Merida eONE-SIXTY 700 Review

In the automotive and motorcycle world, Japan has always had a reputation for being a breeding ground for excellent engines. Shimano is doing its utmost to live up to this reputation in the e-bike world with the EP8 engine. No matter how steep or technical the climb is: the Shimano motor makes it conquerable! At the same time, the drive provides a well-rounded feeling while riding with a gentle power delivery. The average range can become a problem especially for long mountain bike rides.

The good Marzocchi chassis absorbs even larger roots with the calmness of a Buddhist monk. At the brakes, Merida instals upper class brakes with four pistons and large brake rotors from Shimano. The average shifting components and accessories leave some tuning potential open. For most e-bikers, this should be an acceptable point. When it comes to the geometry, Merida does not go completely crazy. The head tube angle and reach values were chosen with care. The result: A balanced riding behaviour with a good combination of playfulness and straight-line stability. The low bottom bracket height is a party pooper for the handling on the trail. On other bikes, you are more centrally located behind the handlebar. Short chainstays and and a slack seat angle make the front end light in steep climbs. To keep the front wheel on the ground, you need to consciously lean forward.