Focus Bikes believes that electric-assist is the future of cycling, and their new Project Y aims to integrate electric motors into high-performance bikes. The lineup includes three models so far, but Focus is also looking to expand Project Y with the help of rider feedback. (Looking for a fresh kit for the summer? Our Bicycling kit is on sale right now.)
In developing Project Y, Focus aims to provide the same ride characteristics as your traditional, unassisted bike. The brand says the Project Y bikes will ride and feel like regular bikes, until you need the assistance of the built-in motor. Whether it’s a quick start or a steep climb, the electric motor is there, ready to help. Each Project Y model comes equipped with a Fazua 250-watt motor, which has a top speed of 25 km/hr.
Wondering if an e-bike will still give you a good workout? Bicycling put one to the test:
All three bikes in the Project Y lineup use the same full-carbon frameset with integrated electric drive system. Focus uses Boost 148 thru axles on the rear and 110x12mm Rapid Axle Technology up front for the Project Y. Braking is handled by Dura Ace 160mm discs. There’s also full internal cable routing for a clean look. The all-purpose frameset will accommodate tires as wide as 33c.
Project Y currently includes three models. The Project Y road bike is built with Shimano Di2 with a 52/36 crankset and 11-30 cassette. Easton EC 90 Aero handlebars provide the cockpit and the Project Y rolls on carbon wheels from DT Swiss. The complete bike, including the Fazua motor and battery, weighs in at 12kg/26.5 pounds, and comes in a Sea Blue colorway.
The off-road adventure bike builds on the same Project Y carbon platform, but adds off-road ready 33c tires and a Gravel Green paint job. Shimano Dura Ace and XTR Di2 handles shifting. Add a set of panniers (like these ones from Ortlieb!) and you’re ready for overnight adventuring. A gravel bike completes the trio with Shimano Dura Ace and XTR Di2 and 32c Continental Cyclocross King tires. The gravel bike is available in Aqua Blue.
Focus envisions Project Y as an open-ended experiment, drawing on diverse ideas about what a bike should be. What bike should Focus design next? They’ve opened a forum for riders on their website, so you can stop by and share your views.
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