The "TF01 29" is visually a different bike to its predecessor. The frame looks more aggressive and seems to hang between the 29-inch wheels. In addition, the entire construction looks longer and has more legroom. The tried and tested APS suspension system and 150 millimetres of suspension travel have remained. The Trailcrew version of the "TF01" features yellow and white color fillets, which add a certain excitement to the simple-looking frame. The cables and lines are located inside the frame. To simplify their installation, the terminations at the cable outlets can be unscrewed. The frame is equipped with other practical features such as a down tube and strut protector, a chain catcher and a dropout that can be mounted directly on the frame. When it comes to components and the groupset, BMC relies on quality and uses a complete XX1 groupset from Sram. The XO Trail brakes are used when the momentum of the DT Swiss "XM 1501 Spline ONE" wheels needs to be slowed down. The cockpit is a mix of a short Easton "Haven" stem and carbon handlebars from BMC.

Downhill revelation
The first few meters on the Trailfox take some getting used to. The long top tube, the short stem and the downhill-oriented geometry clearly suggest a thoroughbred enduro machine. Nevertheless, the Trailfox is a pleasure to pedal. It rides well uphill up to a medium gradient. Steeper passages, however, require the rider to be more active and shift their weight forward. To solve this problem, a lowering mechanism on the Fox "34 Float CTD" fork would be desirable. In technical terrain, the Trailfox surprises because it proves to be a good climber. On the trail, the lack of a drop function is quickly forgotten. With the "TF01", you can roll along in a relaxed manner, but if you chase it through winding terrain, its racing genes come to the fore. This bike is easy to maneuver and thanks to its smooth ride, you always feel safe.

The Trailfox blossoms on the descents. Steep steps, rough terrain and fast descents can be mastered with ease. Tight and winding passages, on the other hand, require more effort from the rider, which is quite manageable considering the rest of the downhill performance. The suspension characteristic of the rear suspension is fun. It is almost impossible to bump over rooted trails, as the 150 millimeters of travel together with the 29-inch wheels iron out quite a few bumps. Despite the plush ride, the suspension responds sensitively at the set 25 percent sag. Nevertheless, the rear suspension retains the necessary progressiveness and provides the rider with sufficient feedback. The same applies to the fork, which harmonizes well with the rear suspension. The only negative aspect we noticed was the increased play in the upper bushing of the shock absorber during the test rides. Although this does not detract from the riding pleasure, it should not be a problem on a practically new bike.

Strong equipment for strong performance
The good downhill characteristics are also partly due to the equipment. The short stem in combination with the wide and stiff carbon handlebars ensures controlled steering, which also promises a safe riding experience. The DT Swiss wheels are also stiff, which also support the directional stability of this bike. In addition, the rim can withstand a lot and does not deform if the carcass of the Continental "Mountain King" tires yields too much. There is also nothing to criticize about the Avid X.O.Trail brakes. With 200 millimeter brake discs on the front wheel and 180 millimeter discs on the rear wheel, they reliably slow down the power of the 29-inch wheels.

Conclusion: The BMC "Trailfox TF01" in the Trailcrew version is a thoroughbred enduro racing machine that rides well uphill and even better downhill. The well thought-out specification and a fun chassis, paired with super riding characteristics, encourage you to go on cable car-supported tours with lots of downhill meters.

Frame material:	Carbon
Price:	CHF 8'599.00 from CHF 3'599.00 (TF03 29)
Weight:	12.4 kg (size M, without pedals)
Suspension travel:	150mm front + rear
Forks:	Fox 34 Float CTD FIT Factory 150mm
Suspension strut:	Fox Float X CTD Factory
Shifting:	Sram XX1
Brakes:	Avid X.O. Trail 200/180
Crankset:	Sram XX1
Rims:	DT Swiss XM 1501 Spline ONE
Hubs:	DT Swiss XM 1501 Spline ONE
Tires:	Continental Mountain King & X-King 2.4 Protection
Saddle:	Fizik Tundra 2
Saddle post:	Rock Shox Reverb Stealth
Saddle clamp:	BMC
stem:	Easton Haven 55mm
handlebars:	BMC MFB01 Carbon

Manufacturer:
www.bmc-racing.com

Test report published in issue 02/2014 of Ride Magazine

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