Switch Infinity

Summary

Switch Infinity is a patented suspension platform developed by Yeti Cycles and Fox Racing Shox. It features a translating pivot mechanism designed to optimize anti-squat and axle path characteristics throughout the bike’s travel. The system enables efficient climbing without sacrificing plush, controlled descending performance.

Key Facts

  • Introduced: 2014
  • Category: Technology
  • Also known as: Translating Pivot, SI Suspension
  • Used by: Yeti Cycles exclusively
  • Developed with: Fox Racing Shox
  • Found on: Yeti trail, enduro, and XC full-suspension models
  • Official website: https://yeticycles.com

Overview

Switch Infinity is a standout rear suspension system found exclusively on Yeti Cycles’ full-suspension mountain bikes. First released in 2014, it emerged as a collaboration between Yeti and Fox with the goal of creating a suspension layout that could dynamically adjust its kinematics through the stroke of travel.

At its core, Switch Infinity uses a translating main pivot—housed in a Kashima-coated rail system—mounted near the bottom bracket. This pivot isn’t fixed in one spot; it moves vertically as the suspension compresses. This motion is central to the system’s ability to deliver both anti-squat for climbing efficiency and a more rearward axle path deeper in the stroke for improved descending traction.

The idea behind Switch Infinity was to retain the climbing characteristics that made Yeti’s earlier Switch Link platform popular, while refining mid- and end-stroke behavior to better support aggressive descending. Rather than toggling between two suspension personalities, Switch Infinity aims to let the bike transition seamlessly from efficient to plush as terrain and rider input change.

Since its debut, Switch Infinity has helped define Yeti’s brand identity as a performance-first mountain bike manufacturer. It has seen continual refinement in linkage tuning and frame integration, but the core sliding pivot mechanism has remained consistent—testament to the longevity of the underlying concept.

How It Works

Switch Infinity’s core innovation lies in its vertically translating pivot. Rather than using two fixed links like many virtual pivot systems, it introduces a pivot that physically slides up and down on two vertical rails.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works across the suspension stroke:

1. Initial Stroke – Upward Pivot Movement

At the beginning of the suspension travel, the Switch Infinity link moves upward along the rails. This causes the instant center of rotation to move in a way that creates high anti-squat. The result is excellent pedaling efficiency, especially noticeable during climbing or acceleration. The system resists bobbing without requiring heavy compression damping or platform shocks.

2. Mid-Stroke – Transition Zone

As the suspension continues to compress, the upward movement of the pivot slows and then reverses. The instant center begins to migrate rearward and downward, reducing anti-squat. This transition is critical—it’s what gives the bike a supportive mid-stroke without sacrificing grip or bump compliance.

3. Deep Stroke – Downward Pivot Movement

In the latter part of travel, the pivot now moves downward. This shift allows the rear axle path to become more rearward and the leverage curve to flatten, offering better tracking over rough terrain and improved big-hit absorption. The reduced anti-squat also means the suspension stays more active under load, especially useful on fast, technical descents.

4. Dual Rail System

The pivot rides on a pair of high-quality, low-friction Kashima-coated stanchions. These rails are mounted inside a sealed cartridge, which is bolted to the frame. The movement is guided by bushings and bearings that are serviceable and designed for durability in dirty, wet riding conditions.

5. Integration with Linkage

While the translating pivot is the centerpiece, it functions as part of a larger linkage system. The rest of the suspension layout resembles a single-pivot-with-linkage design but is tuned around the motion of the main pivot.

Maintenance Note

Despite its complexity, Switch Infinity is known for reliable operation. Yeti recommends regular maintenance intervals, especially for riders in muddy or high-mileage environments. The system is built to be user-serviceable and replacement parts are readily available.

Performance Characteristics & Impact

Switch Infinity is praised for blending the efficiency of a well-damped platform with the plushness of a more active suspension layout—without needing on-the-fly shock adjustments.

Key Ride Characteristics:

  • Excellent climbing feel: Bikes with Switch Infinity often feel more “hardtail-like” on climbs due to the anti-squat tuning in the first part of travel.
  • Supportive mid-stroke: The transition in pivot direction creates a platform feel that resists wallow under pedaling or pumping.
  • Active under braking and descending: Deeper in the travel, the system becomes more open and compliant, improving traction and comfort.
  • Predictable axle path: The rearward motion of the axle helps maintain momentum over square-edge hits and rough terrain.

Switch Infinity has helped distinguish Yeti’s trail and enduro bikes in a crowded marketplace, giving them a unique ride feel that blends responsiveness with comfort. It’s especially favored by riders who prioritize technical climbing and aggressive descending in equal measure.

Notable Implementations

  • Yeti SB160: 160mm enduro race machine, built for high-speed terrain with revised SI kinematics.
  • Yeti SB140: Trail/all-mountain platform using a more progressive SI layout for playful riding.
  • Yeti SB120: Short-travel XC/trail bike that uses Switch Infinity for climbing efficiency with technical capability.
  • Yeti SB165 (Discontinued): Long-travel freeride-inspired 27.5″ bike that pushed the limits of SI for big hits.
  • Yeti SB6 (Legacy Model): The bike that helped launch Switch Infinity, multiple EWS wins under Richie Rude.

Related Terms

See Also on BBB

References

  • Yeti Cycles: Switch Infinity Technical Overview
  • Fox Racing Shox: Switch Infinity Collaboration Details
  • Richie Rude’s SB150 Race Bike Breakdown – Pinkbike Tech
  • Enduro-MTB: Suspension Platform Comparisons
  • BikeRadar: Explainer on Translating Pivot Designs
  • Dirt Magazine: Yeti SB6 Long-Term Review
Scroll to Top