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BMC 257 AL ThreeEverything can, nothing must - Swiss city bike on test

Timo Dillenberger

 · 25.10.2024

The BMC 257 AL Three CItybike on test
Photo: BMC
The BMC 257 AL Three is a city bike that stands out. It has everything you need on board and impresses with its clear lines. But there are also factors that take some getting used to. The BMC 257 AL Three on test.
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Whether as a diamond or trapezoid frame, whether in grey, matt blue or cream, whether as a biobike or pedelec: the 257 fleet from BMC can be recognised from a distance by the high-quality orange mudguards, which are also part of the rear rack. But the bike isn't just a dazzler that's all about design, the Swiss from BMC have installed everything necessary in a very classy way and left out everything optional.

The tried-and-tested Shimano hub and Gates belt drive should run cleanly and reliably for a long time without much maintenance.Photo: Timo DillenbergerThe tried-and-tested Shimano hub and Gates belt drive should run cleanly and reliably for a long time without much maintenance.

BMC 257 AL Three: Clear lines and everything you need on board

The result is this clear line, even though light is included as standard. The very durable powder-coated frame has a length to height ratio of 1.42.

LED lights have been integrated almost invisibly into the handlebars and seat post. In Germany, the Swiss "unfortunately" need additional reflectors.Photo: Timo DillenbergerLED lights have been integrated almost invisibly into the handlebars and seat post. In Germany, the Swiss "unfortunately" need additional reflectors.

This is already in the range of gravel bikes, but the wheelbase is shorter, which makes the bike more manoeuvrable, just what you need for brisk rides through the city. The short stem also suits it perfectly. What we didn't like, as with almost all the bikes shown here, was the handlebar width of 60 cm.

Wide handlebars, low load capacity

Although this gives you good control of the city bike, you are much less flexible when it comes to utilising gaps. Fortunately, rapid braking is no problem, bike control is great thanks to the weight distribution, and the 180 mm discs are really effective.

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Orange mudguards are the trademark of all "257s", regardless of model or colour. Less conspicuous: the large 180 mm brake discs.Photo: Timo DillenbergerOrange mudguards are the trademark of all "257s", regardless of model or colour. Less conspicuous: the large 180 mm brake discs.

Including rider and luggage, the bike can "only" weigh 120 kg, which is surprising given the sturdy frame and top brakes, but there is no need for more than small luggage or a cool laptop bag on the integrated carrier in the city anyway.

Conclusion on the BMC 257 AL Three city bike

The complete 257 series is something like the essence of design and technology. Totally chic, super-practical for city and short journeys and still quite individual in this country because it is not often represented.

BMC 257 AL Three: Technical data

The BMC 257 AL ThreePhoto: BMCThe BMC 257 AL Three
  • Price1,799 Euro
  • Weight: 13,6 kg (M)
  • FramePremium aluminium frame, internal cable routing, powder coating, 2 colour variants
  • DriveShimano Nexus 8-speed hub with Alfine 8 shifter, Gates CDS belt drive
  • BrakesShimano BR-U300 hydraulic disc brakes, 180 / 180 mm discs
  • TyresPirelli Angel GT, 37mm
  • Special features / accessoriesDesign mudguards, integrated light
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