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@tgent: no koolaid here, I actually ride the bikes.

@tgent: Guys, stop comparing a SB120 to simple, single pivot bikes which only take 120 mm forks, that is not apples to apples. And on the head angle, 66.5 is perfectly appropriate for this category of bikes, just like the Ripley. Additionally, the SB 120 can handle forks up to 150 mm, so if you want a slacker, more descending oriented bike, you can have that as well. 120 mm single pivots like the Spur, Allied, Epic Evo, etc, have way less rear suspension performance than what one gets with SI. To get decent pedaling with single pivots you have to add so much compression and/or air pressure that the suspension performance is compromised, and rides like less travel. With a good multilink design like DW or SI, you can run the suspension set up so it really works for you up and down. and all of those bikes take only a 120 mm fork, it is a different bike category. Now, compare the Yeti with the bikes it competes with: Ripley, Tallboy, Trail 429, and it does pretty well, looks better than Ripley or Tall Boy, but is a bit on the heavy side-hopefully that weight makes it really reliable. And the expense, well, no one forces you to purchase it. It is called inflation: new models is the one time when bike manufacturers can raise prices and bike companies have been struggling a bit with the increased cost of goods, so when new models are introduced, expect prices to go up-it is inevitable. But comparing the SB120 to single pivot flex stay, lightweight down country/XC bikes is silly. YT are interesting bikes, unfortunately they do not seem to sell frame only, which means they are a no go for me, I prefer to spec my own parts selection.