Description

URS 01 ONE: Your Guide to the Pinnacle of Gravel Adventure Cycling

If you’re passionate about gravel biking and seeking a machine that blends cutting-edge technology with unmatched versatility, the URS 01 ONE stands out as a top contender. Designed by BMC, a Swiss brand renowned for precision engineering, this gravel bike redefines what it means to explore off the beaten path. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails, embarking on multi-day bikepacking trips, or simply enjoying a spirited ride on mixed terrain, the URS 01 ONE offers a perfect balance of compliance, control, and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into its features, specifications, real-world performance, and why it might just be the gravel bike you’ve been waiting for.

URS 01 ONE Carbon Black / Marrone – BMC USA Corporation

What Makes the URS 01 ONE Special?

The URS 01 ONE is part of BMC’s acclaimed URS lineup, which stands for “UnReStricted.” This name encapsulates the bike’s ethos: freedom to ride without limitations. Unlike traditional road or cyclocross bikes, the URS 01 ONE is engineered specifically for gravel adventures, incorporating innovative elements that enhance comfort without sacrificing speed or efficiency. Its premium carbon frame is lightweight yet robust, weighing in at around 1,050 grams, making it ideal for long hauls where every ounce counts.

One of the standout aspects of the URS 01 ONE is its integration of BMC’s Micro Travel Technology (MTT). This system provides subtle suspension through elastomers in the seat stays, delivering up to 10mm of rear travel. Combined with a D-shaped carbon seatpost that adds another 10mm of flex, the bike absorbs vibrations and bumps effectively, reducing fatigue on rough surfaces. Riders often praise this setup for making extended rides feel smoother, almost like having a mini full-suspension system without the complexity or weight penalty of traditional mountain bike shocks.

The frame’s design also emphasizes functionality. It features multiple mounting points for mudguards, a top tube bag, racks, and up to three bottle cages, catering to bikepackers and tourers. Tire clearance is generous at 42mm, allowing you to fit wider rubber for better grip on loose gravel or mud. Available in colors like Carbon Black / Marrone, the URS 01 ONE has a sleek, modern aesthetic that turns heads on the trail.

In-Depth Look at the Design and Build Quality

BMC has poured years of expertise into the URS 01 ONE’s construction. The frame uses high-modulus carbon fiber for optimal stiffness-to-weight ratio, ensuring power transfer is efficient during climbs and sprints. The oversized tubes provide lateral rigidity, which is crucial for maintaining control on technical descents.

The fork is a rigid carbon unit tuned for compliance, complementing the rear suspension. This setup differs from full-suspension models like the URS LT, which adds front suspension, but the URS 01 ONE strikes a balance for those who prefer a more responsive front end. The integrated cockpit system (ICS) hides cables for a clean look and improved aerodynamics, while also allowing for easy adjustments.

Durability is another key strength. The URS 01 ONE is built to handle ASTM Level 2 classification, meaning it’s rated for rough gravel and light off-road use. With a total weight limit of around 120kg (including rider and gear), it’s versatile for various body types and loadouts.

BMC URS 01 ONE – Put to the test in our big adventure gravel bike …

Geometry: Tailored for Adventure

Geometry plays a pivotal role in how a bike handles, and the URS 01 ONE excels here with its Gravel+ setup. It features a slack 70-degree head tube angle for stability on descents, paired with a steeper 74-degree seat tube angle to keep you in an efficient pedaling position. Chainstays measure 425mm, contributing to a nimble feel despite the longer wheelbase (ranging from 1,041mm in size S to 1,105mm in XL).

This geometry makes the URS 01 ONE incredibly versatile. On winding gravel roads, it feels agile and responsive, inspiring confidence to push limits. The longer reach and shorter stem promote a stretched-out posture, ideal for all-day comfort. Sizes range from S to XL, accommodating riders from about 5’4″ to 6’4″.

Compared to more race-oriented gravel bikes, the URS 01 ONE leans toward adventure, with handling that’s stable rather than twitchy. This makes it perfect for unexplored paths where predictability is key.

