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Merida eOne-Sixty SLThe first Light-E-MTB from Merida - with Bosch motor and downhill drive

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 25.04.2025

Merida eOne-Sixty SL 10k // Bosch Performance SX // 400 Wh // 160/160 mm / 29 inch // 19.5 kg // 10,999 euros
Photo: Manuel Kleinmann
The eOne-Sixty SL is not only Merida's first light e-MTB. It is also the first e-bike with a Bosch motor from the Swabian development department. We have all the information and a first test impression of the new e-bike.
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The eOne-Sixty from Merida was for years one of the few e-mountainbikes that combined strong trail characteristics, fun handling and good weight in a sporty package. And this is exactly where the SL model should pick up where it left off. Even lighter, even sportier. While the last new edition of the classic eOne-Sixty with Shimano motor While the 170-millimetre SL model is now even more downhill-heavy, the SL model with its lower weight and slightly reduced stroke should impress with more nimble handling and even more riding fun. Sporty riders in particular should benefit from this. It is the first Light-E-MTB from Merida - and there is a second première in this bike. In addition to the also brand new eOne-Eighty it is the first Merida with a Bosch motor!

The top model is the eOne-Sixty SL 10K for 10,999 euros with high-end equipment. Weight according to the manufacturer: 19.5 kilos.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe top model is the eOne-Sixty SL 10K for 10,999 euros with high-end equipment. Weight according to the manufacturer: 19.5 kilos.

In the video: BIKE checks out the Merida eOne-Sixty SL

The chassis of the Merida eOne-Sixty SL

The full carbon chassis of the Merida eOne-Sixty SL offers 160 mm travel at the rear and is fitted with 160 mm suspension forks. There are also roll-over 29er wheels. The geometry should also ensure good handling qualities. We would place the bike somewhere on the borderline between all-mountain and enduro. This is also supported by the generous approval for ASTM category 4 with a permissible total weight of 140 kilos. This is not a matter of course for a light eMTB.

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Despite a generous 160 mm travel, Merida has opted for a flex pivot design. This means flexible carbon seat stays instead of an additional joint in the rear triangle.Photo: Manuel KleinmannDespite a generous 160 mm travel, Merida has opted for a flex pivot design. This means flexible carbon seat stays instead of an additional joint in the rear triangle.The shock linkage is completely new. This also sets the bike apart from the other Merida e-MTBs in terms of looks.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe shock linkage is completely new. This also sets the bike apart from the other Merida e-MTBs in terms of looks.
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However, at 2.9 kilos, the weight of the frame is not exactly at a record level. Especially considering the weight-reducing measures of the Flexpivot and the permanently installed battery, this is rather a lot for a high-quality full carbon chassis. The complete bike shows this as follows: According to the manufacturer, the top model lands at 19.5 kilos. This is by no means a record, but the equipment is quite robust. "Enduro-tough", says Merida, and promises a particularly long service life. This is also reflected in the lifetime warranty on the frame.

The facts about the Merida eOne-Sixty SL

  • Motor: Bosch Performance Line SX
  • Battery: Compact Tube 400, permanently installed
  • Suspension travel: 160/160 mm
  • Wheel size: 29 inch, optional 29/27.5 possible
  • Full carbon frame with Flexpivot rear triangle
  • Weight: from 19.5 kilos (manufacturer's specification)
  • Prices: Three models for 6399, 8499 and 10,999 euros
  • Approval for ASTM category 4 at 140 kg gross vehicle weight
  • Lifetime guarantee on the frame
The cables run through the headset into the inside of the frame. What looks neat and tidy can sometimes lead to stress during servicing and tightening work.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe cables run through the headset into the inside of the frame. What looks neat and tidy can sometimes lead to stress during servicing and tightening work.
The SX motor from Bosch is hidden in the bottom bracket area. It impresses with its dynamic thrust and high maximum power with fast pedalling.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe SX motor from Bosch is hidden in the bottom bracket area. It impresses with its dynamic thrust and high maximum power with fast pedalling.

Motor and battery in the Merida eOne-Sixty SL

After years of producing e-bikes in close partnership with Shimano, the Merida eOne-Sixty opens up a new era. From now on, the e-bikes from the Swabian developer are also available with, fittingly (!), Swabian power. The light e-MTB is powered by Bosch's Performance SX. Although this is not exactly slim, it is very lively and powerful. Especially at high cadence.

>> Click here for the detailed test of the Bosch Performance Line SX motor!

The engine is well wrapped up. Countless ventilation openings are designed to supply the unit with fresh air and prevent overheating.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe engine is well wrapped up. Countless ventilation openings are designed to supply the unit with fresh air and prevent overheating.

The energy comes from the Compact Tube 400 and the battery is permanently installed in the down tube. This saves weight. For more range, the Merida eOne-Sixty SL is prepared for the installation of the Power More 250 range extender from Bosch.

No, that's not a battery cover, but a generous rubber coating to protect the frame. The Compact Tube 400 is permanently installed in the down tube.Photo: Manuel KleinmannNo, that's not a battery cover, but a generous rubber coating to protect the frame. The Compact Tube 400 is permanently installed in the down tube.
For more range, the optional Power More 250 can be clipped into the frame triangle. However, there is then no more room for a water bottle.Photo: Manuel KleinmannFor more range, the optional Power More 250 can be clipped into the frame triangle. However, there is then no more room for a water bottle.

