sb5 😜
Ah thanks. I was paying more attention to your riding skills than the bikes. I'm torn between 27.5 and 29er so this vid was perfect. I'll rewatch it and look at the Garmin. These were sick trails.
Doesn’t matter how many videos or reviews I watch or read. It all comes back down to what you like more. What feels better and makes you more confident. I have both wheels sizes and use them for different things. Love them both and wouldn’t be able to answer the question. Cheers.
I know you said it was not a bike review but that was probably the most relevant bike test/review I have watched in a long time. Great info and done on real trails by real bikers. Great stuff dude!!
Man that means a lot! I just meant that we are not a bike mag and we are not pro riders.... we're just a couple dudes that love riding and have no reason to give you anything but the honest opinion!
Yeah, I think you knocked the nail on the head. I truly believe that is what people would prefer and need to see. Keep at it Alex, your doing a great job! (I need to get you on my MTB-TRIBE Podcast sometime in the near future!) Have a great week. Ride it like a marine!
I liked Mr Tonka's attitude on your bike crash. Shows the spirit of a true mountain biker. Kudos to him. And thank you Alex for taking us along. I can't wait for the next vid.
I love the fact that your showing off more of Florida. Also, not that I could ever afford a yeti, I love how you did this. The way you did this make me like the 5 over the 4.5... Your riding them right and showing two different styles of riding, and I think the way your capturing this, can help people make a choice without ever even getting on one....
Great vid great trails! Look amazing! Think the 45 is the 29? Be easier to follow referring to 29 or 27.5 but appreciate your time. Superb vid👍🏻
It's easier when you know the 27.5 is the one with the garmin on the cockpit.
I was worried this video would be boring & senseless, but when it ended, I was still ready to watch more. Great job!
These are the exact two bikes I am looking at. Thank you for the comparison. Your videos are great and your passion for biking is contagious!
Sb 4.5 is the 29er ... Your welccome
Good job parroting Joe's explanation in the start.
I'll be back in Tampa Feb 3 for a demo and some riding and at the Santos Fat Tire Fest. Are you in Florida?
You're awesome man you're energy and your always happy when you're on a bike I love watching that excitement it makes me want to go ride an I love that! Always love to see the notification of a new video keep it up bro!
Derek Edwards you had your and youre the wrong way around in the first sentence. It's your energy and you're always happy
It probably could also mean theres no difference between the two.
Recently upgraded to a 29er hardtail from a 10+ year old 26er. The new bike feels like a damn giant under me. I still don't feel entirely used to it yet but I think I will come to love it very soon. It already feels great, just very different from what I was used to. Funny how you preferred one bike over the other in certain situations, but maybe that's not too surprising. Fun video! And thanks to the baller ($$$) who owns both and let you do this video.
So which of these super bikes do you think you would go with if you had a choice?
Most of the 27.5 bikes I've ridden were pedal strike city because of the low BB, so I'd be tempted to go with the 29er, but I bet they are both great.
4.5 29er
I think it really depends on how and where you ride. I've demoed 4.5, 5, 5+, 5.5, and 6 over the last couple years. I'd go for the 4.5 now that I recently moved back to Michigan if I were still thinking of a new bike. I'm happiest on my hardtails now though. Would have gone 5.5 or 6 to replace my aging SB66 if I had not moved back from Colorado for family reasons.
I am building up my first official 29er (Evil Following MB). I had a 27.5+ before this build. So I'd go with the 29er. They are fast and maneuverable and with the volume spacers that can be added to the suspension, the bike can handle pretty much anything you throw at it.
I'd go 4.5! I got to test a pivot 429 trail and surprisingly preferred it also in 29er form.
I know you said it wasn’t a bike review, but I thought it was one of the best comparison/reviews I’ve seen. Nice job..looked like a lot of fun to boot! I’m an inch away from ordering a 4.5 Turq x01 Eagle...this vid might be the nudge I need! Keep shredding man!
it's highly unlikely you'll regret it.
