BMC TeamElite TE03 29 Deore-SLX (2013)

Entry level XC race 29er from BMC

Pros

- Frame technology and quality
- Recon fork

Cons

- Brakes

Review

The Team Elite 29 is an alloy 29er designed primarily for XC racing. This model features a Deore/SLX component group and is the starting point for this model. There are better specced alloy and now also carbon versions of this frame design available for 2013.

The frame uitlises BMC's "integrated Skeleton Concept" (iSC) which you would be familiar with from nearly every bike in the brand's range! The idea is to reinforce the main triangle to allow for weight saving in other parts of the frame. Also immediately obvious is the way the seat tube curves backwards as it rises from the bottom bracket. This allows for quite a tight rear triangle - unusual on your typical 29er. The result is a sharp and stiff rear end which is perfectly suited to the bike's main purpose: XC racing.

The only downside, perhaps, is that the bike can feel a little harsh, but this is a fast, efficient machine and slight discomfort is only a minor niggle.

Drivetrain is the always dependable combination of Shimano Deore and SLX. These parts are reliable and keep the cost down. This is also true for the wheels - a standard fair of Alex rims and Shimano hubs.

My only gripe would be the Elixir brakes. This may be a personal thing, but after years in a bike shop sorting out squealing pads and line vibration I think there are less troublesome options out there. Plenty of power, yes, but can be annoying!

Overall, a fine frame that would be a great starting point for would be XC racers, and for those looking for more speed and an extra edge on those weekend rides with your mates.