The Focus Izalco, the German firm’s top-of-the-range race machine, has been overhauled for 2013, with the slimmed-down Izalco Team SL dropping the frame weight below one kilogram.
Focus claim an average frame weight of 960g across seven sizes (48cm to 60cm) for the Izalco Team SL, shedding approximately 200g from the existing Izalco. From the outside, the Izalco Team SL frame looks the same as its predecessor. Its secret, however, lies beneath the paintwork.
A revised carbon fibre layup has helped drop the weight, as has the move to all-carbon headset cups and the switch from BB30 to a PF30, which also removes any aluminium from the bottom bracket.
The Izlaco Team SL is available in two versions, for electronic and mechanical groupsets, and in four builds, topping out with the 1.0, equipped with SRAM Red and Zipp Firecrest 404 wheels for £6,499.
The Izalco 2.0 gets 11-speed Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 with DT Swiss RR21 DiCut wheels, while the SL 3.0 runs with Campagnolo Record EPS and Fulcrum Racing Zero hoops. Both cost £5999. The 4.0 is the most affordable option, with SRAM Red and Fulcrum’s CPX2.5 wheelset for £3,699.
Meanwhile, Focus are big in the cyclo-cross scene and the carbon fibre Mares CX machine is now available in the colours of the Rapha-Focus racing team – including obligatory pink handlebar tape. The Mares CX 1.0 Rapha will cost £3,999 with a SRAM Red groupset and Easton EC–90SL wheels.
Finally, Focus have extended their warranty programme from five to six years. They’ve added a crash replacement programme for all carbon fibre frames so, in the event of damage not covered by the warranty, riders can purchase a comparable frameset at a reduced price (50 per cent off in the first year from date of purchase, 30 per cent off in the second year and 20 per cent off in the third year).
