Following the launch of Scott's new Scale 700-series of 27.5-inch carbon hardtails, German company Focus is now tossing its hat into the ring with its new Raven 650b 1.0 – a close cousin of the existing 26" and 29" Raven carbon hardtails but with specific geometry to accommodate the new 'tweener wheels.
Focus is offering the new Raven 650b 1.0 as a single complete build for now that includes a Shimano Deore XT 3x10 group, a RockShox Revelation fork, and house-brand aluminum clincher rims built around Shimano SLX hubs with a thru-axle front and quick-release rear fitment. Actual weight for the bike pictured here is right around 11kg (24.3lb).
Lots of Bs: BB30 bottom bracket shell on the 650b Raven
We've yet to ride the new Focus hardtail but the geometry looks promising with a sub-70° head tube angle, 425mm-long chain stays, and 28mm of bottom bracket drop. Suggested retail price is $3,950 and bikes are available now.
Well-heeled fans of European road racing, on the other hand, might find interest in the new Izalco Team SL Ag2r team replica bike. Built around the company's top-end Izalco Team SL frame, the new replica machine features a Campagnolo Record EPS electronic group, 50mm-deep Fulcrum Racing Speed carbon tubulars wrapped with Schwalbe Ultremo tires, and a fi'zi:k Arione saddle.
Ag2r replica bike, complete with Campagnolo Record EPS electronic group
The one major exception to the team spec is the FSA cockpit as fi'zi:k currently doesn't have its new bars and stems in sufficient quantities.
Suggested retail price is $9,500 and Focus will also offer a lower-priced version built around the Izalco Pro frameset with Campagnolo Chorus for $3,800. Shipping is scheduled to begin in July.