A Yeti Gone Electric – 2025 Yeti MTE Light eMTB First Ride Review.

Yeti Cycles – the name alone brings to mind Colorado’s rugged landscapes, racing heritage, and a brand with cult status. Now, the American manufacturer presents its first ever light eMTB, the Yeti MTE, which comes equipped with the brand-new TQ HPR60 motor. But does it want to be a thoroughbred racing machine like the 160E? Or is it more of a capable all-rounder with generous assistance and extended range? It’s time to hit the trail and find out.

“The totally fair, unfair advantage” – is the bold catchphrase Yeti’s marketing department came up with for the launch of their brand-new light eMTB. It might sound tongue-in-cheek, but the American cult manufacturer makes one thing crystal clear: the second eMTB is all about the compact, lightweight, and discreet TQ motor that only reveals the MTE’s electric heart upon closer inspection. And while Yeti’s roots run deep in racing, it’s safe to say that race performance probably wasn’t at the top of their priority list for this bike – though the signature turquoise finish still screams speed. Yeti chose the latest generation of TQ’s drive system, the HPR60, which delivers 60 Nm of torque and 350 W of peak power – still very much a minimal-assist motor. True to form, Yeti also stay consistent with their reputation for premium craftsmanship and premium pricing: our T3 test bike – not even the top-spec variant – comes in at a hefty € 12,500. For your money you’ll get a full-carbon frame with 29” wheels front and rear (with mullet compatibility), 160 mm of travel up front, and 145 mm at the rear.

The new 2025 Yeti MTE T3 Light eMTB in detail

Yes, we are E-MOUNTAINBIKE, and yes, we test e-mountainbikes! And while there are slimmer eMTBs out there with a TQ drive, you’ll still have to look twice to spot the motor in Yeti’s first-ever light-assist eMTB. The MTE relies on a minimalist, understated design language, and only hints at its electric nature through the slightly bulkier down tube – which is where you’ll find the biggest battery TQ currently offer for their HPR system – a 580 Wh unit designed to deliver plenty of range. Meanwhile, the new TQ HPR60 motor is integrated seamlessly and discreetly into the bottom bracket area, just like the slightly smaller and marginally lighter HPR50. What sets the updated HPR60 apart from its predecessor – and how it performs on the trail and in our range test – you’ll find out in our in-depth review of the TQ HPR60.

Of the three battery sizes currently offered by TQ, two are compatible with the new Yeti MTE: 580 Wh and 290 Wh. But don’t get too excited – this doesn’t mean that you can choose the battery size based on your preferences and riding style. Instead, Yeti assign the battery size depending on the spec variant– but more on that later. What applies to all MTE models, however, is that the battery can be removed – at least in principle. To do so, you’ll first have to undo three bolts on the motor cover, then two more on the battery itself. Unplug the connector, slide the battery out downwards – and you’re done. It’s manageable, but ideally you’ll want a power outlet near your parking spot, otherwise you’re adding at least 10 minutes of tool time to every charge. On the bright side, the position and cover of the charging port are well thought out, positioned high up on the downtube and easy to access. The 160 Wh TQ range extender is still available for around €500 and is compatible with all Yeti MTE models.

The shape of the TQ display hasn’t changed with the latest generation of the German-made drive system, and, as usual, is integrated subtly and discreetly into the top tube of the Yeti MTE. While the information displayed is still the same, the layout has been updated slightly, with the three support modes now shown as bar segments. The display still shows all crucial ride data in a clear, easy-to-read format. The handlebar remote also carries over unchanged from the previous generation – it still uses a wire, and offers solid ergonomics and a tactile, high-quality feel. The cable is routed internally through the handlebars and disappears into the frame through neatly integrated, bolted cable ports on the headset – just like all other cables, which are fully routed through the frame. The generously sized chainstay protector, combined with the bolted cable ports, ensure a quiet ride on the trail. There are also mounting points on the top tube for a tool mount. However, the frame doesn’t include any internal storage compartment.

