Sure, ultra-expensive halo bikes get all the attention but it’s the workhorse bikes that really do the heavy lifting – and when it comes to privateer-class cyclocross racers, the Focus Mares CX Disc 105 is one of the best we’ve tested. Don’t be put off by the hybrid hydraulic brakes on the spec sheet. This is an exceptionally well-rounded carbon race machine that’s ready to rip.
Smaller is better
Cyclocross is a funny little world when it comes to bikes. On the one hand, the countless accelerations demand a super stiff, light, and efficient chassis. But on the other, it doesn’t take long for a punishing ride quality to actually make you slower.
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The new Focus Mares CX frame is a big improvement over the previous version with a much smoother ride but without losing any pace
Compared with the previous-generation Mares CX carbon ’cross platform, this latest version tones things down with smaller tube diameters and a generally more graceful profile that noticeably takes the edge off of rough courses. Whereas the older Mares CX was quite firm (but still reasonable) when things got bumpy, this one is downright cushy with a reassuringly planted and composed manner that begs you to rail corners just a little bit faster and charge through rocky sections that much harder.
That luxurious ride quality doesn’t come at the expense of speed, either. Lay down the watts and the Mares CX Disc 105 eagerly surges forward with quick reflexes and outstanding chassis stiffness. Mind you, this mid-range machine isn’t particularly feathery, posting a good-but-not-great actual weight of 8.78kg (19.36lb, size XS, without pedals) – nearly 2kg heavier than a no-holds-barred racer. Like all good bikes do, though, the Mares CX feels lighter than it is with its extra weight only becoming apparent on longer run-ups.
A fantastic frame and mostly solid spec
Good bones to build on
Complete specifications:
- Frame: Focus Mares CC P2T 10 Carbon Disc
- Fork: Focus Mares CX P2T 10 Carbon T4 Disc
- Headset: FSA ZS, 1 1/8-to-1 1/4in tapered
- Stem: Concept EX
- Handlebar: Concept EX
- Tape: Concept cork
- Front brake: TRP HY/RD with 160mm rotor
- Rear brake: TRP HY/RD with 160mm rotor
- Brake levers: Shimano 105 STI Dual Control ST-5800
- Front derailleur: Shimano 105 FD-5800
- Rear derailleur: Shimano 105 RD-5800
- Shift levers: Shimano 105 STI Dual Control ST-5800
- Cassette: Shimano 105 CS-5800, 11-28T
- Chain: Shimano CS-HG600
- Crankset: Shimano FC-RS500, 46/36T
- Bottom bracket: Shimano threaded with SRAM PF30 adapters
- Pedals: n/a
- Wheelset: A-Class CEX CD 4.0 DB
- Front tyre: Schwalbe Rocket Ron Focus Edition, 700x33c
- Rear tyre: Schwalbe Rocket Ron Focus Edition, 700x33c
- Saddle: Concept EX
- Seatpost: Concept EX
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