Stunningly fast and surprisingly adept across the board

Another glowing review for our new REACTO, this time from the team at Cyclist, who reviewed the REACTO 9000 in the October 2026 issue (#179 – page 158-161).

From the get-go, the team was impressed by how fast the bike was, stating that “this is one rapid bike to pedal”.

They elaborated that, “From a standing start the Reacto feels pretty normal, but once up to a fair clip, all the aero cliches come true. During my rides it held speed well. It felt like it was cheating the wind, like it was aiding my riding, goading me into going faster”.

In particular on the flats and the descents, the REACTO 9000 kept on leaving its impressive mark, with the tester trying to put the ballpark figure on the advantage the REACTO gave him, “I reckon I was around 4-5 km/h faster on the Reacto on the flats than I’d expect on a ‘normal bike’, which for context is me pedalling around 225W hands on hoods in an aero tuck, riding at 36-38km/h”.

And on the descents, while not having the chance to test the REACTO on sweeping Alpine passes, he remarked that, “With gravity on its side, the Reacto accelerates from ‘I can hear my freewheel’ to ‘all I can hear is whooshing’ in seconds, with gratifying handling to match”.

They finished their glowing review saying that “Aero bikes aren’t typically known for their great handling, but the Reacto steers with reactive precision” and that “It feels like the best all-rounder type bikes I’ve ridden, only faster”.

Their final verdict:
“The Reacto is exceptionally fast, handles superbly and is great value across the range. If you do opt for a Reacto, I can guarantee that whichever one you choose, you’ll find a bike that, as per Merida’s eponymous promise, will help you get to where you are going, and fast.”      

To read the full review, grab the latest copy (#179) of Cyclist from your local newsagent.

For the full specification and frame features of the new REACTO 9000, please click the link underneath DISCOVER THE BIKE.

To find out more about the bike, including key features, R&D and design thinking, as well as the intended use, please check the micro page here.

To see the complete REACTO range, please click here.

Note: The bike tested was the 2027 REACTO 9000.