I read a review somewhere on the focus that was quite positive. I just spent $1000 on a Specialized rockhopper 29 at a local shop and I love it. It does have way lesser components, (shimano alivio drivetrain, tektro brakes, suntour fork etc...) than some bikes in its price range but I decided on it because I really like specialized frames and I like the company overall. So far it has performed great and as I go on I will just upgrade everything as it wears. I couldint find a shop with a Focus around here but I did want to look at one in person.