Compliments for the look of the RACE Lite 905-com. The frame looks dynamic and modern, all the add-on parts match the colour of the paintwork and the overall impression is harmonious. The initial enthusiasm is somewhat dampened by the weight. Because the bike comes close to the nine-kilo mark, the riding impression is somewhat sluggish, and the difference to the lighter models in the test is particularly noticeable on climbs. Downhill, however, you can give the bike the spurs without hesitation. The suspension remains unwaveringly on track, thanks to the high riding stability of the frame and fork as well as the stiff DT-Swiss wheels. All in all, the bike is a recommendation for cost-conscious powerhouses with aesthetic aspirations. However, we wouldn't mind if it were a little lighter.
Price 1599 Euro
Weight 8.7 kilos
Available in specialised shops
Reference/Info www.merida-bikes.de
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 1.683/451/97 g
Frame sizes** 50, 53, 56, 59, 62 cm
Seat/steering angle 73°/73°
Seat/top tube/head tube 565/570/184 mm plus 23 mm headset cap
Wheelbase/caster 1,000/57 mm
Stack/Reach/STR*** 574/397 mm/1.45
Equipment
Fork Merida
Steering bearing FSA, top 1-1/8, bottom 1-1/2 inch
Brakes/gears Shimano Ultegra
Bottom bracket FSA Energy (50/34 t./BSA)
Wheels/tyres DT Swiss R1900/Vittoria Rubino Slick
Handlebar/stem FSA Gossamer/FSA OS190
Saddle/post Selle Italia Q-Bik/FSA Team Issue (31.6 mm)
*Weighted weights. **Manufacturer's specification, test size greased. ***Stack/reach: projected vertical/horizontal measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the headset cap; STR (stack to reach): Values from 1.45 to 1.55 indicate a sporty riding position, values below that are race-like, above that comfortable.
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