“A blend of agility and composure”: the Dirt impresses in the BIKE test

Our fun hardtail, the Dirt, impressed in a recent test by BIKE magazine, with editor Jan Timmermann praising its balanced handling, agility and confidence-inspiring ride feel.

At the heart of the Dirt 700 is a carefully developed 6061 aluminium frame that makes riders feel “instantly at one with the bike”, offering intuitive handling and a centred riding position that encourages progression on dirt lines, pump tracks and street features alike.

The review praised the Dirt’s blend of “high stiffness” and “precise handling”, striking a “strong balance between smoothness and agility”. High-end components, including DT Swiss wheels and a RockShox Pike DJ fork, were also highlighted for their performance and durability.

Additional praise was given to the EFBE category five certification, five-year warranty and practical features such as horizontal dropouts and gyro mounts.

Conclusion by Jan Timmermann:
“If only riding characteristics count, there is hardly another dirt bike that can beat the merida Dirt. The industry giant has simply succeeded in combining agility and composure.”

Read the full article (available in multiple languages) here.

To see the full specifications and frame features of the DIRT 700 that was tested, click the DISCOVER THE BIKE link below.

Note: All texts and quotes are translated from the German original. The bike tested was the 2026 DIRT 700.