New 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY on test – A high-performance eMTB for all situations?

The new MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K rolls into the 2024 season with a powerful Shimano EP801 motor, 600 Wh battery and practical everyday features, promising to deliver a tremendous performance on the trail with its full-fat motor and smaller battery. But is the eye-watering € 11,599 price tag justified? We put MERIDA’s 170/174 mm eMTB through the wringer to find out.

The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K has long been an integral part of MERIDA’s portfolio, but it certainly isn’t resting on the laurels of its past success! It’s not the first time we’ve tested the eONE-SIXTY, so we’re quite familiar with it. The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 975 already secured victory in our budget group test under € 6,500, where it proved an excellent all-rounder. But how does the latest 10k variant fare on the trail? Can it impress us once again? The MERIDA team relies on the same sophisticated geometry and sizing concept they’re using with their enduro bikes, transferring it to their e-mountainbikes for the first time. The new eONE-SIXTY boasts a fresh, stylish new design and combines a mullet wheel setup with 170 mm of travel, both front and rear. For the motor, the Taiwanese manufacturer relies on a new Shimano EP801 drive, which draws its power from a 600 Wh Trendpower Simplo battery. Our test bike retails at € 11,599 and tips the scales at a very respectable 21.8 kg (size M).

The 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K in detail

Look closer, and try to see if you find any similarities to the analogue MERIDA ONE-SIXTY enduro bike. Do you? How could you not! The new MERIDA eONE-SIXTY boasts the same elegant appearance, with a white paint finish and golden accents providing the proverbial icing on the cake. The full carbon frame relies on the same sleek, rectilinear design language as its analogue counterpart, with the shock merging seamlessly into the seatstays.

As the name suggests, the flex stays are designed to provide additional compliance, which is achieved through a special shape and carbon layup. This makes an additional pivot point superfluous, reducing the bike’s complexity and thus simplifying servicing – and it also saves a bit of weight. Like its predecessor, the latest iteration of the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY features the distinctive radiator grille on the head tube.

The new eONE-SIXTY also comes with MERIDA’s signature mini-tool under the saddle, which is extremely practical but is only protected by a thin rubber cover, meaning that it gets dirty very easily, especially when riding in muddy conditions. The seat tube and main bearing, on the other hand, are well protected against the elements by a big plastic mudguard. The mini-tool is complemented with an integrated tool strap on the underside of the top tube, which allows you to attach a spare inner tube or other trail essentials directly on the frame. A generously sized chainstay protector prevents paint chips and chain slap, ensuring a quiet ride on rough descents.

The MERIDA also owes its clean appearance to the tidy cockpit. The cables are discreetly tucked away under the handlebars and disappear into the frame through the headset, making conventional cable ports superfluous. However, the clean look comes at the expense of user-friendliness, as the internal headset routing makes it a lot harder to service the bike.

The Shimano EP801 motor of the new 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY

Like its predecessor, the new MERIDA eONE-SIXTY comes equipped with a Shimano motor. However, for the 2024 season, MERIDA replaced the old 500 Watt EP8 drive with the new, more powerful EP801 motor, which is seamlessly integrated into the frame and delivers 85 Nm of torque and 600 watts of peak power – and isn’t too bulky, despite its powerful performance.

The motor draws its power from a 600 Wh battery, which is permanently integrated into the frame, meaning that you’ll have to carry your bike into your house if you don’t have a plug in the garage – or a garage at all. A little tip: clean the bike beforehand, or you’ll get in trouble with your better half! The charging port is conveniently positioned above the motor, where it’s easily accessible – only the rubber cover is a little fiddly to use and requires some patience. The battery capacity of the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY can be expanded using the optional 360 Wh range extender, which is secured to the down tube via a bracket that replaces the bottle cage, meaning that you’ll have to find another way to carry your water on long backcountry expeditions.

As far as integration goes, the extender’s massive dimensions make the MERIDA look like an old-school eMTB with an external battery. In return, it bumps the total capacity to a whopping 960 Wh, which is probably enough to power an entire mountain refuge when embarking on a multi-day expedition. Shimano supply the rest of the hardware, including the classic, bar-mounted SC-EM800 display and minimalist power button on the top tube. Theoretically, you can also ride with just the module on the top tube, as this allows you to switch between riding modes, and also shows the battery charge status.

The spec of the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY

If you spend € 11,599 on a new bike, you want the spec to be flawless. For the new eONE-SIXTY, MERIDA rely on high-end components that are trimmed uncompromisingly towards downhill performance. Accordingly, the suspension consists of a FOX 38 Factory fork with top-tier GRIP2 damper and matching FOX FLOAT X2 air shock, which both deliver a tremendous performance on the trail. The fancy Kashima coating is just the icing on the cake, harmoniously rounding off the golden accents on the frame.

