Merida Scultura 400 (2016)

Introductory race bike with a stiff frame and good kit

Pros

- elegant, spare look
- 105 drivetrain
- confident on descents

Cons

- heavy for a racer
- aluminum frame transmits all road imperfections

Review

The 2016 Merida Scultura 400 is an entry-to-mid-range road bike that has inherited its pedigree from its more exclusive cousins, the Scultura Team, Superlite and 9000 models. The trickle-down technology from these state-of-the-art pro racing machines is evident in the smooth lines and uncluttered geometry of the 400, making it appear at first glance to be far more than a basic aluminum road bike.

The aluminum frame undergoes a patented Hydro Forming System process whereby hot oil is forced into the tubes at incredibly high pressures, allowing them to be shaped in unique ways that resemble the curves of a carbon frame. Add to this Merida’s own carbon fiber fork and you have a comprehensive package that is strong, stiff and responsive. The fork is a delight in itself; vibration damping is outstanding and the lateral stiffness can be felt when braking hard in the front, which makes the bike steer very reliably.

The frame is available in seven different sizes to cater to riders of all heights and dimensions.

Kitted out with the latest Shimano 105 11-speed groupset, shifters, derailleurs and cassette, the Scultura 400 shifts with precision and reliability. The brakes, which are Merida’s own Road Pro, seem to provide plenty of stopping power for the Alexrims Comp 24 alloy wheels that come standard with Maxxis Dolemites 23mm folding tires.

The internal cable routing system means that brake and shifter cables run inside the tube sections of the frame, and the cable entry and exit points have special inlet and outlet points that not only look great, but protect the cables from unwanted road grime.

This bike looks so good that it was an unpleasant surprise to pick it up: weighing in at a hefty 19.62 lbs (8.9kg) for a medium frame without pedals, this is no lightweight race machine. However, redemption can be found in the solid feel and reliable cornering of the bike when descending – the journey uphill may not be fun, but downhill this bike is stable, firm and smooth.

Apart from being light and strong, the other advantage a carbon frame offers is vibration damping. Whilst the Scultura 400’s carbon fork does its best to absorb the harshness coming up at you from the road surface, the aluminum frame lets you feel every bump.

If you can keep remembering that this is not a high-end bike and get past the weight of the frame, the 400 is a visually pleasing bike that offers very good value for money with a proven groupset, decent componentry and a reliable if somewhat bumpy ride.