This bike is my favorite one I’ve had! Went from a 5.5 to a 150 to this for Leadville and Nats. I have two builds, one with light wheels and a step cast 32 and one with a 130mm 36, and it just rips up and down!
Awesome bike! I’m still riding a SB 4.5 as my only mtb and I love it. The only time I feel under-biked is at a bike park. When I get comments on my small travel, which is often, I always think of your advice: “this is the bike most people should be riding.” I totally agree! Thanks for all your great content. TR user and huge MTB podcast fan.
So great to hear you talk about your Yeti. Drink. Just about to finish my 2nd time thru all 73 episodes. I have tried but am have a great deal of trouble getting into another mtb podcast. You guys ruined me. I’m rooting for a comeback!
John Splendido I think you are talking about another podcast other than ours? Frankly, no. That’s why we started the MTB Podcast. IMO there are way too many people talking about inside baseball or just interviewing people instead of helping solve the issues that face their listeners.
Any update on the podcast? If you are looking for motivation...60 days ago I was close to finishing my 2nd round of the podcast. I was on Episode 71 about nutrition with Derek Teel. Honestly I am not a competitive rider (except against myself and my buddies) and never paid much attention to the nutrition side. However I’m about to turn 50 this year and had gained weight over the last several years. And you guys happen to mention how easy My fitness pal app was. I downloaded it that day. Just to track my calories. I have lost 14 pounds since that day and I’m almost back to where I was during my last marathon in 2014. Just 2 pounds to go. Not only have you improved my mountain biking, but you helped me get back in the best shape of my life. Which definitely helps when you’re reaching that mentally challenging milestone of 50! Whether you come back or not I just wanted to thank you…But hopefully I can thank you by supporting the podcast sometime soon!
Been looking at a 2021 SB 115 T-2 XO build to replace my 2019 RM Instinct BC edition, at age 66 i really didnt need or use the capabilities of that bike 90% of the time and it sold in 1 day, it sold so quick it surprised me.
Hi Jonathan, if you're bored these days under the lockdown, why not record another episode of the MTB Podcast? I really, really miss it. It was SO GOOD! C'mon now! :)
Lol, definitely not bored. Since this whole situation I've only gotten busier. No days off yet and extremely long hours (for which I am very grateful, btw). There is news coming with the MTB Podcast. Stay tuned!
@@JonathanLee7 I meant no offense. I just saw two videos uploaded shortly after one another and I assumed you might have spare time on hand. My core message was the 2nd part. It used to be my favorite podcast, even before JRE.
Thanks for the review. Im really glad to hear what you said about too much travel. I'm a long time roadie looking to get into mountain biking. And people telling me to look at bigger bikes but the bike I've had most fun in so far was an epic Evo. So the sb100 is on my list (as soon as I'm allowed to demo one again, and as soon as I figure out the finances) but every time I say that, someone says "but what about this mid-travel trail bike?" And I'm like "it's ok, I guess...." Anyway , this is all to say, after your review I'm even more excited for the sb100. Thanks.
Awesome video, love my sb100. Have you ever tried it with the 100mm fork? I am toying with the idea for some xc races but don't know if it would ruin the geometry and feel of the bike.
You mentioned that you'd like to run the Aspen 2.4's instead of the 2.25's. Why not run them now? Is it a matter of not having enough clearance in the rear for the 2.4?
I own a similar build and it’s far and away the best bike I’ve ever ridden/owned. I drop people on full enduro bikes regularly on the descents and out-climb guys on hardtails. Is there any reason you went for AXS over the new XTR? It’s similar in weight (paired with carbon cranks a few hundred grams lighter) and I personally think the shifting is smoother and more refined.
Nicolas Goumas awesome! To be honest, I just don’t like Shimano. Don’t like the ergos of the shifters, don’t like how it doesn’t feel as positive when you shift, and I disagree with the company’s stance on how it manages product development, customer warranties and the brand. They make great brakes though!
Really cool video! What are those little things around the handlebars right near the stem front cap? Are for screw the race number? If I’m right, can you link it to me? Thanks so much!
NIce bike - still considering if I should go this way for my next bike or stay on my Epic, or take the new epic when it comes out.Regarding brakes, i have been riding the Sram ult on my last to bikes. Only good thing is as you say weight. I siwtched to Magura MT8 Raceline last summer. By far the best and most modular xc brakes i have ridden, so just a suggestion on that.
Anders Helbo good to hear! I’ve tried the MT8s and like them. A lot of folks seem to not like them, and sure, they feel a bit “Wood-like”, but they perform well IMO.
