Until now, BMC's model range of full-suspension bikes was quite simple: The Fourstroke was available for racers, guaranteeing maximum efficiency. The average touring biker opted for the BMC Speedfox (test in BIKE 4/2015)which, with its 29er wheels, offers plenty of comfort even on long stages. For those who are less keen on eating up kilometres and like it rougher on the trail, the BMC Trailfox (test in BIKE 2/2014) ready.
However, BMC has also followed the constant trend towards enduro - towards downhill-orientated touring on powerful bikes - and has trimmed the Trailfox more in this direction for 2015. This created a gap between the Speedfox touring bike and the Trailfox enduro bike in this model year: the classic all-mountain sector was no longer catered for in the Swiss company's product range.
Speedfox Trailcrew: 650B and short chainstays
For two seasons now, BMC has been using 29er wheels on all of its bikes. However, both customers and dealers have repeatedly called for the more playful 27.5-inch wheels. With the new Speedfox Trailcrew beats BMC So two birds with one stone: the all-mountain sector is served again and the desire for 27.5 inches is fulfilled.
But BMC has done more than just install longer suspension travel and small wheels in its Speedfox. The rear triangle has been completely redeveloped and the chainstays have been shortened to 428 millimetres to improve manoeuvrability and agility. At the same time, the steering angle has been slackened by two degrees to 66.5 degrees compared to the 29er Speedfox. This makes for a smoother ride on fast downhill sections.
The equipment also speaks for itself. A Cane Creek Double Barrel inline shock and a Pike fork provide the top model with the necessary traction and promise a wide range of uses. The Speedfox Trailcrew comes in two model variants: one with a complete aluminium frame, the other with a carbon main frame and aluminium rear triangle. Despite the name, it is therefore more of a playful alternative to the Trailfox, which obviously wants to prove itself on rougher terrain. Prices are not yet known.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
