BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE Review
- MSRP: $3,499
- Frame: Aluminium
- Wheels: 700cx37mm
- Motor: Shimano STEPS E-6100 250W
What we like about it: Designed for city road commuting, the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE comes out of the ring with a more comfortable, faster, and safer riding experience though. However, the majority of user feedback, more durable, quieter, and cleaner reviews are also advantages that cannot be ignored.
What we don’t like about it: At 20.1kg, it may not be very friendly to delicate ladies.
Rating (4.8/5)
Introduction
I believe that if you are reading this, you are still a bit excited about it. You can first think in your mind what you want from a commuter electric vehicle and then see if the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE can satisfy you.
The AL City ONE, part of BMC’s Alpenchallenge AMP e-bike Lifestyle series, is designed for commuting. And the Shimano STEPS E-6100’s motor is equipped with a large capacity battery to support your commute farther. In addition, comfort and speed are also obvious advantages.
Replacing a traditional chain with the more durable, quieter, and cleaner Gates Carbon Drive CDX 113T Belt requires only lower maintenance in exchange for a longer-lasting powertrain. Needless to say, having a durable commuter tool is very necessary for everyone.
In addition, the integrated lighting illuminates the way of all night travelers, you no longer have to worry about getting lost in the dark, safer and more worry-free. I have to say, the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE is counted as sincere work.
Here’s a breakdown of the ride, key features, components and specifications, and other versions of the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE.
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BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE Commuter Riding Review
Unlike the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP Cross and Sport series, the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP pursues commuting trips on city roads. Therefore, flat city roads are the most suitable terrain for it.
Commuting to work is always a headache for me, especially in the sweltering summer heat. Normal road bikes are very hard to ride and make me sweat like rain in a few minutes. But this BMC Alpenchallenge AMP has given me a whole new riding experience.
First of all, the Shimano STEPS E-6100 with 60Nm power output makes my commute much smoother, and the bike can move forward a long distance with just a light pedal. This is too friendly to me who lacks sporting talent.
Secondly, Vittoria’s Revolution Tech tires are also quite friendly. The Tread design gives it a faster-rolling advantage with great traction, allowing me to brave any terrain. The Selle Royal 2058 DRN saddle is soft and comfortable, giving me more confidence to ride.
In addition, the Gates Carbon Drive CDX 113T Belt’s drivetrain is much quieter than the old rattling road bike chains, so I don’t have to fall into the embarrassment of having to turn heads because the bike is too loud.
Finally, the rear seat shelf design also completely freed my shoulders. And the Curana fender design is so obvious on rainy days, clean shoes and pant legs make me have a more beautiful mood.
BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE Road Climbing Review
To its credit, the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE also showed uncompromising competitiveness when faced with steeper slopes.
One night, my friend Hayden asked me to ride with him for exercise, and when I encountered an uphill section, I planned to push my bike up it as I was already easily tired. But Hayden told me that the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP has a Shimano STEPS E-6100 motor, so it is not afraid of any slope.
I then just pedaled a few feet harder than I would have on a flat road and the bike climbed the slope with ease. I looked back and saw my friend sweating and pedaling hard, which made me incredibly grateful.
Also, I could feel that the tires provided plenty of traction as well. Combined with the comfortable geometry, the near-upright riding position also made me feel very relaxed.
Also, the integrated lighting helped tremendously on uphill roads at night. It illuminates the road while increasing my visibility and making me feel safer.
Main Features
Frame Group
Taking inspiration from BMC’s slim line of road bikes, the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP features the Alpenchallenge AMP Premium Aluminium as the frame and fork, with a rear top fork down design, paired with BMC’s MTT technology to provide 10mm of travel. This ensures that the body is light enough and durable while having a higher level of comfort. You may think 10mm of travel is too short, but on a flat road, too much travel is not necessary.
At the same time, BMC has long supported the installation of e-bike batteries in the seat tube of the frame to help keep the bike’s center of gravity as low as possible to improve riding comfort and the overall aesthetics of the bike.
In addition, the Integrated Cockpit System (ICS) hidden alignment with the stylish and understated Terra Grey looks very high-end, atmospheric, and classy.
Geometry
It is well known that the higher Stack (635mm) and shorter Reach (425mm) (in LG size) both help the rider get a more comfortable, relaxed upright position.
The BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE has a Stack/Reach Ratio of up to 1.49 for a more comfortable experience on longer journeys.
Also, the near upright position helps the rider to open the chest and keep enough traction on the rear wheel while getting a better breath. Therefore it can be better to go straight or climb a hill.
