Focus Izalco Max Disc 9.7 AXS Review

Focus Bikes was founded in 1993 by cyclocross World Champion Mike Kluge & is based in Stuttgart, Germany. Focus has it’s roots in mountain bikes & now leads the way in producing high performance road bikes & e-bikes. The Izalco Max – A Perfect Aero All-Rounder? The Izalco Max is fast, aerodynamic, elegant & light […]

Focus Bikes was founded in 1993 by cyclocross World Champion Mike Kluge & is based in Stuttgart, Germany. Focus has it’s roots in mountain bikes & now leads the way in producing high performance road bikes & e-bikes.

The Izalco Max – A Perfect Aero All-Rounder?

The Izalco Max is fast, aerodynamic, elegant & light – the perfect all-round machine? Check out Chris’ video review of the top of the line Focus Izalco Max Disc 9.7 – the bike currently proudly on display in our Hub window!

Focus Izalco Max Specification

Product

  • Price €6199
  • Weight 7.9 kg (Size L)

Features

  • Available Sizes – XXS – XXL
  • Groupset – Sram Force AXS
  • Fork & Frame – MAX technolofy carbon
  • Handlebar – Easton EC90 Aerobar
  • Saddle – Prologo Dimension
  • Seatpost – Izalco Carbon
  • Stem – Focus Izalco
  • Tyres – Conti GP 4000 SII 25 mm
  • Wheels DT Swiss Dicut ARC1450

Industry Reviews

Warren Rossiter summaries his experience in his review for Bike Radar:

The ride is brilliant – firm yet forgiving. It’s comfortable enough for long, hard rides, light enough to climb with the best. The handling is sublime – nimble without nerves and with an agility that puts it up with the best of breed. Very impressive.

Cyclist Magazine takes a slightly more ciritical view of the 9.9 models & scores the bike 3/5 as they find the handling too lively:

Does well to blend aero design with classic road bike attributes, albeit this means it much more Jack of all trades than true master

Gran Fondo Magazine conclude that the bike is a great option for bike racers but note the light handling make it less suitable for more leisure-oriented riders:

With its sprinting abilities and playful handling, the FOCUS IZALCO MAX DISC 9.9 is a great choice for all the racers and crit riders out there. For tours and more leisure-oriented riders, it’s less appropriate due to the agile front and the comparatively low amount of comfort. While it’s a solid all-rounder, it’s just a bit too sporty to take the win in our test.

The Focus Izalco Max Range

The 9.7  comes in at €6,999 with the Sram Force AXS groupset. This bike can be upgraded to the 9.9, €8,999 9.9 Dura Ace Di2 or the 9.8 €8,499 Sram Red AXS version. For those looking for a similar ride feel without the super bike price tag, the 8 series starts at €3,099 for a Shimano 105 build & a light (but not superlight) carbon frame & non-integrated cables.

Interested in a Focus Bike?

Head over to our online shop to browse the models we have in stock or contact us about your dream build!

Written by Louise Laker

The bike has always been an escape for me - a way to get rid of the stresses of the day, to set myself a physical & mental challenge, to meet great people and have ton of fun.

After years of studying, working in the sustainability sector and road racing on the UK circuit, I moved from London to Girona to pursue the dream of professional cycling.

Instead, something more incredible happened - I co-founded Eat Sleep Cycle in the cycling capital of Europe, Girona.

We create & deliver beautiful cycling tours all over Europe. We love what we do and that shows in our work.

cross