Most important thing, get past all the techy stuff and go ride! I have a Enduro comp 29er, so much fun. The most miserable part of my mountain biking experience was finally deciding on "the bike." It was fun research, but when it came time to pay, so difficult. Just glad to be riding now.
I’ve waited for this video! Great comparison. Yeti has been my dream bike ever since, looking forward to more of these videos. Keep it up!
Two great bikes. I'd love to have either one. If I lived and rode primarily in FL I'd probably go with the 4.5, but he's got both so best of both worlds. And IMO people make too big a deal about 27.5 or 29. Try both and see what works for you. There isn't a right or wrong size.
preach bro, you tell 'em!
Something to keep in mind is the fork differences, not only in travel but in damping. You can make the same bike feel dangerous or confidence inspiring just with a change in damper valving. You can also make a bike jump better with damping.
Glad to hear about the Agressor, I just put that tire on my rear wheel. We'll see what it does!
I love this guy. Your channel is my new favourite. Your enthusiasm is electric.
Even better is that he's the exact same guy when the camera is off. He's a good dude!
His enthusiasm is electric, but his bike is manual.
Hey Alex, first I have to compliment you on how your channel has developed, I love your videos and I look forward to them. I'm a 40 year old guy with a family and full time job who loves to ride but obviously can't ride as much as I want, so I get to live through you! I know you make your videos to share the stoke and that's exactly what I get out of them! I liked your last video comparing your trail riding experience between the 29er and 27.5 and I'm not surprised that's how it turned out, but I'd be super excited to see the same video done at a bike part or downhill trails. I've been riding a carbon framed, carbon wheeled 29er trail bike for the last year and it's super fast and capable, but I really miss the agility and fun of my 27.5 bike so I'm considering switching back. LFRHGS!!!
The day I get to know that practically I'm unemployed on 1st of Feb and feel absolutelly gutted about it, You, Seth and Brian upload a video. Thanks.
Polish guy with hard to spell name ;-p "........keep ur chin up bro.
After watching this video, I feel like you can’t go wrong with a 27.5 or a 29er. You’ll have an awesome time with either type!
Great vid, I love the back to back comparison. I ride a 17 stumpy 29er and LOVE it! Ride on
I think that the feelings versus data is extremely relevant and appreciate the perspective. Curious what is your height/reach? Wondering if your leverage and body size may make the 29 more comfortable than someone of a shorter, stockier stature like Seth.
Thanks dude! I'm 5'10" but not sure about my reach.... I definitely think that height can have a big impact on wheel size. I wouldn't expect a kid to feel great on a 29er for instance
The Singletrack Sampler Ah, I thought you were taller! Thanks and keep up the awesomeness.
That just mean Seth is way short!;) LOL
I thought you were taller as well, just judging by sight in your videos. Do you typically ride medium or large?
Alex I think the reason why the 29er feels more natural is the way it holds or carries momentum. It makes obstacles and such easier to handle. Great review. I only ride 29er's and and recently got a Slash 29er...very similar to the SB5.5 which I think if you went Yeti the SB5.5 would be the go to bike.
Awesome, digging that stumpy lurking in the background too.
very compliments for your videos..... but where can I find the bike racks like that at the beginning of the video?
Awesome video, Alex! I liked the fact that you were sessioning stuff and changing bikes constantly. It was very interesting to hear your comments, and I was quite surprised that you preferred the 4.5 over the 5 for jumps. What you said makes a lot of sense, though. Those trails looked fun but fairly tame; the gnarly stuff wasn't high-level.
LFRHGS, bro!
Absolutely. I think that if we did this test in Pisgah, NC or at a bike park it may be a completely different story. Thanks though dude, stoked you enjoyed it!!
