eSPRESSO

LEISURE MEETS COMMUTING

VIEW ALL BIKES

The fourth generation of our eSPRESSO is dominated by an extensive list of new and improved features in comparison to its predecessor. The biggest focus was on the integration of the battery in the down tube, followed by increased tyre width and the introduction of the hub gear slider dropout. The modern in-tube battery design in combination with the purposeful and hugely comfortable geometry as well as the seamless integration of either the impressive EP8 or the proven E6100 and E5000 motors from Shimano STePS sets the eSPRESSO apart from other e-bikes.

By using the Shimano mid-mounted motors (EP8/E6100/E5000 – depending on model) and integrating 750, 630 or 504 Wh battery (depending on model) almost invisibly into the down tube, we have not only achieved an extremely clean appearance of the bikes, but also a very central centre of gravity. This gives the bike a very clean look similar to a non-e-bike, as well as similar riding characteristics.  We also offer a highly affordable range of eSPRESSO models with 504 or 418 Wh semi-integrated batteries.  

INTENDED USE

Standing on fast rolling 700c wheels equipped with super comfortable and grippy 50 mm tyres, our eSPRESSO finds its use in a multitude of disciplines. From being a reliable partner on the way to the shops or the daily commute to work or from weekend trekking trips around the lanes to dedicated bike touring outings, our versatile in-tube e-trekking bike, or e-hybrid, shines in many areas. 

From its appearance and specifications, the eSPRESSO is a modern, sporty looking city/trekking orientated e-bike. With its adjustable stem, the riders have the possibility to perfectly adjust their position, to either a more sportive or a more comfortable set-up.

KEY COMPONENTS

BATTERY INTEGRATION IN THE DOWN TUBE & SATELLITE CHARGING PORT

Through the extensive use of hydroforming on the down tube and the precise CNC cutting of the tube opening for the battery, as well as the perfectly matching ENERGY GUARD TWIST battery cover, we were able to integrate the battery seamlessly into the lower part of the down tube. This is consistent throughout the various frame sizes. Charging is easy through the neatly integrated charging port at the motor bracket. Also, the battery is perfectly integrated into the down tube, yet it is possible to easily remove it for charging or when in transport. A further advantage of the battery being integrated into the down tube is that is offers perfect protection from an impact, should the bike fall over or be involved in a crash.

OPTIMISED CENTRE OF GRAVITY

Based on the central position of the battery in the lower part of the down tube and the low position of the Shimano motor, we were able to achieve an optimum centre of gravity. The low and well-positioned centre of gravity provides the bike with outstanding riding characteristics which are extremely important, particularly when fully loaded.

MERIDA CUSTOM ON/OFF BUTTON

On our eSPRESSO range, we have positioned the MERIDA custom on/off switch on the lower part of the downtube. Here the switch can be easily reached to turn the system on or off while being out of harm’s way.

MIK HD REAR CARRIER WITH SPANNINGA REAR LIGHT

The majority of the eSPRESSO range comes equipped with the MIK HD rear carrier with a load capacity of 27 kg. The rear carrier is child seat authorised, allowing you to turn the eSPRESSO into the perfect family vehicle. It also features the integrated Spanninga rear light, for maximum visibility. Similarly to the front light, the rear light is also charged by the main battery and can be operated from the Shimano STePS display.

KICK-STAND AS STANDARD

All eSPRESSO models come equipped with a kick-stand as standard, which is attached to a hidden kick-stand mount underneath the chain stay. The sturdy kick-stand makes it super easy to park as well as load the bike.

WIRE PORT

A specifically designed headset, the WIRE PORT enables certain cables to enter the frame directly through the headset cap, reducing cable clutter and preventing cable kink.  

EXCELLENT FRAME STIFFNESS

The outstanding frame stiffness also has a strong influence on the riding characteristics of bikes with an integrated battery. The tapered head tube, the large tube diameters, the change to 34.9 mm seat post diameter (except the 300 SE model), the cast motor bracket as well as the 142x12 mm through rear axle (135x9 mm slider dropouts) all contribute to achieving a safe and precise riding experience.

