Mountain bikes are getting more and more expensive. 2020 has done nothing to change this - quite the opposite. Because real discounts or super bargains are hard to find in the year of the bike boom. Merida has correctly interpreted the signs of the times and has put together a particularly attractive package with the Big Trail. Trail fun for little money is the motto! Starting at 849 euros, the top model for 1599 euros is already decently equipped and is primarily aimed at the UK market. However, it is sure to find fans on the mainland too.
Flat geometry, two bottle cages, clever details
However, the highlight of the Big Trail is not only the attractive price-performance ratio, but also the geometry. The flat steering angle of 65.5 degrees in combination with 2.5-inch wide Maxxis Dissector tyres, 29-inch wheels and 140 millimetres of travel at the front should ensure safety off-road. The lowerable seat post gives beginners and professionals alike more freedom of movement on the bike. Thanks to a particularly low standover height, even small riders can choose large frames for a smoother ride or install extra-long Vario seat posts in small frames. For long tours, two bottles can be mounted in the frame, while a tool sits under the saddle in the top model and is therefore always to hand in case of doubt. A third pair of threads is located under the top tube and can accommodate a tool kit with tube, pump and tyre levers, for example, so that the rucksack can stay at home. Thanks to the Sram UDH derailleur hanger, spare parts storage shouldn't be a problem if the bike does end up in the mud.
From 849 euros - prices and equipment
The Big Trail 200 starts at € 849, with a weak fork, but at least 1x10 Deore with a wide gear range (11-46 teeth). The same drivetrain is found in the Big Trail 400 (€1099), which also comes with a retractable seatpost (S: 125mm, M, L, XL: 150mm) and a better fork (SR Suntour XCR 34 Air). The Big Trail 500 (€1299) with its Rockshox Recon fork, dropper post and 1x11 Deore drivetrain (10-51 teeth) offers real trail performance. The top model Big Trail 600 for 1599 euros goes one better with Marzocchi Bomber Z2 and the latest 1x12 Deore drivetrain with 10-51 teeth.
All information about the new Merida Big Trail can also be found on the Website of the manufacturer.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
