Merida's fairly priced crosser is a little heavy for racing - but the bike is recommended as a robust all-rounder with a wide range of uses. Eyelets on the fork and rear triangle allow mudguards to be fitted - perfect for use as a winter racing bike on the road. The equipment is surprisingly high quality for the favourable price. Shift brake levers from the "old" "105" groupset are still a good choice, and the combination with the current 105 rear derailleur harmonises perfectly. The brakes used are the inexpensive "BB5" from Avid, which differs from the "BB7" mainly due to its more complicated adjustment. On the test bike, the front brake could not be adjusted without grinding due to a wobbling brake disc. Stiffer cable housings would also improve the braking function. The modulation leaves something to be desired.
Reference/Info: Merida & Centurion Germany GmbH, phone 07159/9459600, www.merida-bikes.com
Weight frame/fork/headset bearing*: 1,580/915/107 g
Frame sizes**: 48, 52, 55, 58, 62 cm
Seat/steering angle: 73°/71.5°
Seat/top/head tube: 555/545/144 mm plus 15 mm headset cap
Wheelbase/caster: 1,007/65 mm
Stack/Reach/STR :*** 550/375 mm/1.47
Equipment
Fork: Merida CC AL
Steering bearing: FSA Orbit X, 1-1/8 inch
Brakes: Avid BB5
Gear system: Shimano 105
Bottom bracket: FSA Gossamer (46/36 t.)
Wheels/tyres: Novatec hubs, Alex XD Lite rims/Maxxis Raze tyres
Handlebar/stem: FSA Gossamer/X-Mission
Saddle/post: X-Mission (27.2 mm)
*Weighted weights; **Manufacturer's specification, test frame size greased; ***Stack/Reach: projected vertical or horizontal measurement from centre of bottom bracket to top of headset cap; STR: (Stack to Reach) values between 1.45 and 1.55 indicate a sporty riding position, values below are race-like, above are comfortable.
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