Deluxe is the term that best describes the equipment of the top Focus model. Only the most expensive and finest components can be found on the bike: Crossmax SLR wheels, XTR cranks, SRAMX. O drivetrain, excellent Avid Elixir CR brakes, a Fox fork with a (rarely installed) lockout on the handlebars, plus Conti Race King tyres for fast acceleration. The specification would also be very suitable for marathon racing. The First Extreme has an unmistakable frame shape and is very stiff, but the carbon frame carries a lot of flab on its ribs. Over three kilos for the frame and shock are a lot and not in keeping with the times, even heavier than last year. The developers did not achieve their goal of utilising the advantages of carbon and bringing the frame under 2500 grams. Due to the slack angles, the short stem and the curved saddle support, the bike is rear-heavy, with little pressure on the front wheel. As a result, the First Extreme doesn't climb as well as its competitors, while the suspension feels stiff on the descents and you don't utilise the suspension travel.
CONCLUSIONS: Focus carries the burden of being the heaviest bike in the group. A dilemma: too sporty for all-mountain, too heavy for racers. As a luxury tourer, it is in its element.
Web:
www.focus-bikes.com
