The Merida MISSION CX isn’t only a UCI-certified cyclocross machine but also scores with its all-round characteristics off the race track. We took a closer look at the new all-rounder with its aggressive geometry.

Merida MISSION CX 8000-E | 7.9 kg in size M | € 5,299

The Merida MISSION CX presents much more than just a facelift to its predecessor, aiming also to be far more versatile. The new MISSION CX from Merida provides more clearance for large-volume tyres, incorporates the latest standards and offers a build spec that promises to give the rider the greatest possible freedom in where they want to take it. Merida envisages three types of riding for the MISSION CX: Cyclocross racing, all-road training and fast commuting. The all-round bike, available from September, will be available in carbon and aluminium.

Frame weight: 885 g in size M, ork weight: 402 g

Merida MISSION CX 8000-E – Componentry

The 8000-E is the top-end model of the MISSION CX product lineup, whereby the “E” doesn’t refer to electric pedal-assist but to the electronic shifting of the Shimano Ultegra Di2. One of the highlights in the spec is the drivetrain with 46/36 chainrings, 11-30T cassette and Ultegra RX rear derailleur. Thus equipped, the bike should easily be able to get up the steepest climbs and the derailleur and chain promise to remain silent and precise on rough surfaces thanks to Shimano’s clutch mechanism, as adapted from their MTB groupsets. To bring the weight down to 7.9 kg, Merida opted for Vision SC 40DB carbon wheels and Merida carbon handlebars and seat post.

The in-house cockpit with carbon handlebars and aluminium stem
Shimano Ultegra Di2 RX rear derailleur …
… and hydraulic Ultegra disc brakes
Vision SC 40DB Carbon wheelset for clincher tyres
The 33 mm wide Maxxis All Terrane tyres with EXO Protection are designed to provide grip and puncture resistance

Merida’s frame design is based on clean lines and internal cable routing. A unique feature is the removable seat stay bridge. Without it, the frame should offer more comfort without compromising the efficiency. With the bridge attached, you’ve got the option of mounting mudguards. The carbon fork also has mounting options for mudguards, which underlines the all-round character of the bike.

The bridge between the seat stays is removable…
… and provides the option of mudguards
Mudguard option on the carbon fork also
Clean lines …
…internal smart entry cable routing
140 mm rotors and Thru-Axle at the front and rear

Merida MISSION CX 8000-E – Geometrie

Size XS S M L XL
Seat tube 470 mm 500 mm 530 mm 560 mm 590 mm
Top tube 520 mm 535 mm 550 mm 565 mm 580 mm
Head tube 90 mm 109 mm 125 mm 144 mm 163 mm
Head angle 70,7° 71,0° 71,7° 72,0° 72,2°
Seat angle 74° 74° 74° 74° 74°
Reach 373 mm 382 mm 392 mm 401 mm 411 mm
Stack 514 mm 533 mm 553 mm 572 mm 591 mm
Wheelbase 999 mm 1013 mm 1016 mm 1029 mm 1042 mm
Clean – Beautiful lines on the MISSION CX 8000-E

Our thoughts on the Merida MISSION CX 8000-E

With the MISSION CX 8000-E, Merida has presented a beautiful looking bike that complements their product range. The update has been overdue for some time, bringing it up to speed on the all current standards. We’ll have to wait to do an in-depth review to see how the racing genes of the frame prove themselves in everyday life.

For more information head to merida-bikes.com


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