While Focus has all but disappeared from these shores, the German brand continues to remain vibrant in other countries, as evidenced by a refreshed version of its Paralane endurance bike, touting greater stiffness, lighter weight and improved comfort and aerodynamics courtesy of new tube shapes and profiles. Clearance is also up, which can now accommodate hefty 35mm tires.
“Ride it, enjoy it! The PARALANE opens up a new dimension of road cycling. It is our definition of comfort. The PARALANE is made to go further! A durable carbon road bike, even though it calls endurance home, that also impresses in terms of speed and aerodynamics. Your fast yet versatile daily companion all year round. At your pace and on your route – whatever that may be,” boasts Focus.
To better cheat the wind, the Paralane now features truncated NACA airfoil tube shapes for improved aerodynamics, resulting in a claimed 1:45 time savings over 45 kilometers compared to the previous version. Moreover, Focus says the new tube shapes also make the frame 15% lighter and 3% more compliant overall, while a 27.2 round seatpost further adds to the bike’s comfort.
Additionally, the bottom bracket and head tube are said to be 29% and 19 % stiffer, respectively, correlating into improve responsiveness and power transfer.
Elsewhere, the Paralane is treated to Focus’ CIS Technology stem, allowing brake and gear cables pass beneath the stem into the headset, along with an integrated out-front bike computer mount. Also, mudguards and a top tube storage bag can now be added, giving the bike even greater off-road capabilities, especially when paired with 33mm tires.
The geometry has also been tweaked by increasing stack height across the size range, as well as a steeper seat angle, providing a more upright position. The wheel base has also been lengthened in order to enhance stability along bumpy terrain
All in, the Paralane tips the scales at 1,130g in a size medium, a fairly impressive weight given the bike’s multi-role task.
The Paralane is offered in three guises, across five sizes.
Here’s how the models breakdown:
Focus
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