BMC Kaius 01 THREE Review
- Price: $5,999
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 700c Carbon
- Gear: 2 × 12 Electronic
What we like about it: Precision and performance utilizing BMC’s renowned leading-edge gravel technology, the Kaius is a meticulously designed gravel bike.
What we didn’t like about it: It’s on the expensive side, not very suitable for budget-conscious riders and beginners.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The BMC Kaius 01 THREE is a premium carbon fiber gravel bike designed to be your elite racing companion on all terrains. Unprecedented carbon fiber layup and gravel-specific geometry ensure the perfect balance of stiffness, lightness, and compliance, resulting in optimal traction, front-end stability, and unmatched climbing capabilities on loose surfaces.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the BMC Kaius 01 THREE. In the latter part of this article, we also compare it to several other bikes. If you want to know more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
My experience riding the BMC Kaius 01 THREE is that this gravel bike is extremely lightweight, and its geometry is excellent. My overall riding position is well-suited for standard gravel riding.
To test it out, I packed the BMC Kaius 01 THREE and headed to the gravel roads from Logan Mill to Sugarloaf to Magnolia. These roads were covered in gravel and had minimal car traffic, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. I planned to complete a loop ride along the perimeter.
Climbing
The climbing performance of the BMC Kaius 01 THREE is indeed excellent. The carbon fiber layup and gravel-specific geometry ensure stiffness, making my pedaling feel more direct during climbs. The bike’s robust integration provides quick-forward propulsion.
Furthermore, when the inclines become steep, the SRAM RIVAL eTap AXS 2×11-speed drivetrain, with its ample gear ratios, allows me to maintain a light and efficient pedaling feel, minimizing energy consumption.
Finally, the Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H – 40mm gravel tires used on the BMC Kaius 01 THREE offer excellent traction. Combined with efficient power transfer, climbing becomes more manageable, with no slipping, allowing for faster ascents.
In summary, the climbing performance of the BMC Kaius 01 THREE is excellent, primarily due to its lightweight design, reducing the energy expended.
Descending
The BMC Kaius 01 THREE excels in providing an outstanding descending experience. First, the carbon fiber frame and fork absorb road vibrations, reducing the bumpiness of my descent. The 700c large wheels and generously wide tires offer robust performance, reducing the risk of tire punctures. I can maintain a smoother descent, with the bike’s stability being excellent.
On the downhill curves, the SRAM Rival eTap AXS HRD hydraulic disc brakes, along with SRAM Paceline Rotors 160/160mm brake discs, provide unquestionably reliable braking. I can control my speed freely through braking. Additionally, the shorter handlebars make my handling more responsive and agile in the curves.
In conclusion, the descending performance of the BMC Kaius 01 THREE is excellent, ensuring a stable descent posture and a sufficiently high speed.
Specifications
The BMC Kaius 01 THREE features an unprecedented carbon fiber frame and fork with advanced carbon fiber layup, ensuring frame rigidity. This translates to a more direct feeling of power transfer while also absorbing road vibrations for a more comfortable ride.
Additionally, there are 6 frame sizes to choose from, offering a wide range of sizing options suitable for a broad spectrum of rider heights.
The integrated full internal cable routing design enhances the bike’s aesthetics, making it appear neater. It simplifies routine cleaning and reduces air resistance for improved aerodynamics.
The SRAM RIVAL eTap AXS drivetrain and braking components offer fast and precise shifting with efficient power transfer. The reliable hydraulic disc brakes provide direct and powerful braking performance in all weather conditions.
Video
Other Versions
The BMC Kaius 01 THREE features a lightweight carbon fiber frame and excellent geometry, making it well-equipped to handle off-road unpaved surfaces. For riders with a more generous budget, there’s a top-tier version available.
BMC Kaius 01 ONE
The BMC Kaius 01 ONE also utilizes the same carbon fiber frame and fork but includes higher-end Zipp 303 Firecrest wheels, reducing weight and enhancing the riding experience.
It is equipped with top-tier SRAM Red AXS XPLR components, ensuring efficient power transfer and fast, precise shifting. The hydraulic disc brakes on this model deliver strong and reliable braking performance in any environment.
In conclusion, if your budget allows, the top-tier BMC Kaius 01 ONE is a worthy choice.
What do we like about it?
- Integrated full internal cable routing design for a cleaner appearance and improved aerodynamics, reducing wind resistance.
- Efficient and precise shifting with SRAM RIVAL eTap AXS drivetrain.
- High-quality carbon fiber layup using ultra-high modulus fibers for unparalleled stiffness and reduced weight.
- Extended reach for improved stability and increased traction on loose road surfaces.
- Hydraulic disc brakes provide all-weather reliable braking in various conditions.
- Through-axle wheel mounting for added stability and riding safety.
What don’t we like about it?
- It is on the expensive side, making it less suitable for budget-conscious riders and beginners.
FAQ
- How are BMC bikes typically rated?
BMC mountain bikes are generally considered high-quality bikes that offer good value for money. If you’re looking for a top-tier bike, BMC is a brand worth considering. However, if you have a tight budget, there may be other brands that are more suitable.
- What kind of wheels does this bike use?
The bike is equipped with CRD-400 Carbon Tubeless Ready 40mm wheels.
- How do I choose the right size?