In addition, the steep enough 72° Head Tube Angle with a 65mm Trail ensures that the body can turn quickly. Even on a street with a lot of traffic, you can nimbly navigate through it.
Components and Specifications
Shimano STEPS E-6100 250W Motor
Of course, the Shimano STEPS E-6100 250W motor is essential to an efficient, smooth, and natural riding experience.
First of all, with the motor power-assisted boost, both flat roads and climbing are extraordinarily easy and simple, and no longer long-distance riding will make you sweat.
Secondly, the E-TUBE project, which is designed for speed control on mobile, has three power modes: eco, trail, and boost, and the mode settings can be switched using the finger paddles. Such a simplified shifting operation allows you to reduce unnecessary energy distractions in the city road shuttle.
In addition, the Shimano STEPS E-6100 is easy to access the cable terminals without the need to remove the chainring and chain case, making it simple and convenient.
Finally, the large output of 60NM is sufficient to ensure the speed needs of urban commuting.
Shimano STEPS BT-E8010 504Wh Battery
It has to be admitted that the excellent performance of the motor cannot be separated from the help of the Shimano STEPS BT-E8010 battery. The battery with a capacity of 504 Wh (36v, 14Ah) is designed for mountain bikes. Therefore, it is not only extremely waterproof but also resistant enough to shock and vibration. Not only that, the super durable Shimano STEPS BT-E8010 has an extremely long service life. According to the official description, 1000 cycles x After 1,000 cycles full charging still more than 300Wh = 60%.
To its credit, the 504 Wh capacity is also powerful enough to support your short commute for a week on a single charge.
Gates Carbon Drive CDX 113T Belt Drivetrain
Different from the traditional chain with gear drive, the Gates Carbon Drive belt drive of BMC Alpenchallenge AMP is not just a belt.
The combination of special frame construction dedicated to Shimano FC-E8000 and Gates Carbon Drive 39T sprockets and special Shimano Nexus 5 gearing is what makes the Gates Carbon Drive CDX 113T Belt drive possible. This means more material costs for BMC. However, the higher cost investment also inevitably leads to better performance.
First of all, the belt can transmit the power smoothly and smoothly with almost no noise generated, so you can avoid the embarrassment of the bike rattling.
Secondly, the movement of the Belt does not depend on lubrication as a chain does, it simply needs to be dusted with water. As a result, your Gates Carbon belt drive system will always look great.
Finally, the Gates Carbon belt drive system requires essentially no effort on your part to maintain, and the durable material guarantees that it will last longer.
Vittoria Revolution Tech Tires
The Vittoria Revolution Tech is also an amazing design, and the name Revolution says it all. Combining performance and durability to give the user a more comfortable riding experience is its ultimate mission.
First of all, the Tread design and the 40C tire clearance make the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP fearless of any terrain. Compared to the smooth design, the bike gains more traction while the faster revs are visible to the naked eye.
Secondly, Solid Shielding’s anti-puncture protection makes tire breakage and blowouts impossible. In addition, the reflective sidewall stripes increase the visibility of the tire, adding another layer of safety for the user.
Finally, the functionalized and durable graphene compound not only reduces tire wear but also minimizes battery power usage. This undoubtedly increases the life of the battery.
Other versions of BMC Alpenchallenge AMP
The BMC Alpenchallenge AMP SPORT THREE DB, also part of the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP Lifestyle series, is also an electric bike. However, the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP SPORT THREE DB is, as the name suggests, aimed more at riders who are looking for a higher speed and sporting experience.
The lighter carbon fiber frame and fork, combined with the 1 × 11 drivetrain gives the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP SPORT THREE DB a faster performance. The same Electric Components with different drivetrains make both destined to be more suitable for different lifestyles.
If you like your somewhat challenging sport riding, I believe the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP SPORT THREE DB can satisfy you. But if you buy a bike mainly for city travel and commuting, BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE is undoubtedly the best choice.
learn more：BMC Alpenchallenge 01 TWO Review – Letting You Ride Freely In The City Roads
What we like about it
- The Alpenchallenge AMP Premium has a frame and fork that are strong enough and light enough.
- Shimano STEPS E-6100 250W with Shimano STEPS BT-E8010 is a more time-saving, energy-saving E-bike, so that travel is more comfortable.
- Gates Carbon belt drives are safe and reliable, but also quieter, cleaner, and more durable.
- The ultra-high Stack/Reach Ratio brings a near-upright riding position for a more comfortable ride.
- The simplicity and innovative features displayed in the Integrated Cockpit System (ICS) are the epitomai of Swiss engineering and design, with hidden alignments and aesthetics.
- The battery is mounted under the seat tube frame to optimize the center of gravity giving the rider a more natural riding experience.
