BMC Kaius
The BMC Kaius Gen 2 is a carbon gravel race bike built for riders who want maximum speed and efficiency on mixed-surface terrain. It blends lightweight carbon construction, aerodynamic integration, and race-focused geometry to create a bike that pushes the pace on fast gravel roads and demanding race courses. The fully redesigned frame is more aero and therefore 12% faster than the previous version, while also accommodating wider tires (up to 52mm). What makes these improvements impressive is that they come with no weight penalty—the Gen 2 frame is an amazing 4% lighter.
Developed in BMC’s Impec Lab using advanced composite technology, the Kaius delivers exceptional stiffness and efficient power transfer while maintaining the compliance needed for rough surfaces. A longer reach shifts the front wheel forward to improve stability and traction on loose terrain, helping riders maintain control at high speeds. BMC’s Tuned Compliance Concept Race design smooths rough gravel roads while preserving efficient pedaling performance during long race efforts.
The BMC Kaius Gen 2 gravel race bike also emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency and integration. BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System) keeps cables cleanly routed for a streamlined front end, while the Aerocore bottle integration system reduces drag by blending bottle cages directly into the frame. Together, these features create a gravel bike built for speed when every second matters. For riders searching for a gravel race bike or a high-performance carbon gravel bike, the Kaius Gen 2 offers a platform designed to unlock speed across every surface.
If you're looking for a more adventure focused BMC gravel bike, check out the BMC URS.
Highlights and information
BMC Kaius: Unbounded Speed—Built for Gravel Racing
Wheelsize: 700c (up to 52mm wide)
The Kaius 01 Gen 2 is engineered as a dedicated gravel race bike—not an adventure platform. Built for the evolving demands of modern gravel racing, it prioritizes speed, efficiency, and control across fast, rough, and technical terrain. The Gen 2 redesign delivers a 4% lighter and 12% faster frame with wider tire clearance (up 52mm from 44mm).
WHY THE BMC KAIUS STANDS OUT
The BMC Kaius 01 Gen 2 was developed with a clear goal: to create a gravel bike built specifically for racing. Rather than adapting an endurance road bike for gravel use, BMC redesigned the Kaius platform from the ground up to deliver more speed, efficiency, and stability on varied surfaces. Taking inspiration from the latest versions of the Teammachine SLR 01 and Teammachine R, the Kaius 01 Gen 2 frameset features improved aerodynamics for high-speed gravel riding while only weighing 1,469g total, and maintaining stiffness. Massive 52mm tire clearance gives the Kaius 01 Gen 2 versatility and control, and integrated storage & cargo mounts accommodate race-day essentials. Race-optimized geometry, aerodynamic integration, and thoughtful design details like the Aerocore bottle system make the Kaius 01 Gen 2 stand out as a gravel bike built to compete at the front of the field.
WHO SHOULD RIDE THE KAIUS?
The BMC Kaius 01 Gen 2 is a high-performance carbon gravel racing bike built for riders who prioritize speed and performance on gravel roads. Competitive cyclists entering fast gravel races will benefit from the bike’s lightweight carbon construction and race-focused geometry. The longer reach and stable handling make it well-suited for riders pushing the pace on loose surfaces or descending at high speed. From long gravel events to fast mixed-surface rides, the Kaius 01 Gen 2 rewards riders who want efficiency, traction, and control when riding at race intensity.
WHAT CONTENDER BICYCLES LIKES ABOUT THE KAIUS
- Purpose-built for gravel racing: The Kaius geometry is designed to maximize speed and stability on loose terrain, helping riders stay confident when pushing the pace across gravel courses.
- Lightweight carbon performance: The premium carbon frame delivers excellent stiffness and efficient power transfer, allowing riders to accelerate quickly and maintain strong climbing performance on gravel roads.
- Clean integration and aerodynamic details: Aerocore bottle integration and BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System) keep the bike streamlined while improving overall efficiency and reducing drag during fast gravel rides.
FRAME MATERIAL
The BMC Kaius 01 Gen 2 frame is constructed from premium carbon to maximize stiffness while keeping overall weight low for gravel racing performance. Developed using advanced composite technology, the frame uses ultra-high-modulus fibers that improve power transfer and pedaling efficiency. BMC’s Tuned Compliance Concept Race design allows the frame to absorb vibrations from rough surfaces while maintaining a responsive ride feel. Integration is also a key element of the design, with clean internal cable routing through BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System) and the Aerocore bottle cage system integrated directly into the frame to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
GEOMETRY AND FIT
The Kaius uses race-focused gravel geometry designed to deliver stability and efficiency when riding at speed on loose terrain.
