In times when the routine watchwords in bike development are “longer” and “slacker” the FOCUS SAM 8.9 looks almost old-fashioned. But it is precisely this rather compact geometry that makes the bike interesting for a lot of riders – we’ll tell you why.
Here you’ll find an overview of the best budget enduro bike 2019 in test
If you’re constantly on the hunt for the fastest time, love ploughing through the nastiest rock gardens and to you, fun means going fast in a straight line, then the FOCUS SAM 8.9 is not the bike for you. Despite offering a very plush 170 mm travel, FOCUS have combined that with very agile and lively geometry. Short 428 mm chainstays are matched to a relatively short 460 mm reach in a size L. With a price tag of € 3,999, the FOCUS is the most expensive bike in the test field. One reason is the carbon fibre main frame with its distinctive top tube, though the rear end is aluminium. FOCUS rely on their proprietary F.O.L.D. suspension design for the SAM, a linkage driven single pivot with two rocker arms which allows the leverage ratio to be carefully tuned. The SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, the FOX 36 Rhythm fork or the DT Swiss E1900 SPLINE wheels give no cause for complaint but, the SRAM Guide R brakes don’t do the bike justice. We’d expect a bit more given the price. We also appreciate the tire combination with a MAXXIS High Roller II up front and a Minion DHF at the rear – but we would swap them round. Our test bike came equipped with a 125 mm dropper post, though the stock model will be fitted with a 150 mm version.
Freeride ain’t dead! The FOCUS SAM 8.9 is the modern version of a classic freeride bike.
The FOCUS SAM 8.9 in detail
Fork FOX 36 FLOAT Rhythm 170 mm
Shock FOX FLOAT DPX2 Performance 170 mm
Brakes SRAM Guide R 200/200 mm
Drivetrain SRAM GX Eagle
Seatpost KindShock E30i 150 mm
Stem BBB Alu 55 mm
Handlebar BBB Alu Riser 780 mm
Wheels DT Swiss E1900
Tires MAXXIS HighRoller II / Minion DHF 2.5″
Considering the price, we would have liked a higher-end FOX 36 fork, but the performance of the Rhythm still managed to convince us.
The striking top tube and the angular design of the head tube clearly distinguish the SAM from any other bike.
The FOX DPX2 shock requires a lot of air pressure due to the high leverage ratio, but it responds very sensitively. Though the stock bike already comes with a large volume spacer installed, we would have liked more mid-stroke support.
The short chainstays together with the small 27.5″ wheels, characterise the handling of the bike. If you’re looking for a playful bike, this is it.
The chainstay protector is sufficiently long and made of highly absorbent material. Chain slap? None to be heard here!
| Size | S | M | L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat tube | 400 mm | 425 mm | 450 mm |
| Top tube | 581 mm | 603 mm | 623 mm |
| Head tube | 106 mm | 115 mm | 130 mm |
| Head angle | 64.8° | 64.8° | 64.8° |
| Seat angle | 75° | 75° | 75° |
| Chainstays | 428 mm | 428 mm | 428 mm |
| BB Drop | 13 mm | 13 mm | 13 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,170 mm | 1,195 mm | 1,221 mm |
| Reach | 420 mm | 440 mm | 460 mm |
| Stack | 600 mm | 610 mm | 623 mm |
The FOCUS SAM 8.9 in review
As soon as you swing your leg over the saddle of the FOCUS SAM 8.9 you’ll immediately notice how plush the rear suspension is. It glides over obstacles as if it were a magic carpet. However, we recommended reaching for the climb switch on the shock as soon as you start pedalling uphill as otherwise, the bike will bob a lot. Riders who regularly tackle long, steep climbs will also want to push the saddle as far forward as possible – once you’ve done that the FOCUS will master anything you tackle. Drop the saddle, get on the pedals, and the bike quickly propels itself forward. The small 27.5″ wheels make for very agile handling and the geometry is geared towards having fun with the bike inviting you to get as much airtime as possible at every lip you encounter.
However, we would have liked a little more support from the rear suspension on the landings. On rough descents, the rear suspension willingly uses its travel, allowing the rider to stay relaxed and control the bike from behind. There are bikes with better high-speed stability, but you’ll be hard pressed to find one that’ll change direction as quickly and precisely as the FOCUS. However, it does demand an active riding style to always keep enough weight on the front wheel.
Drift it, baby! The FOCUS motivates you to get loose.
Conclusion
The FOCUS SAM 8.9 is a bike made for those with a playful riding style, always out to have a good time. It’s not a high-speed plough on the hunt for seconds on the clock, but it’ll turn any trail into a large playground. Unfortunately, the hefty price, the unsupportive rear suspension and the underpowered brakes put a damper on the otherwise very positive overall impression.
Tops
- agile and playful handling
- a fun bike that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face
- sensitive rear suspension
Flops
- rear suspension wallows on the descents and bobs on the climbs
- brakes are underpowered
- poor value for money
For more info head to: focus-bikes.com
The test field
Here you’ll find an overview of the best budget enduro bike 2019 in test
All the bikes in test: Canyon Strive CF 5.0 | Propain Spindrift Performance | RADON Swoop 9.0 | SCOTT Ransom 920 | Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Comp Alloy 29 | Trek Slash 8 | YT Capra 29 AL Comp
This article is from ENDURO issue #039
ENDURO Mountainbike Magazine is published in a digital app format in both English and German. Download the app for iOS or Android to read all articles on your tablet or smartphone. 100% free!
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
Words & Photos:
