eBIG.NINE

SPORTY RIDE OR SPEEDY COMMUTER

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The eBIG.NINE has an extensive list of new and improved features in comparison to its predecessor. As part of the MERIDA 'sport' e-mountain bike family, it is designed as a real e-mountain bike, while incorporating some selected attributes from the MERIDA e-trekking category. That means, besides the modern design and the sportive oriented geometry, it comes equipped with fender and carrier mounts. The latest generation of the eBIG.NINE features in-tube battery technology, and all models are powered by either the EP801 or EP6 power units from Shimano STePS.

The current eBIG.NINE is already in its fourth generation in this MERIDA e-bike category and it's an important part of our line-up. As internal 'in-tube' batteries become more and more popular for e-bikes, we had no doubts about moving to an in-tube frame design for the eBIG.NINE. Besides the battery integration, we also focused on increasing the tyre clearance and moved all bikes to a larger 29" wheel. On the eBIG.NINE 2.2" tyres can be used when fenders are fitted, while riders can go up to 2.35" without fenders. Like its predecessor, the latest eBIG.NINE has a very low stand over height, but it now features 29" wheels from the smallest to the biggest frame size, giving excellent roll-over properties to help smooth bumps and maintain control.

INTENDED USE

The MERIDA eBIG.NINE is the perfect hardtail e-mountain bike for those riders want a performance mountain bike with a bit of assistance. With the non-equipped version, you'll be able to have a lot of fun on mountain tours and on cross country trails. If you're looking for a reliable, sporty but still comfortable e-MTB for relaxed cycling tours or for commuting in any weather condition, the fender and carrier equipped 'EQ' versions are the perfect choice.

Our eBIG.NINE offers a more upright riding position in comparison to regular performance MTBs and the 100 mm suspension fork and 2.35" wide tyres provide more comfort and a safer riding experience than a sportive e-trekking bike. The low stand over height, especially in the small frame sizes, makes it easy to get on and off the bike, especially for shorter riders.

KEY COMPONENTS

OPTIMISED CENTRE OF GRAVITY

Based on the central position of the battery in the lower part of the down tube and the low position of the Shimano motor, we were able to achieve an optimum centre of gravity. The low and well-positioned centre of gravity provides the bike with outstanding riding characteristics which make themselves known on more demanding off-road sections.

EXCELLENT FRAME STIFFNESS

The outstanding frame stiffness also has a strong influence on the riding characteristics of a bike with an integrated battery. The tapered steerer tube with a large 1.5" to 1.5" diameter headtube, the 34.9 mm (internal diameter) seat tube, the cast motor bracket and the 148 x12 mm rear through axle all contribute to achieving a safe and precise riding experience.

CERTIFIED SYSTEM WEIGHT

The system weight of a bike is the combined weight of bike, rider and additional luggage. The allowed system weight for the eBIG.NINE and eBIG.NINE EQ is 140 kg. As an e-bike is already heavier than a regular bike, and as it also makes it easier to transport larger amounts of luggage, it is imperative to certify a higher overall system weight. All MERIDA e-bikes, as well as all used componentry, go through a rigorous and e-bike specific testing schedule which mimics the higher forces and strains to guarantee the rider the highest level of safety.

ENERGY GUARD TWIST

The MERIDA ENERGY GUARD TWIST is a two-component battery cover, which offers easy and fast access to the battery while protecting it from outside impacts. The twist-lock mechanism that is located at the top end of the battery cover allows tool-less locking and unlocking of the protective internal battery cover.

INTEGRATED BATTERY

The eBIG.NINE range is equipped with either the Shimano 630 Wh battery or the high-capacity unit from Trendpower, featuring 750 Wh (depending on model). These two batteries are optimised for integration into the down tube. They are equipped with modern, up-to-date battery cells, which are very durable and long-lasting.

WATER BOTTLE MOUNTS

The eBIG.NINE offers the possibility to fit a water bottle or accessories like a lock or pump to the frame. The frame has (standard) bottle bosses on top of the down tube and at the seat tube, where a special adapter offers a very low mounting position, allowing maximum seat post insertion depth (guaranteed in all frame sizes).

