17/10/2023

BIG.NINE called ‘outstanding’ by Germany’s MOUNTAINBIKE magazine

Our recently launched BIG.NINE 10K hardtail was able to convince Germany’s MOUNTAINBIKE magazine (10/2023) from start to finish and secured the highly sought-after ‘outstanding’ seal of approval.

"The geometry has been longer and slacker to make it suitable for tricky race tracks or trail-heavy after-work rides". The chainstay length of the new BIG.NINE "grows with the frame size", and the "seat tube is short in order to allow for more seat post exposure". This generates more comfort through "targeted flex". Useful features such as fixing points for two bottle cages on the downtube, a further ‘TRAIL MOUNT’ tool attachment, a threaded bottom bracket and extensive frame protection can also be found on the new BIG.NINE. The beautiful CF5 high-end frame with a weight of 800 g (in size M) was also highly praised.

Test editor and XC expert Lukas Hoffmann was particularly impressed by the new BIG.NINE in terms of riding performance and comfort: "From the first second, the MERIDA surges briskly ahead" and can be brought up to speed quickly. "Root-littered sections or bumpy meadows are noticeably filtered out by the flexing seat post". The "top handling" also shines on flowing and demanding trail sections.

Here are a few elements that really stood out for the test crew:

  • Perfect mix of high comfort and "crisp" acceleration
  • Very light, high-quality carbon frame with modern, exciting geometry
  • Impressive handling
  • Only high-end parts and power meter included
     

CONCLUSION BY TESTER LUKAS HOFFMANN: 
"MERIDA hits the mark with the new edition of its classic. No XC hardtail has thrilled me like the BIG.NINE for a long time, especially in terms of comfort."

That's what the bike is suited for:
"Luxuriously equipped, light and hugely efficient, the BIG.NINE 10K is ready for the next race. With its progressive geometry, impressive handling and a good injection of comfort, it is also a lot of fun on the trail and shows that classic race hardtails still have a right to be here."

Note: All texts and quotes are translated from the German original.

For the full specification and frame features of the new BIG.NINE 10K, please click the link underneath DISCOVER THE BIKE.

To find out more about the bike, including key features, R&D and design thinking, as well as the intended use, please check the micro page here.   

To see the complete BIG.NINE range, please click here.  

Note: The bike tested was the MY2024 BIG.NINE 10K.