In addition to the frame triangle, the suspension strut linkage and the rear triangle, the handlebars and stem of the top model are also made of carbon.

Massively slimmed down
Although the specifications have not yet been determined in detail, the Taiwanese will reduce the overall weight of the bike by more than a kilogram. Despite differently constructed test bikes, their weight was around 10.8 kilograms. For the first print issue of the current year, the makers of Ride tested the "One Twenty HSF 3800-D". Although it is based on the same geometry, it still has an aluminum frame and weighs 12.1 kilograms.

Stiffer than the Ninety Six
The new bike also has improved stiffness values. According to Merida, the STW value (stiffness-to-weight ratio) is even better than the Ninety Six race fully. This is particularly noticeable when accelerating. Together with the lower weight, this is significantly improved. You have the feeling of sitting on a cross-country bike, if it weren't for the more upright sitting position due to the shorter handlebars and the offset, pleasantly wide handlebars. The "One Twenty Carbon" is also very torsion-resistant. It can therefore be steered precisely and, thanks to the shorter stem, more directly than its predecessor. The "One Twenty Carbon" rides through corners like a locomotive on rails - but without appearing sluggish.

Top all-rounder
With the new "One Twenty Carbon", Merida joins the top marathon bikes on the market in one fell swoop. It is agile in handling, powerful and, thanks to the slack steering angle of 69 degrees, easy to ride even on rough terrain. It is precisely there that it makes the bike calm and therefore also rideable for less experienced bikers - an all-rounder for everyone.

www.merida.ch