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To get straight to the point: The Focus Jam² of the 7-series is not exactly light. However, everything else about the new Shimano bike from Stuttgart is a clear step forward compared to the previous Bosch 6-series bike.
Video presentation of the new Focus Jam² e-mountainbike
The geometry is more harmonious, the maximum permissible system weight is now a hefty 150 kilograms and the previously somewhat soft rear suspension has plenty of pop in the new bike without lacking traction. This makes the new All Mountain from Focus an uncomplicated and strong bike, as long as the trails don't get too twisty.
The Focus Jam² 7 at a glance:
- Range of use: All Mountain
- Drive: Shimano EP8 with 720 Wh battery, weight: 4.2 kilograms (EMTB measured value)
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Suspension travel: 150 millimetres
- Permissible total weight: 150 kilograms
- Weight: 25.68 kilograms (EMTB measured value)
- Revised rear triangle and new geometry
- 3 models for 5399, 6299 and 7999 Euro
Shimano drivetrain with 720 watt hours
Shimano? That's right. Because while the previous Bosch bike While the Jam² remains in the portfolio, the Stuttgart-based company now also offers Shimano fans a suitable drive unit in the form of the new Jam². The new Jam² therefore benefits from the low weight of the Japanese motor and the Individual adjustment of the support levels via app.
A special battery with 720 watt hours and modern 21700 cells ensures a long range. And this battery not only has a lot written on it, it also has a lot of energy in it. That much we can reveal from our extensive laboratory and practical tests. However, at 4200 grams, the energy source is also one of the heavier representatives.
Curious: Like the down tube, the battery is slightly curved to leave enough room for the front wheel to compress, even with compact geometries and 150 millimetres of travel. Similar to Specialized or Norco, the battery can be removed from the bike by loosening a safety bolt with the appropriate Allen key. Of course, you can also charge the battery when it is installed.
New rear triangle: more progression, more active ride feel
In addition to the new Shimano drivetrain, the shock also catches the eye on first contact with the new Jam². This is now as with the non-motorised Jam under the down tube instead of in front of the seat tube as before. The new Jam² thus inherits the revised folding kinematics of the Bio bikes, which have been specially adapted for the E-MTB.
A geometry adjustment in the shock linkage is now also on board. Compared to the rear triangle with a vertical shock, the new rear triangle should feel livelier, have less travel on the climbs and offer more reserves on the descents. The horizontal shock also enables a lower standover height (796 millimetres in size L) and leaves more space for the water bottle.
Geometry: Between flat and balanced
However, the new Jam² is not intended to be a pure sports bike, even with the revised rear suspension kinematics. The Stuttgart-based e-MTB aims to be accessible and comfortable. The geometry is also in line with this, with a slacker steering angle and steeper seat angle, which is in line with the times but does not yet go to extremes.
However, the Jam² is not quite as moderate on the trail as stated. At least our laboratory measurements showed a head angle of 64 degrees (factory specification 65 degrees) and a seat angle of 77 degrees (factory specification 76 degrees). However, both values suit the Jam² well and are in keeping with the smooth-running nature of the Jam², even if tight and flat corners definitely require a certain amount of effort.
Weight limit: 150 kilograms
With the new Jam², the developers have eliminated another weak point of the previous E-MTB range with the permissible total weight. While most models used to stop at 120 kilograms, the new Focus All Mountain can now weigh up to 150 kilograms including rider and equipment. An approval that very few E-MTBs achieve.
This fits perfectly into the robust and confidence-inspiring overall image of the newcomer. To achieve this, the Jam² relies on a solid headset with a width of up to 1.8 inches, a Vario seat post with a diameter of 34.9 millimetres and stable wheels, which are also approved for up to 150 kilograms.
The disadvantage of the robust design: The new Jam² is no lightweight. The Top model 7.0 in size L we weighed in at 25.68 kilos - without integrated tools, without pedals.
Other smart details include the USB port on the top tube, the double-sealed bearings in the rear triangle for maximum durability, the neat cable routing through the headset and the standard puncture kit, which comes with a tube, pump, tool and tyre levers in a small Allen-fastened bag on the down tube.
Focus Jam² 7-Series: From 5399 euros
There are three models of the Shimano Jam² to choose from. The top model 7.0 comes for 7999 euros as shown with electronic GX-AXS circuitDT Swiss wheels, sturdy Schwalbe tyres and Fox/Rockshox suspension and, according to the manufacturer, will only be sold in limited numbers. The best price-performance ratio is probably offered by the 7.9 for 6299 euros with Fox Performance suspension, brakes and gears from Shimano's XT range and Raceface wheels.
The entry-level Jam² 7.8 model is available from dealers with an SLX groupset, groupless Shimano four-piston brakes and favourable Rockshox suspension. Nevertheless, it also comes with Shimano's EP8 drivetrain including the high-quality, Bluetooth-enabled EM800 colour display and the same 720 watt-hour battery as the top model.
First ride impression Focus Jam²
We were able to ride the Focus Jam² extensively at the new launch in Baiersbronn, Swabia. If the seat height and suspension are set correctly, you can pedal uphill in a comfortable and relaxed riding position. The Jam² integrates the rider well between the wheels.
Even demanding and steep trail sections full of steps and roots are effortless despite the rather short chainstays (446 millimetres - EMTB measured value). This is where the revised suspension comes into its own and is significantly higher in its travel than its predecessor, without hardening under load. Despite the high front end, this is a very successful climbing performance, in which the steep seat angle also plays its part.
When it comes to descents, the new Jam² can build on its strong performance on the climbs. The bike conveys a lot of confidence and is surprisingly easy to get airborne on small root edges despite its high weight. Thanks to the great suspension, the Focus also flies comfortably over rough root carpets and small stone fields.
The background noise is also pleasing, as there is no battery rattling or chain slap to be heard on the Focus. The main weak point: the weight is noticeable in tight bends and at slower speeds. Here, the Focus requires an experienced rider to actively and powerfully steer the bike.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
