The design is as sexy as the technology is well-behaved: only eleven gears, no shock platform and just one pivot in the rear triangle. You can't design a trail bike any simpler than this, and yet the Focus zips up and away from the competition downhill. A successful geometry with super-short chainstays, wide handlebars and a short stem ensure playful handling on the trail - no other bike is as nimble through the bends. The Sektor suspension fork responds sensitively, but has slightly too little compression on fast hits. It's less fun on the climbs. Although the rear end works without the influence of the drivetrain, 14.3 kilos are a little too much despite the favourable price and telescopic dropper post and make the Focus lag behind the competition on climbs. Weak warranty services and the favourable spec prevent a better performance.
Conclusion: A peppy bike with guaranteed downhill fun. The Vice is quite heavy for the uphill.
The alternative: For 1999 euros you can get the Vice with a better fork and better brakes. The weight should not change too much.
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