Just a glance at the suspension characteristics determined in the BIKE test lab below shows where the journey is heading: lots of travel, fairly linear characteristics, with a central riding position to match. If you wanted to make a statement, you'd say: The Merida is a well-balanced all-rounder, a touring bike by definition. However, the One.Twenty is not a real mountain goat. Even if the lockout remote for the fork - an unnecessary gimmick in this category - might suggest this in the shop. The bike has nothing to do with marathons, but rather with technical challenges downhill, uphill or profiled - you choose the destination that Merida follows. The choice of tyres (grippy compound at the front), the clear position and the capable suspension ensure a safe riding experience on the downhill test lap, and it's completely uncomplicated to arrow over root carpets and rock edges - after manually lowering the seat post by a few centimetres as a precaution. The sensitive rear end also increases traction on the rear wheel when climbing.
ConclusionBehind the inconspicuously timeless appearance lies a high-quality equipped touring bike. The only thing missing for perfection is a telescopic seat post.
The alternative: Merida offers the One-Twenty in sizes M and L alternatively as a 29er. This makes the bike more touring orientated. In terms of price/performance, the 900cc version for 2849 euros is particularly exciting.
