23.3 kg in size L (manufacturer’s specifications) | € 12,900 | Manufacturer’s website
Speed, smiles and split times. The new Yeti LTe is a further evolution of the well-known 160E, which secured victory in our 2022 eMTB comparison test. The latest iteration was built with a crystal-clear mission: racing. Following closely after the launch of the lightweight MTe with its TQ HPR60 motor, the LTe raises the stakes by delivering full-power support from the Bosch Performance Line CX motor, paired with a robust 800 Wh battery. With the proven Sixfinity rear linkage and 170/160 mm of travel (front/rear), it’s ready to hit the roughest race courses. Despite its clear race credentials, Yeti kept things casual with their official tagline: “Racing Optional”. That’s because the LTe isn’t just built to excel between the tapes – it’s also designed to put a smile on your face on fun weekday sessions. With a price tag of € 12,900 and a claimed weight of 23.3 kg, the Yeti LTe T3 is neither cheap nor light. But what really matters is how it rides. So, how does it perform when the rubber hits the trail?
The new Yeti LTe T3 in detail
At first glance, the new LTe looks remarkably similar to its predecessor. The organic design language, balanced proportions and familiar silhouette are all still there. The only noticeable change is the slightly beefier bottom bracket area. Our test bike came in the fruity Manjo paint job – a colour somewhere between ripe mango and tropical sunset. If that’s a bit too much fructose for your taste, you can go for the more understated Raw Carbon look or Yeti’s iconic Turquoise finish.
The only cables you’ll find on this eMTB are the brake lines. These are neatly routed internally and disappear through the carbon frame through bolted cable ports. They only reappear briefly in the area above the motor, where they’re firmly secured. As with the MTe, the full-carbon frame is strengthened with Vectran in critical stress zones such as the chainstays and down tube. Originally developed for aerospace applications, this high-tech fibre is used in bulletproof vests and is around five times stronger than steel. To keep things quiet on the trail, Yeti added a generously-sized chainstay protector, as well as a bolted downtube guard and motor cover, which all do a great job at shielding the frame against stray rocks. A fender between the main frame and the swingarm helps keep mud out of the linkage, preventing dirt build-up in hidden areas. Meanwhile, the fitted chain guide ensures your chain stays put, even when things get rowdy. For your trail essentials, you’ll also find two practical tool mounts underneath the top tube.
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Words: Benedikt Schmidt Photos: Peter Walker
About the Author
Benedikt Schmidt
Benedikt is an expert in the eMTB segment at 41 Publishing, leading our large-scale comparison tests. After starting his career with a focus on urban mobility, he now oversees the planning and execution of the world’s most extensive test series for E-MOUNTAINBIKE magazine. His focus is on profound technical deep-dives, precisely analysing drive systems, geometries, and component innovations. As a responsible project leader, he provides well-founded, data-driven buyer’s advice for the premium market.