An electronic SRAM XX Eagle Transmission drivetrain ensures butter-smooth gear shifting, even under load, and draws its power directly from the bike’s main battery, rendering an additional battery superfluous and preventing you from finding yourself in the middle of the forest without a functioning rear derailleur.

SRAM also supply the CODE Ultimate Stealth four-piston brakes, which, together with the massive 220 mm rotor at the front and 200 mm disc at the rear, provide reliable and powerful deceleration, even on long descents. With a whopping 230 mm of travel, MERIDA’s TEAM TR II dropper post is one of the longest droppers currently available on the market, which makes it suitable especially for tall riders. However, since many riders will find the 230 mm travel excessive, this can be infinitely adjusted without the need for tools, and without removing the post.

For the wheels, MERIDA rely on a DT Swiss HXC 1501 SPLINE carbon wheelset and a proven MAXXIS tire combo, with an ASSEGAI at the front and Minion DHR II at the rear, both in the robust Doubledown casing. The soft MaxxGrip rubber compound ensures maximum grip up front, while the harder MaxxTerra compound strikes an excellent balance between durability, low rolling resistance and grip.

Tuning tip: If you get a bottle cage with an integrated mini-tool, you can swap the standard saddle for another one that suits you better, without losing the mini-tool.

All spec variants of the 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY

The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY is available in five different variants, with three carbon models and two alloy versions to choose from, all of which come in two paint finishes. The mullet bike generates 170/174 mm of travel, (f/r) while the full 29er combines 170/160 mm. The eONE-SIXTY CF carbon model and LITE alloy version share identical geometries.

The three CF carbon models, the 6000, 7000 and 10K, feature a lighter, stiffer frame but come with a permanently integrated 600 Wh battery. These models have a performance-oriented spec and retail between € 7,399 and € 11,599. The 7000 model comes equipped with FOX Performance suspension and Shimano XT brakes, retailing at € 7,999. The 6000 model for € 7,399 comes with a RockShox Domain fork and Super Deluxe Select shock, combined with powerful SRAM DB8 brakes. All models have the same tyres as the 10K version.

The more budget-friendly LITE alloy series comes with the same motor, but relies on a bigger, removable 750 Wh battery, which makes it the touring-oriented, all-round variant in the eONE-SIXTY range. There are two models to choose from, called 875 and 675, which retail at € 5,349 and € 5,799, respectively. The 875 model comes equipped with a RockShox ZEB fork and matching Super Deluxe shock. The spec is rounded off by powerful Shimano XT four-piston brakes and MERIDA’s classical ASSEGAI/Minion DHR II tire combo, which is the same as the 10K flagship model. The eONE-SIXTY 675 and 6000 models don’t come with the adjustable 230 mm dropper post, instead relying on a 125 mm dropper in frame size XS, 150 mm dropper in size S and a 200 mm dropper in sizes M, L and XL.

Both the CF carbon models and LITE alloy variants of the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY feature the same frame details, like the integrated headlight, the multitool under the saddle, the mudguard and the range-extender mount.

Alongside the eONE-SIXTY, MERIDA also offer the eONE-FORTY, which is based on the same frame platform and comes in five different spec variants too. However, the eONE-FORTY is only available with an alloy frame, and relies on a conventional swingarm with an additional pivot point on the seat stay rather than a fancy flex-stay system, which makes it easier to secure a pannier rack to the rear end. The eONE-FORTY 675, 475 and 400 models retail between € 5,349 and € 5,799, whereby the 675 and 475 variants are also available in the fully-equipped EQ version with a standard pannier rack, a complete lighting system and mudguards front and rear. The latest eONE-FORTY model is slightly more capable than its predecessor, combining 150/142 mm of travel and two 29” wheels.

The geometry of the 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY

The eONE-SIXTY 10K is the race- and performance-oriented e-mountainbike in MERIDA’s portfolio. It’s available in 5 sizes, XShort, Short, Mid, Long and XLong. The eONE-SIXTY 10K’s geometry and sizing concept is particularly interesting, as it allows you to choose your frame size based on your desired reach. This makes it possible to choose from more than just one size: size up for more composure, or size down for a more agile character! The steep 78.4° seat tube angle pushes the seat stays far forward, which, combined with the slack 64.4° head tube angle, ensures a modern geometry. Our test bike in size M has a short 425 mm seat tube which, together with the 230 mm dropper post that inserts all the way into the frame, ensures excellent freedom of movement on the trail.

The moderate 459 mm reach is paired with 446 mm chainstays, which are the same across all sizes. The flip chip allows you to convert the eONE-SIXTY 10K from a mullet bike to a full 29er, reducing the rear travel to 160 m without altering the geometry. Moreover, the adjustable dropper post enables endless customisation options, allowing you to fine tune the riding position to your needs and preferences.

