NEW BIKES OF 2019
Merida One-Twenty
Merida’s ‘do-it-all’ bike is getting the long, low and slack treatment for 2019, following similar updates to the One-Forty and One-Sixty. Merida says the updated geometry and frame design gives the bike a very playful character and more capability on descents but retains the handling precision and speed you’d expect from a 120mm travel bike.
Key changes include a lowered standover for better dropper post clearance and to create more space for the rider to manoeuvre. Head angle slackens out to a fairly balanced 68 degrees on the 27.5 version and 69 degrees on the 29er, while chainstays come into 440mm (27.5) and 445mm (29) for extra nimbleness while still allowing entry level models to run a front derailleur.
Merida are bringing three alloy models into Australia ranging in price from $1,999 to $3,699. The 400 and 500 models are available in 27.5” and 29” versions, with the 800 model available in 29er only. Our pick for the best ‘bang for buck’ model is the One-Twenty 500, which features a 12-speed NX Eagle drivetrain, reliable Shimano MT500 brakes and a Merida own-brand dropper post for less than $2,400.
Merida is also releasing a tricked-out 29er carbon edition for $6,999, equipped with a Pike RCT3 fork, SRAM X01 Eagle and FSA Gradient LTD carbon wheels.
Santa Cruz Bronson v3
One of Santa Cruz’s biggest selling bikes here