MERIDA EXPERT CC SEAT POST

For all eBIG.NINE in-tube bikes the seat post diameter was changed from its predecessor’s 30.9 mm to now 34.9 mm. The main reason for this is to further improve the frame stiffness by increasing the tube diameters of the seat tube. On top of that, the bigger diameter of the seat tube blends in much better in the overall frame design.

MERIDA COMP TR REAR AXLE

With the removable rear axle lever, the rear axle can be tightened. The lever also works as a 6 mm and 4 mm Allen key. With the 4 mm key, the battery can be removed, and parts like the seat clamp and the stem can be tightened.

MERIDA COMP CC RIM

A modern, very strong and durable 29" rim with 20 mm inner width, which fits the needs of the eBIG.NINE perfectly. We use 36 spokes in the rear to increase the stiffness of the wheelset even further and to improve the ability of the rear wheel to handle the extra power the motor transmits via the chain and sprockets.

LEZYNE FRONT AND USB REAR LIGHT

All eBIG.NINE models come with a front and rear light. The eBIG.NINE EQ models feature the latest Lezyne Power Pro front and the Spanninga light that is integrated into the rear carrier. Both lights are powered by the main battery and can be operated from the Shimano display unit. The 775 and 675 non-EQ models also feature the impressive Lezyne Power Pro front light, combined with a USB rechargeable rear light. The front light is attached securely to our stem clamp plate, keeping the light perfectly fixed to the bike without cluttering the cockpit area. The eBIG.NINE fitted lights offer excellent visibility during the day as well as evening and dawn rides.

HIDDEN KICK-STAND MOUNT

The latest eBIG.NINE frames offer hidden attachment points for a kick-stand underneath the chain stay, perfect for making the bike more versatile if used as an ‘SUV’ bike.

MERIDA EXPERT eTR COCKPIT

The EXPERT eTR cockpit offers internal cable routing for the e-system cables through the handlebar and stem for an extra clean and organised look. The latest eTRII stem also features secure attachment points for the Lezyne front light via its unique clamping plate. As all our e-bike specific parts, the eTR cockpit is tested for a 140 kg system weight.

RIDE THE REVOLUTION

SHIMANO EP801 AND EP6 DRIVE UNITS

From 2024, the entire eBIG.NINE range is powered by the impressive EP801 or EP6 (model-specific) motor from Shimano. The EP801 unit delivers a maximum power output of 85 Nm, similar to its predecessor, the EP8, but the peak power of EP801 has increased from 500 W to 600 W, giving the motor more grunt in demanding riding situations.

The EP6, the latest addition to the Shimano motor line-up, offers the same performance figures as the EP801 (85 Nm) but houses them in an aluminium motor housing rather than the magnesium version of the EP801. The peak power of the EP6 is the same as the outgoing EP8 at 500 W. While the output of the two motors is almost identical, the EP6 is approx. 300 g heavier than the top-of-the-line EP801.

Paired with the high-capacity 630 Wh battery from Shimano or Trendpowers 750 Wh power block, the EP801 and EP6 systems deliver an impressive range, making it easy to cruise for longer or do more runs.

Further to that, both motors have seen upgrades in connectivity, making the unit more future-proof and ready for the latest shifting technology.

BATTERY INTEGRATION

Through the extensive use of hydroforming on the down tube and the precise laser cutting of the tube opening for the battery, as well as the perfectly matching two-component plastic cover, we have integrated the battery seamlessly into the lower part of the down tube. This is consistent throughout the various frame sizes. Charging is easily possible through the nicely integrated charging port at the motor bracket. Also, the battery is perfectly integrated into the down tube, yet it is possible to remove it for charging or when in transport. A further advantage of the battery being integrated into the down tube is the perfect protection from an impact which can occur when the bike falls over or is involved in a crash.

With the additional hole at the down tube, the battery can be turned on from deep sleep mode. That’s necessary when the bike has not been used for longer than 6 months, or when the battery of the on/off switch is empty (this battery is normally charged by the main battery). To wake the battery up again, just push a 4 mm Allen key (best to use the lever of the MERIDA COMP TR axle) through the hole, pressing the hidden button underneath.