The SB5 "Lunch Ride" is a Yeti limited bike and it is essentially an SB5 with a 160 fork instead of a 140 fork. It is what the workers of Yeti prefer to take out on their lunch rides, thus the name. Had it had the 140 fork the SB5 would have been even nimbler. So if you were to go on an all out downhill I think the SB5 would have been the clear ' winner', but you truly can't lose when you are on a super bike like that. Both are so amazing. Plus you're pretty tall right? The 29er wheels might just feel better with your body. They look amazing too.
great vid def some helpful tips... just one thing its always funny to see two totally diff personalities together.. Your boy is sooooo laid back could almost fall asleep just looking at him... LMAO sorry just being honest. and u r more like me just letting all your emotions loose, yelling over jumps in excitement, to me thats livin man.. I love it keep up the good work and awesome riding along with your great vids... Thanx for doing them!!!!
This is one of the best comparison videos I’ve seen in a long long time mate. Much more natural, honest and real!! Keep shredding dude. 🤘🏼
Damn man thank you so much!!! Yea, we're just some average joe's with no reason to do anything other than tell it how we feel it!
I noticed that the 4.5 had an oval chainring that the owner said was an upgrade he installed. Do you think that had anything to do with the "better" climbing that you remarked on?
steve yeager This is really worth consideration. For the last two weeks I've been trying on my excellent Canyon Spectral a 28-tooth oval (WolfTooth) and a 32-tooth oval (same) as well as the 30-tooth round (RaceFace) that came with the build. The difference is significant, though not surprising. I think I'd go with the 28 oval for ease of climbing, the 32 oval (effectively 34 on the downstroke and 30 over the top) for power. Not sure there's any advantage in a round chainring except that it has a more familiar feel (at first). Interesting topic, but probably too detailed for Alex or Seth or Jeff to consider for a video. As to Yetis, my older trail bike is a Yeti 575 from 2004: steep fork angle, easy to get bucked over the bars if your form isn't that great....not at all like the geometry of the newer SB series; all the same I loaned it this summer to a nice gal who proceeded to win her enduro class on it. Lovely bikes. Wish I could afford a good build of the 4.5 or 5!
I feel like the huge difference in handlebar lengths would play a big role in how you described the 4.5 feeling more nimble. I also think, based on the components you mentioned, the 4.5 is probably lighter.
I like the comparison! If nothing else, it confirms there's more than one way to crack an egg!
Or a fork. :D
Your riding has progressed so much man keep up the good work.
This was very informative. Thank you for the comparison I found it most helpful in my decision making for the right bike.
27.5 for life !!!
Is the 29er longer? Maybe it feels more stable as a result so feels safer in the air. Could be why it felt better possibly?
What product is that strapped underneath the rear shock? is it custom? or an actual product that holds your CO2 and tube??
Those Yetys are sick dude man thanks for sharing.
is riding with an oval chainring feel different than a regular
Great video!! I rode the 4.5 on a demo day last year and it was my favorite bike ever until I rode the 5.5!! If I lived anywhere other than the Pacific Northwest, I'd buy a 4.5 all day long, but here I need that extra travel.
Is that the trail seth demoed this gravel cyclecross kinda bike on?
Silly question but what brand is that strap that he has for the tube, CO2, levers?? I really like it and I feel like a dork riding with a saddle bag...aside from that it does take away about 10 mm of travel from my dropper.
The power of google....Literally answered my own question in 10 seconds....
backcountryresearch.com/mutherload-frame-mount-strap.html
Cool info. But when I use to test many moons ago. We would have to change Stems and bars to make sure they are what we always used racing, plus the pedals. Air in forks and rear shock needs to be recorded for the tight turns and jumps.
Over all out of the box test wasn't that bad.
Can some kind soul tell me which trail is this? Looks amazing.
When is the next time your going to alafia agian?
Very nice trying out a 29ers vs. 27.5s expensive bikes though for pros only not for causal riders definitely. Good video capture is amazing on what you expect on a trail. I like more rides than talk when comparing these. Really great comparison.
For those not familiar with yeti, it would have added more clarity to refer to the bikes by wheel size rather than model. Enjoyed it none the less.
Hi this was years ago but what trail system is this, it seems sick
Hard to believe that you liked the niner more...good info throughout, thanks.
For all the people who hate on guys with money and kick ass bikes.. A. Land Rover boy can ride and B. how cool was that to let TSS thrash his bike.. Great Video!! 4.5 all the way!
