The Merida "FLX" carbon bike has been in use since 2004 and undergoes a model update every season. The 2008 test bike, which has been put on a diet, was already successfully slogged around the world's courses by the Multivan Merida racing team in the 2007 season. Compared to the previous model (BIKE 6/07), the frame weight has been reduced by 80 grams, and the complete bike is even 800 grams lighter thanks to different equipment (including 500 gram lighter wheels). Like the Centurion, the frame is made of "high modulus" fibre and nano-matrix as a monocoque. Racers will be delighted with the bolted grips, carbon bottle cage and bar ends. These provide the final kick when sprinting uphill. The right-hand chainstay has a chainsuck guard, but no neoprene impact protection. Bumpy passages are therefore accompanied by loud chain rattling. The 2008 version of the Merida is finally one of those bikes that you instinctively want to ride fast on. The test riders gave the bike - together with the Scott "Scale" - the most race-like riding characteristics. No wonder, as it is the workhorse of the world's elite. Downhill you feel safe, the bike is plush, subjectively the curved "Flex Stay" rear stays and the offset seat post give a certain level of riding comfort.
CONCLUSIONsporty, light, perfectly equipped. The revised Merida takes second place in this test.
TUNING TIP: Fit chainstay protector.
