Merida One-Sixty

The Merida One-Sixty is a full-suspension mountain bike designed to tackle the UK's most challenging trails. Sitting in Merida's lineup as a dedicated enduro model, the One-Sixty is built to handle descents with aplomb while still climbing efficiently. Over the years, from 2017 to 2025, the One-Sixty has evolved in terms of geometry and components to meet the demands of increasingly aggressive trail riding. With its solid build, the One-Sixty is well-suited for riders who enjoy pushing their limits on technical descents while still valuing the ability to pedal back up for another round.

Riding the One-Sixty is an exhilarating experience. The bike's geometry puts the rider in a confident, aggressive position, perfect for steep and tricky descents. The suspension system, typically featuring a generous 160mm of travel, absorbs bumps and rough terrain with ease, making it a great choice for UK trails, which often mix mud, roots, and rocks. On climbs, the One-Sixty's design allows for decent pedalling efficiency, though it's clear this bike is more about the downhill thrill than setting uphill records.

Comparing the One-Sixty to rivals like the Specialized Enduro or the Trek Slash, Merida's offering stands out with its value-for-money proposition. While some competitors might offer slightly more advanced technology or marginally lighter frames, the One-Sixty delivers solid performance without the premium price tag. Its solid build can be a plus for those who prioritise durability, though it might feel a bit heavier compared to some of its pricier counterparts.

On the used market, the Merida One-Sixty presents a range of options. Earlier models from 2017 can be found at bargain prices, especially if you’re willing to accept slightly dated geometry. For those seeking the best balance between modern features and cost, models from around 2020 offer updated geometry and components without the higher price of new models. The higher-end spec levels, such as the One-Sixty 7000 or 9000, provide excellent value if you can find them, often featuring better suspension components and lighter materials.

Potential buyers should be aware of a few quirks. Some older models may have issues with the rear shock, particularly if the bike has seen heavy use. It’s worth checking for any signs of wear on the suspension components and drivetrain. Additionally, ensure that the frame, especially around the welds, shows no signs of cracking or fatigue, which can occur over time with aggressive riding. Regular maintenance records are a bonus and can indicate a bike that has been well cared for.

What it's like to ride

The Merida One-Sixty is a thrilling ride on UK trails. Its 160mm of suspension travel soaks up the roughest terrain, making descents smooth and controlled. The bike's geometry is well-suited to aggressive riding, providing stability at high speeds. While it excels downhill, it climbs admirably for a bike of its weight and category, though it leans more towards descending prowess than uphill efficiency.

Who it's for

The Merida One-Sixty is ideal for mountain bikers who crave the adrenaline of technical descents and are willing to compromise a bit on climbing efficiency. It's perfect for enduro enthusiasts and those who frequently ride challenging trails.

Models from 2020 onward offer the best blend of modern geometry and affordability. Earlier models are cheaper but may lack some of the newer features that enhance performance.