The light weight is immediately noticeable on the first test ride. The Spine is easy to accelerate uphill. This is certainly also due to the steep seat angle of 75 degrees, thanks to which the seating position is extremely central and guarantees good forward propulsion. Thanks to the Twinloc function, the platforms of the Rock Shox suspension components can be adjusted accordingly, but Focus has dispensed with a complete lockout on the Spine. However, once the Twinlock switch is open, the Spine reveals its true potential. Twisty sections with tight corners are just as much fun as technical, blocked passages. Although the 12 centimeters of travel are fully utilized, the rear suspension in particular gives you the feeling that you still have enough potential. The stiffness of the rear triangle is also very satisfactory.

In the front, the Rock Shox RS-1 absorbs bumps very smoothly, as experience has shown. A RockShox Pike is used here on the cheaper models. Focus focuses on trail fun with the Spine, which is underlined by the telescopic seatpost, also from Rock Shox. For the rider cockpit, the German engineers have used components from their own company. The combination of handlebar and stem is extremely light, but also very soft, with the steering center yielding slightly when more force is applied. The selected handlebar is pleasing, the Spine is delivered with a 76 centimeter carbon handlebar, which can be shortened if necessary, but unfortunately cannot be extended.

The Focus Spine has been designed with great attention to detail. The color combination grey/white/black runs through all components. The specially shaped top tube is not just for design purposes, the shape also serves to make the frame stiffer. The cables are routed completely internally, giving the bike a tidy look. After all, the seat post, brakes, gears and lockout of the fork and shock require a number of cables.

Conclusion: The Focus Spine is a fun trail bike, extremely light and correspondingly easy to maneuver. Climbs can be easily mastered with the Spine and Focus clearly makes a statement with its simple design.

Suspension travel: 120 mm front / 120 mm rear
Weight: 10.9 kg / frame size M without pedals

Specifications

Manufacturer: www.focus-bikes.com