No Half Measures – New FOCUS SAM² On Test

The new FOCUS SAM² 6.0 wants it all – and doesn’t do things half-heartedly. It features a mullet wheel setup, 170/165 mm of travel and a 600 Wh battery, combining a sleek alloy frame and a coil shock. Heavy, tough, uncompromising? To find out how it fares, we put the new SAM² through its paces on the trails of Finale Ligure.

The SAM² is FOCUS’ most downhill-oriented eMTB – and in 2024, it impressed in our big e-mountainbike group test with its composed character and and confidence-inspiring handling. Now, the German manufacturer just gave their heavy-hitting eMTB a complete overhaul. A quick look at the spec sheet already reveals some key changes: travel has been reduced from 180/170 mm to 170/165 mm (front/rear), and the bike now relies on a mullet setup with a smaller 27.5″ wheel at the rear. This is intended to enable more agile handling – something we had criticized about the previous model. Despite the updates and rather small 600 Wh battery, the new SAM² 6.0 remains a heavyweight at 26.5 kg (size L). We put the €8,499 SAM² 6.0 through its paces on proper mountain terrain – uphill and downhill – to see how it fares in the real world.

The New FOCUS SAM² 6.0 in Detail

FOCUS noticeably overhauled the frame of the new SAM² 6.0. Compared to last year’s model, the welds in the upper section of the aluminum frame are much smoother, just like on the 2024 JAM². The result is a clean, seamless look that might even have some mistaking it for carbon at first glance. It’s only when you look at the bottom bracket area and swingarm that the coarser welds reveal what material the frame is made of. This mix of finishes creates a slight visual contrast, but FOCUS have cleverly played it up with a two-tone paint job: Steelgrey around the bottom bracket and rear end, and Nepalsilver on the upper main frame. We think that the new facelift looks pretty good. Combined with the red components, the bike gives off a fast, sporty vibe – even when stationary.

FOCUS didn’t just refine the welds – they redesigned the battery integration from the ground up. Gone is the slide-out battery of the previous model. In its FOCUS’ engineers created a large cover that spans the entire downtube, which makes it it alot easier to remove the Bosch battery. Once this is out, you’ll find a familiar feature carried over from the JAM²: a dedicated mount for an AirTag or Chipolo tracker. While it won’t prevent thieves from stealing your bike, it gives you a better chance of recovering your bike if they manage to get their hands on it. A soft yet effective chainstay protector and a fender between the seat tube and chainstays shieldthe frame against stray rocks.

With the new C.I.S. 2.0 stem, the cables rear brake line and dropper post cable are routed differently than before. Instead of running straight into the head tube through the stem, they now disappear into the spacers under the stem, which ensures a much cleaner look. FOCUS also paid attention to smaller – yet important details: the cover of the charge port is solid and high-quality, and there’s plenty of space for a water bottle in the frame. Andor those who like to embark on longer rides, the integrated frame bag is a welcome feature – there’s enough room for a spare tube, multitool, and other trail essentials.

The spec of the FOCUS SAM² 6.0

The FOCUS SAM² 6.0 relies on a Bosch Performance Line CX motor, which delivers up to 600 watts peak power and 85 Nm of torque. On our test bike, it draws its power from a 600 Wh Bosch PowerTube 600 battery. For the top-tier 6.0 spec variant we tested, FOCUS rely highly-adjustable RockShox suspension consisting of a 170 mm ZEB Ultimate Charger 3.1 fork and matching RockShox Vivid Coil Ultimate coil shock. The spring rates are tailored to each frame size. A small but super useful feature is the SAG indicator on the coil shock, which makes it easier to set up the suspension. The cockpit has seen some changes, too: the new SAM² 6.0 ditches the traditional display found on the previous model, and instead relies on a tidier setup with a Bosch System Controller integrated into the top tube, and a Mini Remote on the handlebars. This combination is easy to use and minimises distractions on the trail. The 800 mm OneUp handlebars give you plenty of control, while the OneUp V3 dropper post offers a generous 210 mm of travel in size L.

A robust electronic SRAM GX Transmission drivetrain ensures butter-smooth gear shifts even under load. The FOCUS SAM² 6.0 rolls on a sturdy DT Swiss HFR 1700 aluminum wheelset, fitted with Schwalbe Magic Mary tires front and rear, both in the Super Downhill casing and Ultra Soft rubber compound. While FOCUS haven’t yet opted for the new radial version of the Magic Mary, this combination is still clearly focused towards maximum downhill performance, both in terms of traction and puncture protection. That said, if you don’t want to be swapping tires every couple of months, you might want to consider swapping the “Ultra Soft” rubber compound for the slightly harder “Soft” compound, at least at the rear. This still offers plenty of grip, but has a significantly longer service life. To keep the bike’s substantial weight under control on the descents, FOCUS spec the SAM² 6.0 with powerful SRAM Maven Silver brakes and oversized 220 mm rotors front and rear. All in all, the spec of the FOCUS SAM² 6.0 is top-tier across the board – and on paper, it’s more than ready to tackle serious terrain.

Tuning tip: consider using a tire with a harder rubber compound for a longer service life.