The Sixfinity system of the new Yeti MTE

With the impressive 160E, Yeti have already proven that they know how to build high-performance eMTBs. Richie Rude managed to clinch two overall E-EWS titles astride Yeti’s first-ever eMTB, which was powered by a Shimano EP801 motor. So it comes as no surprise that Yeti’s engineers decided to bring the proven Sixfinity rear suspension from their full-power race bike over to their first light-assist model too. Sixfinity is Yeti’s eMTB-specific suspension platform — an evolution of their renowned Switch Infinity system, which is based on a DW-Link. While Switch Infinity works brilliantly on analogue bikes, its layout doesn’t leave enough room for a motor and battery on eMTBs. That’s why Yeti developed the Sixfinity system from the ground up, featuring a unique linkage with a rotating pivot that connects the upper and lower links. It debuted on the 160E and now carries over to the new MTE. Just like the full-power model, the MTE features an additional flip chip that allows you to adjust rear suspension progression to match your riding style and terrain.

The new TQ HPR60 motor system

Even though the brand-new TQ HPR60 delivers 20% more torque and 50 more watts of peak power compared to its predecessor, it still clearly falls into the light-assist category – as confirmed by our initial ride impressions. According to TQ, however, the new drive system addresses two key shortcomings of the earlier HPR50: its limited efficiency and the rather aggressive derating under sustained load. Both issues came to light during our comprehensive comparison test with 15 eMTB motors. To find out how the new TQ HPR60 performs in our review, read on.

The spec of our 2025 Yeti MTE T3 test bike

For this first ride review, Yeti sent the MTE T3 spec variant, which is the mid-tier option among the three available models. The “T” stands for the higher-grade, lighter full-carbon frame layup used in Yeti’s T-series models, as opposed to the more affordable “C” versions. On top of that, the T models feature strategically placed Vectran reinforcements in high-stress areas of the frame to enhance impact resistance and overall durability. Vectran is a high-performance fiber spun from liquid crystal polymers – which may sound nerdy, but is seriously impressive. This extremely strong, impact-resistant material is typically used in places where things get intense: spacesuits, ballistic vests, or high-performance racing sails. Compared to steel, Vectran is about five times more tear-resistant.

At a price of €12,500, expectations are high – and the Yeti MTE T3 delivers. The highlights start with a premium FOX Factory suspension, featuring the brand-new 2026 FOX 36 fork with GRIP X2 damper, which generates 160 mm of travel. Our sister magazine ENDURO has already put this new fork through its paces in a detailed review. The fork is paired with a FOX FLOAT X shock with piggyback reservoir controlling145 mm of travel at the rear.

An electronic SRAM X0 Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrain delivers smooth, reliable shifting, even under load, while SRAM MAVEN Silver brakes do stopping duties, delivering the same powerful brake torque as the top-tier Ultimate version, though without the carbon and titanium bling. Paired with 200 mm rotors front and rear, the brakes generate more than enough power for any terrain and descent. When it comes to dropper post travel, more is always better – and the 200 mm RockShox Reverb AXS gets the job done beautifully with its slightly awkward battery collar. DT Swiss supply the 29” EXC 1700 SPLINE carbon wheelset, which is combined with Schwalbe’s gravity-oriented tires – with a 2.5″ Magic Mary in the Ultra Soft compound at the front and a 2.5″Albert in the firmer Soft compound at the rear, both Trail casing.

For the cockpit, Yeti combine a Burgtec Enduro MK3 stem and their in-house carbon handlebars, which features internal routing for the remote cable. Our Yeti MTE T3 test bike in size L tips the scales at 20.14 kg – not exactly a standout figure, especially considering that full-power bikes like the AMFLOW PL Carbon Pro, which has a 800 Wh battery, now fall within the same weight range.

Tuning tip: Once the rear tire wears out, consider upgrading to a more robust casing for added durability.

The spec variants of the 2025 Yeti MTE

Yeti offer three build variants of their first light eMTB. Alongside the MTE T3 X0 Transmissionmodelwe tested, Yeti offer the weight-optimized T4 spec variant, which retails at a hefty € 13,900, as well as the C2 “entry-level” model featuring a slightly lower-grade carbon frame without Vectran reinforcements and a more modest spec – though it still burns a nice € 9,700 whole in your wallet.