Components and Specifications Breakdown

Let’s break down the key specs of the URS 01 ONE:

• Frame: URS 01 Premium Carbon with Micro Travel Technology and Gravel+ Geometry.
• Fork: URS 01 Premium Carbon with Tuned Compliance Concept.
• Drivetrain: SRAM RED eTap AXS with SRAM XX SL Eagle transmission (mullet setup), 1×12 gearing, 10-52T cassette, and a power meter for precise training data.
• Brakes: SRAM Force eTap AXS HRD hydraulic disc with 180/160mm rotors for reliable stopping power in all conditions.
• Wheels: Zipp 101 XPLR carbon rims with a wide, flat profile inspired by motocross, paired with 40mm WTB Raddler tubeless tires for excellent grip and comfort.
• Cockpit: ICS stem and Easton bar for ergonomic control.
• Weight: Approximately 9.08kg in size M, making it competitive in its class.
• Price: Around USD 6,799 (discounted from USD 8,399), though prices may vary by region and availability.

This high-end build ensures the URS 01 ONE is ready to ride out of the box, with components that prioritize durability and performance. The wireless shifting is crisp and reliable, even in muddy conditions.

BMC URS 01 ONE review | GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine

Performance on the Trail: A Real-World Review

In testing, the URS 01 ONE shines on diverse terrains. Its damping system effectively absorbs vibrations, making it a joy for long gravel rides where rough sections could otherwise wear you down. The rear suspension maintains stiffness for efficient power transfer, but it excels in smoothing out chatter without feeling bouncy.

On climbs, the bike’s light weight and rigid frame help it accelerate quickly, while the wide gear range tackles steep gradients with ease. Descending is where the geometry truly pays off—stable and confidence-inspiring, even on loose gravel. However, during hard sprints, especially out of the saddle, the cockpit can bob slightly, which might require tuning the stem’s elastomers for stiffer settings.

Off-road, the URS 01 ONE handles technical sections well, though it’s not a full mountain bike. The tires provide solid traction, but swapping to wider, grippier options can enhance performance on mud or roots. Braking is powerful and modulated, crucial for variable surfaces.

Overall, reviewers describe it as “incredibly fun and efficient,” ideal for adventures that prioritize joy over pure speed. It’s not the fastest on smooth asphalt, but it outperforms many in mixed conditions.

Pros and Cons of the URS 01 ONE

Pros:

• Exceptional vibration damping for all-day comfort.
• Versatile geometry suitable for gravel, bikepacking, and light trails.
• High-quality components with reliable wireless shifting.
• Ample mounting points for gear.
• Sleek, integrated design with a premium feel.

Cons:

• Cockpit bobbing during intense sprints may require adjustments.
• D-shaped seatpost limits dropper post compatibility.
• Mounting options are functional but not the most innovative.
• Polarizing color schemes in some models.
• Higher price point, though justified by the tech.

BMC URS 01 ONE

How Does the URS 01 ONE Compare to Competitors?

When stacked against rivals like the Cannondale Topstone or Specialized Diverge, the URS 01 ONE distinguishes itself with its integrated suspension. The Topstone offers similar rear flex but lacks the URS’s refined elastomer system. The Diverge is more race-focused, with quicker handling, but the URS 01 ONE edges it out in comfort for long adventures.

For those considering the URS LT variant, the LT adds front suspension for rougher terrain, but the standard URS 01 ONE is lighter and more efficient on milder gravel. If budget is a concern, lower-spec URS models provide similar frames at reduced costs.

Who Should Buy the URS 01 ONE?

This bike is perfect for intermediate to advanced riders who crave exploration. If you love gravel grinding, bikepacking, or mixing road and off-road, the URS 01 ONE delivers. It’s less ideal for pure road racing or extreme mountain biking, but for versatile adventures, it’s unmatched.

Final Thoughts on the URS 01 ONE

The URS 01 ONE represents the evolution of gravel biking, combining Swiss engineering excellence with practical innovations. Its ability to handle diverse terrains while keeping you comfortable makes it a standout choice. If you’re ready to unrestricted your rides, consider adding the URS 01 ONE to your stable—it’s an investment in endless adventures.

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