For the new season BMC the trail bike Speedfox completely redeveloped: The bike comes in S with 27.5-inch tyres and 130 millimetres of suspension travel, while the L and XL sizes come with 29-inch tyres and 120 millimetres. M buyers can choose between the two wheel sizes.
The real highlight, however, is the Trailsync technology: the Swiss have developed their own Vario seatpost, which is integrated into the frame similar to the Eightpins dropper post fitted to Liteville bikes. Depending on the frame size, the stroke is 80 (S), 100 (M) or 120 (L, XL) millimetres. The highlight: the post automatically tightens the damper when extended and opens it again when the post is lowered. When the post is fully lowered and in the centre position (minus 35 millimetres), the damper is open; when extended, the damper is in trail mode.
As the support is integrated into the frame, it must be adjusted to the individual seat height. To do this, unscrew the head, remove the air chamber cover and shorten the support. The head can be readjusted in the range of 35 millimetres; a longer head can be purchased at a later date.
BMC has kept the control of the post as simple as possible: A cable-controlled pin adjusts the height. The bushings and seals of the seat post are located in the seat tube and can be replaced in a similar way to a suspension fork. When the post is extended, a spoke with a plastic guide tensions the cable from the remote damper. Thanks to various openings, servicing should be easy.
The geometry of the new Speedfox is modern, albeit moderate: the reach in L is 450 millimetres, a rather steep steering angle of 68.25 degrees (29 inch) should ensure sufficient agility. The chainstays are 445 millimetres short on the 29ers and 430 millimetres on the 27.5-inch version. The steering angle on the 27.5-inch model is 67.5 degrees.
Models of the new BMC Speedfox
BMC builds the Speedfox with a full carbon frame, carbon main frame and aluminium rear triangle as well as completely from aluminium. The aluminium bikes have to do without the Trailsync technology. The geometry is the same for all materials. All bikes come with the Fox Float DPS shock. In addition, all frames are twin-compatible.
The top model Speedfox 01 One is the absolute spearhead: with a full carbon frame, Rock Shox Pike fork, Sram Eagle 12-speed gears and high-quality DT Swiss wheels, nothing is left to be desired. Price for the luxury bike: 7000 euros. A frameset of the full carbon frame is also available.
Three further models with carbon main frames are available: All with Rock Shox forks, single drivetrain and DT Swiss wheels. There are also three aluminium models. The cheapest model will be available from dealers from August with double gears for 2000 euros.
Driving report
Uphill, the comfortable riding position is pleasing and the rear end is very quiet. It only pumps slightly when pedalling out of the saddle, and when open - i.e. with the dropper post lowered - it pumps a little more. The bike climbs light-footedly with the Maxxis Forekaster tyres, which roll well. The stiff frame transfers power well and even on steep sections the front end doesn't rise. On demanding climbs, the centre position of the dropper post is recommended, as the rear suspension cannot generate maximum traction in trail mode.
Downhill, the bike is relatively stable, only at high speed do you wish for a slightly slacker steering angle. The handling is very balanced and the suspension is sporty and firm. Unfortunately, the Maxxis tyres are quickly overtaxed: The hard compound barely dampens, the grip on wet stones is negligible. The puncture protection is also too low in alpine terrain. The rest of the equipment works perfectly: the Eagle changes the twelve gears, the Pike responds sensitively and absorbs rough impacts. The DT Swiss wheels with 30 mm rims also appear harmonious.
The seatpost rebounds quickly and a slight bump sound signals the final position. Top! As all the weight is on the pin, the post has to be briefly released to lower it. The lever, which is not perfectly ergonomic, also has a medium breakaway torque when extended, but the lever can be replaced. The adjustment range was sufficient for us. The concept seems sensible, but comfort suffers on fast trails: if you want to pedal with the dropper post extended, the rear end is in firm trail mode and the bike bumps over the trail.
Test summary
The BMC Speedfox impresses with its harmonious handling and innovative seatpost. The Trailsync technology impresses with good functionality. Sporty trail bikers and comfort-orientated marathon riders will be particularly happy here.