FOCUS SAM² 6.0 – Model variants and spec options

The FOCUS SAM² is available in three different spec options: the entry-level SAM² 6.8, the mid-tier 6.9, and the top-of-the-line 6.0 model we tested. Across the entire range, FOCUS stick to a consistent formula: all models come with an aluminum frame, coil shock, mullet wheel setup, and a Bosch Performance Line CX motor. Buyers can choose between a 600 or 800 Wh battery – except for the 6.0, which comes stock with the 600 Wh version but can also be upgraded to 800 Wh after purchase, just like the other models. With prices starting at €5,699, the SAM² 6.8 is the gateway into the SAM² dimension. It comes equipped with a 600 Wh battery, a FOX 38 Rhythm fork and FOX DHX Performance coil shock. For the tires, FOCUS rely on a proven MAXXIS combo: Assegai up front and Minion DHR II at the rear. Shimano supply the Deore drivetrain and matching Deore brakes. The SAM² 6.8 is available in two color options: Lightgrey/Macha or Urbangreen/Magicblack.

The SAM² 6.9 retails from €7,199 and comes with a 600 Wh battery. The rest of the spec includes a FOX 38 Factory fork and FOX DHX Performance coil shock. Shifting is taken care of by a cable-operated SRAM GX drivetrain, while powerful TRP DH-R EVO brakes do stopping duties. The SAM² 6.9 is available in two color options: White/Steelgrey and Steelgrey/Darkviolet.

The Geometry of the FOCUS SAM² 6.0

The FOCUS SAM² is available in four sizes, S,to XL. Our test bike in size L has a generous 490 mm reach, which might seem long but perfectly matches the character of a gravity-focused bike that’s built for speed and stability. Like its predecessor, the new SAM² features adjustable headset cups that allow you to change the head angle by 1° between 63.5° or 64.5°, depending on whether you’re looking for more stability or a more agile character.

A flip chip in the rear triangle allows you to fine-tune the chainstay length, adjusting it from 441 mm to 448 mm – giving you even more control over how the bike handles.

The new FOCUS SAM² 6.0 on the trail

We put the FOCUS SAM² 6.0 through its paces on the rough, technical trails of Finale Ligure as well as our home turf around Stuttgart – exactly the kind of terrain where a long-travel eMTB with burly components is meant to shine. But does the SAM² even know what limits are?

Uphill, the SAM² impresses with a comfortable, upright riding position, with the weight evenly distributed between the hands and saddle. The CX motor provides powerful support, making it easy to gain elevation despite the bike’s hefty weight. Meanwhile, the sensitive suspension smooths out small bumps with ease – without bobbing excessively. On technical climbs, the FOCUS SAM² 6.0 really shines with outstanding traction. This is partly due to the grippy Schwalbe tires, which can be run at low pressures thanks to their thick Super DH casings – delivering maximum grip with minimal risk.

Once at the top, it’s finally time for the FOCUS SAM² 6.0 to shine in its true element. Here it makes you feel at ease from the get go, inspiring huge amounts of confidence in the process. Handling is intuitive, and the bike gives you a strong sense of control right away. You feel deeply integrated into the frame, which is perfect in steep sections and rough terrain.

The generous travel of the dropper post adds plenty of freedom of movement when things get rowdy. The long wheelbase ensures next-level composure, while the overall heavy system weight keeps the bike glued to the ground – both of which help you hold your line with absolute precision. Drops, harsh landings, high-speed rock gardens? The SAM² 6.0 tackles it all without batting an eyelid. The suspension offers massive reserves and irons out even the nastiest brake bumps. The only downside? In technical sections, you have to be careful not to smash the pedals into obstacles.

But there’s another side to the story: on flowy trails, the SAM² 6.0 feels noticeably more subdued, and lacks a tad of playfulness. The rather heavy system weight comes at the expense of agility, and the plush suspension tends to suck up lots of momentum, making it harder to pop off the ground. It takes considerable input and energy to keep things going and maintain speed. It almost feels like the bike is constantly yearning for rougher terrain. In technical, chunky sections, the FOCUS SAM² 6.0 sticks to the ground Velcro – crushing roots and rocks with brute force rather than floating over them.

Who Should Take a Closer Look at the FOCUS SAM² 6.0?

The FOCUS SAM² 6.0 is a thoroughly thought-out and consistently executed bike for riders looking for a bombproof eMTB that won’t let them down – even on the gnarliest descents. If your priority is downhill performance and you don’t need a playful or agile ride, the SAM² is right up your alley. Thanks to its fair pricing and durable components, it’s also a top pick for budget-conscious riders who don’t want to compromise on reliability. And while it’s clearly built for descending, it can handle long rides and climbs too – even if that’s not what it’s built for. It’ll still get you to the trailhead comfortably and with great confidence.

Conclusions About the new FOCUS SAM² 6.0

The FOCUS SAM² 6.0 stays true to its roots – quite literally. With rock-solid composure even in the roughest terrain and a bombproof spec, it’ll take you to your limits long before it ever reaches its own. If you’re into flowy, playful trails, keep in mind: the SAM² is built for full-blast shredding and hard lines – it doesn’t do things half-heartedly. But if that’s what you’re after, you’ll be rewarded with a sharp-looking alloy frame, high-quality components, and a price that’s more than fair for what you get.

Tops

• High-quality, bombproof spec
• Outstanding downhill performance in technical terrain
• Solid climbing capabilities
• Fair pricing

Flops

• Feels sluggish on flow trails

For more information, head over to the FOCUS Website.

Words: Lars Engmann Photos: Robin Schmitt