At the presentation, the engineers from Focus explain that they no longer produce e-mountainbikes. They call their latest project "Mountainbike Squared". The focus should be on the experience and fun on the bike, no matter what type of bike it is. With the Jam², they seem to have hit the mark. At first glance, the bike is convincing, with subtle curved lines and the motor is only noticed at second glance. But how does the Bike² perform on the trails on the Cote d'Azur?

First impression

As already mentioned, the Focus engineers have done a good job in terms of design. The bike does not give the impression of a typical e-mountain bike, the battery is fully integrated into the down tube. The Shimano Steps motor is extremely small and blends seamlessly into the design. The integrated battery leaves enough space for a bottle cage or the additional battery, but more on that later. The cockpit is also tidy. No large screen disturbs the overall picture. The discreet DI2 display does double duty. As a display and control unit for the Steps motor of the Shimano DI2 electronic gearshift. The cables are completely routed internally and enhance the tidy appearance.

Equipment

The tested version is also one of the highest equipment types. Shimano XT DI2 shifting unit and brakes from the same company. The Rock Shox Yari and Monarch RT shock are used as suspension elements, both with 140 millimetres of travel. The wheels are DT Swiss XM 1501 rims and Schwalbe Nobby 2.8 inch tires. As mentioned, the motor and cranks come from Shimano with the E8000 motor. The integrated battery developed by Focus itself has 378 watt hours. Will that be enough for a day on the trails?

First ride impression

Unfortunately, it has been far too rare to sit on an e-mountainbike and feel comfortable straight away. The Jam² has the dimensions of a "normal" mountain bike and rides accordingly. The Shimano Steps motor sets new standards: the assistance kicks in extremely quietly and smoothly. The motor has three modes: Eco, Trail and Boost. However, the trail mode is used most of the time. This has been optimized by Focus so that more power is available when the rider applies the appropriate amount of force. A kind of intelligent motor. In fact, Trail mode is used all day long. The thrust, or rather the "after-thrust" of the motor, is barely noticeable. The power transferred to the pedals is "natural". If the pedal movement stops, the motor stops too. Added to this is the slim design of the Step motor. The so-called Q-factor (the distance between the cranks) is relatively small.

The position on the bike is relaxed and upright, the riding position is central. Weight distribution is still necessary to generate sufficient grip with the appropriate motor power. Downhill, the grip comes naturally. The 2.8 inch tires dig into the ground thanks to the low center of gravity. However, the bike remains lively and agile. The reason for this is the lower weight of the Jam², which weighs just over 20 kilograms. If the going gets too steep, the integrated push assist of the Steps motor comes to the rescue. Although it takes a few operating steps to activate it, the pushing force is very satisfactory, the entire weight of the bike is pushed up the slope, and depending on the incline, the speed and power can be adjusted by engaging a gear.

Focus has achieved a great success with the integrated battery. The self-developed battery has "only" 378 watt hours. However, during our test ride on the trails, which lasted several hours, there was still enough juice left at the end. If you are planning an all-day tour, Focus offers the option of an additional battery pack. This doubles the power to 756 watt hours. The additional battery is mounted in place of the bidon holder, the corresponding conversion kits are an additional purchase and not part of the basic equipment.

Conclusion

Focus didn't promise too much! The Jam² makes you forget you have an e-mountainbike under your butt. It's only on the tough climbs that you benefit from the extra boost and are reminded of it again and again. Descents and faster trails can be rocked like on an "untuned" mountain bike, the additional weight is more or less noticeable depending on your riding style.