Here comes the next bike with a racing background: as soon as you sit on it, you can tell that the Ninety-Nine was built for the Multivan Merida racing team. The long geometry puts the rider in a sporty riding position, while the remote control for the shock lockout and the lack of a quick-release saddle also come from a racing background. Fortunately, the triple cranks have not fallen victim to the racing trend. The bike is a real joy to ride uphill, and reader Bernd rewards this with the maximum number of points. The Big Ninety-Nine feels agile and manoeuvrable, almost playful. Of course, you then have to steer carefully downhill, "choppy, fluttery", Bernd notes in the log. At high speeds, the bike needs an expert hand - racer style. Shimano's SLX groupset with XT shifters is great considering the price. Only the narrow tyres did not meet with the approval of the test crew - the limits come quickly.
ConclusionOne of the sportiest, most race-ready machines in this class. Attractive price, good equipment.
PLUS High-quality equipment for the money, clipless pedals included, frame up to 23 inches, 120-kilo load capacity, XT drivetrain
MINUS No quick-release saddle, mediocre paint quality
The alternative
The 800 euro more expensive Pro XT Edition model offers a 300 gram lighter carbon main frame with aluminium rear triangle and a Shimano XT groupset. The sizes here range from 15.5 to 21 inches.