And C) you can't in good conscience hate on Joe, dude is as solid, chill and friendly as it gets. He's no playboy either, after you know him a bit you can tell that every Yeti of his is an investment.
Just a heads up your gear link doesn't work. Curious what is a good mile counter screen thing.
Cool comparison, back to back. I do wonder how much the carbon hoops on the 29 made it feel much better. They do make a huge difference, especially compared to heavy enduro rims.
Curious if you have an opinion between the two types of flat pedals. Looks like Crank Brothers Stamps vs DMR Vault?
What is/where did your friend get the strap holding the tube/levers to the frame on the SB5LR??
I thought your comment about the 4.5 feeling playful was pretty interesting. I have one, and that was one of the things I loved about it when I took one on a demo. Being more of a cross-country / trail oriented guy, I really enjoy the ability to get up to speed and keep the speed up that the 29er has.
Anyhow, it was great to get your opinions and see the bikes in action.
Great video. Love my home trails being featured. The 29er is a great bike for everything in this area especially short travel with trail geometry.
If I had to guess I'd say the reason you prefered the SB4.5 is that the shorter suspension made it more springy and easier to get airborne. Not as much suspension to absorb your jumps. But who knows, there are a lot of variables. This just shows how important it is to demo stuff and not buy a bike based on what you think you need.
what an awesome trail to be test riding bikes on
Always putting out great content. Besides your live streams this has been one of my favorite video of yours. Keep up all the good work. Pumped me up to go on a ride today. Smeeeaaaassshhhh!
what a cool testing-area.l ike those bike`s and the way u make this chanel.
Really digged this video! Enjoyed the comparisons! Good stuff brother!
Just pulled up to the trail and got the notification. Guess I'll take an extra 15 minutes to get stoked before the ride.
Yeaaaaa boi!
great video...but had no idea what bike you were on most of the time
Awesome video. I love the good old-fashioned sessioning.
It really takes you back to being a kid!
steve aoki killin it out there
Lol
The 4.5 sounds like the ticket. Looks like they stepped up Alafia! Can't wait to head over. Nice vid brother!
Where is this riding location? Looks tropical! Both bikes look killer! I've demo'd an SB5 and really liked it. I normally ride an Ibis Ripley V1 and love this bike to death. Whenever I demo a bike I compare it to mine. I felt the SB5 climbed well and was very playful on the descents - I guess the advantage to 27.5 is the descents?
When I bought my mountain bike it was still 26" all the way. I couldn't ride for a number of years because of health issues, but I recently started to do so again. When looking a multiple comparison videos it seems to me the number one question should be: can I have my favourite riding position on the bike? Something that shouldn't be a problem for most, but it is for small riders.
Yes, a larger wheel rolls more easily over obstacles and smaller wheels can be lighter so they can accelerate more easily, but almost all other stuff is down to geometry choices from the manufacturer, which even seem to change for the same brand/model when they change wheel size. For most people those design choices are much more important to determine how much fun they have on a certain bike.
I managed to break a bone last time on the bike, so no cycling for me the next couple of weeks, so I know how Seth feels ;-) and I hope my bike can still survive a couple years to come. Sadly price is also a very important aspect for me, so besides the fact I do want a fully with dropper post next time almost nothing is decided yet.
Years ago a fully was a lot more expensive and didn't/doesn't give a great advantage in my area compared to a hardtail with cane creek seat post suspension. Since I like to play with my bike the next one needs a dropper post, so no choice but go for a fully..
the bigger wheels in the 29er are giving more gryo stabilisation in the air which is why the 27.5 is different feeling and less stabilised
Alex! Cool vid man. I really liked and related to what you said around 9:05. Ive been on monster bikes like the Trans Sentinel or 2018 Kona Proc 153 and dropped areas I hadnt taken on the trails ever. Then I aquired my Evil Following and had after first initial set up rides, not only had the confdnce to hit these tech sections, but also just had a good feeling on the bike, but was a little more "aware" of my line, but still had gusto to take it, and even beat PRs on these trails at that on a shorter trav bike! It is crazy I dont know 100% of the answer either like you, but I am incredibly stoked on my bike on everything that is thrown at me while on trail. In fact, I have MORE confidence to smash down these trails. I think you also hit the nail on the head is that these bikes have the capability, but you need to be more aware and are actually using better handling skills than a monster truck bike that, like you said in another vid, like your on a couch! lol Awesome vid, this was a great info vid on these 2 bikes, best Ive seen to date!!
