Focus Izalco Max 9.8 dreamviolet/blackmetallic 2026

Focus Izalco Max 9.8 carbon road bike, dreamviolet/black metallic - 12-speed Force AXS 2026

The Focus Izalco Max 9.8 dreamviolet/black metallic 2026 is a high-end aero carbon road bike designed for cyclists seeking the optimal balance between performance, precision, and integration. It sits at the top of the IZALCO MAX range with a race-oriented configuration, incorporating benchmark components and advanced power analysis.

This version combines the ultra-light MAX carbon frame with a Reserve one-piece cockpit, a SRAM Force AXS 2x12 speed electronic drivetrain with integrated power meter, and a set of DT Swiss ARC 1600 carbon wheels. The package aims to maximize aerodynamics, stiffness, and efficiency at high speeds and on climbs.

Frame

Frame

MAX technology carbon frame, disc brake compatible, 142x12 mm rear thru axle, Flat Mount for 160 mm front and 140 mm rear rotors. Claimed frame weight in size M: 865 g, fork weight: 400 g.

Geometry and design

Tubes and profiles refined and validated in the wind tunnel according to NACA standards. Bottom bracket optimized for rigidity and fork designed for lateral rigidity, promoting power transmission and stability in corners, especially at high speed.

Transmission

Controllers

SRAM Force AXS E1.

front derailleur

SRAM Force AXS E1.

rear derailleur

SRAM Force AXS E1, 12 speed.

Cassette

SRAM XG-1270, 10-33 teeth.

Chain

SRAM Force E1.

Crankset

SRAM Force with AXS Power Meter, 48/35 tooth chainrings.

Bottom bracket

SRAM DUB86, PF41 standard.

Brakes

Brake calipers

SRAM Force E1.

Brake discs

SRAM Paceline, 160 mm diameter at the front and 140 mm at the rear for sizes XXS to L, 160 mm at the front and rear for sizes XL to XXL.

Wheels

Wheels

DT Swiss ARC 1600 Dicut carbon, rim height 55mm, internal width 22-622.

Tires

Vittoria Corsa Pro, tubeless ready, dimensions 28-622 front and rear.

Components

Cockpit

Reserve One-Piece Cockpit in carbon, reach 75 mm, drop 125 mm, flare 6°, angle -10°.

Steering game

ACROS IS 52 / IS52 with full FOCUS CIS integration

Saddle

fi'zi:k Vento Antares R5.

Seat post

FOCUS Aero Carbon, D-profile. Offset 0 mm for sizes XXS to L, offset 15 mm for sizes XL to XXL.

Weight

7.5 kg in size M, in standard configuration and without pedals.

Maximum permitted weight

110 kg.

About the Focus Izalco Max 2026

The 2026 Focus Izalco Max range marks a major evolution in performance-oriented road cycling. The models have been completely redesigned, both in terms of specifications and positioning, with new components, new groupsets depending on the version, and updated pricing. All models in the 9 series now come with an integrated power meter, clearly demonstrating the competitive and demanding nature of this new generation.

For maximum integration and optimized aerodynamics, all models in the 9 series are equipped with a Reserve one-piece cockpit. The new Izalco Max models are also available in new colors, reinforcing the visual identity of a completely redesigned range.

Speed as a founding principle

The Izalco Max was designed around one central question: what is the essence of a road bike? Focus's answer is clear and uncompromising – speed. Every element of the bike contributes to this goal, without compromise. The Izalco Max isn't designed for relaxed riding, but for maintaining a high and consistent pace, ride after ride.

This model combines advanced aerodynamics, high rigidity, and controlled lightness to meet the expectations of cyclists looking for a fast bike in all situations. The engineers focused their efforts on the most crucial aerodynamic gains, notably through redesigned NACA profiles offering a significant improvement in efficiency.

Aerodynamic integration has been taken to the smallest detail. A standard water bottle positioned on the downtube is almost entirely sheltered from the wind, generating minimal drag of just 0.3 W. At 45 km/h, the Izalco Max thus saves 6.6 watts and is 1 minute and 47 seconds faster over a distance of 45 km compared to its predecessor.

Rigidity, comfort and control at high speed

Achieving the ideal balance between stiffness and comfort is one of the major challenges in designing a road bike frame. This aspect has been particularly well addressed on the Izalco Max 2026. The rigid bottom bracket and optimized fork, offering excellent lateral stiffness, allow for efficient power transfer and a tangible gain in performance.

The geometry has been refined to facilitate cornering, especially at high speeds. This evolution improves rider confidence and allows for greater commitment in fast lines. The Izalco Max thus retains its comfortable and playful character, recognized qualities that directly contribute to overall performance.

Integration, personalization and ergonomics

The CIS Route system allows for complete cable routing and concealment under the stem, contributing to a clean aesthetic and measurable aerodynamic gains. The cockpit also integrates a Wahoo and Garmin compatible mount. It's possible to attach a light or action camera if needed. The design also allows for easy removal of the stem from the handlebars, simplifying maintenance and transporting the bike in a bag.

Starting with the 2026 model year, the seatpost configuration changes depending on the size. Sizes XXS, XS, S, M, and L come standard with a 0mm offset seatpost, while sizes XL and XXL receive a seatpost with a 15mm offset. For models produced before 2026, all sizes were equipped with a 15mm offset seatpost.

The Izalco Max is available in seven frame sizes and can be paired with a stem in six lengths, from 70 to 120 mm. This modularity allows for precise adjustment of the riding position, with the option to add or remove spacers without altering the bike's lines. The zero-offset seatpost, available in 350 and 400 mm lengths, offers additional adjustment options to accommodate different body types and riding position preferences.

Controlled lightness and carbon design

The Izalco Max isn't a pure time trial bike, but a road bike designed to be as light as possible while still achieving high standards in aerodynamics, stiffness, and carbon fiber quality. The frame weighs 865g for the 9 series and 1050g for the 8 series in size M, plus an additional 400g for the fork.

The weight of a frame results from numerous parameters, such as aerodynamics, stiffness, and carbon fiber composition. Any modification to one of these elements inevitably impacts the final result. The Izalco Max is therefore not limited to a bike designed solely for climbing, but is a complete platform conceived for riding fast, long, and efficiently on all types of roads.

Please note that the specifications may be changed without prior notice by the manufacturer, based on the availability of components and other factors.