Focus Atlas 8.8 (2023)

Focus Atlas 8.8 - The next level: The Atlas 8 gravel series with carbon frame

The German manufacturer Focus is one of the top brands on the market when it comes to cross and gravel sports. Traditions and many years of experience from the professional camp come together in the Atlas Gravelbike, which was launched in 2021 with the 6 series based on an aluminum frame. Now Focus is taking the level up another notch with the 8 series made of carbon. But it's not just the weight saving of around 1.7 kilos that makes the new Atlas an outstanding gravel bike. Rarely before have you seen such innovative mounting points for bikepacking accessories on a carbon frame.

The main frame offers space for three bottle cages and a bag on the top tube, which is even included as standard. If necessary, lowrider bags can be mounted on the carbon fork. Focus presents a really clever solution for transporting luggage on the main frame: The optionally available Adventure Rack sits on the rear stays and can accommodate two roll bags. This means that all additional weight sits low on the bike and close to the center. This provides a natural riding feel and agility, even when you get out of the saddle. Also eye-catching is the new, uncluttered cockpit with flare handlebars and the completely internal C.I.S. traction system. The stem can be retrofitted with a bracket that holds a computer, light or even an action cam.

Shimano GRX components - the best Gravelparts for your adventures

In version 8.8, the Atlas comes with Shimano GRX RX810 2 x 11 drivetrain, complemented by disc brakes from the same group. Shimano's gravel components perform reliably and precisely even under bombardment of dust and mud. The tightly suspended rear derailleur absorbs vibrations and keeps the chain under tension. The geometry of the new carbon frame is slightly sportier than that of the 6 series aluminum thanks to a shorter head tube. A perfect blend of comfort and stiffness. The wheels are also uncompromisingly trimmed to the application Gravel. The Atlas 8.8 is equipped with high-quality, hand-built wheels from the specialists at DT-Swiss. Typical feature is the particularly reliable ratchet freewheel. In addition, the rims are prepared for tubeless operation. Versatile: The frame and fork of the Atlas offer space for tires up to 45 mm wide. It is also possible to mount robust 650B instead of the standard 700c wheels. Thus, this gravel bike makes every CrossCountry mountain bike the rank. It is faster in any case.