The MERIDA ONE-SIXTY has already been able to convince us in previous reviews. Back then the bike was held back somewhat by poor componentry choices, but surely this shouldn’t be an issue with a top-of-the-range modes. Or is it?
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The Crème de la Crème – Nine high-end enduro bikes of 2018 in comparison
170/160 mm (f/r) | 13.61 kg | € 6,999
We liked the MERIDA ONE-SIXTY before we even swung a leg over it – the low-key silhouette of the carbon frame looks very classy, and the bright green paint emphasizes its sporty character. A look at the details confirms the first impression: the internally routed cables, for example, are clamped at the entrance into the frame so that nothing rattles, and there is space in the front triangle for a bottle cage. With their choice of components, MERIDA left nothing to be desired and equipped the € 6,999 bike with a 170 mm RockShox Lyrik RCT3 fork and a SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain. The bottom of RockShox Super Deluxe shock is mounted to an extended section of the aluminium chainstays and thus gets compressed from both sides. This way stress on the carbon frame is reduced and led through the aluminium linkage instead. The carbon version is currently only available in three sizes (S, M, L). Tall riders will have to resort to the aluminium version which is available in size XL.
The MERIDA comes very close to the definition of the perfect enduro bike! We would only have liked a little more smoothness.
The MERIDA is a very comfortable bike. As you soon as you get on, you will notice the central and well-balanced seating position, which becomes especially noticeable on climbs. Even on steep climbs the front wheel remains sufficiently weighted, so there is no need for you to do too much work with your body weight. The rear suspension doesn’t bob or wallow under pedalling loads; you will only ever need to lock out the shock on very pedally paved sections. As soon as the trail turns downwards, the ONE-SIXTY convinces with a very sensitive rear linkage that swallows the largest of lumps with ease. Nevertheless, the bike feels very defined and never leaves the rider in the dark as to what is going on on the trail. The bike changes direction with ease, not needing much encouragement. The balance between the front and back wheel is excellent and requires little input from the rider, and yet the ONE-SIXTY is a lot of fun to ride and feels very lively. In comparison to the best bikes in this group test, however, the MERIDA reaches its limit a little earlier in demanding terrain. It doesn’t become uncontrolled, but the firm suspension lets the rider know to back off a little and get on the brakes.
The MERIDA ONE-SIXTY 8000 in detail
Fork RockShox Lyrik RCT3 170 mm
Rear shock RockShox Super Deluxe RCT 160 mm
Brakes SRAM Code RSC 200/180 mm
Drivetrain SRAM X01 Eagle
Seatpost RockShox Reverb Stealth 150 mm
Stem MERIDA Expert TR 35 mm
Handlebar MERIDA Expert TR 760 mm
Tires MAXXIS Minion DHR 2.4″
Wheelset DT Swiss EX 1501 SPLINE ONE
Weight 13.61 kg
Price € 6,999
The rear end of the MERIDA is a successful combination of sensitivity and feedback. It is sensitive over small bumps and stabilises towards mid-stroke. Over harder hits, the progression ramps up effectively.
The slim top tube with the striking frame shape pleases the eye
The MAXXIS Minion DHR II is the favourite amongst our test riders. It offers good grip in all conditions
The RockShox Super Deluxe has a trunnion mount. This way MERIDA can install a longer shock using less space.
The geometry of the MERIDA ONE-SIXTY
| Size | S | M | L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat tube | 400 mm | 430 mm | 470 mm |
| Top tube | 563 mm | 597 mm | 632 mm |
| Head tube | 100 mm | 110 mm | 125 mm |
| Head angle | 65.3° | 65.3° | 65.3° |
| Seat angle | 75° | 75° | 75° |
| Chaninstays | 430 mm | 430 mm | 430 mm |
| BB Drop | 6 mm | 6 mm | 6 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1166 mm | 1201 mm | 1237 mm |
| Reach | 415 mm | 445 mm | 475 mm |
| Stack | 592 mm | 601 mm | 614 mm |
Conclusion
The MERIDA ONE-SIXTY is a fantastic allrounder; it performs reliably on all sorts of terrain. It climbs efficiently and sends it downhill with direct and very balanced handling. It is a great bike for small mountain ranges and masters even demanding trails with confidence. However, those who like to really get loose will be happier on other bikes in this test.
Strengths
+ precise, balanced handling
+ efficient climber
+ a lot of fun
Weaknesses
– a bit nervous at high speed
– carbon version is only available up to size L
Uphill
Downhill
Stability
Agility
Value for money
For more info head to: merida-bikes.com
The test fleet
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The Crème de la Crème – Nine high-end enduro bikes of 2018 in comparison
All bikes in test: Cannondale Jekyll 1 | Canyon Strive CF 9.0 | Evil The Wreckoning X01 | Kona Process 153 CR 27,5 | Orbea Rallon M-Team | Santa Cruz Nomad 4 CC XX1 | Specialized Enduro 29 Pro | Trek Slash 9.8
This article is from ENDURO issue #032
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Words: Photos: Christoph Bayer, Valentin Rühl