All models share the same TQ HPR60 drive unit, with the only differences being battery capacities. The 160 Wh TQ range extender is compatible with all Yeti MTE models, while the 360 Wh battery doesn’t fit inside the downtube. Both color options – “Turquoise” and “Midnight” – are available across the board. One final common feature: all builds come equipped with the new RockShox Reverb AXS dropper post.

“Trim the fat!” – that was likely the mantra guiding Yeti’s engineers during the development of the MTE T4 XX Transmission variant. According to the manufacturer, the weight-optimized T4 version tips the scales at just 17.5 kg. To achieve that, Yeti’s first light eMTB had to shed weight in several key areas. The biggest savings come from something you can’t see: the smaller 290 Wh battery, which, according to TQ, is 1,235 grams lighter than the 580 Wh version used for the other two spec variants. From a weight perspective, the smaller battery makes perfect sense. But for those who’d prefer to run a larger battery with the T4 build, there’s a catch: it can’t be configured that way from the factory. Fortunately, retrofitting is possible, since the mounting points inside the down tube are identical. The 290 Wh version uses spacers to fill the extra space in the down tube, which means a larger battery can be installed later – though you’ll have to purchase it separately.

Yeti also slimmed down the T4’s suspension setup.. The FOX FLOAT rear shock ditches the piggyback reservoir, while the FOX 36 fork relies on the lighter GRIP X damper, which doesn’t quite match the performance of the top-tier X2 version found on our test bike. The SRAM Eagle XX AXS Transmission drivetrain doesn’t shift notably better than the more affordable X0 version – but it is a bit lighter. The same goes for the ultra-light DT Swiss EXC 1501 carbon wheelset, which is fitted with MAXXIS MINION DHF and DHR II tires, both in 2.4” width and the equally light – and equally fragile – EXO casing. This is where the weight-saving mission should probably stop. With such thin casings, those sensitive carbon rims could quickly end up in the bin. Braking is taken care of by SRAM Maven Ultimate stoppers, which our sister magazine ENDURO already tested for you. The brakes are combined with a 200 mm rotor at the front and a smaller 180 mm disc at the rear. Carbon brake levers and titanium hardware help save additional weight. Whether this strict weight-loss regime is worth the €13,900 price tag is something only you can decide. As with most things in life: if you want to look (and ride) slim, you’ve got to suffer.

Yeti’s entry into the light eMTB world starts with their most affordable build: the Yeti MTE C2 Eagle 90 Transmission, which retails at € 9,700. According to the manufacturer, the entry-level version tips the scales at 20.09 kg – almost the same as our test bike – despite using the same tires, a 580 Wh battery, and DT Swiss E 1900 aluminum wheels. The suspension comes from FOX’s Performance series, which offers fewer adjustment options and slightly less performance compared to the Factory and Performance Elite lines. The SRAM MAVEN Bronze brakes of the C2 model are also paired with 200 mm rotors, although Yeti spec the thinner Centerline discs in this case – most likely to save a few grams and a few euros. With the mechanical SRAM Eagle 90 Transmission, you get shifting performance that’s nearly on par with AXS – just without the electronics. You’ll find a full review over at our sister magazine ENDURO.

The geometry of the new 2025 Yeti MTE

Yeti offer the MTE light eMTB in four sizes, S to XL, offering a suitable option for riders between 155 and 200 cm tall. The geometry leans toward the long and slack side, without pushing things to the extreme. With 480 mm reach in size L and a consistent chainstay length of 449 mm across all sizes, the bike feels relatively stretched out. Add to that the steep 77° seat angle and a fairly low 635 mm stack height in size L. At 64°, the head angle is a slack, and that doesn’t change with the flip chip in the rear linkage – this adjustment only compensates for geometry alterations when switching to a smaller 27.5” rear wheel. A second flip chip in the lower shock mount lets you fine-tune the rear suspension’s progression. By simply rotating the inserts, you can adjust the suspension characteristics to feel more “supportive,” “efficient,” or “lively.” The wireless dropper post has 150 mm of travel in size S, increasing to 175 mm in M, 200 mm in L, and up to 225 mm in the XL frame.

