The 2016 Focus Izalco Max E Bike combines lightweight carbon construction with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain and Fazua Evation motor system, delivering race-ready performance and pedal-assisted efficiency. Ideal for endurance riders and competitive cyclists, it offers a 400Wh battery, 60Nm torque, and modular design for customizable power output. Despite being discontinued, it remains popular on secondary markets for its balanced engineering.
How long does a 1000W ebike battery last?
What Are the Key Specifications of the Fazua Evation System?
The Fazua Evation 1.0 drive system delivers 60Nm torque through a 250W motor, syncing with the bike’s 48V/250Wh battery (expandable to 400Wh). Riders can toggle between three modes: Breeze (100W assist), River (210W), and Rocket (400W). The system’s “Black Pepper” mode disengages the motor completely, reducing mechanical resistance to 0.3% for unassisted riding.
| Mode | Power Output | Battery Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| Breeze | 100W | 8Wh/km |
| River | 210W | 14Wh/km |
| Rocket | 400W | 22Wh/km |
Advanced riders appreciate the system’s predictive power delivery, which analyzes cadence changes 0.2 seconds before torque application. This anticipatory algorithm reduces lag to 50 milliseconds – faster than human neuromuscular response times. The battery’s modular design allows hot-swapping during rides, though Focus recommends keeping at least 10% charge to preserve cell integrity. Field tests show the 400Wh configuration sustains 300W assistance for 90 minutes on mixed terrain, making it suitable for century rides with 1,500m+ elevation gain.
How Does the 2016 Model Compare to Newer E-Road Bikes?
While lacking modern features like Bluetooth connectivity or torque-sensing pedals, the 2016 Izalco Max E outperforms many 2023 e-bikes in raw efficiency. Its Fazua system provides 90 minutes of sustained 300W output vs. 120 minutes in current models, but the mechanical groupset durability (tested to 15,000km between services) remains unmatched. Residual values hold at 65% of original MSRP versus 45% for newer competitors.
| Feature | 2016 Model | 2023 Average |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Weight | 3.2kg | 2.8kg |
| Torque Smoothing | Mechanical | Digital |
| Service Interval | 15,000km | 8,000km |
The bike’s analog power delivery proves advantageous for racers needing instant response – modern torque sensors introduce 150-200ms delay while processing multiple inputs. However, newer models offer 20% better energy recovery on descents through regenerative braking systems. The Izalco’s T47 bottom bracket standard future-proofs it for contemporary crankset upgrades, allowing compatibility with 2023 power meters that require 30mm spindles.
FAQ: Key Concerns Addressed
- Q: Can the battery be replaced in 2023?
- A: Yes – Focus offers OEM replacements ($490) through authorized dealers. Third-party options like Grepow GPL-24500 cells ($320) provide 5% more capacity but void warranties.
- Q: What’s the maximum tire clearance?
- A: Officially 28mm, but 30mm tires fit without modification on non-disc models. Disc brake variants accept 32mm rubber with 6mm chainstay clearance.
- Q: How does motor assistance affect Strava segments?
- A: The Fazua system’s cadence sensor can trigger Strava’s “e-bike mode,” excluding rides from leaderboards. Disabling assistance in Black Pepper mode avoids this but requires manual recording adjustments.
“The 2016 Izalco Max E pioneered the ‘invisible assistance’ concept that’s now standard in premium e-road bikes. Its analog ride feel remains unmatched because modern torque sensors over-smooth power delivery,” notes Tomas Richter, former Fazua engineering lead. “Pro teams still source these frames for training – the geometry handles 28mm tires better than 80% of 2023 aero bikes despite being designed for 25s.”
While lacking contemporary smart features, the 2016 Focus Izalco Max E Bike delivers exceptional durability and ride quality that maintains relevance. Secondary market prices range from $3,800-$5,200 depending on battery health – a 40% savings versus comparable new models. Its modular design allows upgrades to Fazua’s newer Evation 1.1 motor (retrofit kits available), extending viability through 2028.