New 2015 BMC SPEEDFOX SF01 29 XTR BIKE

It's hard to take a position on XTR versus XX1. If you're looking at this bike, you're probably already in the Shimano camp. This BMC Speedfox SF01 29 bike utilizes the top-of-the-line Shimano group on a super-versatile frame. This isn't your old Speedfox. It's bigger and more versatile. The old one was built around 26" wheels. The new one started with the goal of being at least as good as the previous iteration, but built around 29" wheels. This is an all-carbon frame, with 130mm suspension front and rear, and a ride that just about everyone, regardless of their riding preference and style, will enjoy. The Big Wheel Concept provides a low bottom bracket, tight stays, long top tube, and short head tube to put you in command of the wheels whether you're blazing down a ski run or picking your way up a steep, rock-strewn trail.

Shimano XTR is everywhere on this bike. The derailleurs, the 36/26 double crank, the chain, the 11-40 eleven-speed cassette and the Race hydraulic brakes all come from the group. XTR is the pro choice, and with both weight and performance, it's easy to see why.

The brakes stop 180mm rotors secured to DT Swiss XM 1501 Spline wheels. The venerable Swiss manufacturer was always the last word on hub internals and spokes; it has added rims to their considerable wheelhouse. These wide aluminum hoops are light for climbing and durable for rough riding. They're dressed in Continental tires, with the Mountain King front and X-King rear 2.2 ProTection tires. Light, supple casing with puncture protection under the treat makes this an easy tire to ride hard and fast with. The wheels can be converted to tubeless when you're ready.

BMC has set up this bike to go to extremes. That's why they include a chain guide and RockShox Reverb dropper post with internal cabling.

The suspension elements also give you freedom to go deep. Fox shocks are paired, with the Float CTD line and Kashima-coated sliders for the 130mm-travel components. These can be tuned on the trail with the twist of a knob.

The BMC Speedfox SF01 29 XTR bike is BMC's best paired with Shimano's premium.