The top model of the Trailfox AMP, the Limited version, is bursting with high-end features. The centerpiece, the carbon frame, impresses with its flowing shapes and details, such as the speed sensor hidden in the dropout or the neatly internally routed cables. Even the removable battery has its own cover. The color, on the other hand, is debatable. On the other hand, BMC relies on aluminum for the rear triangle and hands over the damping work to a DB inline shock from Cane Creek. At the front is a Fox 36 specially adapted for e-mountainbikes, which is suspended in the frame at an angle of 66 degrees. The WTB saddle with color-coordinated logos is lowered and raised by a Race Face Turbine seatpost.

The Amp is powered by a Steps E8000 motor from Shimano. It makes sense to use a Di2 drivetrain as this, together with the drive system, simply forms a complete unit. However, the top model uses an XTR Di2 - not bad! The hybrid XC wheels from DT Swiss with robust 30-millimeter carbon rims are also "not bad". These are fitted with Maxxis Rekon tires at the rear and Highroller 2 tires at the front, both in 27.5x2.8 with EXO casing.

Tuned and mounted

According to the recommendation, the Cane-Creek shock should have around 35 percent SAG. Although this makes the suspension extremely comfortable, it works better for passive and leisurely riders than for active and hard riders. If you like to let it rip, you'll soon hit the ground running, and so more pressure comes in until the negative suspension travel drops to just under 30 percent. As is usual with BMC, their e-mountainbike also has a SAG indicator printed on the rocker arm.

The bike is very balanced and you quickly feel comfortable on it, although there is not enough time to adjust the saddle and handlebar position precisely. The propulsion, tested with the motor switched off, is very good and is due to the steep seat angle as well as the drive-neutral rear triangle. The position is also very comfortable and allows you to ride for longer. The Trailfox AMP masters steep climbs very well. Even steeper climbs can be mastered in the relaxed, upright tourist position. Only in technically demanding terrain is a little more physical effort required uphill to maintain the balance between grip and jacking up.

Convincing downhill qualities

As mentioned above, the Trailfox AMP is a bike that likes to let rip. The bike sits firmly on the trail and provides its rider with a secure riding experience even at higher speeds, even when things get rough. However, the EXO casing of the Maxxis tires is then at its limit. A downhill casing would be an advantage, especially in the Alps. When the descent gets demanding, the Trailfox AMP impresses with its smooth ride, especially when there are steps in the way. Chasing through corners, even tight switchbacks, is quick and smooth thanks to the short rear triangle. Even on the narrow and sometimes rough Valais trails, the BMC's e-mountainbike proved to be very maneuverable - and surprisingly playful for its 22 kilograms. In addition, the frame is very torsionally stiff

The suspension of the Trailfox AMP is a lot of fun and it is currently one of the best e-mountainbike suspensions. It is extremely drive-neutral, responds finely and offers nice end progression - almost perfect. The many adjustment options of the Cane Creek shock may be too much for some riders. However, riders who are familiar with the setup options will love it. The performance of the Turbine Vario seatpost is somewhat disappointing

Conclusion

BMC's e-mountainbike debut is impressive. Even if the weight is a slight disappointment (apparently a robust e-mountainbike can hardly be lighter). The Trailfox AMP impresses with its features - with the exception of the seat post - and its suspension and performance. The Steps drive also proves its worth. It is a pity, however, that there is a small gap between the battery and the frame, which allows dirt to get into the battery compartment. Technically, this should not be a problem, but it makes cleaning more time-consuming again.

Three models

In addition to the Limited, BMC also offers two other models in quieter colors. The Trailfox AMP 01 comes with Shimano's XT Di2, DT Swiss Hybrid X wheels and e-bike-specific Fox Performance suspension elements. The 02 model, on the other hand, has to make do with mechanical gears and slightly cheaper DT Swiss rims. The suspension fork and shock also come from Rock Shox.

www.bmc-switzerland.com