Merida has opted for the slim and wireless mini-remote for the controls. In addition to the LED display system controller in the top tube, the new Purion 400 shows the most important data on a compact but very easy-to-read screen. The new display sits inconspicuously and well protected behind the handlebars.

For the display, Merida relies on the combination of a system controller in the top tube and the Purion 400 display on the handlebars.Photo: Manuel KleinmannFor the display, Merida relies on the combination of a system controller in the top tube and the Purion 400 display on the handlebars.The new Bosch Purion 400 display sits compactly behind the handlebars and provides a wealth of information. Easy to read!Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe new Bosch Purion 400 display sits compactly behind the handlebars and provides a wealth of information. Easy to read!The LED display sits on a cover plate. This is currently the case on many new Bosch bikes. We don't know the details, but it can only be a preparation for a future, larger Bosch display.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe LED display sits on a cover plate. This is currently the case on many new Bosch bikes. We don't know the details, but it can only be a preparation for a future, larger Bosch display.

The geometry of the eOne-Sixty SL

The geometry of the Merida eOne-Sixty SL in sizes XS to XL.Photo: MeridaThe geometry of the Merida eOne-Sixty SL in sizes XS to XL.

With five sizes from XS to XL, Merida also offers a wide range of frame sizes for the SL model. At 400 to 465 mm, the seat tubes are very short across the board. This means that every rider should be able to choose the right size according to their preferences and area of use. In Merida language, S does not stand for small, but for short. And L, logically, stands for long instead of large. The concept is not new, but works very well with the Merida geometry.

Thanks to short seat tubes, very long dropper posts fit into the bike - and Merida also uses this for the standard equipment. Here 240 millimetres in the XL frame.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThanks to short seat tubes, very long dropper posts fit into the bike - and Merida also uses this for the standard equipment. Here 240 millimetres in the XL frame.

The reach values land between 420 and 512 millimetres. The head angle is quite slack at 64 degrees, while the seat angle, typical of Merida, is really steep at 78.5 degrees. Drastic differences to the earlier eOne-Sixtys: the front ends up very low with a stack of 620 mm in size L and the chainstays are rather long at 450 millimetres. As with the eOne-Sixty CF Merida has thus bid farewell to the previous line with a very short rear and high front. The wheelbase of 1279 mm in size L is rather generous and the bike is thus trimmed for riding stability.

The stack of the eOne-Sixty SL is low due to the short head tube. On the top model, handlebars with a 40 mm rise ensure that the handlebar centre is not too low. The other models have lower handlebars.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe stack of the eOne-Sixty SL is low due to the short head tube. On the top model, handlebars with a 40 mm rise ensure that the handlebar centre is not too low. The other models have lower handlebars.As an option, the eOne-Sixty SL can also be ridden with a small 27.5 cm rear wheel. If you change the flip chip, the geometry remains unchanged. As standard, the bike is only available as a 29er.Photo: Manuel KleinmannAs an option, the eOne-Sixty SL can also be ridden with a small 27.5 cm rear wheel. If you change the flip chip, the geometry remains unchanged. As standard, the bike is only available as a 29er.

How the Merida eOne-Sixty SL 10K rides

On the trails in Santa Coloma de Farners, Spain, we were able to get a first ride impression of the new Merida eOne-Sixty SL. We got on the top-of-the-range 10k model, which costs € 10,999. Not enough for an in-depth test, but the varied terrain quickly provided plenty of impressions.

Fun and varied, with the odd challenge - but not too tough. This is how the trails near Girona presented themselves on our first test loop with the eOne-Sixty SL 10k.Photo: Manuel KleinmannFun and varied, with the odd challenge - but not too tough. This is how the trails near Girona presented themselves on our first test loop with the eOne-Sixty SL 10k.

Thanks to the super steep seat angle, you sit comfortably and rather compactly on the bike. The bike takes steep climbs in its stride, as the central position and the fairly long chainstays (450 mm) mean there is always plenty of pressure on the front. As a result, the e-bike follows steering movements very easily and makes most other light e-MTBs look old on the climbs, helped by the powerful and lively Bosch SX motor.

Built for trails: There's no need to shy away from difficult passages on board the eOne-Sixty SL.Photo: Manuel KleinmannBuilt for trails: There's no need to shy away from difficult passages on board the eOne-Sixty SL.

However, the bike is not ultimately light-footed and agile. The geometry is designed for balanced handling and riding strength. This means you can also tackle heavier enduro tracks with plenty of traction. The suspension works sportily and confidently and always keeps the rider up to date with what is happening underneath. With a pleasant progression, it has enough reserves for rough passages and harder impacts. But overall, it is not stingy with its travel. The bike doesn't quite come close to the plush handling of a full-blown high-end enduro bike.

Instead of uncompromisingly holding on, the eOne-Sixty SL can be used for small jumps.Photo: Manuel KleinmannInstead of uncompromisingly holding on, the eOne-Sixty SL can be used for small jumps.

