eBIG.NINE

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 in particular when fully loaded.

The outstanding frame stiffness also has a strong influence on the riding characteristics of bikes with an integrated battery. The tapered head tube, with the large 1.5" to 1.5" diameter, the 34.9mm (internal diameter) seat tube, the cast motor bracket as well as the 148 x12mm rear through axle all contribute to achieving a safe and precise riding experience.

The system weight of a bike is the combined weight of bike, rider and additional luggage. The allowed system weight for the eBIG.NINE and eBIG.NINE EQ is 140kg. As an e-bike is already heavier than a regular bike, and as it 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.

Maximum riding fun at any performance level was the key focus in the design and concept of the Shimano STePS systems. The motors are optimised with regards to intuitive handling and despite their impressive performance, deliver the most natural and organic riding experience. The latest versions have seen additional updates of the firmware to match their intended field of application even more. The motor almost immediately responds to any pressure being applied through the pedals which hugely contributes to the intuitive handling and the agility of the system. An equally important feature of the motor is that it also withdraws any assistance at once when pedal pressure is reduced. Based on the compact size of the system it can be perfectly integrated into the overall frame design. 

The new Shimano BT-E8035 (504Wh) has a very compact size design which is optimised for the integrated use in the down tube. The battery is equipped with modern, up-to-date battery cells, which are very durable and long lasting. Even after 1000 charging cycles it still has 60% of the capacity, which is currently the best in its class. The battery is IPX5 level and water projected and can withstand water being projected onto it by a water jet with an up to 6.3mm nozzle. The aluminium casing is used for better heat transfer and it is stronger than plastic. Furthermore, it has a high-quality appearance. 

The eBIG.NINE offers the possibility to fit a water bottle or accessories like a lock or pump to the frame. The frame has (standard) bottle bosses on top of the down tube and 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).

For all new eBIG.NINE in-tube bikes the seat post diameter was changed from 30.9mm to 34.9mm. The main reason for this is to further improve the frame stiffness by increasing the tube diameters of the seat tube. On top of that, the bigger diameter of the seat tube blends in much better in the overall frame design.

With the removable rear axle lever, the rear axle can be tightened. The lever also works as a 6mm and 4mm Allen key. With the 4mm key, the battery can be removed and parts like the seat clamp and the stem can be tightened.

A modern, very strong and durable 29" rim with 20mm inner width, which fits the needs of the eBIG.NINE perfectly. We use 36 spokes in the rear to increase the stiffness of the wheelset even further and to improve the ability of the rear wheel to handle the extra power the motor transmits via the chain and sprockets.