Fast marathon bike?BH presents the new RS1

Julian Schultz

 · 04.06.2024

The RS1 is one of five racing bike platforms from the Basque manufacturer BH.
Photo: BH
Aero optimisation meets comfort geometry: the new RS1 from BH aims to be the most versatile bike in the Basque bike manufacturer's portfolio. While marathon bikes from the competition are moving ever closer to gravel bikes, the new model borrows from competition bikes. Five equipment variants are available from 3000 euros.

The Northern Spaniards promise "aerodynamics at the highest level" for the latest version of the RS1, whose predecessor already went its own way and combined an aerodynamic frame shape with a geometry suitable for long distances. However, BH did not provide any concrete figures on aero performance or weights. At the official presentation, it was merely stated that the carbon frame of the RS1 is based on the same Kammtail profiles as the fast Aerolight.

BH RS1: The most important facts

  • Weight of complete wheel: not specified
  • Stack/Reach/STR: 583/388 millimetres/1.50 (size L)
  • Maximum tyre clearance: 32 millimetres
  • Frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Prices: 3000 to 6000 Euro

The riding position remains unchanged, as can be seen in the geometry table. For a medium frame size, this results in an STR ratio of 1.50, which is equivalent to a slightly upright riding position. Overall, the update compared to the old model is subtle. One of the few new features is the slightly larger tyre clearance of 32 millimetres, previously the limit was 30 millimetres. This means that the RS1 is still designed for use on the road and sets itself apart from comparable endurance innovations, which can also cope with gravel tracks thanks to tyre clearances of up to 40 millimetres.

BH has also dispensed with mounting points for luggage or mudguards, but has given the new model a practical holder for an optional rear light (€31.95). As with the off-road GravelX to the carbon support using a magnet. Thanks to quick-release thru axles, no tools are required to remove the wheel.

Equipment and prices

The new BH is available in five equipment variants. With the exception of the basic model, all versions shift electronically with groupsets from Shimano (105, Ultegra) or SRAM (Rival). The gear ratios tend to be somewhat sportier than those of the competition. Only the top model benefits from a carbon cockpit and wheels. All other models roll on simple aluminium wheels and are built with a robust handlebar/stem combination.

RS1 5.5

tour/la555-cco_6f719ddfb88abda66aa62043e24c9aebPhoto: BH
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  • Drive/gear shift: Shimano Ultegra Di2 (2x12; 52/36, 11-34 t.)
  • Impellers: Vision TC40 (Carbon)
  • Tyres: Hutchinson Challenger (28 mm)
  • Handlebar/stem: EVO Monocoque ACR (Carbon)
  • Price: 5999.90 Euro

RS1 5.0

tour/la505-sns_792730c3712975fe6cba7687d4f5402fPhoto: BH
  • Drive/gear shift: Shimano Ultegra Di2 (2x12; 52/36, 11-34 t.)
  • Impellers: Vision Team35 (aluminium)
  • Tyres: Hutchinson Fusion 5 (28 mm)
  • Handlebar/stem: FSA Energy Compact ACR/FSA NS ACR (aluminium)
  • Price: 5399,90 Euro

RS1 4.5

tour/la455-sns_f3e8696a72c83f10271c80e825aa7ddcPhoto: BH
  • Drive/gear shift: SRAM Rival AXS (2x12; 48/35, 10-36 t.)
  • Impellers: Vision TeamTC30 (aluminium)
  • Tyres: Hutchinson Nitro (28 mm)
  • Handlebar/stem: FSA Gossamer Compact/FSA NS SMR (aluminium)
  • Price: 4599,90 Euro

RS1 4.0

tour/la405-rcr_89fbbf022d5d67c4e791f625d9f120baPhoto: BH
  • Drive/gear shift: Shimano 105 Di2 (2x12; 52/36, 11-34 t.)
  • Impellers: Vision Team35 (aluminium)
  • Tyres: Hutchinson Nitro (28 mm)
  • Handlebar/stem: FSA Gossamer Compact/FSA NS SMR (aluminium)
  • Price: 3999.90 Euro

RS1 3.5

  • Drive/gear shift: Shimano 105 (2x12; 52/36, 11-34 t.)
  • Impellers: Vision Team35 (aluminium)
  • Tyres: Bra (28 mm)
  • Handlebar/stem: FSA Energy Compact ACR/FSA NS ACR (aluminium)
  • Price: 2999.90 Euro

Julian Schultz is a qualified sports scientist and trained sports journalist and is responsible for testing complete bikes. From competition bikes to gravel bikes, he tests the latest models and keeps his eyes open for the latest trends. This includes the Tour de France, where the test editor has been on the lookout for technical details and stories from the paddock since 2022.

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