The good suspension support and balanced geometry make for a fun ride. Overall, we found the bike to be very quiet. The Bosch SX remained quite quiet on our test ride. The rattling downhill was also discreet. All in all, the eOne-Sixty SL made a good first impression. Strong all-round characteristics and balanced handling characterise the speedster rather than outstanding abilities in a specific discipline.

Models and prices of the Merida eOne-Sixty SL

Lightweight construction is rarely cheap. This also applies to Merida. The entry-level model of the new speedster costs 6399 euros and comes with Marzocchi suspension. The top model with Fox Factory components comes in at 10,999 euros. In the golden mean, there is the eOne-Sixty SL 8000 model for 8499 euros with Rockshox suspension from the Select+ range.

Merida eOne-Sixty SL 6000 - 6399 Euro - 20.8 kg

  • Motor: Bosch Performance Line SX
  • Battery: Compact Tube 400
  • Fork/Shock: Marzocchi Bomber Z1 / Bomber Air
  • Gear system: Shimano Deore, 12-speed
  • Brakes: Shimano Deore 6120
  • Wheels: Shimano hubs, Merida Expert TR II rims
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai Exo+ Maxxgrip 29 x 2.5'' / Maxxis DHR II Exo+ 29 x 2.4''
The Merida eOne-Sixty SL 6000 costs 6399 euros.Photo: MeridaThe Merida eOne-Sixty SL 6000 costs 6399 euros.

Merida eOne-Sixty SL 8000 - 8499 Euro - 20.3 kg

  • Motor: Bosch Performance Line SX
  • Battery: Compact Tube 400
  • Fork/shock: Rockshox Lyrik Select+ / Superdeluxe Select+
  • Gear system: Sram GX Eagle Transmission
  • Brakes: Sram DB8 Stealth
  • Wheels: DT Swiss HX 1700
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai Exo+ Maxxgrip 29 x 2.5'' / Maxxis DHR II Exo+ 29 x 2.4''
The eOne-Sixty SL 8000 with Rockshox suspension is available for 8499 euros.Photo: MeridaThe eOne-Sixty SL 8000 with Rockshox suspension is available for 8499 euros.

Merida eOne-Sixty SL 10K - 10 999 Euro - 19.5 kg

  • Motor: Bosch Performance Line SX
  • Battery: Compact Tube 400
  • Fork/shock: Fox 36 Factory GripX, Float X Factory
  • Gear system: Sram XX Eagle Transmission
  • Brakes: Sram Maven Ultimate
  • Wheels: FSA SCi30 Carbon
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai Exo+ Maxxgrip 29 x 2.5'' / Maxxis DHR II Exo+ 29 x 2.4''
The top model eOne-Sixty SL 10k shines with Fox Factory components and many carbon parts. It costs 10,999 euros.Photo: MeridaThe top model eOne-Sixty SL 10k shines with Fox Factory components and many carbon parts. It costs 10,999 euros.Downhill strength instead of gram fiddling: Srams Maven brakes on the top model are a clear statement of robustness and riding safety.Photo: Manuel KleinmannDownhill strength instead of gram fiddling: Srams Maven brakes on the top model are a clear statement of robustness and riding safety.At the front, the super grippy Maxxis Assegai with soft sticky rubber provides plenty of grip and riding safety.Photo: Manuel KleinmannAt the front, the super grippy Maxxis Assegai with soft sticky rubber provides plenty of grip and riding safety.The top model comes with brand new carbon wheels from FSA.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe top model comes with brand new carbon wheels from FSA.The Sram Eagle Transmission is wirelessly connected to the gear lever. The power comes from the Bosch main battery.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe Sram Eagle Transmission is wirelessly connected to the gear lever. The power comes from the Bosch main battery.The Fox 36 Factory GripX is sensitive and well-balanced without overwhelming the rider with too many adjustment options. Merida saves the extra weight of the thick Enduro fork 38.Photo: Manuel KleinmannThe Fox 36 Factory GripX is sensitive and well-balanced without overwhelming the rider with too many adjustment options. Merida saves the extra weight of the thick Enduro fork 38.Merida also saves some weight on the shock and opts for the Float X instead of the thick X2. We think this makes sense for an all-round light eMTB.Photo: Manuel KleinmannMerida also saves some weight on the shock and opts for the Float X instead of the thick X2. We think this makes sense for an all-round light eMTB.

BIKE Conclusion on the Merida eOne-Sixty

The first impression of the new light speedster is a good one. The strength of the Merida eOne-Sixty SL lies more in its balanced handling and good all-round qualities than in outstanding top performance or record values. On the trail, the bike is good-natured and easy to control. You will look in vain for any real weaknesses. However, Merida cannot offer real bargain prices. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, Deputy Editor-in-Chief BIKE Magazine
Florentin Vesenbeckh is deputy editor-in-chief at BIKE Magazine. Specialising in e-mountain bikes.Photo: Georg GrieshaberFlorentin Vesenbeckh is deputy editor-in-chief at BIKE Magazine. Specialising in e-mountain bikes.
Florentin Vesenbeckh

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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