Focus Atlas 6.9

Focus Atlas 6.9 – The top model in the Focus aluminum gravel series

Gravel and cross bikes are the core competence of German manufacturer Focus. The bikes are developed in collaboration with former professional cyclists from cyclocross and road cycling. The Atlas is based on the philosophy of combining sport, adventure, and nature. Or to put it simply: you should have a good time on this gravel bike. To this end, both Atlas series, the affordable 6 series and the sportier 8 series models, have been completely redesigned for the new season. You can look forward to even more agile handling that makes it easy to follow winding trails. The design focuses on maximum stability. The seat tube has been shortened so that the seat post improves comfort with increased vertical flex. For your bikepacking adventures, the frame has numerous mounting points for accessories such as luggage racks, mudguards, and three bottle holders. Exactly what a modern gravel bike needs.

In version 6.9, the Atlas's features leave nothing to be desired. Focus has consistently fitted the aluminum frame with high-quality Shimano GRX components that have been specially developed for gravel bikes. For example, the GRX 820 rear derailleur always shifts the 2 x 12 gears precisely, even in adverse conditions. The hydraulic disc brakes also absorb vibrations and always deliver their full performance. As with all Atlas models, you get a tubeless-ready wheelset. To convert, all you need to do is insert valves into the rim and fill the tires with sealant. The Atlas comes standard with grippy 45 mm tires. Components such as the handlebars, stem, and saddle are manufactured in-house.

High-quality aluminum or carbon frames – depending on the price range

While the fork is made of carbon on all frame sets, the 6 series models come with an aluminum main frame and the 8 series models have a carbon frame. Visually, both versions leave nothing to be desired, especially since the aluminum frames with their perfectly smoothed weld seams are particularly eye-catching. Practical: All carbon frames have a storage compartment in the down tube under the bottle holder. An important issue with gravel bikes is tire clearance, because wide tires provide grip and comfort. Focus has built in sufficient reserves here: the carbon rear frames allow up to 45 millimeters, the aluminum frames allow up to 48 millimeters, and the forks can even accommodate tires up to 53 millimeters wide. Also worth mentioning are the optionally available rack systems, which are tailored precisely to the Atlas for space-saving luggage transport. These are already factory-fitted on the 6.8 EQP model.