eONE-FORTY

DESIGN MEETS ALUMINIUM

Different riders are looking for different bikes, and certain tracks and trails are better tackled on a well-matched machine. On top of that, we at MERIDA are very aware that a carbon front triangle might not be everybody's preferred choice and that there is a need to broaden the price range of our e-enduro bikes. These two factors were enough to go back to the drawing board and to launch the all-aluminium version of the eONE-FORTY in the later part of the 2020 season. The 2020 eONE-FORTY LIMITED EDITION impressed riders and the cycling press alike and established the need to extend our all-aluminium eONE-FORTY range. The latest eONE-FORTY all-aluminium range is from the outset a very similar bike to our all-aluminium eONE-SIXTY models, but if you look into the details a bit more, you will find out that it is a distinctively different bike. Let us explain!

With the eONE-FORTY, we offer a very different bike to our eONE-SIXTY, which differs well beyond the obvious change in rear wheel travel. Due to its less aggressive geometry (more about that later) and the shorter rear wheel travel, it is more uphill focused than the eONE-SIXTY. The lower front and the steeper seat angle make the eONE-FORTY a great climber. It is equally at home on long and demanding uphills as well as technical downhills and singletracks. The latest geometry and frame design give the bike a very playful character, which is precise and fast. Compared to the non-motorised all-rounder model, which very much inspired the handling and playfulness of the eONE-FORTY, the rider can enjoy the benefits of the hugely capable built-in Shimano motor, which makes even demanding climbs an easy endeavour.
 

We have learned from our 'original' eONE-SIXTY that our long travel full suspension e-mountain bikes get often used away from the rougher tracks and trails which they are predestined for. Because of the advantages of more travel, bigger tyres and comfortable geometry, a sizable group of riders utilize the bikes as a kind of 'SUV' bike as they offer a super fun, comfortable and capable alternative to a 'normal' mountain bike. We are convinced that the all-aluminium eONE-FORTY fits perfectly in this category. Whatever you are looking for, hugely capable trail companion with bags for reserves or reliable and confidence-inspiring 'normal' mountain bike 'alternative', our all-aluminium eONE-FORTY models should be at the top of your list.

INTENDED USE

Geometry, travel and specification make the all-aluminium eONE-FORTY perfect for trail riding but also for long-distance rides. It doesn't matter if it's a playful trail or a multi-day ride across the Alps, this all-aluminium e-trail bike is your faithful companion. But besides its trail riding and long-distance abilities, the all-aluminium eONE-FORTY is also a hugely capable and enjoyable 'SUV' bike. Because of the travel and the comfortable and upright riding position, the eONE-FORTY gives a lot of confidence and offers a real alternative to a 'normal' mountain bike. 

KEY COMPONENTS

SMART ENTRY

Cables, housings and brake hoses are clamped under tension to prevent rattling when the trails get rough. All inlets are completely interchangeable to deal with Di2, hydraulic hoses, brake cable, gear cable housings and so on.

ENERGY GUARD TWIST

The MERIDA ENERGY GUARD TWIST is a two-component battery cover, which offers easy and fast access to the battery while protecting it from outside impacts. The twist-lock mechanism that is located at the top end of the battery cover allows tool-less locking and unlocking of the protective internal battery cover.

REAR TRIANGLE

Similarly to the front triangle, the rear triangle is also made from aluminium. It is the same rear triangle we use on the carbon bikes as it is one of the strongest rear ends MERIDA has ever made and we know that it has fantastic durability and stiffness characteristics. Furthermore, the commonality between this the previous generation means much easier availability of spare parts.

DROPPER SEAT POST

Our all-aluminium eONE-FORTY comes equipped with MERIDA dropper post allowing the rider to get the saddle out of the way when the gradient gets steeper, giving you more space to manoeuvre and control over the bike. As with all our e-bike specced parts, the posts have been tested and certified for a 140 kg system weight.

SATELLITE CHARGING PORT

The satellite charging port can be found above the motor at the down tube/seat tube junction, perfectly protected yet super easy to get to.

MERIDA MINI TOOLBOX

Connected to the saddle's faceplate is the latest MERIDA mini toolbox. The included mini tool features 2/2.5/3/8 mm Allen keys, a flathead and Phillips head screwdriver and 10/25/30 Torx keys. Perfect for fixing most issues trailside.

INTERNAL BATTERY

Powerful internal lithium-ion battery that offers a choice of 750, 630 or 504 Wh capacity (model and frame size dependent). Charges quickly, has a long service life and backed up by warranty support. The aluminium cased battery is extremely compact, allowing us to seamlessly integrate it into the downtube for ample space for the rear shock, added water bottle fixing points and plenty of top tube clearance. It has a waterproof design and is impact and vibration resistant. 

