Florentin Vesenbeckh
· 02.03.2024
The sporty eOne-Sixty all-terrain projectile and the more moderate eOne-Fourty traditionally go hand in hand at Merida. The latest upgrades are based on the same cornerstones. Based on the non-motorised One-Fourty and One-Sixty variantsthe two e-bike platforms are based on the same frame construction and similar features. Attention was paid not only to off-road performance, but also to useful details and ease of maintenance.
The Merida eOne-Fourty has less suspension travel than its big brother and is less radically designed for off-road riding. Rather, as an all-rounder, it is intended to cover many areas of use between city, everyday life, excursions and trail tours. The newcomer is also available with full SUV equipment to match. In other words, a complete lighting system, pannier rack, kickstand and mudguards. The aluminium frame and the moderate, rather inexpensive equipment keep the price within reasonable limits. With prices between 5349 and 5799 euros, all eOne-Fourtys avoid extreme spheres. However, there is no truly affordable entry-level model.
The new e-bike platform from Merida comes in a triumvirate. Merida speaks of the eTrilogy. In addition to the moderate tourer and SUV eOne-Fourty, there are two new versions of the racy E-Enduro eOne-Sixty. Both come with a generous suspension travel of 170/173 mm and a sporty enduro design. The difference between the eOne-Sixty CF (carbon frame) and eOne-Sixty Lite (aluminium frame) lies not only in the chassis but also in the battery concept. While the lightweight CF rolls onto the trail with a permanently installed 600 watt-hour battery, the heavier Lite relies on the same cornerstones as the eOne-Fourty. The two models have the aluminium main frame and the removable 750 battery in common, so to speak.
Merida continues to rely on its proven partner Shimano when selecting the motor. The eOne-Fourty model uses the new EP801 e-bike motor throughout, which offers significantly higher performance compared to its predecessor, the EP8. The set-up drive is characterised by an excellent power-to-weight ratio, as at around 2.7 kilograms it is noticeably lighter than, for example, the Bosch Performance CX (Click here to test the new Shimano EP801 in the lab and in practice). Merida also made a wise decision not to use the cheaper EP6 for the basic models. The smaller brother of the EP801 not only weighs more, but also offers noticeably less power.
The geometry of the Merida eOne-Fourty is characterised by surprisingly generous reach values with a moderate wheelbase. The steering angle is steep at 66.5 degrees, which should ensure neutral steering behaviour and a manoeuvrable riding experience. The extremely steep seat angle of over 79.5 degrees should place the rider far forward on the bike. This is unusual for a moderate touring bike. The front is flat with short seat tubes and a low stack.
Merida attaches great importance to giving customers the freedom to choose from three different frame sizes for their e-bike. This allows the bike to be better customised to the intended use and personal preferences. This is made possible by the fact that the differences in the sizes are mainly reflected in the reach and wheelbase, while the differences in the seat tube and head tube are kept to a minimum. This concept is also supported by a specially developed telescopic seatpost that can be adjusted from 30 to 230 mm. This combination of short seat tubes and adjustable telescopic seat post achieves an optimum mix of appropriate seat height and comprehensive freedom of movement, regardless of the frame size.
Merida invented the creative term "agilometre" for this type of size classification. Under the motto: How agile (or smooth) should it be? With five different sizes from XShort to XLong and a range of reach values from 431 to 511 millimetres, the eOne-Fourtys offer a wide selection.
The new Merida eOne-Fourty is available in two equipment variants, each in two colours. Both models are also available with full equipment, i.e. pannier rack, mudguards, lighting system and kickstand. With otherwise identical equipment, there is a surcharge of 100 euros. The starting price is 5349 euros.

Editor CvD