Focus Cayo Pro 2008

Review from Cycling Plus

Frame: Fantastically light and stiff carbon construction - 10/10

We loved last year's Cayo frame, but after several tweaks the 2008 version is even better. We don't want to give you cliches about German efficiency but that's really what this frame is all about, transferring your power as directly as possible into pure road speed.

Equipment: SRAM Force kit adds a new dimension - 9/10

After just a couple of rides, SRAM's Doubletap shifting system feels natural and our setup worked faultlessly throughout testing. Ten percent lighter than Dura-Ace, the Force dual pivot brake callipers provide a decent balance between power and control while the headset, stem and seatpost are all good quality offerings from FSA.

Wheels: Well proven hoops for training and racing - 8/10
We're fans of Fulcrum's Racing 3's. The smooth sealed-bearing hubs do a good job of keeping out water and grime while flat profile steel spokes slice through the air with the minimum of disruption.

Handling: Fast and responsive perfomance; superb on the climbs - 10/10
A short(150mm) head-tube and just 15mm of spacers means that the Focus's ride position is low and aggressive which, alongside the light weight and the efficient character of the frame, makes for a really fast bike. The Cayo Pro cruises along swiftly on the flat and irons out gentle inclines without any bother. Hitting the serious stuff is no problem either, and you find yourself floating up climbs that can reduce you to a wheezing wreck on a bike 4-5lb heavier. As for coming down the other side, well, some bikes of this weight can skitter about on the descents, particularly if the road winds a lot or the surface is uneven, but the Focus stays well planted at speed, giving you the bottle to lay off the brakes for longer.

In conclusion...

We've really got nothing negative to say about the Focus's performance...we love it, and we reckon most other riders will too. The sharp handling and superb responses mean that if you're in the market for a £1500-£2000 bike that delivers high performance the Focus Cayo Pro demands your serious attention.


Light, Sharp and super-responsive, the Cayo Pro is setting the pace in its price category.

Rating: 10/10