BMC URS AMP LT TWO – The Ultimate 2025 E-Gravel Bike Comparison Test

BMC positions the URS AMP LT TWO as a sporty adventure bike with an extra boost, boasting an innovative damping system and low weight. But can this electrified gravel bike from the Swiss brand handle daily commuting, even without fenders or a rack? We put it to the test against 8 other bikes to find out!

The Moon, the summit of Mount Everest, and the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta – all places that are out of reach for most people. But according to BMC’s claims, the URS AMP LT TWO is designed to make the unreachable suddenly within grasp. Can this Swiss adventure e-gravel bike really deliver on its promise? At DOWNTOWN magazine, we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t put it to the test.

BMC has designed the URS AMP LT TWO as a lightweight e-gravel bike built for adventure, aiming to combine great handling and comfort with maximum fun on the ride. At first glance, its sleek and sporty silhouette barely hints at the presence of a motor. The seamless integration of the TQ motor into the carbon frame gives it a stealthy, understated look, elegant without drawing attention. The TQ motor’s support is just as subtle: with 50 Nm of torque, it’s the weakest in our test field, but also the lightest. But is its power enough for fully loaded bikepacking trips? And how does that electric tailwind feel on the trail? Read on to find out.

Bulky 20 litre panniers? Not a chance! The BMC’s focus on sporty adventures is evident in its setup: instead of a rear rack, it features multiple mounting points on the down tube, top tube, and seat tube. These allow for the attachment of bikepacking bags, which help maintain good weight distribution and enable a dynamic riding style – whether on long tours, up to the summit of Mount Everest, or just down to the local supermarket. 😉 Don’t expect to fit your weekly food shop inside a frame bag, though.

To ensure comfort doesn’t fall by the wayside, BMC has equipped the URS AMP LT TWO with its specially developed MTT damping system. This is designed to prevent you from feeling like you just belly-flopped off the high board after a long ride. The system keeps weight low by using elastomers in the seat stays for added flex, a hidden spring in the head tube, and a suspension stem with proprietary technology to reduce muscle fatigue. BMC promises a ride that’s both sporty and comfortable. But does it really deliver? We put it to the test – with full commitment!

The BMC URS AMP LT TWO on Test – An Adventurer in Everyday Life

When it comes to riding enjoyment, no other bike in the test field can top the BMC. From the very first ride, the bike feels intuitively “right.” It responds directly to steering inputs, and its handling is absolutely precise. Combined with the fact that, at just 14.52 kg, the BMC is the lightest bike in the test – admittedly the only one tested without full equipment – you don’t really feel like you’re on an e-bike. Sporty sprints, quick direction changes, hopping over roots? This is where the URS AMP LT TWO truly shines, delivering an unrivaled riding experience. Like a roller coaster ride, we didn’t want to get off and were ready for another round. The fun factor is further enhanced by the well-balanced riding position, which is even sportier than the Moustache Dimanche 29.4. Overall, the BMC URS AMP LT TWO feels the most like a classic, analog gravel bike of all the bikes in the comparison test – nice!

Bikepacking instead of baggage: The BMC URS AMP LT TWO shows what adventure with a light load can look like. This bike offers smart solutions for any experience – and it doesn’t always have to be to the moon and back. Whether crossing the Alps, touring Sardinia, or heading out on a weekend trip, plenty of adventures await. Instead of traditional pannier racks with spring clamps or saddle bags, the URS AMP LT TWO features mounting points for bikepacking bags on the frame and fork. These allow for well-balanced weight distribution that supports a sporty riding style. Perfect for packing a tent, sleeping mat, and camping stove, without significantly affecting the bike’s handling. However, when it comes to daily commuting or grocery shopping, these bags don’t offer the same convenience and storage capacity as traditional panniers.

To prevent everyday transport tasks from becoming an adventure in themselves, there is a solution: a classic rack can be retrofitted, but only with a special system mounted on the thru-axle, as you won’t find any rack mounts on the frame. Fortunately, various manufacturers now offer such systems. For added everyday comfort, fenders can also be installed. Say goodbye to the sporty look and hello to a dry backside. 😉 However, modifying the URS like this changes its “Indiana Jones” adventure vibe and dresses up the rugged explorer in a business suit. It works, but it doesn’t feel entirely natural. If you’re primarily looking for a decided commuter bike for city rides, the Canyon Commuter:OnFly is worth a closer look.

