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Is this still a trekking bike? The Merida eFloat CC with knobbly tyres, long fork and dynamic frame design is clearly inspired by the mountain bike sector. No wonder: after all, Merida has been focussing on sporty off-road products for years.
But don't be fooled. The eFloat also has many genuine trekking features. It even offers a mounting option for a front carrier in front of the head tube and even has a practical frame lock. This is no longer a matter of course on modern trekking e-bikes.
Merida eFloat CC 500 EQ: Data, facts & price
- Bike category: E-Trekking
- Motor: Bosch CX, 85 Nm max. torque
- Battery: 800 Wh (removable)
- Display: Bosch Purion 200
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Frame shapes: Trapezoid, diamond
- Price: 4399 Euro >> available here
- Weight: 29.2 kg (test bike in size L, EMTB measurement)
- Permissible total weight: 150 kg
- Guarantee: on the frame for life
- Special features: Front pannier rack option, MTB tyres, height-adjustable variable seat post ex works
Merida has opted for a high stem so that the MTB-inspired frame does not put the rider in an overly sporty riding position. A practical height-adjustable dropper post ex works is familiar from MTBs. The so-called Tele post can also be a welcome help on a touring bike. The pannier rack comes from the factory with a practical three-point mount. If you want to use classic panniers, you can simply unscrew the three-point parts. This is very well thought out.
Bosch CX motor & 800 watt hours
Plenty of power with ideal modulation and high dynamics: The new Bosch Performance Line CX sets standards in the 85 Newton metre class and also provides the Merida with quiet and emphatically powerful propulsion. Experience has shown that the CX also makes good use of its battery. With a full 800 watt hours in the down tube of the Merida, really long tours are also possible.
Nice: When going slightly downhill, the Bosch motor inspires with extremely low pedalling resistance even over 25 km/h. Merida relies on the minimalist Purion 200 all-in-one solution for the display, which is stylish, sits compactly on the handlebars and provides a lot of data. However, the mini screen does not offer a navigation function.
The features of the Merida eFloat CC 500 EQ
With a dropper post, pannier rack with three-point system, front rack option and solid mudguards, the Merida's equipment is very versatile. However, this does not only have advantages. At over 29 kilograms, the bike is quite heavy even for an SUV e-bike and is difficult to manoeuvre or even lift. The many features and the high-quality lighting cost a lot of money in total, which can no longer be invested in other equipment. For example, the brakes, saddle and grips are a little plain.
- Circuit: Shimano Cues U6000 (10-speed)
- Translation: 38 / 11 - 48 teeth
- Brakes: Shimano MT200
- Tyres: Maxxis Rekon, 62 mm
- Lighting system f. /h.: Lezyne Hecto E350+ / Spanninga Commuter Glow XE integrated
- Luggage carrier: Merida HD Carrier, 25 kg
- Fork: SR Suntour X1
Practical test: How the Merida eFloat rides
How does the mini SUV from Merida ride? Firstly, a short off-road excursion: The grippy Maxxis tyres score points here. However, the simple suspension fork only responds reluctantly and the brakes bite moderately. So you shouldn't expect a real off-road ace.
It's better to stick to less steep and more tame trails with the eFloat CC. Thanks to its long geometry, the Merida runs very smoothly, but is noticeably less manoeuvrable in city traffic and tight bends than classic trekking bikes. The less comfortable grips and the wide handlebars with little rearward bend are also noticeable here at the latest.
The solid frame is very stiff at the rear and passes on impacts from potholes or kerbs somewhat harshly to the rider. On long tours, you might miss the navigation function on the Purion display. However, as an uncomplicated bike for everyday use, the Merida does quite well once you get used to the somewhat sluggish handling.
The pannier rack with spring clip also handles larger loads with ease, while the large battery ensures a long range even when loaded. The Lezyne headlight illuminates dark country lanes well and has a stylish finish. The height-adjustable dropper post provides comfort at every traffic light stop.
MYBIKE review of the Merida eFloat CC 500 EQ
Strengths
- Many luggage options
- Design enables a wide range of applications
- Very smooth running, even when loaded
Weaknesses
- Not very handy
- Frame and fork could offer more comfort
- Small display
The MYBIKE conclusion
The Merida eFloat CC is well equipped and secures some points with its high-quality e-drive system, good luggage transport and mudguards. Unfortunately, our test bike sits somewhat between two stools. The fork and brakes are too simple for off-road riding, while other bikes score points for trekking with more comfort and more intuitive handling. Complaining on a high level, the Merida still performed well in the test. - Adrian Kaether, Test Manager MYBIKE
Adrian Kaether
Editor