WATER BOTTLE MOUNTS

The eSPRESSO standard frame version offers the possibility to fit a water bottle or further accessories like a lock or pump in three different positions at the frame. The frames with internal battery have (standard) bottle bosses on top of the down tube, at the seat tube, where a special adapter offers a very low mounting position, allowing maximum seat post insertion depth (guaranteed in all frame sizes), and a final one below the top tube. For the lower step-in frames (with integrated batteries), the number of bottle bosses was reduced to two different positions. One is on the top of the down tube, while a second is below the top tube. This gives the rider, besides the possibility to mount bottle cages, the option to mount for example a folding-lock or pump bracket.

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.

EXPERT CT ADJUSTABLE STEM

The majority of the eSPRESSO range (except the 300 SE model) comes equipped with the fully adjustable MERIDA EXPERT CT stem, allowing the rider to find the ideal angle for the perfect seating position. Furthermore, it surpasses all MERIDA e-bike specific tests which are more demanding than the legal requirements. All components are tested and certified for a system weight of up to 140 kg.

EXPERT TK SADDLES

With the latest generation of MERIDA trekking saddles, the focus was on comfort. The riding position on a trekking bike differs mostly in the more upright sitting position, which means that there is more pressure on the saddle. That's why trekking saddles are wider and also have thicker padding compared to sporty saddles. As men and women are different, there are two versions available. Another nice feature of this saddle is the V-Mount interface, which allows the rider to mount accessories directly on the baseplate of the saddle.

CERTIFIED SYSTEM WEIGHT

The system weight of a bike is the combination of bike, rider and additional luggage. The allowed system weight for the eSPRESSO is 150 kg. As an e-bike already has a higher weight than a regular bike, and also makes it easier to transport larger amounts of luggage, it is imperative to certify a higher overall system weight. All MERIDA e-bikes, as well as all used componentry, go through a rigorous and e-bike specific testing schedule which mimics the higher forces and strains to guarantee the rider the highest level of safety.

INTEGRATED BATTERY

The eSPRESSO range that features internal batteries is equipped with either the Shimano BT-E8035 (504 Wh) or BT-E8036 (630 Wh) battery or the high capacity unit from Simplo, featuring 750 Wh (depending on model). These three batteries are optimised for integration into the down tube. They are equipped with modern, up-to-date battery cells, which are very durable and long-lasting. 

SHIMANO MOTORS

The eSPRESSO range features either the EP8, E6100 or E5000 Shimano STePS motor. The 85 Nm strong EP8 top of the line Shimano motor offers a more performance orientated e-trekking experience. In comparison, the proven E6100 power unit with 60 Nm is specifically tuned to the needs and requirements of the trekking and city e-bikes and should offer an extended range. The 40 Nm strong E5000 delivers reliable and easy to operate STePS technology at the lower price points. 

SHIMANO E5000/E-5003 DISPLAY

Switch and display combined in one unit that features a compact design yet provides the rider with all necessary information. The three top buttons allow an easy change of assist level as well as display menu access, while an additional light switch makes changing the light setting easy and straight forward. Compatible with all Shimano STePS systems.

DESIGN THINKING BEHIND THE BIKE

The design thinking behind the eSPRESSO was focused on creating a modern, day-to-day e-bike with seamless integration of the battery into the down tube and improving the riding characteristics even further from its already successful predecessor. The frame update to an internal battery not only leads to a cleaner and more 'up-to-date' appearance but also improves the handling of the bike even further. This is due to the ability to place the battery even closer to the lowest point of the frame, which has a positive impact on the centre of gravity of the bike.

Another critical issue of the battery-integration which needed to be considered in the design thinking was how to make the battery accessible while being perfectly protected from the elements. The answer was the MERIDA ENERGY GUARD TWIST, a specifically designed shield which seals the downtube opening perfectly and absorbs hits from stones, while at the same time providing easy and fast access for battery removal and external charging. With the change from external to an internal battery, you can now also mount a bottle cage on the downtube, just like at any non-e-bike. Besides that, the standard frame still offers an additional position on the seat tube and another mounting position for a folding lock, pump or similar accessories below the top tube.

Besides the update to the integrated battery, we also focused on increasing the tyre clearance, enabling the bike to take wider tyres which improve the riding comfort, grip and puncture protection. The wider tyres also fit much better into the overall design appearance. Through the updated top tube design, the stand over height was optimised as well, guaranteeing a secure mount and dismount in any riding situation. The latest eSPRESSO frame is not only a slight improvement from its predecessor but a totally improved frame platform that offers lots of upgrades that satisfies the higher demands of today's modern cyclists.