An awesome 9 out of 10 for the Big Trail 600

While our Big Trail and especially the top-of-the-range 600 model, has achieved a number of fantastic test results since its launch this summer; a near-perfect score is always something special.

Ever since the original 29er version of the Big Trail was launched a few years ago; the MBR crew have always loved the handling, performance and quietness of the bike, how quiet the ride was, and the new version very much carried on, where the old one left off. But rather than continuing with business as usual, the new version has been upgraded with a new, sleeker and more sophisticated frame, powerful Shimano XT 4-pot brakes and an even more progressive geometry.

The result: 9 out of 10 stars.

"Now Merida's made the geometry even more aggressive to create one of the best hardtail mountain bikes around, a seriously rad ride that'll kick ass on proper enduro trails while still letting you mount a kickstand for work days", so their opening statement.

During their time on the bike, they fell in love with the frame's compliance, whose "pressure moulded main tubes set up an excellent blend of traction boosting compliance without worrying twang or wander that could teach many steel bikes a lesson", the "naturally centralised, feet nearly on the floor planted feeling insists you attack all the sketchy stuff as fast as possible" and the fact that the Big Trail is "a bike that's been created and crafted by real riders who understand what a big deal small things can be, not just desk jockeys looking over the shoulders of other brands".

Their final verdict:
"If you want to go on a forum to complain, then yeah I'd rather the Big Trail had normal cable routing and space for a bigger rear tyre to reduce the game of two halves impact response. The riotously enjoyable, yet fail-forgiving ride of the radical geometry and compliant yet controlled front end outweighs those niggles by many multiples on genuinely Big Trails though. Both frame and parts pick are loaded with solid choices and smart details that really elevate the complete package too. "

For the full review published on the MBR website, please click here.