What we don’t like about it
- With a weight of 20.1kg, it’s not heavy if compared to a normal electric bike.
FAQ
- What does the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE motor look like?
The BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE’s motor is Shimano STEPS E-6100 250W, 60Nm output.
- What does the battery of the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE look like?
The battery for the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE is the Shimano STEPS BT-E8010 504Wh.
- What are the brakes like for the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE?
The BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE has Shimano MT400 brakes with hydraulic disc brakes.
- What are the dimensions of the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE?
| size | Rider height |
| SM | <171cm |
| MD | 169cm-185cm |
| LG | 180cm+ |
BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE Specs
Build
| Frame | Alpenchallenge AMP, Flat Mount, 12x142mm thru-axle Tire Clearance: 42c Color: Terra Grey |
| Fork | Alpenchallenge AMP Premium Aluminium, Flat Mount, 12x100mm thru-axle |
| Stem | BMC RSM 01 |
| Handlebar | BMC LSB 02 |
| Saddle | Selle Royal 2058 DRN |
| Seatpost | BMC LSP 03 |
Wheels
| Rims | SR500 |
| Front Hub | Formula RX |
| Rear Hub | Formula RX |
| Tires | Vittoria Revolution Tech, 37mm |
Groupset
| Crank | Shimano FC-E8000 with Gates Carbon Drive 39T sprocket |
| Shifters | Shimano Nexus 5 |
| Cassette | Nexus 5 IHG with Gates Carbon Drive 28T sprocket |
| Chain | Gates Carbon Drive CDX 113T Belt |
| Brakes | Shimano MT400, Shimano SM-RT66 Rotors (180/160) |
Electric Components
| Motor | Shimano STEPS E-6100 250W, 60Nm output |
| Battery | Shimano STEPS BT-E8010 504Wh |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Brakes | Motor | Battery | Tires | Click view |
| Canyon Precede:ON 7 step-through | €3,499 | Belt Drive | Hydraulic Disc | Bosch Performance Line (Gen3) | Bosch PowerTube | 700x32c | Click view |
| Trek Allant+ 5 Lowstep | €3,299 | 1×9 | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | Bosch Performance CX | Bosch Powerpack Performance 500 downtube | 650x57c | Click view |
| Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH | $3,750 | Belt Drive | Shimano BR-MT200, hydraulic disc | Specialized 2.0E | Specialized U2-530 | 650b | Click view |
| Pegasus Solero EVO 8R Belt Trapeze | €3,499 | Belt Drive | hydraulische Scheibenbremse | Bosch Active Line Plus | Bosch PowerTube Horizontal 500 | 700x30c | Click view |
Canyon Precede:ON 7 step-through VS BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE
Also with an aluminum frame and belt drive, the Canyon Precede:ON 7 step-through is also an excellent e-bike. The detail control of the accessories is as strict as the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE USA, which is suitable for commuting.
The only regret is that the Canyon Precede:ON 7 step-through is bulkier in material choice, so the whole bike is almost 5kg heavier than the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE USA. therefore, it has less of an advantage in both speed and battery life.
Trek Allant+ 5 Lowstep VS BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE
The Trek Allant+ 5 Lowstep, as an electric bike, differs most from the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE USA in that it uses a traditional chain drive system, as well as being equipped with Shimano 1×9 speed gearing. And it’s impossible to say which is better, the chain drive or the belt drive, except that the belt drive is quieter, cleaner, and more durable. But this also means sacrificing an interesting shifting system.
However, the shifting process of BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE USA can be set by E-TUBE. Different modes respond to different travel requirements and are sufficient for commuting.
Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH VS BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE
When it comes to commuter e-bikes, the Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH has to be mentioned as well. Both are also belt-driven, with a hydraulic disc brake braking system and an aluminum frame with an 80mm travel front fork design. All of these give users a more comfortable riding experience. But if the whole time is a flat road, you may not feel its role.
I prefer the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE USA from a realistic riding point of view because the comfortable enough upright riding position gives me a more relaxed feeling than the Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH.
Of course, if you want to ride in a more aggressive position on your commute as well, the Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 IGH can still satisfy you.
Pegasus Solero EVO 8R Belt Trapeze VS BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE
While the Pegasus Solero EVO 8R Belt Trapeze is on the top end of other Solero, that doesn’t mean it’s in the same great position in electric commuter bikes.
To be honest, the Pegasus Solero EVO 8R Belt Trapeze didn’t wow me either in terms of speed or comfort.
It is the BMC Alpenchallenge AMP AL CITY ONE USA, which impresses me more in both comfort and speed.
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