“This is an expensive bike, but you get a lot for your money. It is an e-assist bike, which means it only helps you if you are working already. However, when the road steepens and your speed drops below 25kph a smooth "breeze" comes in behind and helps you up the slope.
The experience of having the assistance kick in is like driving an electric car for the first time. A sense of wonder, and a feeling of "what have I been missing all this time?". It is highly addictive, so test ride with caution.
Without the assist engaged it is light and agile to ride "normally". The 2 x 11 gearing gives lots of flexibility. The assist can provide around 110-120 km of riding so you have to go a long way to be left stranded. The three levels of assist are adequate. I rarely need more than the basic assist, but it is reassuring to know there is extra help there if the hills get really steep, or your body fails you and you have to limp home.
For someone with a long term injury or physical problem it is magical. I have a new hip and a very old knee and I am unable to stand up in the pedals on hills anymore, so my riding was limited. The Merida has opened up all my old rides and given me a new lease on life. It has been an excellent investment and a huge amount of fun.”
