Focus SAM Carbon
The addition of carbon characterises the latest enduro mountain bike from Focus and is closely linked to the successful aluminium model SAM (test in BIKE 4/14) on. As the name SAM Carbon suggests, the entire frame, including the rear triangle, has been redesigned in a lightweight carbon construction. Only the rocker is still made of aluminium. At 2400 grams for the frame without shock, the result is quite impressive. By saving around 500 to 600 grams compared to the aluminium frame, the SAM Carbon is on a par with a Santa Cruz Nomad, Giant Reign or Canyon Strive CF. In the top version (SAM TT for Trail Team), which costs 6000 euros, the bike should weigh 12.5 kilos without pedals. The equipment includes: Rock Shox Pike suspension fork and Monarch Plus shock, DT Swiss Spline 1 wheels with Continental tyres and a Sram XX1 groupset.
Optimised geometry with SAM Carbon
In addition to a slightly softer main frame, the carbon version should have a slightly stiffer rear triangle, which should offer more reserves in extreme situations. There are no changes in terms of suspension travel. As before, 160 millimetres are available at the front and rear of the Focus Enduro. The geometry also differs only marginally from the aluminium SAM. But why try to change anything when the last version already had a balanced, race-ready geometry. Nevertheless, there are small optimisations on the Focus SAM Carbon: the chainstay has been shortened by eight millimetres to 430 mm for more play, while the bottom bracket has been lowered by seven millimetres for an even lower centre of gravity in the bike. The steering angle of 65.8° and the seat angle of 75° remain unchanged.
Design and function
When it comes to the details and design of the new Focus SAM frame, the most striking feature is the Boost box, which is very bulky from the rider's perspective. The widening that extends from the head tube into the top tube not only provides a powerful look, but is also intended to increase stiffness and create space for the variable cable routing inside the frame. For optimum protection of the frame, the down tube and chainstays have integrated rubber protection.
Prices between 2500 and 6000 euros for Focus SAM
A total of four frame sizes are planned for the model, which will be available from August. The aluminium model of the Focus Enduro will also continue to be available and is priced between 2500 and 4000 euros. The SAM carbon models are priced between 3500 and 6000 euros.
Focus Spine
With the Spine (meaning "mountain ridge"), Focus presents a completely new all-mountain line comprising a total of twelve mountain bike models. All Focus bikes bearing the name Spine have 27.5-inch wheels paired with 120 millimetres of suspension travel at the fork and rear. However, anyone expecting a Focus touring bike in the trendy plus tyre format is too early. The model range comes with "classic" 27.5 inch tyres. In a price range from 2000 to a proud 7000 euros, the Focus Spine is available for almost every budget. The prices can be realised via models with aluminium and carbon frames.
Spine top model under 11 kilos
In addition to exquisite add-on parts, the top model of the Spine uses a carbon frame weighing just 1950 grams (without shock). This saves 500 grams compared to the aluminium version. In order to combine stiffness with short chainstays and front derailleur compatibility, the carbon models of the Focus Spine always have an aluminium chainstay. With Rock Shox RS-1 fork, DT Swiss carbon wheels, Sram XX1 drivetrain and Twinloc suspension, the top model should weigh less than 11.0 kilos.
Focus dispenses with 29 inches
In terms of geometry and weight, particular attention was paid to high agility on the Spine. In order not to lose sight of weight even in the cheaper models, the decision was therefore clearly made in favour of 27.5 inches instead of 29 inches. In addition to a moderate 68° head angle and a steep 75° seat angle, the Spine has short 428 millimetre chainstays. A special feature of the bike is the combination of a long reach (444 millimetres for size M) and short 65 mm stem. This gives you a sporty riding position without sacrificing handling. As with the Enduro SAM, the Focus Spine will also be available in four different frame sizes. Within the twelve models, there are also two aluminium versions especially for women.
Same kinematics for every frame size
Small riders in particular benefit from the low standover height of the Spine, thanks to the top tube being pulled far down. Another special feature is that each individual frame height has a specially dimensioned carbon rocker to ensure identical kinematics regardless of the changing frame proportions. Internal cable routing and Shimano Di2 compatibility are part and parcel of the new Focus Spine. The Spine will also be available from August this year.
