Focus Cayo Evo 2.0 Di2

For some reason there has been a surfeit of carbon bikes built with Ultegra Di2 available for what seem to be low prices this summer and fall.

First, I nearly avoided paying $2700 for a nice looking Felt Z3 at Merlin.  (Pleased to see some enterprising individual bought it from Merlin and relisted it on eBay for $500 more.)

I was too slow when Pricepoint's July 4 sale dropped their Litespeed Ci2 to an astonishing $1749 ($1999 with $250 off); needless to say that deal sold out quickly.  Too bad, too, because I had talked the Litespeed factory into giving me a free bumper sticker if I bought a Ci2.

I did not take the bait when the Pricepoint deal on the Litespeed Li2 went to $2500 minus 15% -- or $2125 -- because the reviews aren't perfect and the Litespeeds don't take 28mm tires.

Colorado Cyclist still has a very nicely built-up Fuji Altimira, including Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheels, for $2800, but thankfully their internet customer service is not terribly engaging and I was just annoyed enough not to take the plunge.

But Jenson finally caught me with the Focus Cayo 2.0 Di2.

Focus Cayo Evo 2.0 Di2

What happened?

First, at $2400 listed and less after some negotiation, the price was about perfect.  I've seen cheaper (Pricepoint) and I've seen better built-up (nearly anything from Competitive Cyclist), but this bike seems to sit right where those two curves meet.

Second, Focus bikes come nicely equipped at manufacturer spec.  Full Ultegra Di2 groupset -- not some FSA crankset painted to match the frame.  Carbon post and stem -- the latter a first for me.  3T Ergonova bars.  What mfr. specs with 3T Ergonova off the rack?  Focus, apparently.

Nate King at Jenson did me well with some build changes, including new Schwalbe One 28mm tires, upgraded cassette and chain, and a shorter stem.  Even with the changes I'm at $2399 delivered.

The reviews (and here) (and here) on this bike are superlative.  (Note that they are all from the UK.  Focus does not have much of a distributorship here in the US.  Now that it is owned by the same parent as Cervelo, one wonders if that will change.)  And Nate and Kemi (partners, I believe, and both semi-pro cyclists working at Jenson to keep the lights on while staying active in the industry) gave some great e-mail based customer service.  It is no joke to say this is the most engaging bike-purchase process I've ever experienced, up to and including the semi-customization on the Gunnar when I ordered it specially from the LBS (Revolution Cycles in Arlington).

The bike isn't quite done:

First, I don't have it yet:  after I return from Colorado, I hope. 

Second, I'm replacing the saddle with the WTB Rocket V Pro that was on the aluminum Cervelo before I cracked the head-tube. 

Third, I'm in the market for a good pair of lightweight daily-use wheels.  Merlin has the Ksyrium Elites for $423 shipped or the SLR for $850.  On the other hand, I'd just love to quit spending money on bike gear, so who knows.