The Izalco Max road bike from Focus - with a focus on speed.
The Focus brand, headquartered in Stuttgart and part of Derby Cycle Holding GmbH, emphasizes constant research to enhance power and performance. While production, including assembly, takes place at the parent company's location in Cloppenburg, the development department in Stuttgart focuses on innovative improvements. As Germany's largest bicycle manufacturer, Derby Cycle traces its roots back to Kalkhoff, which it acquired in 1988. In 1992, the company was renamed Derby Cycle Holding GmbH and later absorbed Winora-Staiger in 1997. Subsequently, Pon Holdings of the Netherlands, which also encompasses brands like Gazelle, Union, and Cervelo, took over Derby Cycle in 2012. The premium Focus brand debuted in 1993, initially specializing in sporty mountain bikes, created with contributions from cyclocross world champion Mike Kluge. Since then, Focus has expanded its offerings with various bike types, including trekking bikes in 1995, time trial bikes in 1999, and road bikes in 2003, aided by another cyclocross champion, Joerg Arenz. Today, the catalog also includes gravel bikes such as the Focus Atlas, trekking bikes, and an extensive range of e-bikes, including e-road and e-MTB hardtails.
The Focus Izalco Max is engineered for speed, available in various models suitable for both beginners and professionals. This bike goes beyond being a typical road bike, delivering exceptional lightness and aerodynamics with ultra-light carbon frames. The Munich Mountain Girls showcased its capabilities with a successful Alpine tour. You can choose among three main versions of the Izalco Max carbon road bike, each with several sub-variants to fit different preferences: the Izalco Max 8 series offers more accessible models such as the Izalco Max 8.7, 8.8, and 8.9, while the Izalco Max 9 series, which includes the 9.7, 9.8, and high-end 9.9 models, is priced higher due to improved stiffness, comfort, and optimized aerodynamics. Notably, the limited edition Izalco Max Disc Pari, developed through a partnership with designer Paul Ripke’s brand "We are Pari," features only 81 pieces and can be found exclusively in the online Click&Collect store. Aside from the limited edition, all Izalco Max models are available in XXL frame sizes. To help prospective buyers make informed decisions, comparisons of the Izalco Max with competing models, such as the Cannondale SuperSix EVO, provide insightful perspectives, reflecting that while they differ in components, their overall performance capabilities are similar. In response to the need for innovation, Focus developed the Rapid Axle Technology (R.A.T.) system, enabling quick tire changes for disc brake systems.
The usual components
Similar to many leading manufacturers, Focus incorporates trusted components from brands like SRAM, Shimano, DT Swiss, Schwalbe, Prologo, Vittoria, Fizik, Alexrims, Easton Cycling, Novatech, and BBB Cycling, many of which have solidified their status as household names in cycling. Alexrims, established in 1992 in Taiwan, specializes in rims and wheels, demonstrating gradual growth in reputation to match industry titans.
Groupsets & brakes
The Izalco Max series primarily utilizes groupsets from Shimano and SRAM. Specifically, the Focus Izalco Max Disc features the SRAM Force eTap AXS, while the Izalco Max 9.7 is predominantly equipped with the SRAM Rival eTap AXS. Lower models like the Izalco Max 8.7 and 8.8 use the Shimano 105 R7000, along with Shimano Ultegra R8000, Ultegra Di2, and Dura-Ace Di2 options across the lineup. Conforming to the groupsets, brake systems are also sourced from Shimano and SRAM, showcasing the transition to disc brakes across all Focus road bike models within the Izalco Max series. Notably, the Shimano 105 R7025, Ultegra BR-R8170, and Ultegra R8020 are examples of advanced braking technology, overshadowing the traditional rim brakes still found in older models, like the Focus Cayo.
Saddle / seatpost & handlebars
A comfortable seating position, essential for an enjoyable ride, is achieved through quality components. The FOCUS Aero Carbon seatpost, developed in-house, provides stability, while saddles from Fizik, such as the fi'zi:k Antares R7 or Antares Versus EVO R5, as well as Prologo models like the Prologo Dimension in the Izalco Max Disc Pari, ensure rider comfort. The Aero stem, another in-house innovation, features internal cable routing for enhanced aerodynamics, contributing to an optimal riding experience. Handlebars are sourced from reputable manufacturers like Easton Cycling and BBB Cycling, further enhancing performance.
Wheels / rims / hubs & additional equipment
Wheels, rims, and hubs are constructed using components from DT Swiss, Novatech, and Alexrims. For instance, the DT Swiss ARC 1400 and ARC 1600, Novatech's R4 and R5 wheelsets, and Alexrims' Boondocks 5 provide superior performance. Tires by Vittoria, such as the Zaffiro Pro, Corsa Control, and Rubino TLR, enhance ride quality, while the Izalco Max Disc Pari comes equipped with Schwalbe's PRO ONE Evo, recognized as one of their finest road tires, expertly blending control and speed. While the Focus Izalco Max is tailored for high-speed performance, it does not follow a standardized configuration for attaching racks or mudguards.
What is important when choosing the right bike?
Selecting the right bike involves more than just frame size and seating position; it also depends on intended use. For instance, the Focus Paralane is an endurance road bike known for comfort and versatility, suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures, with variants like the Paralane 8.8 and 8.9, and an e-bike version featuring the Fazua Mid-Drive motor. The Focus Atlas is a gravel bike designed for adventure and bikepacking, highlighted by EQP (fully-equipped models) and disc brakes. For cyclocross enthusiasts, the Focus Mares offers road bike geometry combined with robust construction to withstand harsh conditions, featuring the R.A.T thru-axle system. Focus also boasts a selection of hardtail mountain bikes, like the Whistler for casual use and the Raven for racing. Their full suspension MTB range includes the Throne for trails and touring and the Jam for mountain riding; even an enduro model exists - the Focus Sam.
Need help choosing the right Focus bike? The buycycle team will be happy to assist you in exploring options like road bikes under $500, road bikes under $1,000, road bikes under $2,000, road bikes under $3,000, road bikes under $4,000, and road bikes under $5,000. Additionally, for female cyclists, check our selection of women's road bikes or explore carbon road bikes under $2,000.
