Nine years ago, Merida launched the first One-Twenty model on the market - back then with 26-inch wheels. A year later, the carbon version was introduced. It was not until 2015 that the One-Twenty was given the shape that is still recognizable today. And yet many things are different: the steering angle of the new CF4 carbon frame has become significantly slacker at 67.5 degrees. The old one was 69 degrees. At the same time, Merida's engineers shrank the chainstays of the Twentyniner by ten millimeters. This should give the frame the optimum balance between smoothness, maneuverability and good climbing qualities.

The One-Twenty also has nothing to hide when it comes to weight. Including the rear shock and all mudguards, seat clamp, thru axle etc., the frame weighs a good 2,400 grams - a very respectable figure. Furthermore, the frame is designed for 1x shifting systems and optimized for chainring sizes from 32 to 34, so that the so-called pedal kickback is hardly noticeable during compression.

Proven features have been improved

While the Float-Link system is still used, the linkage of the shock absorber has been kept slightly more compact. This reduces the leverage effect on the shock absorber. This requires less air pressure, which has the advantage for heavier riders in particular that they do not have to push the air pressure to the limit - the shock thanks them with a longer service life
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The space "between the legs" has also been optimized. This gives the rear end a little more tire clearance, which means that with 2.35-inch tires on a rim with a 30-millimeter width, it still offers enough air for a little more mud to slip through.

With a 455 millimeter reach in size L, the frame is not too long and not too short - perfectly balanced according to Merida. The standover height is also kept low, so that a 150 millimeter Vario seatpost is guaranteed even with frame size M.

The durability of the frame has also been improved. Compared to 150,000 load cycles on the test bench, the new frame can withstand 300,000 cycles with an additional 20 percent more load. For example, the steering head has also been made wider and the bearings up to 30 percent larger.

Models

From the One-Twenty models, Merida offers six models for the Swiss market: The 9.8000 with carbon main frame and rear triangle with Sram's X01 Eagle groupset and high-end suspension elements from Rock Shox. One below is the One-Twenty 9.6000 model with a carbon main frame and aluminum rear triangle with the GX Eagle groupset. This is followed by the aluminum models with XT equipment with 29-inch wheels or 27.5-inch wheels as the Juliet version for ladies. The range is rounded off by two aluminum models in more affordable ranges.

The machine for the World Cup

Merida is expanding its gravel range with the Mission CX. However, not with a comfortable bike, but with a race file with a UCI-approved frame with race-oriented geometry. Tire clearance also plays a major role here: the Mission CX can take up to 38 millimeters, so there is still enough space between the stays. The highlight here: The stiffening bridge between the seat stays can be removed. This allows additional space to be created for cross-country races in particularly muddy conditions. However, this is only possible with carbon frames. The bridge is permanently welded to the aluminum frame.

The Mission CX frame is prepared for 2x and 1x shifting systems. For the latter setup, the mounting device can be removed.
As far as the weight is concerned, it seems a little heavy at just over 1000 degrees and 400 for the fork. But for a race-ready frame where stiffness and durability are just as important, this is an absolutely good value.

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