Yeti MTe Review

With the MTe, Yeti is launching an EMTB that aims to set standards in terms of technology, design, and trail character—albeit at a hefty price. We tested the dream bike, priced at €12,500, featuring the new TQ HPR60 drive on the trail.

The biggest technical change compared to Yeti’s iconic non-motorized bikes affects the rear suspension. Since the TQ motor requires space, Yeti had to forgo the iconic “Switch Infinity” link—the golden slide mechanism that is the hallmark of their non-E-bikes.

Instead, the MTe uses a six-bar linkage rear suspension. It not only looks different—it also allows for much finer tuning. There isn’t an immediate “wow factor,” but on the trail, the system’s strengths become evident.

On the trail, the Yeti MTe impresses with remarkable traction. Even with a moderate progression setting, the rear suspension offers plenty of grip. The perceived travel usage feels greater than the 145 mm on paper would suggest.

Yeti manages to deliver performance that is on par with the 160 mm suspension system at the front. The rear suspension reacts sensitively, pops when needed, and remains active while braking.

The advantage of the six pivot points is mainly that developers can fine-tune individual parameters without unwanted side effects elsewhere. This results in excellent traction.

Compared to the TQ HPR50, the new HPR60 motor delivers 50 watts more power. The support is stronger but not intrusive at 350 watts. If you’re looking for extreme uphill capabilities, you won’t find them here. Instead, the system scores with a natural feel. A full test of the TQ HPR 60 System can be found here.

With 580 Wh, the battery is larger than many light e-MTBs but smaller than traditional full-power models. In combination with an optional Range Extender (180 Wh), it’s enough for extended tours with over 2,000 meters of elevation gain.

With just under 20 kilos, the Yeti MTe is no lightweight among the light eMTBs. Responsible for this are, among other things, the heavy Schwalbe tires with radial casing and the large battery. However, on the trail, the weight is hardly noticeable—the motor assists smoothly, and the rear suspension does a great job concealing it.

The geometry is modern without being aggressive. Reach, head tube angle, and bottom bracket height ensure a central, controlled riding experience. The bike feels balanced and is easy to maneuver intuitively.

From the factory, the bike comes with a 29er rear wheel, and we really liked that. However, using a flip chip, the rear suspension can also be adjusted to accommodate a smaller 27.5-inch rear wheel.

If you’re ready to drop over €12,000, you’re expecting premium components—and that’s exactly what you’re getting. The latest generation Fox suspension works buttery smooth, the SRAM Transmission shifting is precise, and the new Maven brakes have serious stopping power. For the dropper post, they’ve opted for a Rock Shox Reverb mainly due to its low maintenance, sharing the same battery with the shifting system.

Yeti doesn’t cut corners here—anything else would be unexpected at this price point. That said, there could be even lighter wheels from DT Swiss. There’s still a bit of room for improvement here.