Focus Bikes

Reading the bike test in the German magazine ‘bike’ once again raises the familiar question, “Which is the right model for me?”. Faced by an ever-increasing number of models to choose between, the question gets no easier to answer. In the magazine’s 4/2012 issue, the editors tested eight full-suspension bikes, also comparing the 26- and 29-inch marathon models. Amongst the bikes tested was the FOCUS FSL 5.0; the test editors awarded this machine 110.5 out of a possible 150 points, which translated to a rating of ‘Very Good’.

The testers sang the praises of the light carbon frame in particular, which, thanks to the shock located in the top tube, allows two bottle cages to be fitted. “With the FSL, FOCUS has succeeded in incorporating important characteristics such as a lightweight frame, space for bottle cages and an easily accessible shock into a bike with a distinctive look. With a long sporty stretch and low drops this FOCUS is raring to climb. Even with no platform, the stiff rear triangle remains totally steady when riding out of the saddle,” observes ‘bike’ magazine.

Eight bikes were tested in total, six of which were rated “Very Good”. See issue 4/2012 of ‘bike’ for the complete test report