Description

Exploring the BMC URS 01 Four: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure Gravel Cycling

In the world of cycling, gravel bikes have revolutionized how we explore off-road terrains while maintaining speed and efficiency on paved paths. Among the standout models in this category is the BMC URS 01 Four, a premium gravel bike designed for adventurers who crave versatility and performance. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails, embarking on multi-day bikepacking trips, or simply enjoying a weekend ride, the URS 01 Four promises an unparalleled experience. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll dive deep into what makes this bike special, covering its features, specifications, ride quality, and more to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next adventure.

BMC URS 01 FOUR SRAM Rival eTap 12 Speed Carbon Gravel Bike – Mack …

What Makes the URS 01 Four Stand Out in the Gravel Bike Market?

The BMC URS 01 Four is part of BMC’s acclaimed URS series, which stands for “UnReStricted.” This name perfectly encapsulates the bike’s ethos: breaking free from traditional road or mountain bike limitations to offer unrestricted exploration. Launched as an evolution of BMC’s gravel adventure lineup, the URS 01 Four combines cutting-edge technology with practical design elements that cater to both casual riders and serious enthusiasts.

At its core, the URS 01 Four features a premium carbon frame engineered with BMC’s Tuned Compliance Concept (TCC) Gravel technology. This ensures a balance of stiffness for power transfer and compliance for comfort over bumpy surfaces. What sets it apart is the innovative Micro Travel Technology (MTT), which provides subtle rear suspension without the need for a traditional shock absorber. This system absorbs vibrations and impacts, making long rides less fatiguing. Riders often praise how this feature enhances control on rough gravel or light singletrack, blending the agility of a gravel bike with the forgiveness of a mountain bike.

BMC has positioned the URS 01 Four as the entry point into their high-end URS 01 range, but don’t let the “Four” designation fool you—it’s packed with top-tier components. It’s equipped with a SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset for smooth, wireless shifting, paired with a SRAM GX Eagle rear derailleur for a wide gear range that’s ideal for steep climbs and fast descents. The bike rolls on DT Swiss G1800 SPLINE wheels, known for their durability and lightweight construction, fitted with WTB Raddler tires in 44mm width for excellent traction on varied surfaces.

Key Features of the BMC URS 01 Four

Let’s break down the standout features that make the URS 01 Four a favorite among gravel enthusiasts:

Innovative Suspension and Compliance

One of the most talked-about aspects of the URS 01 Four is its MTT Suspension system. Integrated into the rear stays, it offers 10mm of travel that smooths out rough terrain without compromising pedaling efficiency. Combined with the ICS MTT x Redshift Suspension Stem, which adds front-end compliance, the bike feels planted and responsive. This setup is particularly beneficial for riders who venture into more technical off-road sections, reducing fatigue and improving handling.

Integrated Storage and Practicality

Adventure riding often means carrying essentials, and the URS 01 Four excels here with its downtube storage pouch. This clever integration allows you to stash tools, snacks, or spare tubes without bulky bags. Additionally, the frame includes multiple mounts for fenders, racks, and cargo, making it bikepacking-ready. The stealth cable routing via ICS Technology keeps the aesthetics clean while protecting internals from the elements.

Gravel+ Geometry for Versatile Handling

The URS 01 Four boasts BMC’s Gravel+ Geometry, which features a slack head angle for stability on descents, a long wheelbase for confidence at speed, and a progressive stack-to-reach ratio that accommodates various rider positions. This geometry strikes a balance between aggressive racing postures and relaxed touring setups, making it suitable for everything from gravel races to leisurely explorations.

BMC URS 01 FOUR SRAM Rival AXS 12 Speed Carbon Gravel Bike

High-Quality Components

• Drivetrain: SRAM Rival 1 DUB WIDE crankset with a 38T chainring, paired with a SRAM GX Eagle Transmission XS-1275 cassette (10-52T) for a massive 520% gear range.
• Braking: SRAM Rival eTap AXS hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all conditions.
• Wheels and Tires: DT Swiss G1800 SPLINE 25mm rims with WTB Raddler 44mm tires, offering a perfect mix of speed and grip.
• Cockpit: Easton EA70 AX handlebars for flared comfort, and a URS 01 Premium Carbon D-Shaped Seatpost for reduced vibrations.

These components ensure the URS 01 Four is not just capable but also reliable for extended adventures.

Technical Specifications of the BMC URS 01 Four

To give you a clear overview, here’s a detailed table of the key specs for the 2023/2024 BMC URS 01 Four model:

These specs highlight the bike’s focus on durability, performance, and adaptability.

Geometry and Sizing: Finding the Perfect Fit

The URS 01 Four’s geometry is tailored for gravel adventures, with a relaxed rider position that prioritizes comfort over pure speed. Key measurements include a 70-degree head angle for stability, a 425mm chainstay length for nimble handling, and stack heights ranging from 550mm (XS) to 650mm (XL). This setup suits riders from about 155cm to 200cm tall, depending on size.

When choosing a size, consider your inseam and riding style. For instance, the medium size fits riders 170-180cm with a 72.5-degree seat tube angle for efficient pedaling. BMC’s sizing chart recommends professional fitting, especially given the progressive geometry that can feel more mountain-bike-like.

BMC URS 01 FOUR SRAM Rival eTap 12 Speed Carbon Gravel Bike – Medium / Black/Green/White

Performance and Ride Experience with the URS 01 Four

On the road, the URS 01 Four feels efficient and responsive, thanks to its lightweight carbon construction (around 9-10kg depending on size). The wide gear range excels on climbs, while the hydraulic brakes inspire confidence on descents. Off-road, the MTT system shines, soaking up chatter from gravel and roots without bobbing during pedaling.

Reviews from cyclists note its “fun and efficient” ride, with stable handling on technical terrain. However, some mention a slight top-out sensation in the suspension and limited tire clearance compared to chunkier gravel bikes. Overall, it’s praised for blending speed, comfort, and off-road capability, making it ideal for mixed-surface rides.

Pros and Cons of the BMC URS 01 Four

Pros:

• Exceptional compliance and suspension for rough terrain.
• Wide gear range for versatile adventures.
• Integrated storage and mounts for bikepacking.
• Sleek, modern design with high-quality components.
• Stable geometry that boosts confidence.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to entry-level gravel bikes.
• Limited tire clearance (max 45mm) for extreme off-roading.
• Suspension adds complexity and potential maintenance.
• Some riders note cockpit bobbing during hard sprints.

How the URS 01 Four Compares to Other Gravel Bikes

Compared to siblings like the URS 01 Three or One, the Four offers a more accessible price with slightly lower-spec components but retains the core tech. Against competitors like the Canyon Grail or Specialized Diverge, the URS 01 Four stands out with its unique suspension, though it may feel heavier than race-oriented models. For those seeking full suspension, the URS LT variants add more travel but at a higher cost.

Buy BMC URS 01 Four online

Final Thoughts: Is the BMC URS 01 Four Right for You?

The BMC URS 01 Four is a testament to innovative gravel bike design, offering a perfect mix of compliance, control, and functionality for unrestricted exploration. If you’re an adventurer who values comfort on long rides and versatility across terrains, this bike could be your ideal companion. With its premium features and reliable performance, it’s worth considering for anyone serious about gravel cycling.

URS 01 FOUR 2024