Although the consistently realised carbon frame weighing 960 grams is 80 grams heavier than in the previous test, it remains at the top of the test field together with Scott and Canyon. With its elegant carbon wheels, golden Fox fork and matt black design, the € 500 more expensive version exudes a touch of elegance. Nevertheless, we still gave it a good fango pack on the race track. The sporty riding position is undeniable thanks to the long top tube. Short chainstays and a steep steering angle ensure agile handling and allow the hardtail to scurry nimbly round corners. The 1x11 drivetrain from Shimano with the new 11-46 cassette provides gears similar to Sram's Eagle, even on climbs. On long gravel descents, however, the last gear is missing with a 32 chainring. The wide Race King tyres impressed all the testers, despite their low profile.
Conclusion: Test winner. Low weight, top equipment and pure riding pleasure. The Big.Nine is a sporty all-rounder.
The alternative: For Sram fans, there is the Big.Nine Team with 12-speed drivetrain and SID fork for 5999 euros.
Markus Schulte-Lünzum: The Merida performs superbly in every situation, whether marathon, cross-country race or tour - a true all-rounder. It's a shame that it won't be competing for World Cup victories in 2017.
