Limitations

There is not much to say here really other than a few size issues. Even with the reach being adequate on paper the Merida does come in on the smaller side of things when out on the trail. Anyone over the six foot mark would surely need a larger frame to make things more comfortable?

This also goes for the seat dropper that is fitted to the bike. It could do with a 170mm post to get the seat higher for the climbs. I don’t feel that a dropper post should have to be raised in the frame when climbing, sort of defeats the object of having a dropper post in the first place.

Verdict

With this green machine coming in at over the five thousand pound mark and having some seriously hard hitting components, a super supple and fluid suspension system there really isn’t much to say other than positive things. If this silent lightweight trail bike was just a little bigger then I would have it as part of my arsenal without doubt.

With a class build including the DT Swiss EX 1501 wheelset to the SRAM Eagle X01 gearing there is plenty to rely on. Care needs to be taken on sizing but only those over six foot need to worry because in short it’s silent, fast, at a great price with those killer components. A brand that has gone to the next level in a short space of time challenging others that are in their comfort zone. 

PRICE: £5500

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