- Race-focused gravel geometry: A longer reach keeps the rider in an aggressive position and improves stability and traction on loose surfaces.
- Efficient climbing performance: The stiff carbon frame and balanced geometry allow riders to maintain power during steep gravel climbs.
- High-speed gravel control: Designed to remain stable and predictable when descending or cornering on rough gravel roads.
Refined geometry reflects the evolution of gravel racing—faster, more technical, and more aggressive. A longer rear center and higher bottom bracket improve tire clearance and reduce pedal strikes, while maintaining the balance of stability and responsiveness that defines the Kaius platform.
HIGHLIGHTED MODELS AND COMPONENTS
BMC Kaius 01 ONE
- Frame: BMC Kaius 01 Gen 2 Premium Carbon with Aerocore Design, TCC Race Compliance, and ICS Technology Stealth Cable Routing
- Drivetrain: SRAM RED XPLR AXS 13-Speed Wireless with Integrated Power Meter
- Wheelset: CG 39 SL Carbon Tubeless-Ready
BMC Kaius 01 TWO
- Frame - BMC Kaius 01 Gen 2 Premium Carbon with Aerocore Design, TCC Race Compliance, and ICS Technology Stealth Cable Routing
- Drivetrain - SRAM Force XPLR AXS with SRAM Force XPLR AXS Power Meter
- Wheelset - CG 39 Carbon Tubeless-Ready
BMC Kaius 01 THREE
- Frame: BMC Kaius 01 Gen 2 Premium Carbon with Aerocore Design, TCC Race Compliance, and ICS Technology Stealth Cable Routing
- Drivetrain: SRAM Rival XPLR AXS
- Wheelset: CG 40 Carbon Tubeless-Ready
NOT EXACTLY WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR?
- BMC URS: Riders looking for a more adventure-focused gravel bike may prefer the URS. It prioritizes comfort and versatility for longer rides and rougher terrain while still delivering strong gravel performance.
- BMC Roadmachine: For riders who spend more time on pavement but still want a comfortable bike capable of handling rough roads, the Roadmachine offers endurance geometry with larger tire clearance.
- Cervélo Áspero-5: Riders comparing gravel race bikes may also consider the Cervélo Áspero-5, a performance-focused gravel bike designed for speed and aggressive riding on mixed surfaces.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Kaius 01 Gen 2 is a purpose-built gravel race bike that pushes aerodynamics further into the off-road world. The fully redesigned platform is lighter, faster, and more capable than before, while maintaining the sharp, race-focused feel BMC is known for. Geo keeps the rider in a low, aggressive stance while the wheelbase is optimized for stability when rocketing over everything from chunder to washboard to kitty litter. With a lightweight carbon frame, race-focused geometry, and aerodynamic integration, the Kaius 01 Gen 2 delivers the speed and efficiency needed for competitive gravel racing.
The BMC Roadmachine is a high-performance endurance road bike designed for riders who want comfort, speed, and versatility on long rides. Built to handle rough pavement, big climbs, and long days in the saddle, the Roadmachine blends endurance-focused geometry with modern carbon performance. The platform includes the premium Roadmachine 01, built from BMC’s flagship 01-grade carbon, delivering a lightweight and responsive ride while maintaining the compliance needed for endurance cycling. For riders searching for an endurance road bike or a comfortable carbon road bike, the Roadmachine delivers the balance of efficiency and stability needed to ride farther and faster.
The BMC Roadmachine stands out through its ability to combine long-distance comfort with performance-focused engineering. BMC’s Tuned Compliance Concept (TCC) Endurance design helps smooth rough pavement while preserving efficient power transfer. With tire clearance designed to accommodate larger road tires and geometry built for stability, the Roadmachine helps riders maintain confidence and control across challenging road conditions.
The BMC Roadmachine endurance road bike also introduces thoughtful integration for long-distance riding. Internal downtube storage provides space for essential ride gear, while the integrated rear light improves visibility in changing conditions. Combined with the ICS (Integrated Cockpit System) and clean cable routing, the Roadmachine delivers a streamlined endurance platform built for riders who want comfort without giving up speed.
Looking for something racier? Try the BMC Teammachine SLR.
