At first glance, the design of the affordable Merida appears somewhat uninspired; however, many frame details such as the unconventionally shaped down tube or the pull stops give the bike a certain independence. The frame is one of the lighter ones in the test field and the fork, which is stiff in all directions, contributes to the unshakeable riding stability. In view of the tight budget, there was little room for highlights in the equipment. The functionally flawless "Tiagra" groupset is joined by simple "WH-R500" wheels from Shimano, which are even lower than the "WH-RS10". There are also simple add-on parts. The seat post has a technically overhauled screw-in clamp.
ConclusionComparatively light and stiff frame with playful details; the equipment lacks glamour.
Web: www.merida-bikes.de
Weighed weights, complete bike without pedals; **Test frame size greased; ***Projected dimension from centre of bottom bracket to top edge of head tube; ****Saddle to head tube rise at 75 cm seat height (centre of saddle frame - top edge of headset cap)
