2016 Focus Izalco Max AG2R Review by Stefan Ansorge
This is a short review on my new road bike. My Fondriest TFZero had a crack in the seat tube so I was looking for a replacement. What I was looking for:
1. Classic lines
2. Racing geometry
3. Good handling
4. Easy maintenance
5. Value for money
I ended up with the new Ag2R team edition of the Focus Izalco Max. It had just won 2nd place at the TdF and looked really nice. Bikes N Bites Singapore offered me a great deal on the frame set while I was able to purchase a Shimano Ultegra group set for a very good price. So the Focus didn’t break my bank!
My impression after the first 1,000km:
The bike looks great. I am very happy about the bright paint job, getting a bit tired on matt black.
The handling is spot on. The front end with the (very slim) fork is super stiff and responsive. It feels a little shaky in the beginning but once you are used to it, the bike just follows you and is very good in cornering because it gives you so much control.
On the flat, the Focus is very fast and responsive.
Did I mention that this is one of the lightest frame sets available? It’s not a main criteria for me since I am a heavy rider, my frame is XL size, and I am definitely not going to win in the climbs; but for a smaller rider it will be very easy to get the bike below the UCI weight limit. If you care!
All the cables on the Izalco Max are routed externally. That’s not really following the current mainstream of total integration. But it makes for a very lightweight frame that is easy maintenance. So yes, you can actually change the brake cables yourself!
It’s a no nonsense, straight forward racing bike. Very pro! That’s what I like about it.
Thanks a lot to Bikes n Bites for the frame set and very friendly service. And congrats to Joshua Gabriel TanThe BikeSmith for doing a perfect build up!