SHIMANO DRIVETRAINS

Shimano drivetrains represent the perfect balance when it comes to durability, function and weight. The wide range drivetrains impresse with precise shifting in any condition, with an extended gear range and long-lasting performance, even when exposed to the higher strains of being an e-bike drivetrain.

CHAINSTAY PROTECTOR

It was important to us that our all-aluminium eONE-FORTY is as quiet as possible, and that it stays that way even after long term use. Besides the ENERGY GUARD TWIST battery cover that reduces noise and protects the battery perfectly, we have also put a lot of effort into our chainstay protector. The dragon's back inspired protector is much bigger and covers almost the complete chainstay, helping to reduce any noise from a moving chain or trail debris hitting the frame. 

LEZYNE FRONT AND USB REAR LIGHTS

The majority of the eONE-FORTY all-aluminium range features the latest Lezyne Power Pro front light and USB rechargeable rear light. The front light attaches securely to our stem clamp plate, keeping the light perfectly fixed to the bike without cluttering the cockpit area. It draws its power from the main battery and can be easily operated from the Shimano display unit. The rear light is rechargeable (via a mini USB port), and perfectly capable of withstanding even the wettest of outings. Both lights offer excellent visibility during the day as well as evening and dawn rides.

HIDDEN KICK-STAND ATTACHMENT POINTS

The eONE-FORTY frames offer hidden attachment points for a kick-stand underneath the chain stay, perfect for making the bike more versatile if used as an ‘SUV’ bike.

MERIDA EXPERT eTR COCKPIT

The EXPERT eTR cockpit offers internal cable routing for the e-system cables through the handlebar and stem for an extra clean and organised look. The latest eTRII stem also features secure attachment points for the Lezyne front light via its unique clamping plate. As with all our e-bike specific parts, the eTR cockpit is tested for a 140 kg system weight.

RIDE THE REVOLUTION

SHIMANO EP801 AND EP6 DRIVE UNITS

The entire eONE-SIXTY and eONE-FORTY range is powered by the latest EP801 or EP6 motors from Shimano. The EP801 unit delivers a maximum power output of 85 Nm, similar to its predecessor, the EP8, but the peak power of EP801 has increased from 500 W to 600 W, giving the motor more grunt in demanding riding situations. 

The EP6, the latest addition to the Shimano motor line-up, offers the same performance figures as the EP801 (85 Nm) but houses them in an aluminium motor housing rather than the magnesium version of the EP801. The peak power of the EP6 is the same as the outgoing EP8 at 500 W. While the output of the two motors is almost identical, the EP6 is approx. 300 g heavier than the top-of-the-line EP801.

Paired with the high-capacity 630 Wh battery from Shimano or Trendpowers 750 Wh power block, the EP801 and EP6 systems deliver an impressive range, making it easy to cruise for longer or do more runs. 

Further to that, both motors have seen upgrades in connectivity, making the unit more future-proof and ready for the latest shifting technology.

 

COMPARISON

eONE-FORTY and eONE-SIXTY

The full aluminium eONE-SIXTY and eONE-FORTY models share the same frame but differ a lot in terms of riding character due to the use of the most suitable specification for each riding purpose. The difference between the two bikes is that the shock stroke on the eONE-FORTY is shorter. That reduces the rear travel to 133 mm instead of 150 mm which the eONE-SIXTY offers. On top of that, the shorter 140 mm travel fork extends the reach of the eONE-FORTY in comparison to the eONE-SIXTY which is equipped with a 160 mm fork. That’s the reason why the eONE-FORTY has different sizing compared to eONE-SIXTY. A frame with a 44 cm seat tube length, for example, is a size L in the eONE-FORTY, but at the eONE-SIXTY, it is a size M. We believe that a bike with less travel should be more agile and playful than one with more travel, and the reach has a significant influence on that.

Compared to the eONE-SIXTY, the seat angle at the eONE-FORTY is almost one degree steeper, and the front is lower because of the shorter travel fork and the lower head tube. This puts more weight on the front of the bike and gives the eONE-FORTY better climbing performance as the front wheel rises later than at the eONE-SIXTY. Also, due to the shorter fork, the head angle is almost one degree steeper making the bike feel less wobbly at lower speeds. Again, a positive attribute for uphills.

Another big difference compared to the eONE-SIXTY is that the stand over height is lower. The reason for that is the lesser travel, lower head tube and lower bottom bracket height. Especially for beginners, the lower stand over height gives a lot of confidence. So, to summarise, the all-aluminium eONE-FORTY is the more climbing and all-day ride focused bike, which is also slightly more agile on twisty tracks. On the other hand, the all-aluminium eONE-SIXTY is super capable at speed and on demanding tracks and trails. While still a super capable climber and fun-packed ride, it has a slightly more downhill focused set-up and geometry. The choice is yours.