Focus Atlas 8.8 Apex

Focus Atlas 8.8 Apex – The Atlas Carbon with electronic Sram gears

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 philosophy behind the Atlas is to combine 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 8.8 Apex, the Atlas comes with electronic Sram S1000 Eagle 1 x 12 gear shifting. The shift commands are transmitted wirelessly from the shift/brake lever to the rear derailleur. In addition, the rear derailleur is mounted on the rear triangle using transmission technology, which virtually eliminates mechanical defects. The shifting comfort of this combination sets standards in terms of speed and precision. The group also includes hydraulic Sram Apex D1 disc brakes, which meet the highest standards. The tubeless-ready wheelset comes from DT, known for its top manufacturing quality. The Atlas comes with Schwalbe tires with tubes as standard. However, if you decide to go tubeless, you can convert the tires in no time at all.

High-quality carbon or aluminum 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 as 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, as wide tires provide grip and comfort. Focus has built in plenty of 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. Bike packing: rack systems specially tailored to the Atlas are available as an option for space-saving luggage transport.