Innovations 2021: BMC Teammachine SLR 01 - New Teammachine: Lighter, stiffer - and faster!
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From a formal point of view, the new Teammachine that has now been unveiled is perhaps less ground-breaking than previous generations of the model. The proportions and geometry are very reminiscent of the 2017 bike, but the new model clearly sets itself apart from its predecessor in one key respect. Its frame was also developed according to aerodynamic criteria. With the 2017 Teammachine, the focus was still exclusively on the lowest possible weight, high stiffness and good comfort. A streamlined shape did not play a role, which was already quite unusual for a professional-level racing bike at the time.
BMC Teammachine: A trendsetter
With the Teammachine BMC has repeatedly set design trends in road bike construction. The 2010 model was one of the first road bikes with a compact rear triangle. A design feature that can now be found on many modern road bikes. The Teammachine from 2017 was one of the first road bikes with cables for brakes and gears routed invisibly through the handlebars into the frame. Integrated cables are now almost standard on high-end racing bikes.
Even better aerodynamics?
Thanks to aerodynamic tube shapes, the new Teammachine now aims to be the perfect all-rounder. An approach that is on trend for 2020. Giant and Trek have also recently optimised their lightweight TCR and Émonda models aerodynamically. The BMC developers used a tried and tested recipe for this. All tubes in the wind have cross-sectional profiles that are reminiscent of a droplet that has been cut off at the rear end. This so-called Kammtail profile has set a precedent in the construction of racing bikes because it is the best way to harmonise aerodynamics and lightweight construction. The aerodynamic improvement compared to the old Teammachine, BMC puts it at six per cent at 45 km/h
Finishing touches: cockpit and bottle cage
A unique design feature of the new Teammachine are the so-called Aerocore bottle cages, which have been adapted to the profiles of the down tube and seat tube. The ICS handlebar cockpit, in which the handlebars and stem form a single unit, has been revised. BMC specifies the weight of the unit as 305 grammes on. Four versions with stem lengths from 90 to 120 millimetres are available. The modular ICS2 cockpit is also available for the Teammachine. Here too, the cables are fully integrated. However, the stem and handlebars can be selected independently of each other. ICS2 stems are available in seven lengths from 80 to 140 millimetres. BMC promises that the stem can be replaced without having to cut the cables. Because weight has been saved on the fork, cockpit and seatpost, the new Teammachine should be around 160 grams lighter than the old model. For the top model SLR 01 One with SRAM Red AXS groupset and lightweight Mon-Chasseral wheels from DT Swiss, BMC gives a weight of 6.5 kilos in size 54 including the two Aerocore bottle holders.
Disc Only on the new Teammachine SLR 01
Unlike its predecessor, the new Teammachine was only designed for disc brakes. A mechanical shifting system is also no longer an option, at least for the high-end SLR01 version; the frame is only compatible with electric shifting systems. This is reflected in the prices. The entry-level Teammachine SLR 01 Four model with Ultegra Di2 gears from Shimano and own-brand wheels with carbon rims costs a hefty 6,799 Euro. Below the Teammachine SLR 01, BMC also offers the almost identical Teammachine SLR variant. Its carbon frame is made from a simpler fibre and is slightly heavier. The frame is also compatible with mechanical shifting systems. The entry-level model Teammachine SLR Four with Shimano 105 groupset costs 2,699 Euro. Both frame variants are available in Six sizes from 47 to 61 centimetres and available in numerous colours.
More info: https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/
