Talk me out of a Yeti 160e

[EnduroIntern]

I've been eyeing the 160e for a while.
It seems to have all I want.

Full power.
Geo is spot on.
I want Garmin connection, so this rules out Bosch.
No headset routing.
Removable battery.

They are on discount now.

Only reason I can think off is that it is pretty old at this point. And can't help but think there is an upgraded version right around the corner.

 

[The Hodge]

If it's all you want in a bike and at a decent price ..then just fking buy it ..
You can forever be thinking that the next big thing is just around the corner ..so what ??
I've been riding my Whyte e160rs for 4 years now and still think it's the best bike I've slung a leg over in nearly 30 years of riding mtb's ..
Just do it ..you know it makes sense !

 

[Paulquattro]

If it's all you want in a bike and at a decent price ..then just fking buy it ..
You can forever be thinking that the next big thing is just around the corner ..so what ??
Just do it ..you know it makes sense !

What he says

 

[Ou812]

I asked my mate about an update, he said as far as he knows there’s no plans for it. He did tell me that Yeti is supposed to be releasing a lightweight bike next year, he didn’t have any details on it yet though.

 

[Astro66]

Talk me out of a Yeti 160e

Amflow ........

/thread

 

[EnduroIntern]

Amflow ........

/thread

Haha
Not available here... Otherwise it would be a strong contender

 

[Doomanic]

Err, it's a Yeti...

It'll look and ride sublimely but when (not if) it breaks the customer support will be lacking.

 

[2WHLFUN]

I've been eyeing the 160e for a while.
It seems to have all I want.

Full power.
Geo is spot on.
I want Garmin connection, so this rules out Bosch.
No headset routing.
Removable battery.

They are on discount now.

Only reason I can think off is that it is pretty old at this point. And can't help but think there is an upgraded version right around the corner.

When you're dying I bet you won't say that I wish I waited to get that Yeti

 

[HandsomeDanNZ]

Chiming in here to echo what’s been said: just do it. If you wait, you’ll wait forever.

 

[B1rdie]

What is the deal you’ve got on the yeti?

 

[EnduroIntern]

OK
I did a test ride today.
The bike is phenominal. I really like how it handles.

I'm 181 cm, and usually ride Large frames, 480 reach. Test ride was on a medium. Felt a bit short, but very nimble.
Maybe its just a matter of getting used to it.

Should I size down to Medium?

 

[Doomanic]

Should I size down to Medium?

Not until you've tried a Large.

 

[HandsomeDanNZ]

Yeah, I’m 176cm and ride a Medium. I’d be riding a large at your height.

 

[GDAS]

My concern would be the 630Wh battery - which might be fine, but if you're riding with mates who've got bikes with 700/750/800Wh then you're at a disadvantage.

You're right about the Bosch being 'closed' to Garmin, it's annoying!

 

[Singletrackmind]

Having previously owned a Yeti 160e can state its an absolute beast. Defected to emtb's ~5 years ago and have purchased 5 different bikes during this period. Rode the Yeti for ~1 year beforevI sold and went with a custom Orbea Wild.

Had the top of the line Yeti 160e with carbon wheels and I fully customized the components to my liking.

Positives
-It's wants to ride fast and the faster you ride it, the better it performs.

-Very nimble and climbs as as well as it descends.

-Push Industries makes an 11/6 coil for the 160e that transcends the 160e's dh prowess.

-It's just a fun bike to ride and looks quite smart as well.

Cons
-It's designed more for racing in mind. The carbon wheels on my model made the ride quality fast, but stiff.

-630 wh battery is outdated and limited my ability to go on longer rides with my buddies who have 750/900 wh batteries.

-Price point may be an issue for some. I subscribe to the you get what you pay for motto and have no issue throwing down $ for the activities I enjoy.

-Resale value has huge drop-off versus original purchase price (true with almost any bike) and not a big demand for used 160e's.

I'm fortunate to have a few bikes to meet the type of rides I want to go on at the time. After logging about 1,000 miles on my Yeti, I sold and purchased/customized and Orbea Wild and could not be happier. To me, the Wild is a much better all-round bike.

Final thoughts, I'm a huge Yeti fan boy and have owned various models over the years. If you want a race oriented bike that is fun to ride and you don't care about longer range rides, it's a good option. Highly recommend getting a coil shock and aluminum wheels.

 

[EnduroIntern]

My concern would be the 630Wh battery - which might be fine, but if you're riding with mates who've got bikes with 700/750/800Wh then you're at a disadvantage.

You're right about the Bosch being 'closed' to Garmin, it's annoying!

I'm counting on being I'm better shape than them
Currently on fuel exe, and I'm able to keep up, most of the time.
Granted they are not giving all they got, while I'm huffin and puffin.

Jokes aside..
On Enduro laps, which is what we're mostly about, I'll consider a second battery that waits in the car.
If that becomes necessary.

 

[Gavalar]

I've been eyeing the 160e for a while.
It seems to have all I want.

Full power.
Geo is spot on.
I want Garmin connection, so this rules out Bosch.
No headset routing.
Removable battery.

They are on discount now.