The BMC Teammachine is a lightweight race road bike designed for riders who demand climbing efficiency, responsive handling, and modern aerodynamic performance. Built for competitive road cycling, the Teammachine platform blends exceptional stiffness with refined compliance to create a bike that accelerates quickly and maintains speed across varied terrain. The lineup includes both the Teammachine SLR and Teammachine SLR 01, giving riders access to BMC’s race-proven design in multiple performance tiers. For cyclists searching for a lightweight carbon road bike or a race-ready climbing bike, the Teammachine continues to define BMC’s high-performance road lineup.
The BMC Teammachine SLR balances low weight with aerodynamic efficiency. Developed using advanced CFD software and wind tunnel testing, the latest generation improves airflow and drag reduction while maintaining the stiffness and responsiveness expected from a climbing-focused road bike. At the top of the platform, the Teammachine SLR 01 uses BMC’s premium “01” carbon layup to maximize stiffness while keeping overall weight exceptionally low.
The BMC Teammachine SLR road bike also prioritizes ride quality and handling. BMC’s TCC Race compliance helps smooth road vibrations while preserving race-level responsiveness, and the ICS Carbon Evo cockpit provides clean integration with precise steering control for confident descending and aggressive riding.
Looking for an aero advantage? Check out the BMC Teammachine R.
The BMC Teammachine R is an aerodynamic race road bike built for riders who want maximum speed, stiffness, and efficiency in a modern carbon road platform. Developed in collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the Teammachine R represents BMC’s most advanced aerodynamic road bike design. Every detail of the frame focuses on reducing drag while maintaining the stiffness and responsiveness competitive riders demand. For cyclists searching for a high-performance aero road bike, the Teammachine R delivers the speed and race-focused design needed for aggressive road racing, solo breakaways, and high-speed efforts.
The BMC Teammachine R stands apart through its advanced aerodynamic engineering and race-first development process. Features like the Halo Fork help manage turbulent airflow created by the front wheel, keeping air moving cleanly around the frame to reduce drag. The deep “Mariana Bottom Bracket” area increases structural stiffness while also optimizing airflow around one of the most critical areas of the bike.
The BMC Teammachine R aero road bike also prioritizes integration and rider control. The ICS Aero cockpit keeps cables fully hidden while creating a low, aerodynamic rider position, and the redesigned seatpost improves compliance while maintaining lightweight construction. Together, these elements create a race machine built to maintain speed from the opening attack to the final sprint.
Wheel Size: 29 | Front Travel: 120mm (R) / 110mm (01) | Rear Travel: 120mm (R) / 100mm (01)
The BMC Fourstroke is a full suspension cross-country mountain bike designed for riders who want maximum speed and efficiency on modern XC trails. Built for aggressive racing and technical terrain, the Fourstroke platform combines lightweight carbon construction with BMC’s Advanced Pivot System (APS) suspension to deliver efficient pedaling and confident handling. The lineup includes the Fourstroke 01, the longer-travel Fourstroke R 01, and the electric Fourstroke AMP, giving riders multiple ways to approach cross-country riding. For cyclists searching for a carbon XC race bike or a full suspension cross-country mountain bike, the Fourstroke provides a race-proven platform built for speed.
The BMC Fourstroke stands out through its progressive geometry and efficient suspension design. A modern 66.5° head angle and longer front-end create stability on steep descents while maintaining strong climbing performance. APS suspension improves traction and control across rough terrain while keeping the bike efficient during hard pedaling efforts.
The BMC Fourstroke cross-country mountain bike also emphasizes practical race-day features. Internal cable routing through BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System), space for two water bottles, and optimized frame stiffness help riders maintain speed during demanding race efforts and long marathon rides.
Like the Fourstroke but want some electric assitance? Check out the Fourstroke AMP.
The BMC URS is an adventure gravel bike designed for riders who want stability, versatility, and comfort when exploring rough gravel terrain. Built for off-grid routes, long-distance gravel rides, and bikepacking adventures, the URS blends lightweight carbon construction with stability-focused Gravel+ geometry and integrated storage features. The platform includes the premium URS 01, the suspension-equipped URS 01 LT, and the versatile URS models, giving riders multiple options depending on how far their adventures take them. For cyclists searching for an adventure gravel bike or a bikepacking gravel bike, the URS delivers the durability and capability needed to handle demanding terrain.