Here, we provide you with a size chart. Of course, it’s not necessarily a one-size-fits-all approach, and the best way to find the right size is to test ride the bike.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| < 5’6″ | 47 |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | 51 |
| 5’7″ – 5’11” | 54 |
| 5’10” – 6’2″ | 56 |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | 58 |
| 6’2″ + | 61 |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Kaius 01 Premium Carbon with Aerocore Design, ICS Technology Stealth Cable Routing, Integrated Aerocore Bottle Cages, Stealth Dropout Design, TCC Race Compliance Level, PF86 Bottom Bracket, Flat Mount Disc, 12x142mm Thru-AxleBB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press FitTire Clearance: 44cColor: Saffron / Black |
| Fork | Kaius 01 Premium Carbon, ICS Technology, Stealth Cable Routing, TCC Race Compliance Level, Stealth Dropout Design, Flat Mount Disc, 12x100mm Thru-Axle |
| Bottom Bracket | BB86/BB92, press-fit |
| Stem | BMC ICS2 – Integrated Cockpit Design |
| Handlebar | BMC RAB 02. Ergo Top Shape. Compact Bend |
| Saddle | Fizik Vento Argo R5 |
| Seatpost | Kaius 01 Premium Carbon D-Shaped Seatpost, 15mm Offset |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM RIVAL eTap AXS WIDE |
| Crank | SRAM RIVAL AXS WIDE 43-30T |
| Shifters | SRAM RIVAL eTap AXS HRD |
| Cassette | SRAM RIVAL AXS XG-1250 10-36T |
| Chain | SRAM RIVAL 12 Speed |
| Brakes | SRAM Rival eTap AXS HRD | SRAM Paceline Rotors 160 / 160mm |
Wheels
| Rims | CRD-400 Carbon. Tubeless Ready. 40mm |
| Front Hub | CRD-400 |
| Rear Hub | CRD-400 |
| Tires | Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H – 40mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Wheelset | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 | Click View | 650b/700c Carbon | Carbon | Shimano GRX Di2 RX815 | 2 × 11 Electronic |
| Orbea TERRA M20i TEAM | Click View | 700c Aluminum | Carbon | Shimano BR-RX810 | 2 × 11 Electronic |
| Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival 2x AXS / Carbon CC | Click View | 700c / 650b Aluminum | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 2 × 12 Electronic |
| Scott Addict Gravel 10 | Click View | 700c Carbon | Carbon | SRAM FORCE eTap | 2 × 12 Electronic |
BMC Kaius 01 THREE vs. Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 Di2
Both of them feature lightweight carbon fiber frames, ensuring agile and comfortable riding.
In terms of drivetrain components, the former is equipped with SRAM RIVAL eTap AXS drivetrain components, which offer crisper shifting and higher speeds compared to the latter’s Shimano GRX Di2 RX815 drivetrain components. However, the latter’s drivetrain components provide smoother and more seamless gear shifting.
Finally, both of these bikes use hydraulic disc brakes, delivering reliable and trustworthy braking performance, even in harsh conditions.
Therefore, both are reliable and high-quality choices. Either one is worth considering.
Learn More: Is Canyon Grail 7 Worth Buying? [2022 Canyon Grail 7 Review]
BMC Kaius 01 THREE vs. Orbea TERRA M20i TEAM
Both of them come with high-quality and lightweight carbon fiber frames and forks, making them excellent-performing gravel bikes.
However, the former has a more aerodynamic geometry, resulting in a slightly more aggressive riding posture. The latter’s geometry provides enhanced maneuverability.
For drivetrain and braking components, they use Shimano and SRAM respectively. Both offer outstanding transmission efficiency and strong braking performance, making them reliable components.
However, the carbon fiber wheelset on the former bike enhances its lightweight riding, resulting in faster cycling speeds. It can also absorb vibrations for a more comfortable ride.
In conclusion, both of these gravel bikes are excellent. However, I have a preference for the BMC Kaius 01 THREE with its carbon fiber wheelset.
Learn More: Is Orbea TERRA H30 a Good Choice? -[Orbea TERRA H30 Review]
BMC Kaius 01 THREE vs. Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival 2x AXS / Carbon CC
Both of them feature carbon fiber frames and forks. However, the former’s integrated full internal cable routing gives it a more appealing appearance, which is one of the advantages I prefer. Furthermore, the carbon fiber wheelset on the former offers a lighter weight compared to the latter’s aluminum alloy wheelset, resulting in a better rolling experience.
Moreover, in terms of drivetrain and braking components, both of these gravel bikes use SRAM Rival eTap AXS components, which are reliable choices.
So, between these two gravel bikes, with similar prices, I have a stronger preference for the BMC Kaius 01 THREE.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS Worth Buying? [Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS Review]
BMC Kaius 01 THREE vs. Scott Addict Gravel 10
They are both top-tier gravel bikes. Firstly, they both feature lightweight and durable carbon fiber frames, forks, and wheelsets.
However, in the drivetrain department, while both use SRAM components, the latter boasts a higher-level component set compared to the former. This results in a lighter weight and better transmission performance.
In terms of braking components, both of these bikes come equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, providing all-weather braking capabilities and maintaining high efficiency.
So, if your budget allows, the Scott Addict Gravel 10 would be a good choice, as it offers greater stability on gravel road surfaces.
Learn More: Is Scott Addict RC 20 Worth Buying? – [Scott Addict RC 20 Review]
Summary
Above is my review of the BMC Kaius 01 THREE. In our opinion, it is a high-performance bike that offers a nimble ride and brings great joy to gravel riders. This is why we’ve given it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other gravel bikes, we review a wide range of bikes at various price points, and they are equally interesting. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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