Great video and bike, Jonathan. I have bought a SB100 recently because I really thought it to be perfect for my style of XC but also for a bit more aggressive trail riding. Basically, I wanted to have a versatile bike that was light without needing to shred downhill super fast like a DH bike or sending it through huge jumps/gaps/drops etc. I think it suits me perfectly. Having said that, if you were to build this for more trail oriented riding, given that I don’t race XC, what changes would you make to this build? I am planning to add some NOBL TR32 with probably Onyx Vesper (what’s your thoughts on DT180?), Enve cockpit (the new AL stem is a thing of beauty but was gonna get the carbon at 50mm) with M6 bars, and Rekon 2.4 and Rekon Race 2.35 back. Any thoughts on this? Thanks! I’m gonna find you on IG.
I know this is kinda nit picky, but how do you bleed your brakes so the lever doesn't come in as far? I know on the MTB podcast you said something about adjusting the levers all the way in, bleeding them, and then adjusting them out? I run Shimano XT's.
Yep, that's my process with SRAM brakes. Haven't done it on XTs, so I can't responsibly recommend it. For the Levels, I use higher end syringes (glass, not plastic) that hold vacuum really well and I actually leave it pulling a vacuum for as long as an hour. I then pressurize the system as much as possible and give myself as much time as needed to get rid of all microbubbles. I also do the bleed with rotor in until the final couple squeezes where I remove the rotor. This makes the throw shorter and the brakes feel very positive. But, and this is a big but, this process takes a LOT of refining to get right. I should just get XTRs, hehe
Jonathan Lee I have just added the SRAM G2 brakes to my SB100 recently and they are so much better than previous iterations of SRAM brakes. You might like them.
Building up a SB100 and curious about this MRP fork. Wasn't on my radar for a 120 XC/Trail build but pretty interesting. Have you ridden the new 34 SC too? You're able to find a good midpoint where the low speed compression almost feels locked out but high speed soaks up the bumps?
It's a very different bike. The ASR's single pivot design made it much less dynamic in terms of how it moves through the stroke. The 100 is initially plush but supportive and solid under foot while being very progressive through the whole stroke. The ASR was more supportive right off the top and as a result, isn't as smooth and doesn't carry as much momentum. Also, it it less progressive and has more flex compared to the 100. This increased stiffness and progressivity of the 100 makes it handle with a lot of confidence in bumpy, rough and/or fast terrain. In terms of climbing, the 100 carries momentum over bumps whereas the ASR gets held up on them a bit. In short, the 100 is faster up and a lot faster going down. More confidence inspiring too!
Jonathan Lee geez, the 100 must rip. I’ve got an ASRc and love the thing and was super keen to hear your comparison. I have found the ASR pushes into corners if you carry a bit too much speed. The flex of the rear triangle I guess would give a completely different feel to the Switch Infinity.
Stewarto that’s a really astute observation. I felt the same, and I attributed that to flex as well. The chassis stiffness of the 100 elevates it massively.
Jonathan Lee so an SB100 came up at a good price and I pulled the trigger. Only one ride in and to be honest, don’t feel as fast as the ASR, but I’ve got some playing to do with the suspension, and will see how it goes. On the Yeti site they have some recommended suspension and tyre pressures, so you reckon they’re a pretty good place to start?
@@Stewarto I just reactivated my ASRc today because I destroyed my Mach4SL yesterday. Well... the ASRc is still the best XC bike i've ever ridden. I disagree with Jonathan on calling the single pivot design less dynamic. I think it's the opposite: the single pivot is not as supportive as a linkage driven platform, true, but it's crazy sensitive and dynamic, meaning it offers phenomenal pop. Feels like a giant BMX bike.
This bike is my favorite one I’ve had! Went from a 5.5 to a 150 to this for Leadville and Nats. I have two builds, one with light wheels and a step cast 32 and one with a 130mm 36, and it just rips up and down!
Hayes MacGregor nice! A 130mm 36 would be killer 🤘
Love it, can't wait to see upgrades for 2020.
TheTonicro stay tuned to my Instagram!
Yup, I love my 100. Its my only mtb now. Have 2 sets of wheels. Shred set and Race set.
That's a great way to go!
Awesome bike! I’m still riding a SB 4.5 as my only mtb and I love it. The only time I feel under-biked is at a bike park. When I get comments on my small travel, which is often, I always think of your advice: “this is the bike most people should be riding.” I totally agree! Thanks for all your great content. TR user and huge MTB podcast fan.
I love the 4.5! It’s still such a sought after bike. Way ahead of its time 👏👏👏
So great to hear you talk about your Yeti. Drink.
Just about to finish my 2nd time thru all 73 episodes. I have tried but am have a great deal of trouble getting into another mtb podcast. You guys ruined me. I’m rooting for a comeback!