The BMC URS stands out through its innovative Micro Travel Technology suspension system and adventure-ready design. MTT seatstays and the ICS MTT suspension stem add compliance that helps smooth rough surfaces while maintaining efficient pedaling performance. Larger tire clearance further improves traction and comfort when riding loose gravel roads and technical terrain.
The BMC URS adventure gravel bike also focuses on practicality for long rides and remote exploration. Integrated downtube storage allows riders to carry essential gear inside the frame, while multiple cargo mounts provide space for bags and equipment during extended trips. Combined with BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System) cable routing, the URS offers a clean and capable gravel platform built for adventure.
If you're looking for a racier BMC gravel bike, check out the BMC Kaius. Or, if you're looking for some pedaling assistance, check out the BMC URS AMP.
Wheel Size: 700c | Drive Unit: TQ-HPR50 (50Nm) | Battery Size: 360Wh
The BMC Roadmachine AMP is an electric road bike designed to extend your endurance and amplify your road riding experience. Built around the proven Roadmachine 01 carbon frame, this endurance electric road bike integrates the compact and quiet TQ-HPR50 drive unit directly into the chassis for smooth, natural pedal assistance. Delivering up to 50Nm of torque and powered by a 360Wh integrated battery, the Roadmachine AMP provides the support needed for long climbs and extended rides without compromising ride feel. For riders searching for a carbon electric road bike that maintains traditional road handling, the Roadmachine AMP delivers a seamless blend of performance and assistance.
The BMC Roadmachine AMP stands out through its refined integration and endurance-focused design. The TQ-HPR50 motor system is lightweight and quiet, preserving the balanced handling of a performance road bike. BMC’s Tuned Compliance Concept Endurance technology helps smooth rough pavement while maintaining pedaling efficiency.
The BMC Roadmachine AMP electric road bike also prioritizes real-world usability with integrated rear lighting and clean cable routing through BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System). The result is a streamlined, high-performance electric road platform built for longer rides and greater range.
Dont want an electric bike? Check out the BMC Roadmachine.
Wheel Size: 700c | Front Travel: 20mm (MTT Fork) | Rear Travel: 10mm (MTT Seatstays) | Drive Unit: TQ-HPR50 (50Nm) | Battery Size: 360Wh
The BMC URS AMP is an electric gravel bike built to unlock longer rides and tougher terrain. Designed around the proven URS adventure platform, this carbon electric gravel bike integrates the compact and ultra-quiet TQ-HPR50 drive unit directly into the frame, delivering up to 50Nm of smooth and natural pedal assistance. Paired with a fully integrated 360Wh battery, the URS AMP extends your gravel range while maintaining balanced handling and control. For riders searching for a high-performance electric gravel bike, the URS AMP offers amplified exploration without compromising ride feel.
The BMC URS AMP stands apart through its combination of electric support and Micro Travel Technology suspension. A 20mm MTT suspension fork and 10mm rear stay compliance improve traction and comfort on rough gravel roads and technical terrain.
The BMC URS AMP electric gravel bike also emphasizes real-world adventure capability with integrated cargo mounts and clean cable routing through BMC’s ICS (Integrated Cockpit System). The result is a refined, adventure-ready platform built to take you further off the map.
Not interested in an electric bike? Check out the BMC URS.
Wheel Size: 29 | Front Travel: 120mm | Rear Travel: 120mm | Drive Unit: TQ-HPR50 | Battery Size: 360Wh
The BMC Fourstroke AMP is a lightweight electric mountain bike built to amplify cross-country and downcountry trail riding. Designed around a full carbon frame and 120mm of front and rear travel, this electric XC mountain bike integrates the compact TQ-HPR50 drive unit directly into the chassis for smooth and natural pedal assistance. Paired with a fully integrated 360Wh battery, the Fourstroke AMP extends climbing range while preserving responsive handling. For riders searching for a carbon electric mountain bike that balances efficiency and trail capability, the Fourstroke AMP delivers performance with added power.
The BMC Fourstroke AMP stands out through its combination of APS dual-link suspension and progressive race geometry. With 120mm of travel and a 66.5° head angle, it provides traction and stability across technical terrain.
The BMC Fourstroke AMP electric mountain bike also emphasizes integration and versatility, offering space for two water bottles or a range extender while maintaining clean lines and balanced handling.
Don't want an electric mountain bike? Check out the BMC Fourstroke
At Contender Bicycles, our best tools for selling bikes are the people who ride them. Everyone at Contender Bicycles has extensive experience riding bikes across many brands. If you have any questions or want to discuss build options, we are here to help.