Size	SM	MD	LG	XL
Seat Tube	390 mm	420 mm	440 mm	460 mm
Top Tube	572 mm	604 mm	627 mm	654 mm
Head Tube	93 mm	100 mm	115 mm	126 mm
Head Angle	64.0°	64.0°	64.0°	64.0°
Seat Angle	77.0°	77.0°	77.0°	77.0°
Chainstay	449 mm	449 mm	449 mm	449 mm
Wheelbase	1213 mm	1248 mm	1273 mm	1303 mm
Reach	430 mm	460 mm	480 mm	505 mm
Stack	615 mm	625 mm	635 mm	645 mm

The new 2025 Yeti MTE T3 on test

When you swing your leg over the saddle,the Yeti MTE places you in a comfortable position, making you feel at ease from the get go. The weight is evenly distributed between the front and rear, and the suspension doesn’t bob excessively when pedalling uphill. Even in challenging terrain, the rear wheel always generates plenty of traction. That’s due not only to the MTE’s efficient rear suspension, but also to the natural-feeling support from the new TQ HPR60 motor. The compact, near-silent drive unit delivers assistance that, in its lowest support mode, feels like you’re simply having an exceptionally strong day on the pedals. Switch into the highest of the three modes, and the light-assist system motor churns out noticeably more power – but it’s still a long way off the brute force of established full-power drives. Instead, the HPR60 impresses with its natural ride feel, providing steady support that encourages an active pedaling style. At the same time, it still makes you work on steep and technical climbs.

But the effort is well worth it – because it means you can enjoy the Yeti MTE’s true calling: the descent. When gravity takes over, you’re integrated deeply and centrally into the frame, and after just a few meters of vertical drop, you’ll struggle to wipe that massive grin off your face. Downhill, the Yeti MTE is an absolute rocket. It remains composed and planted at all times, and always sits high in its travel. The rear suspension remains sensitive to small bumps and at the same time offers plenty of reserves for big hits. When the terrain gets rough, the MTE impresses with great stability and gives you tons of confidence thanks to the deeply-integrated riding position. This makes it easy to pump through rollers and berms, and to build up tons of speed in the process. Is it a corner slayer? Absolutely – thanks to the intuitive handling and direct steering response, the MTE loves being flicked from one corner into the next.

The newest member of the Yeti family doesn’t require an experienced rider, either. Thanks to its forgiving character, even beginners and less experienced riders will feel at home right away. And if a Yeti – uh, a deer – suddenly darts out of the bushes, the SRAM MAVEN brakes bite hard and without hesitation.

Who should take a closer look at the 2025 Yeti MTE T3?

If you’re getting a light eMTB, chances are you still want to put in some effort and stay fit – especially with a motor like the TQ HPR60 on board. With its natural support, the Yeti MTE is a great choice for riders who still want a proper workout on the way to the trail. It’s also ideal for newcomers and riders transitioning into the eMTB world. The MTE makes things easy, whether you’re just getting started or already have some experience on the trail – especially in steep, technical terrain. It also holds its own on longer rides and tours, though we’d strongly recommend the bigger 580 Wh battery like the one we had on our test bike. One thing’s for sure: the high price tag will be a serious setback for some.

Conclusions about the new 2025 Yeti MTE T3

Good things take time – and Yeti’s late entry into the light eMTB market comes out of the gate at full throttle. With the new TQ HPR60 motor at its core, the legendary brand delivers a true all-rounder. The bike’s real strength lies in its downhill performance, where it shows impressive composure and a seriously capable suspension that shines across a wide range of trail conditions. This makes it easy for beginners to feel at home right away, while more experienced riders will appreciate the two flip chips that allow you to fine-tune the MTE to your specific needs.

For more information, visit yeticycles.com

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Words: Julian Schwede, Robin Ulbrich, Patrick Gruber Photos: Peter Walker