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BIKE TESTS: BMC SLC-01 PRO MACHINE
Road Bike Action
March 13, 2009
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THE STORY
The Swiss brand BMC was seen under the legs of the powerful but trouble-plagued Phonak team. The last two years, BMC has been ridden by the inspirational Team BMC out of the U.S., which contests the domestic race scene with riders like Tour of California’s KOM winner Scott Nydam. Owned partially by Phonak’s Andy Rihs (Phonak is a hearing aid company), BMC has just made a long-term move by investing 13 million dollars into a carbon facility in Switzerland in order to bring all their production, beginning with a test run this spring, into Switzerland. Stunning to look at and unparalleled in design and graphics, BMC has made a name for itself by using the latest carbon technology, Swiss graphics and design, and with a focus on advanced, race-ready bikes.
THE FRAME
BMC paired up with Easton to construct a truly fresh carbon frame design. There is evidence that every member has been evaluated and then re-engineered to function at a higher level. The chainstays, for instance, are profiled with an inflated “T” shape, and the carbon dropouts incorporate an arch to reinforce the junction of the seatstays. Rectangular seatstays flow into a wishbone arrangement that curves into the top tube, creating a triangle which further stiffens the seatpost/top tube intersection. Up front, biaxial oval top and downtubes terminate at an oversized head tube which conceals an internal headset. Easton makes the full carbon fork, handlebar, stem and seatpost, which complement the BMC’s commitment to composite construction. The profile of the Pro Machine is at once unconventional, yet purposeful to the discerning viewer.
BMC does not bow to convention on its carbon finish work. The uni-directional carbon fiber material is left as-is where it shows through the Pro Machine’s minimal graphic treatments. Easton uses a CNT Carbon Nanotube additive to replace low-strength resin with micro-tubes which reduce the weight and add a measurable degree of strength to the carbon matrix. The Pro Machine is sold in eight sizes from 47 to 61 centimeters, and each size has compensated geometry to deliver the same Pro-Tour performance across the range. Our 59-centimeter test bike sported traditional road numbers with a 58.5 centimeter top tube, a 73-degree seat and head tube angle, short (for a 59) 40.7 centimeter chainstays, and a relatively compact, 101-centimeter wheelbase. The end result should be a versatile performing bike with a good stiff feel uphill and excellent manners while descending.
THE PARTS
Our test bike was generously appointed with Campagnolo Record controls, brakes and drivetrain components. Its wheels were stunning Fulcrum Racing Zero clinchers mounted to Michelin Pro Race tires. The cockpit was entirely Easton, with an EC 90 stem and handlebar and an EC 70 seatpost. BMC’s no-compromise component selection underscored their commitment to performance in the straightforward manner that characterizes the Swiss.
THE RIDE
The BMC Pro Machine has the feel that epitomizes the great European stage racing designs. It feels super stiff under acceleration, yet it won’t beat its rider into submission over uneven surfaces. Its excellent feel while climbing is enhanced by the proximity of Campagnolo’s ergonomic handlebar controls and shifter configuration—everything falls into place while the rider is on the hoods. The Pro Machine holds its line at slow climbing speeds, and when the descents arrive, it requires little guidance to stay in contact with the group. Fulcrum wheels have always been an RBA favorite, due to their energetic feel at speed, and the most noteworthy aspect of Campagnolo’s 20-speed Record ensemble is the ability to grab a handful of gears in either direction in a hurry. That, and the ability to shift aggressively while powering out of the saddle, makes the price of Campagnolo’s premier racing gruppo seem affordable.
THE VERDICT
BMC’s refreshing design, coupled with Easton’s legendary composite know-how, results in a must-ride racing bicycle that is as pleasant to ride as it is capable of winning major events. The Pro Machine has a presence in the peloton that clearly states that it is distinctly Swiss—bold, capable and at home in the mountains. We fell in love with its smooth, efficient, responsive, downright superior ride, and for these attributes, the Pro Machine earns a place on our “we would buy this bike with our own money” list.
Price: $7500
Weight: 15.6 pounds (59-centimeter frame)
Contact: www.bmc-racing.com
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