New Merida Speeder: Flat-bar bike with 50 mm tyre clearance becomes a gravel commuter

Overview: A versatile everyday bike with gravel DNA

The new Merida Speeder blurs the line between a fast everyday bike and a versatile gravel bike. With 50 mm of tyre clearance, a relaxed geometry and numerous mounting points, it covers a wide range of uses. With its comfortable riding position and flat handlebars, Merida is targeting riders who cycle to work on weekdays and enjoy gravel rides or short bikepacking trips at the weekend. So this newcomer is certainly versatile. And the price is just right, too. With three models ranging from 899 to 1,599 euros, there’s something to suit every budget.

Key facts about the Merida Speeder 2027

• 50 mm tyre clearance for wide tyres and a more comfortable ride on gravel
• A shallower steering angle for a smoother ride on unpaved tracks
• 27.2 mm seat post for added comfort thanks to greater flexibility
• Two frame variants: Semi-low-step or diamond frame
• Many mounting points for mudguards, luggage racks and the like
• Flatbar concept with an upright seating position suitable for everyday use
• Area of application: Commuting, touring, gravel riding and bikepacking
• Three models: Speeder 100, 300 and 500
• Prices: 899, 999 and 1,599 euros
• Available from January 2027

50 millimetres open up new possibilities

With tyres up to 50 millimetres wide, Merida ensures the Speeder is well equipped to tackle rough terrain, even without a heavy suspension fork. Wider tyres enhance comfort and traction and give the bike greater reserves when the tarmac gives way to gravel. This clearly sets the Speeder apart from the classic fitness bike.

The geometry also follows this trend. Merida has given the new model a flatter head angle than its predecessor. This provides a smoother ride and greater stability, particularly when the terrain gets rougher. On fast descents, the Speeder should therefore feel less twitchy.

When it comes to comfort, Merida has also introduced a new seatpost diameter. The 27.2-millimetre-diameter seatpost allows for greater flex and protrudes further from the frame on the new model. This is designed to filter out vibrations more effectively. This should be particularly noticeable on longer rides and rough trails.

Two frames, three trim levels

Merida divides the range into two frame variants. The Speeder 500 features the higher-quality AL-A frame with ground weld seams in a carbon-look finish. The Speeder 100 and 300 models use the AL-C variant, which allows for more cost-effective production with a simpler, unfinished look.

Merida offers different specifications for its models depending on the price range. The Speeder 100 starts at 899 euros, followed by the 300 at 999 euros. The top-of-the-range Speeder 500 costs 1,599 euros.

All models are available with a classic diamond frame or a low-step geometry. In this way, Merida caters to different preferences when getting on and off the bike, without altering the Speeder’s basic design.

Ready for mudguards, luggage and bikepacking

The Speeder features numerous mounting points on the frame. Mudguards can be fitted, as can a luggage rack and accessories that can be attached to the frame triangle. This makes the bike an attractive option for the daily commute to work, whilst also providing a good basis for multi-day tours.

Merida has deliberately positioned the Speeder as a more versatile bike than a pure commuter or fitness bike. Anyone who enjoys long weekend rides on gravel and tarmac, or is planning a multi-day bikepacking trip, can use the same bike that takes them to work during the week.

Editorial commentary

Merida has not designed the Speeder to be either an uncompromising gravel racer with flat handlebars or a bike intended purely for everyday use. The bike is designed to handle several different uses at once: it combines everyday practicality with extra performance for sporty rides at the weekend or in your free time.

The combination of wide tyres, relaxed geometry, a comfortable seatpost and plenty of mounting points is particularly appealing. It makes the Speeder a versatile all-rounder suitable for long distances, whether for commuting, touring or bikepacking.

We’ll be finding out just how well the Speeder actually performs in practice in a detailed test coming soon.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

• 50 mm tyre clearance opens up a wide range of applications
• A smoother ride for gravel and rough tracks
• Potential for greater comfort thanks to the 27.2 mm seatpost
• Plenty of mounting points for everyday use and bikepacking
• Flatbar for an upright riding position and better control
• Three price tiers ranging from 899 to 1,599 euros

Disadvantages

• No fully equipped everyday version is available. Accessories must be purchased separately.