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CROSS&DOWN-COUNTRY MOUNTAIN BIKE
Industry type:Transportation
Product model number:NINETY-SIX
MERIDA INDUSTRY CO., Ltd.
award 3

When the terrain gets more and more technical in modern MTB racing, the challenge is so demanding for bike brands to require quite contrary features for the racer’s bike. That is to unify a superlight pure XC-bike for fast climbing as well as lots of features relating to additional weight for the demanding downhill sections.

To develop a super bike capable of winning World Cup races, a "cross & down-country" MTB as we define it, Merida teams up with former world champion Jose Hermida to design the state of the art NINETY-SIX. Under the striking appearance, it is full carbon frame with “P-Flex” rear-stays integrating the rear pivot to the carbon structure. The frame geometry is designed around a remote activated long travel dropper seat-post as a key feature for excellent downhill performance.

Other features: all cables & hoses for remotes, shifting and rear-brake are routed inside the frame; two water-bottles find their place inside the frame’s front triangle; & more..

http://www.merida.com

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About MERIDA INDUSTRY CO., Ltd.

Founded in 1972 in Changhua, Taiwan, MERIDA has grown into one of the world’s leading brands for premium bicycles. In 2024, MERIDA ranked 13th on Interbrand’s “Best Taiwan Global Brands” list, with a brand value of USD 460 million. Its product range covers recreation, commuting, competition, and electric-assisted riding. In 2024, consolidated revenue reached NT$29.6 billion, with complete bike exports accounting for nearly a quarter of Taiwan’s total output. Since launching its own brand in 1988, MERIDA has built long-term global recognition. In 2003, it co-founded the A-Team alliance to elevate Taiwan’s bike industry. MERIDA has also been the long-time sponsor of elite WorldTour cycling teams, achieving multiple Grand Tour wins. Its award-winning bikes have received honors from international design and innovation institutions. Guided by the “MORE BIKE” brand spirit and symbolized by its green mountain logo, MERIDA promotes active, low-carbon living through high-quality bicycles.

http://www.merida-bikes.com

Over 50 years ago, Taiwan-made bicycles were often seen as low quality, with U.S. shops even refusing to service them. During a business trip to the U.S., MERIDA’s founder, Mr. Ike Tseng, witnessed this firsthand. Determined to restore confidence in Taiwan's manufacturing, he founded MERIDA in 1972 with a focus on engineering precision and quality craftsmanship. Initially an OEM producer, MERIDA launched its own brand in 1988 and gained success in Europe. From 2000, it began sponsoring elite athletes, forming its MTB team in 2003 and later entering WorldTour road racing. That same year, MERIDA and Giant jointly initiated the A-Team alliance to strengthen Taiwan’s bicycle supply chain. MERIDA embraced e-bikes early, producing its first in 1995. In 2024, e-bikes accounted for 42% of Taiwan’s exports. That year, MERIDA was also named Taiwan’s 13th Best Global Brand. Today, MERIDA continues to drive innovation, blending German-Taiwan R&D to deliver bikes trusted by riders worldwide.