Merida Reacto 907-E (2013)

Pros

- Superb solid frameset
- Racing potential
- Shimano Di2

Cons

- Very firm ride

Review

Every bike manufacturer has its aero frameset and Merida, one of the largest bike companies in the world, is no exception. While the bikes themselves are made in the massive Merida factory in Taiwan (which also makes bikes for many other brands), the design is all German and as such, reflects quality and engineering expertise through and through.

So the Merida aero is called 'Reacto'. This stunning bike, with its horizontal top tube and angular lines screams "speed!", and rightly so. This frame is a racing road rider's dream; super efficient, super stiff and super fast. In fact, while you could ride this bike all day, it truly is much better suited as a race bike. The Merida Scultura is more in line with the average recreational cyclist, as it is designed to be more comfortable and perhaps easier to get along with on a big day in the saddle.

Merida have tried to lessen the impact of such a stiff frame by adding 'Flex stay' seat and chain stays to assist with compliance and also the funky S-Flex seat tube which features a cutout with a carbon spring inserted just below the saddle. It helps, but this is still a firm ride.

The components are top notch with the great performing Ultegra Di2 taking care of shifting duties. In fact, the brake calipers are also Ultegra, as is the chain and cassette, making this a well put together machine.

The Fulcrum wheels are a worthy addition to this bike and are almost faultless when ridden. They are rugged, sturdy and cause little trouble. The only negative is that perhaps the stiffness of the wheels does little to reduce the impact of riding the Reacto 907-E.

A last word is to make sure you get properly fitted to this bike. With a horizontal top tube this is quite a large machine.

In summing up, the Reacto 907-E is a superb bike with little to upgrade or replace. Just be warned that this is a race bike, and perhaps puts hitting the white line first ahead of some rider comfort.