I bet you like the bigger tires on take off because you have better balance sending it.
Funny at the end review you say " I don't think I'd take tis bike to a bike park". In 2017 in the BME at Keystone bike park ALL 5 podium spots were the Yeti team in pro men and almost all 5 in pro Women! Keystone is the most knarly techy park in Colorado.
Can you tell me the ride feel difference between the 4.5 and the release 5c you have?
Maybe i missed it, but what was the tire width for both bikes? Was one 27.5+ the other 29x2.3, like many MTB these days can be setup as?
What are your thoughts on the oval chainring?
whose Scott Plasma bike in the back ? Do you ride on TT bike also ?
This is THE best non-review bike shootout I've ever watched
SB5.5 - best of both worlds. I have one and it is sick.
AWESOME VID....! Thanks. I'm looking at getting a SB 5.5 (29") versus a SB 6 (27.5"). I assume the same comparison applies with a little more focus on downhill (travel)? I also appreciate the amount of time it takes to set up the video shots....well done!
I'm trying to choose between the yt capra and jeffsey, do the same thoughts apply?
Amazing video, love your channel man
Excellent video and I like the idea of comparing the bikes back to back like you did. It was a bit difficult to tell which bike you were talking about when you were saying "this bike" and "that bike" due to the fact that they both have the same color scheme but once I saw that the SB 5 had a bike computer on it's handlebar I could figure it out. Thanks for the video!
Nice! I'm glad you caught that because it was really the best way to tell. I did my best when giving final thoughts to be a little more specific about which bike I was talking about :D
The sound of the hub is another distinction. :) the 4.5 has the i9 "buzzzz"
Can you make a video of how you do your tune ups on your bike
Arguably a better comparison would have been the 5 and 5.5 (29er with comparable suspension to the 5) -- maybe another episode! I'm sure the light wheels on the 4.5 helped mitigate the common criticism of 29ers (harder to get up to speed and more effort turning at speed).
great comparison. ive got to try that 4.5, i'd never considered it before
Hey Alex, would you rather go with the sb 4.5 or the diamondback release 5c?
that is the next question I gotta ask isn't it
How did these compare with the more budget friendly carbon Diamondback?
Really good review. Good style, fun to watch.
Thoughts on how the 4.5 would do in Pisgah or Moab?
Hey I think your “not a comparison but my opinion” was good. I liked the in the moment critique. I’m considering a new purchase and this perspective helps
Where's this trail? Looks rad
I am in this conundrum at this moment. I know the 29'er is a faster, more capable climber, but I also like to play in the air. Where do you compromise? Unfortunately I can't even afford one high specc'ed Yeti let alone 2. I am leaning towards Transition Sentinel or the Patrol, so this video was super useful. Thanks for being so thorough and honest.
Those trails look sick! Where are you riding?
Nice comparison guys! Looking forward to riding with both of you again soon! FreightTrainShane
Both bikes are fantastic. I got to rent a 4.5 a while back and was really impressed with how well it pedaled over my SB5+ and still took on descents like a champ. I'd love to go to the extream and try the 5.5, it'd be a hoot to go full enduro for a day. :D
I demoed the 5.5 in Boulder and with Eagle on the 5.5 it climbs just like the 4.5 non eagle. Pretty much effortlessly. But the suspension is ridiculously plush. I overshot a jump at Valmont and landed on the flat and swore it felt like landing on transition. Beast of a bike the 5.5. If i lived in Colorado, i think that's the bike i'd have.