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In BIKE 3/22 we have already been able to test the top version of the Jam with a carbon main frame. The first thing that stands out: apart from the differences in the material of the main frame, the two bikes are very similarly equipped. The Focus Jam 6.9 shines with a Shimano XT drivetrain, powerful XT four-piston brakes and a Fox 36 performance fork. However, the shock is a normal Fox Float without a reservoir. With this equipment package, the Jam does extremely well in our comparison. Only Radon and the expensive reference bike from Rocky Mountain are slightly better equipped.
The Jam - a downhill moped
However, the good components cannot hide the Jam 6.9's biggest shortcoming: At 16.86 kilos including pedals, the all-mountain bike simply weighs far too much. The frame alone weighs almost four kilos, and the wheels are also among the heaviest in this comparison. Uphill and especially on undulating trails, the Focus therefore feels like it's being ridden with the handbrake on. Lively? Not at all. In addition, the rear suspension pumps noticeably when pedalling.
As soon as the summit is reached, the Focus Jam is back at the front of the test field. The suspension works sensitively and offers plenty of travel, the playful handling is impressive. The very short chainstays and a geometry that places the rider nicely in the centre of the bike are also responsible for this. The Maxxis Exo+ tyres with the sticky Maxx Grip rubber compound on the front wheel also contribute to the confident downhill control. For touring use, however, the choice of tyres could be a little wider.
Conclusion on the Focus Jam 6.9
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Leader: The robust Focus Jam 6.9 is predestined for downhill riding thanks to its good handling and plenty of travel. However, the excessive weight and tough choice of tyres severely limit the all-mountain's range of action.
Technical data Focus Jam 6.9
General
- Price: 3199 Euro >> available here
- Frame material: aluminium
- Frame size: S / M /L / XL (tested size L / 46 cm)
Measured values
- Weight without pedals: 16.51 kg
- Front / rear suspension travel: 151 / 161 mm
Equipment
- Fork: Fox 36 Float Performance FitGrip 3 Pos Adj.
- Shock: Fox Float DPS Performance
- Crank: Shimano XT
- Gear system: Shimano XT 1 x 12
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 32; 10-51 / 510 %
- Brake system / disc (front / rear): Shimano XT BR-M 8120 / 203 mm / 180 mm
- Telescopic post / stroke / Ø: Kind Shock Dropper Post / 150 mm / 31.6 mm
- Wheels: Rodi TRYP 30/Rodi TRYP 30 rims; Novatec/Novatec hubs
- Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHF / DHR II 3C MaxxGrip/-Terra Exo/Exo+ Protection TR 29 x 2.50 / 2.40
- Ease of maintenance: medium
You can download the full test of our all-mountain bikes here:
Test All Mountains 2022 from BIKE 7/2022