John Splendido thank you! News on that front is coming soon.
That is great news. Cannot wait for mtb podcast to return. Until then do you have a favorite mtb podcast I should check out?
John Splendido I think you are talking about another podcast other than ours? Frankly, no. That’s why we started the MTB Podcast. IMO there are way too many people talking about inside baseball or just interviewing people instead of helping solve the issues that face their listeners.
Any update on the podcast? If you are looking for motivation...60 days ago I was close to finishing my 2nd round of the podcast. I was on Episode 71 about nutrition with Derek Teel. Honestly I am not a competitive rider (except against myself and my buddies) and never paid much attention to the nutrition side. However I’m about to turn 50 this year and had gained weight over the last several years. And you guys happen to mention how easy My fitness pal app was. I downloaded it that day. Just to track my calories. I have lost 14 pounds since that day and I’m almost back to where I was during my last marathon in 2014. Just 2 pounds to go. Not only have you improved my mountain biking, but you helped me get back in the best shape of my life. Which definitely helps when you’re reaching that mentally challenging milestone of 50! Whether you come back or not I just wanted to thank you…But hopefully I can thank you by supporting the podcast sometime soon!
I own a SB100, SB140, and a Pivot LES 29. The SB100 is by my favorite. I love them all, but if I could only have one, the SB100 would be it. Cheers.
It's the perfect blend, eh?
Great video and build Johnathan
Brian Gong thanks, Brian! Hope you and the fam are well 👍
@@JonathanLee7 ditto!
Been looking at a 2021 SB 115 T-2 XO build to replace my 2019 RM Instinct BC edition, at age 66 i really didnt need or use the capabilities of that bike 90% of the time and it sold in 1 day, it sold so quick it surprised me.
Good to hear from you Jonathan. When we will get another MTB Podcast? It seems like it's been a year!
Mark Kligerman Hey! There is good news coming with the podcast, but can’t provide details yet. Stay tuned!
Hi Jonathan, if you're bored these days under the lockdown, why not record another episode of the MTB Podcast? I really, really miss it. It was SO GOOD! C'mon now! :)
he said he has something in the works. I miss it too.
Lol, definitely not bored. Since this whole situation I've only gotten busier. No days off yet and extremely long hours (for which I am very grateful, btw).
There is news coming with the MTB Podcast. Stay tuned!
@@JonathanLee7 I meant no offense. I just saw two videos uploaded shortly after one another and I assumed you might have spare time on hand. My core message was the 2nd part. It used to be my favorite podcast, even before JRE.
My Gosh I've just saw the Yeti ambassador on earth
A venge video would be awesome!
Dylan Bartlett I’ll try to get that one done this weekend!
Thanks for the review. Im really glad to hear what you said about too much travel. I'm a long time roadie looking to get into mountain biking. And people telling me to look at bigger bikes but the bike I've had most fun in so far was an epic Evo. So the sb100 is on my list (as soon as I'm allowed to demo one again, and as soon as I figure out the finances) but every time I say that, someone says "but what about this mid-travel trail bike?" And I'm like "it's ok, I guess...." Anyway , this is all to say, after your review I'm even more excited for the sb100. Thanks.
Stephen Wolfson you’re on the right track! Makes 99% of the trail you ride way more enjoyable.
Awesome video, love my sb100. Have you ever tried it with the 100mm fork? I am toying with the idea for some xc races but don't know if it would ruin the geometry and feel of the bike.
It'd be too low.
Would definitely be interested in your Venge and Speed Concept
Ryan Jones venge is coming soon, Speed Concept may be a while as it is on loan to a friend 👍
You mentioned that you'd like to run the Aspen 2.4's instead of the 2.25's. Why not run them now? Is it a matter of not having enough clearance in the rear for the 2.4?
I own a similar build and it’s far and away the best bike I’ve ever ridden/owned. I drop people on full enduro bikes regularly on the descents and out-climb guys on hardtails. Is there any reason you went for AXS over the new XTR? It’s similar in weight (paired with carbon cranks a few hundred grams lighter) and I personally think the shifting is smoother and more refined.
Nicolas Goumas awesome! To be honest, I just don’t like Shimano. Don’t like the ergos of the shifters, don’t like how it doesn’t feel as positive when you shift, and I disagree with the company’s stance on how it manages product development, customer warranties and the brand. They make great brakes though!
Really cool video!
What are those little things around the handlebars right near the stem front cap? Are for screw the race number? If I’m right, can you link it to me?
Thanks so much!
NIce bike - still considering if I should go this way for my next bike or stay on my Epic, or take the new epic when it comes out.Regarding brakes, i have been riding the Sram ult on my last to bikes. Only good thing is as you say weight. I siwtched to Magura MT8 Raceline last summer. By far the best and most modular xc brakes i have ridden, so just a suggestion on that.