Only reason I can think off is that it is pretty old at this point. And can't help but think there is an upgraded version right around the corner.

I've been eyeing the 160e for a while.
It seems to have all I want.

Full power.
Geo is spot on.
I want Garmin connection, so this rules out Bosch.
No headset routing.
Removable battery.

They are on discount now.

Only reason I can think off is that it is pretty old at this point. And can't help but think there is an upgraded version right around the corner.

Just buy it and use the money saved to upgrade as you go, I did the same, the bike is an absolute dream to ride up and is a beast on the decent, or, checkout the vastly discounted Pivot Shuttle, base model £5k, full factory XTR £7k, the choice is yours my friend.

 

[OTB Bob]

I work at a Yeti dealer and even though they are a tad older they are still very relevant today, great bikes, great CS if you buy through a dealer, and very fun bikes. Like stated above the only negative is battery size if wanting to go on really long rides.

 

[Mishtar]

There has been some news lately that forbidden might be coming out with two DJI powered ebikes next year. If you thought the amflow was interesting except for the fact that it is not available where you are then the forbidden might be a good choice. I was looking at the yeti as well but personally I went with the relay and I'm loving it and get a thousand meters of climbing and 25 km and still have 15 to 20% battery left.

 

[Gavalar]

Err, it's a Yeti...

It'll look and ride sublimely but when (not if) it breaks the customer support will be lacking.

Not so, I have a 160e but when I bought my 140 the rear triangle had a paint run, exchanged like for like in 4 days.

 

[Gavalar]

Having previously owned a Yeti 160e can state its an absolute beast. Defected to emtb's ~5 years ago and have purchased 5 different bikes during this period. Rode the Yeti for ~1 year beforevI sold and went with a custom Orbea Wild.

Had the top of the line Yeti 160e with carbon wheels and I fully customized the components to my liking.

Positives
-It's wants to ride fast and the faster you ride it, the better it performs.

-Very nimble and climbs as as well as it descends.

-Push Industries makes an 11/6 coil for the 160e that transcends the 160e's dh prowess.

-It's just a fun bike to ride and looks quite smart as well.

Cons
-It's designed more for racing in mind. The carbon wheels on my model made the ride quality fast, but stiff.

-630 wh battery is outdated and limited my ability to go on longer rides with my buddies who have 750/900 wh batteries.

-Price point may be an issue for some. I subscribe to the you get what you pay for motto and have no issue throwing down $ for the activities I enjoy.

-Resale value has huge drop-off versus original purchase price (true with almost any bike) and not a big demand for used 160e's.

I'm fortunate to have a few bikes to meet the type of rides I want to go on at the time. After logging about 1,000 miles on my Yeti, I sold and purchased/customized and Orbea Wild and could not be happier. To me, the Wild is a much better all-round bike.

Final thoughts, I'm a huge Yeti fan boy and have owned various models over the years. If you want a race oriented bike that is fun to ride and you don't care about longer range rides, it's a good option. Highly recommend getting a coil shock and aluminum wheels.

View attachment 151770

The 630 battery is only as strong as the rider, if your battery management is poor then you will always lag behind the larger battery options, if all you want to do is ride in turbo mode then don't buy a Yeti, if you're a strong and intelligent rider then the 630 battery can compete on long rides.

 

[vman]

Mountain Biking Context: E-Bike Experience with Trek and Yeti

Background: With three decades of mountain biking experience, we've transitioned into the e-bike world through two notable models: Trek Rail 9.7 and Yeti 160E. Rather than selling our initial Trek bikes, we've kept them as versatile backup options for muddy days and lending to friends. We've invested in strategic upgrades across both e-bike sets, focusing on performance and durability.
Trek Bikes:

• Upgraded with Fox Factory 38 suspension
• Equipped with SRAM GX drivetrains
• Mounted on carbon wheelsets
• Fitted with Maxxis or Schwalbe tires

Yeti E-Bikes:

• Opted for factory suspension upgrades
• Fitted with DT carbon wheelsets (proven reliability)
• One 2023 model with Shimano EP8 motor
• One 2025 model with Shimano EP801 motor

Cons:

1. Depreciation Concerns

• High initial and ongoing costs
• Rapid value reduction
• Recommendation: Purchase lower-end models and upgrade incrementally to manage resale value

1. Aesthetic and Durability Challenges

• Yeti's paint finish more susceptible to chipping compared to Trek and Specialized
• Potential need for protective bike wraps to minimize cosmetic damage

1. Shimano Motor Limitations

• Smaller, less informative displays compared to Bosch systems
• Potential supply chain issues with motor and battery replacements
• Charging infrastructure challenges with standard chargers

1. Performance Nuances

• EP8 motor requires more rider effort on climbs
• Challenging for riders who prefer soft pedaling
• Less comfortable navigating technical terrain like rock gardens
• Bike performs optimally at higher speeds

1. Charging Considerations

• Standard US chargers limit same-day multiple ride capabilities
• Expensive fast charger upgrades
• Potential stock availability issues

Pros:

1. Dynamic Riding Experience

• Exceptional performance at higher speeds
• Excellent cornering and turn carving capabilities

1. Ergonomic Design

• Short seat tubes allowing longer dropper post installation
• Low stack height accommodating lower handlebar preferences

1. Brand Reliability

• Comprehensive customer support
• Responsive technical assistance
• Established brand with long-term market presence
• Reliable parts availability

Key Takeaway: The Yeti 160E offers a high-performance e-bike experience with some trade-offs, best suited for experienced riders who appreciate speed and technical handling.