We tested the bike “out of the box” in adventure mode – without a rear rack. That’s where the BMC URS AMP LT TWO truly excels, even off paved roads. Its nearly invisible suspension system, offering 20 mm of front and 10 mm of rear travel, works flawlessly – at least on moderate bumps. However, on rapid, repeated impacts, such as rough descents, the system reaches its limits. Compared to the suspension forks of the Canyon Grizl:ONfly CF Daily, the Riese & Müller UBN Five Commute, or the Future Shock on the Creo SL, it can easily become unsettled. Taking this bike on a black route probably wouldn’t be the best idea. On rough gravel roads and light trails, however, the bike remains comfortable and efficiently surges forward – much like the Canyon GRIZL:ONfly CF Daily.

The BMC inspires confidence on mellow trails. It’s certainly not on the same level as the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0, the heavy-duty e-SUV tank of the test field, but the URS stands out with its excellent control. It does exactly what the rider commands. This control is supported by the well-balanced damping and the frame geometry.

Adventure and activity are deeply embedded in the BMC’s DNA. If you’re looking for a practical workhorse with a powerful motor for comfortable commuting or shopping, the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 or the Rose Backroad Plus EQ would be better choices. Speaking of activity, you’ll still need to put in some effort – the TQ-HPR50 motor system provides only subtle assistance. On climbs, in the lower two of the three riding modes, the support feels smooth, natural, and barely noticeable – requiring active pedaling. In turbo mode, things get a bit more lively, but you’ll still have to put in the work – which, at the end of the day, leaves you with a satisfying sense of accomplishment. And on flat terrain? The lightweight BMC URS AMP LT TWO easily cruises beyond the 25 km/h limit, outpacing the rest of the test field in “riding without support.”

Power comes from a non-removable 360 Wh battery, which can be extended with a 160 Wh range extender for longer tours. Without the extender, the battery is one of the smallest in the test field, but the bike’s low weight and relatively weak motor mean the assistance lasts longer.

And if you run out of power or traction on a steep, loose climb? No problem! The BMC features a walk mode, which, like the three assist levels (Eco, Mid, and High), can be conveniently activated via the handlebar remote. Essential riding data is displayed on an integrated display in the top tube. High-end components from the gravel and mountain bike sectors ensure maximum performance and minimal weight. A particular highlight is the SRAM X0 Transmission drivetrain with its wide gear range – a clear advantage for steep climbs, like those often encountered in bikepacking trips through the Alps. However, this high-end spec also contributes to the BMC’s premium price tag of € 9,999, making it the most expensive bike in the test.

With the URS AMP LT TWO, BMC has stayed true to its adventure-focused concept. The suspension system offers surprising comfort at a low overall weight. Our verdict: the Swiss deliver on their promises! 🙂

Who is the BMC URS AMP LT TWO for?

The BMC URS AMP LT TWO is more than just an e-gravel bike – it’s an invitation for adventurers who love epic weekend tours and bikepacking escapades. With its focus on speed and agility, it’s not a pack mule but a true sports machine. The weight, handling, suspension system and minimalist luggage concept all contribute to a sporty, adventure-oriented design.

Everyday practicality? Secondary. If you plan to use the URS for daily commuting, you’ll need to retrofit a rack or fenders – modifications that don’t necessarily align with its sporty character and sleek appearance.

This bike evokes the emotional appeal of a Porsche 911, the adventurous spirit of a Lada Niva, or the charm of an old Volvo. Compared to more conservative commuter models like those from Riese & Müller, the URS AMP LT TWO is more exciting, less practical, and designed for those who crave a sporty and emotionally connected riding experience – whether on gravel tours, light trails, or long-distance journeys.

Conclusion on the BMC URS AMP LT TWO

More adventure, less commuting! The BMC URS AMP LT TWO is for those who prioritize riding fun and adventure over pragmatic versatility. It impresses with intuitive handling, exciting performance and a coherent design that sometimes makes you forget you’re riding an ebike. Its weakness lies in versatility: the lack of lights and fenders makes it less suitable for everyday use straight out of the box. However, if that doesn’t bother you – or if you’re willing to invest in upgrades – the BMC might be the perfect choice for you.

Find more information at BMC.com

---

The Test Field

You can find an overview of this comparison test here: The Best E-Gravel Bike of 2025 – The most exciting models in a comprehensive comparison test

All bikes in the test: BMC URS AMP LT TWO, Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7, Canyon Grizl:ON Daily, Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ, Riese & Müller UBN Five commute, ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ, Specialized Turbo Creo 2 Expert, Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0, Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT.

Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Jan Richter