Knowing how the two models "Fourstroke" and "Speedfox" feel, the question of why BMC is squeezing another model in between is perfectly justified. But to answer this with a marketing phrase would really be too simple. A test ride with the Agonist in and around the versatile bike park in Verbier should provide the answer.

A rough overview

The Agonist comes in three model variants, the 01 One, 02 One and 02 Two, all on 29-inch wheels and with a carbon main frame. However, only the rear triangle of the top model also comes in a noble fiber dress, while the lower two versions are made of high-quality aluminum. The frames have internal cable routing throughout and the control of the shock (lockout) is also fully integrated into the frame. The bike is therefore very straightforward and impresses with attractive tube shapes and fine workmanship. Pre-formed impact protectors also keep the paint and material on the chainstays and down tube "healthy", and a mudflap protects the bearings and the link of the virtual main pivot point from dirt from the rear wheel.

The top model is equipped with Sram's XX1 Eagle groupset and Ultimate stoppers from the same company. The suspension comes from Fox: a Float DPS Factory damper works at the rear and is controlled from the handlebars. At the front, a Float 32 Factory fork with FIT4 damping absorbs the shock. Like the rear triangle, it also offers 110 millimeters of travel. The 1501-XR Spline One wheels come from BMC's neighbor, DT Swiss. They are covered with Vittoria's Barzo tires, which make quite a snappy impression.

The cockpit and seatpost come from BMC themselves, and the latter begs the question: why not a dropper post? At least in the 1x12 version, this would be possible with an integrated cable pull or cable. However, this is not the case with the 2x versions, as the multiport on the seat tube is used for mounting the derailleur. The 02 One and 02 Two models come with SLX and Deore drivetrains from Shimano respectively and both have Fox Performance suspension.
The Agonist models are primarily aimed at marathon riders who like to ride tough tours and are looking for a little comfort.

First the climb, then the pleasure

The test lap begins in classic style with an initial climb on asphalt. As expected, the Twentyniner rolls well. Thanks to the sporty riding position, the power is also transferred very well to the pedals. The very low influence of the drive on the rear triangle is also impressive. Even at pedaling frequencies above 80 revolutions, the shock does not start to bob and even when pedaling out of the saddle, there is no bobbing for the most part. In firm mode it can be completely eliminated. What is noticeable, however, is that the carbon frame is very stiff, especially in the bottom bracket area. But the pivot points to the rear triangle also yield surprisingly little.

Steep climbs, and if this is on a trail, are no problem for the Agonist. The basic position on the bike is already very climbing-friendly and similar to the cross-country weapon "Fourstroke". A cool bike for anyone who likes to ride uphill. If you have enough power, this marathon bike is also ideal for mastering technically demanding climbs. It is very easy to maneuver and offers grip on the rear wheel for such climbs.

Good downhill, but...

The first intermediate descent leads over a varied, natural trail, flowing with individual root passages and short, technical counter-climbs. The bike is fun and feels very lively without tending towards nervousness. The APS rear suspension does a good job together with the Fox Float DPS shock. It isn't quite as sensitive when it comes to handling the very subtle hits, but it hardly holds back any travel when it hits the ground. It feels like the progression starts in the last quarter of the travel, but then it is crisp.

This is more noticeable on the next descent in the bike park, where the terrain alternates between drops, roots, banked turns and small jumps. Here, the suspension feels surprisingly comfortable, but drags a little on the steep turns due to the late end progression - but it's not a bike park bike either, so it performs very well here. The Agonist scores points for its swallowing ability and handling. The tires are also amazing, because with the Vittoria Barzo, BMC has found extremely grippy, yet good rolling and robust rubber.

But what is really missing, and I say this as an old cross-country racer, is the dropper post! With more and more pros accepting the extra weight in order to ride downhill better and more relaxed, BMC could have easily included a variable seatpost in the basic equipment for the masses of potential buyers. To be fair, however, the Agonist can officially be retrofitted with an internal dropper post - but only for riders for whom one chainring is enough.

Conclusion

The Agonist 01 One is a convincing extended marathon bike. Its weight, frame stiffness, suspension and handling more than match its intended use. The criticism that no dropper post is part of the standard equipment puts the Agonist closer to the Fourstroke instead of right in the middle of the more potent Speedfox. This is because with a dropper post, even if it can be retrofitted, this bike would mutate into an ultra-sporty alpine tourer that can handle more technical descents with ease. Whether the Agonist really needs to be an additional model is debatable. What is certain, however, is that it will find its target group. Probably also those for whom the Fourstroke is a touch too sporty.

www.bmc-switzerland.com