2024 BESV TCA 1.5 – a powerful mid-travel emtb

BESV is out with a refreshed line of full suspension emtbs. The cheaper TRS models come with an alloy frame and two options of suspension travel. Then there’s the longer travel TCE and shorter travel TCA, both with carbon frames. We’ve tested the top-of-the-line BESV TCA 1.1. It’s a 29er bike with a 140 mm fork and 130 mm rear travel.

Still sensible, now more modern​

We’ve previously tested the 2021 BESV TRS 1.1. The frame geometry was okay, and specs were nice for the money. Even though the TCA 1.1 is the most expensive mid-travel option, it’s not a very expensive bike. The recommended retail price is €6.999. BESV remains a sensible choice and you don’t get the most high-end suspension and drivetrain. But you get a new and modern looking frame. And you get a pretty lightweight bike, we weighed it to 24.0 kg with pedals.

Spot-on geometry​

As before, BESV only offers 3 frame sizes; S, M and L. I guess that means it can be more difficult finding a frame that fits. But I have a different take. What’s the average size for a male? Around 180 cm? I’m about that tall, and I occasionally find myself between sizes M and L. Not on this bike though, size M is a great fit for an averagely tall guy.

Being a mid-travel bike, I think the somewhat slack 65* head angle is perfect. The 78* seat angle is steep, as per current trends. The 1.267 mm wheelbase is quite long for a size M with a relatively short 140 mm fork. The 447 mm chainstay length is just great for my riding style. This frame geometry is very much to my liking.

Adequately specc’ed​

A Rockshox Revelation fork might not impress everyone. But it’s a nice fork that suits this bike very well. Going 140 mm travel allows BESV to pick a less burly and lighter fork. If you want a longer and more rugged fork, you should check out the BESV TCE or TCS instead.

I get it, people expect 12-speed drivetrains on these bikes. I’d be more than happy to get the durable Deore 11 speed gear system. But okay, the Shimano SLX 12 speed drivetrain is well-functioning and a sensible choice. I’m very happy to see the brakes are Shimano SLX too. And BESV ensures I stay happy by specc’ing the BESV TCA 1.1 with a nice Race Face Aeffect-R wheelset. The tyres too are nice, it’s the Maxxis Assegai and Minion DHF, both in the 29x2.5” Maxterra version.

Motor and battery​

I’ve ridden the new Shimano EP8 (EP801) several times before. But this is the first time I’ve ridden it extensively on my local trails. The new EP8 is noticeably stronger over a wider cadence range. It’s still easy to control on the slow and challenging sections. It has become a more inspiring ride when we go fast and pedal fast. The motor is very generous with its power, offering lots of assistance.

The bike comes with a big 720 Wh battery, so the range is good. But be aware, when you ride a strong motor that does a big share of the work, the battery can be drained in less than 40 km and 1000 m of climbing. That’s just how it is when the motor is so generous. Dropping the assistance can get you double the range or more. Or less.

Riding the BESV TCA 1.1​

The 447 mm rear end of the bike isn’t very long, nor is it super short. I find it’s long enough to give the bike a good balance on the steep climbs. The Shimano EP801 motor has become a nice companion also when climbing fast. The BESV TCA 1.1 is not designed to be a climbing specialist though, and most emtbs aren’t. It climbs very well, as can be expected from most full power bikes.

This BESV is designed to be an All Mountain style trail bike, it’s not all about the steep terrain. We rode lots of dirt, forest trails with mostly short hills. In these conditions, we never missed more suspension travel.



The 130 mm rear travel offered a nice kick when hitting the pedals, and a nice pop when hopping along and negotiating trail obstacles. Thanks to the light fork and front wheel, it was little work lifting the front end. And the fast and sharp steering made it easy positioning the front wheel. The BESV TCA 1.1 is sprightly and nimble for a full power 23.5 kg bike.

When descending fast on rocky trails, you’ll feel the limitations of the fork. But it’s comfortable for most kinds of riding. This Revelation fork is a more basic version of the Rockshox Pike, and it will struggle to track the ground at proper speeds. Fortunately, the damper and air spring can be upgraded to match the more expensive forks.



The descending abilities are fine though. Just like on the flatter trails, this is a lively and responsive bike. It’s little work picking good lines instead of plowing over stuff, like you might do on a slacker, longer travel bike.

Conlusion​

It’s easy criticizing a mid-travel bike for not being burly enough. “If it only had more rugged forks with 10 mm extra travel, it would be a more capable bike.” But that’s missing the point. I think the BESV TCA 1.1 is nicely specc’ed and built for purpose. This is a pleasant full-power bike with a low-ish weight and great geometry. You want burlier? Check out the BESV TCE models.

Sure, a recommended retail price of €6.999 might not be very cheap. But where I live, in Norway, it’s very well priced. And I judge the bike based on that. It seems emtbs are getting discounted these days, so check the price where you live and don’t mind the RRP.