New BMC Kaius 01: Gravel Racing Redesigned for 2026
Gravel racing is no longer what it was five years ago. Pelotons at Unbound, Traka, or major UCI Gravel World Series events now ride at average speeds approaching 35 km/h on increasingly varied terrain. Wide tires, extra bottles, frame bags – bikes need to withstand more, without ever sacrificing speed.
This is exactly the niche into which BMC has just launched the second generation of its Kaius 01. A targeted redesign, conceived for those who start races with a bib number on their handlebars. We'll explain what's new, what makes it relevant, and where it fits into the gravel bike range available at Bicycles Quilicot.
The second-generation BMC Kaius 01, launched for the 2026 season.What exactly is a gravel race bike?
The gravel race bike is neither a road bike with wide tires nor an adventure gravel bike designed for bikepacking. It's a third category: a carbon frame optimized for speed, capable of handling fast gravel and the rolling sections of modern races, while also accommodating enough luggage for eight hours of self-sufficiency.
Long geometry, relatively low position, tires up to 50 mm and more, multiple mounting points, electronic single-chainring drivetrain: the formula is now well-established. The Kaius 01 fully embraces this and pushes several boundaries further.
The Kaius 01 is designed for pure gravel racing, where speed is paramount.A Halo Fork inherited from the Teammachine R
The most visible novelty is the fork. BMC has applied the Halo Fork concept, already seen on the Teammachine R, its aero road bike, to the Kaius. The arms spread wide from the front wheel to allow the tire to pass without turbulence and channel air around the rim.
BMC's announced result: +12% aerodynamic efficiency for the entire bike compared to the first generation. On a long race, averaging 35 km/h, these points translate into saved watts and available energy for the last hour.
The Halo fork is directly derived from the Teammachine R, BMC's aero road bike.Key Takeaway
The Kaius 01 borrows its aero silhouette from the Teammachine R, BMC's in-house aero road bike. It's rare to see a road optimization applied so cleanly to a gravel frame.
52mm clearance: versatility without compromise
Gravel tires have been steadily growing. Where the first generation of the Kaius topped out at 45mm, the new one accepts up to 52mm. This is enough to tackle the very rough sections of Traka or the long, dusty stages of Unbound without changing bikes.
In concrete terms, you keep the same machine to ride 40mm on a fast course in May, then switch to 50mm for a rough gravel race in August. This offers true versatility, without compromising geometric consistency.
AeroCore and TCC compliance: speed and comfort in parallel
Underneath the paint, the frame incorporates AeroCore technology on the downtube. BMC has redesigned it to anticipate the presence of bottles and bags: the aero remains consistent even when the bike is loaded for a day of self-sufficiency.
For comfort, the Tuned Compliance Concept (TCC) continues to play its role, filtering vibrations without adding weight. Combined with the new AS10 aero seatpost, the whole aims for the same goal: maintaining pace for eight hours without returning broken in two.
The AeroCore downtube is sculpted to remain aerodynamic even with a bottle in place.“The goal is for the rider, components, and frame to merge into a single aerodynamic unit.” — BMC
A revised geometry for long distances
The most frequent criticism of the first generation Kaius was its position: too cramped for an eight-hour race, too nervous on fast descents. BMC listened.
The new version increases the stack by 11mm, slightly reduces the reach, and lengthens the trail by 4mm. You get a slightly higher, more stable position at high speed, better suited for long rides. Handling gains serenity without sacrificing responsiveness in sprints.
Cargo and autonomy
The frame integrates 5 threaded mounting points to the 64mm standard for bags, a third bottle cage, or a cargo plate. This is the signature of bikes designed for self-supported races, where you carry your supplies.
The two models available at Bicycles Quilicot
Two Kaius 01 configurations are currently available for pre-order on the Bicycles Quilicot website. Both share the same second-generation frame, Halo fork, and SRAM XPLR AXS wireless single-chainring drivetrain. The difference lies in the groupset level and equipment.
Kaius 01 ONE in Copper White / Thunder Blue colorway, equipped with SRAM Red XPLR AXS.| Model | Groupset | Power Meter | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaius 01 ONE | SRAM Red XPLR AXS (12s) | Integrated | $15,399.99 |
| Kaius 01 THREE | SRAM Rival XPLR AXS (12s) | No | $7,699.99 |
Kaius 01 THREE in Moss Gold / Carbon colorway, equipped with SRAM Rival XPLR AXS.Both models use a 10-46 tooth cassette with a 42 tooth chainring, a perfect configuration for long, hilly stages. Available sizes: 47, 51, 54, 56, 58, and 61 cm. All are compatible with the UDH standard for the derailleur hanger, which simplifies long-term after-sales service.
Curious to discover the new BMC range?
Bicycles Quilicot is an official BMC distributor in Quebec. Our team can guide you to the configuration adapted to your racing program.
View the BMC rangeFrequently Asked Questions
Is the BMC Kaius 01 available at Bicycles Quilicot?
The Kaius 01 ONE and Kaius 01 THREE models are currently available for pre-order on bicyclesquilicot.com. Delivery times depend on the supplier. To reserve a specific size or get an estimated date, it's best to write to us or visit our store.
What is the difference between the Kaius 01 and an adventure gravel bike?
The Kaius 01 is a gravel race bike: aggressive geometry, aero position, 52mm tire clearance, mounting points for self-supported racing. A pure adventure gravel bike, on the other hand, focuses more on comfort, heavy bikepacking, and more relaxed geometries. If your goal is to start races or ride fast on gravel, the Kaius is in the right category.
Why does a 52mm tire clearance make a difference?
Because that's the direction all gravel racing has taken in recent years. Pelotons have moved from 38-40mm to 45-50mm, and the trend continues. The wider the tire, the more comfortably it rolls over uneven surfaces: fewer shocks absorbed by the body, less accumulated fatigue, and ultimately a higher average speed over long distances. With 52mm of clearance, the Kaius 01 aligns with what the best riders are using today — and leaves room for seasons to come.
Is the Kaius 01 relevant for a cyclist who doesn't race?
It can be for a demanding rider who prioritizes speed and a low position, but it is not the most versatile bike in the segment. For mixed road-gravel rides without competitive goals, other more comfort-oriented gravel models are better suited. Our team can guide you based on your profile.
Conclusion
The second-generation BMC Kaius 01 checks almost all the boxes for a modern gravel race bike: advanced aerodynamics, wide clearance, geometry rethought for long distances, and compatibility with the latest wireless drivetrains. For a cyclist who competes, it is a consistent, ambitious platform, clearly performance-oriented.
If you're planning a racing season or an ultra-gravel event for 2026, it's worth taking a closer look. And if you're torn between equipment levels or want advice on sizing, our team is here to help.