Focus Planet TR 2.0
For a fast urban weapon, Focus Bikes have you covered. The Planet series offers up super lightweight alloy framesets that are decked out with speed-friendly components to keep you moving past the traffic. The 2.0 gets a cleverly specced Shimano Alfine 8 speed internal gear hub that seals everything from the elements to minimise maintenance. For riders looking for a fast and efficient bike for daily commuting and city riding, you would be hard pressed to find a more suitable bike than the Planet series, which feature a lightweight alloy frameset, rigid alloy fork, fast rolling 700c wheels and a tall ratio gear set for spinning your way past angry drivers stuck inside their cars. While there are cheaper options available, few will be able to match the Planet's speed, lightweight and durable component selection that is built for the rigours of city commuting.
While the entry level Planet TR 5.0 is excellent value for money and no slouch in the performance stakes, riders that value ultimate simplicity and durability will be drawn to the Alfine 8 speed internally geared hub and modern belt drive system. By removing the external derailleurs and housing all of the drivetrain components inside the sealed rear hub unit, you still get 8 gears but with the simplicity of a singlespeed setup that requires very little maintenance. The belt drive replaces the steel chain used on regular bikes and aside from being about 1/10th of the weight, it is also stronger, longer lasting and does not require lubrication; maintenance-phobes rejoice! Like the rest of the Planet range, the TR 2.0 gets a fully rigid alloy frameset for lightweight and efficiency and the cockpit position is built for high speed handling precision. Even the Schwalbe Kojak tyres are built for speed, with a comfortable 35c width but slick tread pattern that maximises speed and grip on bitumen. Hydraulic disc brakes may seem overkill for a city bike but their all-weather performance, minimal maintenance and sealed design make them an awesome upgrade that you'll get used to very quickly.
The aggressive position of the Planet bike isn't for everyone; those with flexibility issues or riders who are after an upright 'Sunday picnic' bike might want to look elsewhere. But if you want to slice 'n' dice your way through traffic fast, this is your urban weapon.
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Frame
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Focus Urban Alloy
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Front Suspension
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Focus Rigid Alloy
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Wheels
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Concept Superlight with Concept SL Front disc hub and rear Alfine hub
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Tires
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Schwalbe Kojak 700 x 35c
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Shifters
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Shimano Alfine 8 speed
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Front Derailleur
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N/A
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Rear Derailleur
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Shimano Alfine 8 Speed
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Crank
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Truvativ Firex with Belt Drive Chainring
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Bottom Bracket
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Cartridge type
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Saddle
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Selle Royal Seta
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Seat Post
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Concept EX
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Handlebars
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Concept EX
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Stem
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Concept SL, 31.8mm
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Brakeset
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Shimano M445 hydraulic disc brakes; 160mm Front & Rear
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Focus bikes provide nimble handling and quality components