BMC Teammachine SLR01 Dura Ace (2014)

Arguably the world's best road race bike!

Pros

- Supreme quality in design and manufacture
- Proven chassis dynamics (a great ride!)
- Nothing to spend

Cons

- This one isn't Di2

Review

The BMC team have been getting plenty of media attention during this years' Tour de France - Their star rider, Tejay Van Garderen, has been spotted in multiple breakaways as well as almost winning more than one stage! This coming after suffering from multiple horrendous crashes. If the bike is as tough as him, it's a winner.

About that bike: The 2014 version of the Swiss made BMC SLR01 has gained a strong following in the cycling world. It's trademark triple triangle frame design is eye catching and functional, offering improved levels of frame stiffness over last years' model. The frame, along with the class leading selection of components, really leaves you wanting nothing more!

The BMC SLR01 frame is a very special 'Accelerated Composites Evolution' material which is basically designed by a computer. After prototyping and calculating data from 34,000 frame designs, the optimized result was the SLR01. See it as a digital version of 'survival of the fittest'.

Components on the BMC SLR01 obviously had to level up to some very high standards. A set of Shimano WH-9000 C24 Tubulars offer the best in wheels, with equally matched hubs and ceramic bearings. These wheels are wrapped in German engineered Continental GP4000s tubular tires; handmade of course.

When riders like Tejay Van Garderen hit top speed, they rely on precise shifting and excellent power transmission to their rear wheel. Shimano again offer their Dura Ace shifting, with some riders opting for mechanical shifting, while others have taken the option of electronic shifting for this years Tour. A Shimano Dura Ace crankset would normally adorn this bike, however BMC have fitted SRM Power Meter cranks to most of their bikes, depending on the stage.

The cockpit features mostly 3T components, as well as a super lightweight Fizik Arione R3 braided saddle which offers comfort without extra weight. The 3T Ergosum handlebars give the rider lightweight and comfortable control and is held in place by a 3T ARX 2 Team stem.

The team bikes this year have been finished off with custom paint jobs, something reserved only for the pro riders within BMC Cycling Team. Otherwise, everything else is available for purchase by riders just like you. For $10,000 or more...