Size	XS	S	M	L	XL
Top tube	546 mm	567 mm	589 mm	610 mm	632 mm
Seat tube	400 mm	410 mm	425 mm	445 mm	465 mm
Head tube	100 mm	105 mm	110 mm	115 mm	120 mm
Head angle	64.4°	64.4°	64.4°	64.4°	64.4°
Seat angle	78.5°	78.5°	78.4°	78.4°	78.3°
Chainstay	446 mm	446 mm	446 mm	446 mm	446 mm
BB Drop	9 mm	9 mm	9 mm	9 mm	9 mm
Wheelbase	1.199 mm	1.221 mm	1.244 mm	1.266 mm	1.288 mm
Reach	419 mm	439 mm	459 mm	479 mm	499 mm
Stack	624 mm	628 mm	633 mm	637 mm	642 mm

The 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 2024 on the trail

Jumping aboard, the MERIDA places you in a compact pedalling position, which is pleasantly comfortable and enables long days in the saddle without having to worry about back pain. The suspension efficiently absorbs bumps and impacts, while the front wheel always remains planted on the ground, even when negotiating steep climbs. As a result, the eONE-SIXTY implements steering input willingly, inspiring huge amounts of confidence in the process. When challenging your riding buddies to the trailhead, the Shimano EP801 packs a punch, providing plenty of assistance uphill. Overall, the MERIDA is an excellent climber, which is mainly due to the even weight distribution and excellent traction.

When gravity takes over and the fun part starts, the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY impresses with intuitive, good-natured handling, which makes it suitable for both newbies and seasoned trail bums. It makes you feel at ease from the first pedal stroke, with the even weight distribution between the front and rear ensuring equal amounts of traction on both wheels. This makes it easy to negotiate open corners without having to actively shift your weight, regardless of your skill level. Moreover, the soft rubber compound on the front wheel ensures plenty of traction.

The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K is super stylish and perfectly suited for uphill and downhill riding.

When warming up, cruising down a flow trail, you’ll immediately notice the nimble character of the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY, which is incredibly fun and responsive, making it easy to negotiate unexpected climbs ­– just pop up the dropper! The suspension is pleasantly firm and encourages you to pop off natural kickers to collect air miles. At the same time, it provides enough reserves to bail you out with botched landings – yes, that happens sometimes! Despite its generous 170 mm of travel, the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY strikes an excellent balance between agility and composure. It doesn’t shy away from rough trails either, absorbing bigger hits with great efficiency, while still providing enough feedback from the ground. If you like to know what’s going on underneath your feet, the MERIDA is an excellent match! When carving through berms at full speed, the suspension generates plenty of traction and gets you safely around the corner, even on loose loam. MERIDA’s variable sizing concept allows you to choose your frame size based on whether you want more composure or a more agile character. As far as downhill performance goes, we’re just missing a tiny bit of temperament. In other words, the MERIDA is like a horse that does everything you want it to do – and we all know that life gets a little boring without any challenges! The eONE-SIXTY is extremely good-natured in all situations, but doesn’t excel in any in particular – like that quiet classmate who always gets top marks but never celebrates them!

The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K gets you high!

The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY also inspires huge amounts of confidence in steep trail sections, where it integrates you between its wheels and provides plenty of freedom of movement with its short seat tube and long travel dropper post. Should an epic trail session get out of hand and stretch deep into the night, you can switch on the integrated Lezyne E-Bike Power E115 headlight, which draws its power from the bike’s main battery.

Who should take a closer look at the 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY

The MERIDA eONE-SIXTY is an excellent companion if you like to get rowdy and spend more time with the tires in the air than on the ground. It’s also a great match for beginners who want to treat themselves to a top-tier eMTB right away. It’s suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to pros, and masters most situations with flying colours, while inspiring huge amounts of confidence in the process. From longer tours to technical trails, everything is possible with the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY – we’re only missing a little wow effect! Just like a well-built Volvo or VW, it works reliably in the background, lacking that certain spark of characterful temperament you get from something a little more exotic like a Porsche or Ferrari.

Our conclusions about the 2024 MERIDA eONE-SIXTY

Stylish design, high quality spec and top trail performance! MERIDA really nailed it with the new eONE-SIXTY. The intuitive, good-natured handling make it suitable for all kinds of riders, from beginners to seasoned trail veterans. The MERIDA handles almost anything you throw at it, and doesn’t reach its limits too easily. The clever touring and everyday features make it suitable for all kinds of applications, while the new sizing concept allows you to choose your bike according to your desired handling characteristics. The new eONE-SIXTY successfully follows in the footsteps of its predecessor and still proves an excellent all-rounder.

For more info, visit merida.com

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Words: Antonia Feder Photos: Mike Hunger