Bicycling Australia test the MERIDA Mission CX 8000

Think cyclocross and there’s a fair chance you’ll imagine a determined-looking, mud-covered rider with a bike over the shoulder and leaping a sign-written barrier.

Sure, that might be one of the true definitions and stereotypes of CX, but these days the sport—and the specialist bikes used in the short-course, obstacle-riddled pursuit—have diversified. Case in point, Merida’s latest high-end offering in this niche market segment: the Mission CX 8000.

A Striking Steed
First impressions of this striking steed were the aggressive upright geometry, smooth and sleek frame (that shares many design attributes of a high-end road bike), fine attention to detail, clean, minimalist lines, and concealed internal cabling.

Sculpted Carbon Frame
Frame-wise, Merida have done a particularly impressive job. ‘Sculpted’ comes to mind when closely studying the lines, particularly that of the oversized but smooth-flowing head tube and steerer. Finished in bright green with blue highlights, the bike is styled just as boldly as it is intended to be ridden.

Quality
Superb build quality here and the finish is second to none. Though this bike is clearly designed and built for hardcore CX action, it gleams when sparkling clean.

Performance
Fast off the mark, well geared for its intended purpose, a stiff frame and quick to respond.

Value for money
Coming in just shy of $5k with SRAM Force and perfectly passable DT Swiss wheels, initial impressions were a good value for money proposition.

Overall
An impressive bike, well designed and clearly refined by the R&D team at Merida.
 

Read Bicycling Australia's full review of the MERIDA MISSION CX8000 >>

By Nat Bromhead 4 April 2019