Sneak preview at BMC's range-toppers for 2010
Meet the new Team Machine SLR01
BMC's long-running Pro Machine SLC01 carbon road flagship will be relegated to second-tier in the lineup with the introduction of a new Team Machine SLR01 for 2010. At a claimed weight of 860g (55cm), the new SLR01 will naturally be the lightest frame in the range but BMC contends that a number of new features will also make it its best performer as well.
Like the still-extant Pro Machine, the SLR01 will be a 100 percent carbon fiber structure – dropouts, headset bearing cups, and all – save for the required alloy sleeve in the new BB30-compatible bottom bracket shell. Housing stops are carbon, too, and in a notable break from previous BMC tradition all lines will be run externally for easier maintenance.
Though the SLR01 won't use Easton's CNT composite technology, updated tube shapes still promise better drivetrain efficiency and rider comfort relative to the SLC01. Adding to the new BB30 bottom end are BMC's usual extra-wide down tube and tall, chunky chain stays, plus a tapered front end that uses a 1 1/8" bearing up top and a moderately oversized 1 1/4" dimension at the crown of the matching BMC-exclusive 315g full-carbon fork.
Like many current 'superbikes', the SLR01 will also use radically undersized seat stays to better tune out road buzz and impacts. Moreover, BMC says its new 'Tuned Compliance Concept' incorporates intentional flex zones in the seat stays and fork blades for additional comfort.
TCC is also built into the SLR01's new proprietary seatpost, which borrows its novel built-in locking cam mechanism from the Racemaster SLX01. The two-bolt head features a 5mm offset and weighs a claimed 225g.
BMC will offer the new SLR01 in six frame sizes: 47, 50, 53, 55, 57 and 60cm.
A revised Fourstroke FS01 for 2010
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Cross-country and marathon racers will also get a new carbon chassis from BMC for 2010, the revamped Fourstroke FS01. Travel remains at 100mm courtesy of BMC's APS dual-link suspension design but claimed frame weight is down a substantial 250g (0.55lb) from the current FS01 to about 1.88kg (4.14lb) with rear shock and hardware – for a size large, no less.
Like the SLR01 and SLC01, the FS01 front and rear triangles are nearly 100 percent carbon fiber constructs including the dropouts, post mount-style rear disc tabs (with replaceable threads) and cable housing tie-downs – aluminum is reserved only for the threaded bottom bracket sleeve, the new Shimano-standard direct-mount front derailleur tab, and the suspension hard points. The upper and lower links are made from forged aluminum and cartridge bearing pivots are used all around.
Tube shapes and overall frame styling is clearly derived from BMC's road lineup, such as the BMC-signature 'Integrated Skeleton Concept' seat cluster and flared down tube. Also borrowed from the SLR01 is a new carbon fiber seatpost with TCC shaping.
BMC will offer the FS01 in three sizes – small, medium and large – and all will come with a Fox Racing Shox RPL rear shock.