Anders Helbo good to hear! I’ve tried the MT8s and like them. A lot of folks seem to not like them, and sure, they feel a bit “Wood-like”, but they perform well IMO.
Great video and bike, Jonathan. I have bought a SB100 recently because I really thought it to be perfect for my style of XC but also for a bit more aggressive trail riding. Basically, I wanted to have a versatile bike that was light without needing to shred downhill super fast like a DH bike or sending it through huge jumps/gaps/drops etc. I think it suits me perfectly. Having said that, if you were to build this for more trail oriented riding, given that I don’t race XC, what changes would you make to this build? I am planning to add some NOBL TR32 with probably Onyx Vesper (what’s your thoughts on DT180?), Enve cockpit (the new AL stem is a thing of beauty but was gonna get the carbon at 50mm) with M6 bars, and Rekon 2.4 and Rekon Race 2.35 back. Any thoughts on this? Thanks! I’m gonna find you on IG.
I know this is kinda nit picky, but how do you bleed your brakes so the lever doesn't come in as far? I know on the MTB podcast you said something about adjusting the levers all the way in, bleeding them, and then adjusting them out? I run Shimano XT's.
Yep, that's my process with SRAM brakes. Haven't done it on XTs, so I can't responsibly recommend it. For the Levels, I use higher end syringes (glass, not plastic) that hold vacuum really well and I actually leave it pulling a vacuum for as long as an hour. I then pressurize the system as much as possible and give myself as much time as needed to get rid of all microbubbles. I also do the bleed with rotor in until the final couple squeezes where I remove the rotor. This makes the throw shorter and the brakes feel very positive. But, and this is a big but, this process takes a LOT of refining to get right. I should just get XTRs, hehe
Jonathan Lee I have just added the SRAM G2 brakes to my SB100 recently and they are so much better than previous iterations of SRAM brakes. You might like them.
Building up a SB100 and curious about this MRP fork. Wasn't on my radar for a 120 XC/Trail build but pretty interesting. Have you ridden the new 34 SC too? You're able to find a good midpoint where the low speed compression almost feels locked out but high speed soaks up the bumps?
So now that you're on an epic, what didn't you like on this bike? What made you switch?
How does the SB100 compare to the ASR-C?
Would you recommend a 100mm fork for XC/Marathon racing? Or would the BB be too low? Thanks
Very nice ✌🏼
Awesome build.
What did the total cost turn out to be?
So would you recommend going down a size most of the time?
I’m 5’-9”, so small or medium?
Nice vid. How does it compare to your Yeti ASR c?
It's a very different bike. The ASR's single pivot design made it much less dynamic in terms of how it moves through the stroke. The 100 is initially plush but supportive and solid under foot while being very progressive through the whole stroke. The ASR was more supportive right off the top and as a result, isn't as smooth and doesn't carry as much momentum. Also, it it less progressive and has more flex compared to the 100. This increased stiffness and progressivity of the 100 makes it handle with a lot of confidence in bumpy, rough and/or fast terrain. In terms of climbing, the 100 carries momentum over bumps whereas the ASR gets held up on them a bit.
In short, the 100 is faster up and a lot faster going down. More confidence inspiring too!
Jonathan Lee geez, the 100 must rip. I’ve got an ASRc and love the thing and was super keen to hear your comparison. I have found the ASR pushes into corners if you carry a bit too much speed. The flex of the rear triangle I guess would give a completely different feel to the Switch Infinity.
Stewarto that’s a really astute observation. I felt the same, and I attributed that to flex as well. The chassis stiffness of the 100 elevates it massively.
Jonathan Lee so an SB100 came up at a good price and I pulled the trigger. Only one ride in and to be honest, don’t feel as fast as the ASR, but I’ve got some playing to do with the suspension, and will see how it goes. On the Yeti site they have some recommended suspension and tyre pressures, so you reckon they’re a pretty good place to start?
@@Stewarto I just reactivated my ASRc today because I destroyed my Mach4SL yesterday. Well... the ASRc is still the best XC bike i've ever ridden. I disagree with Jonathan on calling the single pivot design less dynamic. I think it's the opposite: the single pivot is not as supportive as a linkage driven platform, true, but it's crazy sensitive and dynamic, meaning it offers phenomenal pop. Feels like a giant BMX bike.
Did you ride this bike at leadville last year?
Where do you store a multitool?
do you run a cycling computer?
what's the weight of this bike?
If you don’t like lashing just go with Sid and Sid lux
Weight?
23.9lbs as pictured in this video. See the description for more info on this.