For the 2015 season, Merida has also upgraded its One-Sixty enduro model to 27.5-inch wheels. As part of this change, the top tube was lengthened and is now intended to provide more control in combination with a 45 mm stem. To improve traction on steep climbs, the chainstays have also been increased to 438 millimetres. There are three Models of the Merida One-Sixtywhich range in price from 2250 to 3800 euros. All models are available in sizes S, M, L and XL.
The One-Sixty 7.900 is not lacking in features
We had the pleasure of testing the € 3800 top model in chic blue and red. The One-Sixty 7.900 is equipped with high-quality and reliable parts across the board. The majority of the parts come from Sram, such as the X01 cranks, which are fully suitable for enduro bikes. No matter how wildly you ride, the chain always stays in place thanks to the MRP chain guide.
Nothing is left to chance when it comes to the suspension either. The front suspension is a Rock Shox Pike, which has three compression modes and can also be lowered. The Rock Shox Monarch Plus DebonAir shock, which also has three platform settings, ensures a balanced suspension. However, the Climb mode on the fork is slightly harder than on the shock, but this is not really a problem when riding. For unrestricted enduro fun, a dropper post like the Reverb Stealth is of course a must. Deceleration is provided by Shimano XT brakes, while the Schwalbe tyres ensure the necessary contact with the ground.
Laboratory and measured values for the Merida One-Sixty
Now enough of the tech talk. When you first sit on the bike, you immediately notice the modern geometry with a long top tube. In combination with the short stem, you still have a comfortable riding position. The long head tube and the handlebars with a high rise ensure a high cockpit, which is particularly noticeable on steep downhill sections thanks to good control and a high level of safety. When climbing, however, the fork drop is a must. Despite the rather heavy weight of 14.25 kilograms, the bike accelerates well, which is partly due to the very good rolling tyres. Schwalbe Hans Dampf tyres at the front with semi-slick Rock Razor tyres at the rear.
The old song of the VPP rear end
As long as you ride with a steady pedal stroke in a seated position, the One-Sixty hardly feels any drivetrain influence. However, if you start pedalling out of the saddle, the VPP rear triangle has a noticeable influence on the drive. The chain pull pulls the shock apart. Unfortunately, the Monarch Plus shock cannot completely eliminate this effect, but the platform can limit it. Once it's going downhill, the One-Sixty is in its element. The handling is sufficiently agile despite the slack 65 mm head angle and the suspension absorbs all impacts sensitively. The Merida is constantly in its travel and you never feel like you're simply rushing through the travel. Unfortunately, the pedal kickback is noticeable even without pedalling in big compressions.
The One-Sixty in tough terrain
The Merida also cuts a fine figure when jumping and can be manoeuvred playfully through the air. You'll be disappointed after the obligatory wash after a ride, as this reveals a lot of minor paint damage. These could be minimised with a down tube protector or at least a paint protection film.
