Pro Bike Check: Aaron Bradford’s BMC Trailfox TF01
During the final race of the Enduro World Series in Finale ligure, we used the opportunity to take a closer look at the BMC Trailfox TF01 of American enduro racer Aaron Bradford. After some successes in cyclocross and cross country racing Aaron gained attention at the fourth EWS stop in Winter Park Colorado recently.
At the start of the season Aaron spend lots of time testing the different wheels sizes. In the end, the decision was made on the brand new BMC Trailfox 29 in size M.
Suspension performance is a very important factor for Aaron, so he invested more than 200 hours in his setup for the upcoming season. During his tests, he also experimented with the new electronic Lockout by Fox, called iCD. Even after all his setup sessions, he hasn’t a general setup that fits for all types of terrain, depending on the trail he will vary compression and rebound. On the rough tracks in Finale he rode with 25% SAG at the front and rear. The rebound on his fork was set to two clicks, his rear shock was slower to prevent him from going over the bars.
Aarons cockpit is built from Easton Parts. The Haven handlebar is mounted on a 55mm stem from the same product-line and is equipped with lock-on grips. Shimanos XTR Trail brakes with 200/180 disc setup provide optimal braking.
Two highlights on the bike for sure are the bell to warn slower riders in front of him of the tracks and the modified trigger he uses to control the Fox D.O.S.S.
Shimanos high-end XTR group can be found on the drivetrain of the Trailfox 29er. As mentioned, Aaron runs a single chainring with chainguide instead of front shifter. It’s a 34t chainring in the front an a Shadow Plus derailleur in the rear.
It is not just the cockpit, but also the wheels are from Haven. The carbon wheels weight 1590 grams! Tire choice is dependent upon the tracks, but always tubeless.
The BMC Trailcrew in Finale Ligure
More about Aaron: www.aaronbradford.com
More about his bike: BMC-Website.
Words: Aaron Steinke | Photos: Christoph Bayer
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