News: The 2015 BMC Speedfox – The perfect all-round bike?
The Swiss bike manufacturer BMC recently launched their new 2015 Speedfox. With 130mm of travel, 29″ big wheels and a carbon fiber frame it is supposed to be a lightweight, nimble and agile trail bike. Settled between the recently tested, more downhill-orientated BMC Trailfox and the efficient Fourstroke, it should lie perfectly in their mountain bike line-up. With a total of five different sizes and three model versions, it is supposed to suit every possible rider.
With 130mm of travel, the Speedfox is supposed to close the gap between the 150mm Trailfox and the 100mm Fourstroke, more suited to a relaxed, pleasure orientated rider. The top-shelf versions available feature a carbon fiber frame, perfect for this market.
The Speedfox is available in five different sizes and three different configuration lines, not only separated by the parts used, but also the frame variations between a full carbon frame in the top shelf configuration (SF01), a carbon mainframe with an aluminum rear in the middle-class model (SF02) and the all aluminum model (SF03). The weight varies with the different frame materials used from 2210g (SF01), over 2790g for the SF02 up to 3060g (SF03). Each model line is divided into several different configurations, as there is a full SRAM XX1-build and a full Shimano XTR-build.
The frame impresses with many clever details, like a built-in chainguide, tapered headset, 142×12 rear and BB90 bottom bracket. The shock size is 190x51mm.
Geometry
With a new geometry, the Speedfox is tuned to 29″ wheels, offering nimble and agile handling. With short 435mm chainstays there is a compromise between the high speed stability of 29″ wheels and the nimbleness of short chain stays. The long top tube will ensure a modern and direct steering feel.
Configuration Lines
The high-end, full carbon fibre SF01 will be available in two different configurations. Available with Shimano’s all-new 11-speed XTR group or the SRAM XX1 build. With a Fox Factory ride, a DT Swiss XM 1501 Spline ONE wheelset and a RockShox Reverb Stealth and carbon fiber cockpit, the weight is 11.4kg for the XX1-build and 11.7kg for the XTR group equipped SF01.
The middle class FS02 comes with the carbon fiber main frame and an aluminum rear. It is fitted with either a SRAM XO kit, full XT, or a SLX / XT kit. The wheelsets vary between a DT Swiss M1700 Spline (SF02 XO / XT) and a DT Swiss M1900 Spline (SF02 SLX / XT), as well as the dropper post, which is only available in the XO or XT build. With this configuration the weight varies between 12.6kg (SF02 29 XO), 12.7kg (SF02 29 XT) and 12.9kg (SF02 29 XT-SLX).
The least expensive configuration, the FS03 is equipped with a full aluminum frame. Two build kits are available with a SLX / XT kit and a Deore build. None feature a dropper seatpost. The SF03 29 XT-SLX is equipped with evolution-line Fox suspension and the SF03 29 Deore with a RockShox Sector and a BMC MRS03 shock. The weight lies between 13.5kg (SF03 29 XT-SLX) and 14.0kg (SF03 Deore).
We’re looking forward to riding the new 2015 BMC Speedfox and testing it’s capabilities.
The prices are yet to be revealed.
More information on www.bmc-racing.com
Words: Sebastian Gierulski | Pictures: BMC Press release
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