 

[EnduroIntern]

Having previously owned a Yeti 160e can state its an absolute beast. Defected to emtb's ~5 years ago and have purchased 5 different bikes during this period. Rode the Yeti for ~1 year beforevI sold and went with a custom Orbea Wild.

Had the top of the line Yeti 160e with carbon wheels and I fully customized the components to my liking.

Positives
-It's wants to ride fast and the faster you ride it, the better it performs.

-Very nimble and climbs as as well as it descends.

-Push Industries makes an 11/6 coil for the 160e that transcends the 160e's dh prowess.

-It's just a fun bike to ride and looks quite smart as well.

Cons
-It's designed more for racing in mind. The carbon wheels on my model made the ride quality fast, but stiff.

-630 wh battery is outdated and limited my ability to go on longer rides with my buddies who have 750/900 wh batteries.

-Price point may be an issue for some. I subscribe to the you get what you pay for motto and have no issue throwing down $ for the activities I enjoy.

-Resale value has huge drop-off versus original purchase price (true with almost any bike) and not a big demand for used 160e's.

I'm fortunate to have a few bikes to meet the type of rides I want to go on at the time. After logging about 1,000 miles on my Yeti, I sold and purchased/customized and Orbea Wild and could not be happier. To me, the Wild is a much better all-round bike.

Final thoughts, I'm a huge Yeti fan boy and have owned various models over the years. If you want a race oriented bike that is fun to ride and you don't care about longer range rides, it's a good option. Highly recommend getting a coil shock and aluminum wheels.

View attachment 151770

Thanks for the detailed response.
A wild is also an option, bit is actually more expensive to get the components I care about.
What made you think it is such a significant upgrade. Is it just the battery?

 

[Singletrackmind]

Thanks for the detailed response.
A wild is also an option, bit is actually more expensive to get the components I care about.
What made you think it is such a significant upgrade. Is it just the battery?

Extended battery range was only a slight factor. The agility on the Wild for being a full 29er is amazing. It performs awesome at slower, techy stuff as well as it eats the dh aspects. Definitely a better climber and the geometry fits my body type/size.

Make no mistake, the Yeti 160e is no slouch. May even have more of the same ride quality as far as plushness if I used aluminum rims. I like to run 2.6 tires front and back and the Wild seems to be able to remain agile with this size tire.

I like how Orbea allows you to customize the bike colors and components.

 

[Singletrackmind]

Extended battery range was only a slight factor. The agility on the Wild for being a full 29er is amazing. It performs awesome at slower, techy stuff as well as it eats the dh aspects. Definitely a better climber and the geometry fits my body type/size.

Make no mistake, the Yeti 160e is no slouch. May even have more of the same ride quality as far as plushness if I used aluminum rims. I like to run 2.6 tires front and back and the Wild seems to be able to remain agile with this size tire.

I like how Orbea allows you to customize the bike colors and components.

View attachment 151829 View attachment 151830 View attachment 151831 View attachment 151832 View attachment 151833 View attachment 151834 View attachment 151835 View attachment 151836

Couple more considerations, albieut they may not appeal to many. The Wild has a Bosch motor which arguably is on the top tier of available options and you can add the PowerMore 250 range extender which affords for longer rides and is great if you like to camp and can't charge your bike before every ride.

 

[vman]

The Orbea is a well sorted bike, if you try to buy one instead of the YETI make sure you have a local shop that either stocks parts or can show you evidence they can get parts quickly ---- ebikes break way more often than analog bikes and have custom parts you cannot easily source from alternate vendors.

 

[Bikeflog]

I've been eyeing the 160e for a while.
It seems to have all I want.

Full power.
Geo is spot on.
I want Garmin connection, so this rules out Bosch.
No headset routing.
Removable battery.

They are on discount now.

Only reason I can think off is that it is pretty old at this point. And can't help but think there is an upgraded version right around the corner.

Go for it. You won't care about it being an older model once your riding it. I purchased a '23 Bullit (in mid '24) on sale thinking it had an EP801 but it had an EP800. I was so disappointed at first, now I'm riding it I'm stoked.

 

[Mikehorti]

OK
I did a test ride today.
The bike is phenominal. I really like how it handles.

I'm 181 cm, and usually ride Large frames, 480 reach. Test ride was on a medium. Felt a bit short, but very nimble.
Maybe its just a matter of getting used to it.

Should I size down to Medium?

I’m 180 and have a large

 

[Gavalar]

I’m 180 and have a large

I too measure 180 and ride a large with a 50mm stem and PNW Loam Bars with a 38mm rise, works beautifully.

 

[LowStandards]

Are you a dentist?

Yes: Buy the Yeti
No: Buy something better and cheaper