Focus Jarifa Impulse 27 Premium (2014)

Electric bikes are here to stay

Pros

- Well Integrated Battery System
- Quality Components
- POWER!

Cons

- Excess Weight
- Cheap Rims

Review

No, that is not a giant water bottle. It's a 32V battery unit to power your bike - while you pedal. That might not sound like true mountain biking to most of us, but think of those with other motives - lack of fitness, injuries, disabilities and more... It opens up a whole array of choices for riders who like the riding, but not necessarily the religious approach to training.

The Focus Impulse 27 Premium model features a nice selection of bits and pieces. Despite the battery adding the same weight as approximately 75 Gerbils (or three cats if you're more of a mainstream animal person), the bike is still aimed at a performance orientated ride.

The frameset is a stock aluminium setup designed to accommodate the requirements of mounting a battery. The forks complement this stiff and responsive frame well, offering substantial 'small bump' response and enough travel to swallow the big hits just as well. Rockshox have supplied the forks for this trail monster, fitting a set of Sektor Silver TK RL forks. These feature a 15mm Thru Axle, or Maxle for those in the know, offering increased steering response and handling.

The wheelset offers a heavy duty approach to riding, with a pair of Concept EX rims fitted with Shimano SLX hubs. We like the hubs, however the rims do seem a little on the cheap side - then again, their purpose is durability, especially since the concept of being lightweight went out the window with the battery pack.

We loved the selection of components on this ride, with a full assortment of Shimano XT treats. From XT shifter pods, to XT derailleurs and chainset. We do wish the crankset was also matching, instead of the Focus Impulse branded version (possibly for motor integration reasons).

Braking is provided by Magura, with their well known Magura MT2 braking setup. Offering reliable and precise braking control, these will see you through for many miles of riding.

The battery pack is the talking point though, and is the main reason you'd be looking at this style of bike. The bike features a 32V battery, powering your ride while you pedal. You can control the input of the motor via an LCD control on the handlebars. While in motion, you can select a variety of assistance, as well as controlling the speed via a throttle on the handlebars. It's all very well integrated, and will easily withstand the rigors of recreational mountain bike riding.

Recommended for anyone without the fitness, (or ability to attain the fitness), required for a decent trail ride or if you just want to go out and have some fun!