AMB reviews BIG.NINE SLX-Edition

As part of their 'Budget Hardtail test', Australian Mountain Bike reviewed the Merida BIG.NINE SLX-Edition, resulting in some great feedback, such as: "The Merida Big Nine climbed like a dream, and made short work of rolling firetrails and nicely prepared singletrack – which is common in most riders' local singletrack networks."

"The Big Nine is best on those fast, swoopy trails."

"Zipping from corner to corner, and stabbing the pedals to get a bit more speed for small step ups was all taken well within the Big Nine's stride. Out of the saddle and hauling on the bars, the Big Nine responds as you'd expect, and the Shimano 12-speed drivetrain shifts under load admirably."

However, it sounds like that what they were most impressed by, is the spec list of the BIG.NINE SLX-Edition:

"The Shimano SLX drivetrain is a stand out for shifting performance, and the brakes have excellent feel and stopping power."

"The Merida BIG NINE SLX-Edition stands out for a few reasons in this group test. It has the best overall group set, and this will result in a bike that has smoother shifts, even under load, for longer. Parts that have a longer service life mean you will be able to enjoy riding the bike for longer between services, and they will likely have a longer life as well."

"On the whole, this is a thorough parts package, and one certainly in keeping with what the Merida Big Nine is targeted for."

"What made it fantastic to ride was how well the brakes and gears worked through the entire test period. I think that seamless shifting and reliable braking go a long way towards a rewarding riding experience, and the Merida Big Nine really nails that."

"Meeting friends for a quick ride on the trails at 6, but need to be at the office by 8? No stress, the Big Nine is a fantastic bike to punch out the commute, as much as it suits some fast laps on the local trails."

Learn more about BIG.NINE SLX-Edition here.

Read the full review from Australian Mountain Bike Magazine in issue #203, on their website here. 
Or, you can check out the video below.