The Big Bud from Focus has no shortage of high-quality components. It has a SRAM carbon crankset, the X9 Type 2 rear derailleur and a dropper post from Crank Brothers. With the two remote controls, however, the 680 mm handlebars are a bit cramped. Once you have accelerated the 13.1 kg Big Bud, it rolls along quickly thanks to the super-fast Conti X-King tyres. On steep uphill ramps, you hang way over the rear wheel
the rear wheel and the shock dips low. A lockout would make sense here. Downhill, the Big Bud requires an attentive riding style despite the lowered saddle. The reason: the wet grip of the tyres, the high compression damping and the weak Magura stoppers. The meagre two-year warranty costs further points.
ConclusionTaut touring bike for sporty riders. Details such as the telescopic seat post and carbon crank will delight the buyer.
PLUS Telescopic seat post, carbon crank, wide tyres
MINUS Little braking power, six cables on the handlebars, stiff rear triangle, no shock lockout
The alternativeThe 100-millimetre 29er Super Bud 29R 3.0 costs €1999. The sporty twentyniner relies on Fox CTD suspension, but lags a little behind the Big Bud in terms of equipment.
