The Merida eOne-Sixty 900E stands as one of the most celebrated electric mountain bikes in recent history, earning multiple test wins and awards for its exceptional handling, premium components, and versatile performance on demanding trails. Launched as Merida’s flagship enduro e-bike, this model combined aggressive geometry with the reliable Shimano STEPS E8000 system, creating a machine that’s playful on descents yet efficient on climbs. Even years after its release, the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E remains a benchmark for high-end e-MTBs, praised by reviewers for delivering big-mountain fun with electric assistance. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore its specs, riding experience, upgrades, and why it continues to captivate riders seeking top-tier enduro capability.
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MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 900E 2019 Review | E-MOUNTAINBIKE Magazine
Why the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E Became an Instant Classic
From the moment it hit the trails, the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E turned heads with its robust aluminum frame, plus-size tires, and a spec sheet loaded with premium parts. Built around Merida’s proven One-Sixty enduro platform, it adapted seamlessly to electric power without compromising the playful character of its non-assisted sibling. The bike’s aggressive styling, combined with thoughtful integration of the Shimano motor and battery, made it look and feel like a proper enduro rig rather than a compromised e-bike.
Reviewers from E-MOUNTAINBIKE Magazine and off-road.cc hailed it as a “top handling package” with “great spec and stylish looks,” often awarding it top scores for downhill prowess and overall value. Its ability to tackle technical terrain while remaining nimble set it apart in a crowded market. For riders wanting an e-MTB that shreds like a traditional bike but climbs effortlessly, the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E delivered – and then some.
Key Specifications of the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E
The Merida eOne-Sixty 900E was equipped with high-end components designed for serious enduro riding. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Category | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Frame | Hydroformed Prolite 66 triple-butted aluminum (eONE-SIXTY LITE), 160mm rear travel, Boost 148mm spacing |
| Motor | Shimano STEPS E8000, 250W, 70Nm torque, compact and quiet operation |
| Battery | Shimano 504Wh (some models 500Wh), semi-integrated on downtube, ~5 hours full charge |
| Fork | Fox 36 Factory Float E-BIKE+ with FIT4 damper, 160mm travel, Kashima coating |
| Shock | Fox Float X2 Factory with piggyback, 2-position lever |
| Drivetrain | Shimano XT Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed, 11-46T cassette |
| Brakes | Shimano Saint 4-piston hydraulic, 203mm rotors front/rear |
| Wheels/Tires | DT Swiss XM1501 Spline One 35mm internal width, Maxxis Minion DHR II 27.5 x 2.8″ plus tires |
| Dropper Post | RockShox Reverb Stealth, travel varying by size |
| Weight | Approximately 22.1-22.5 kg (size-dependent) |
| Geometry Highlights | Head angle: 66.5°, Seat angle: 75°, Chainstay: ~439mm, Reach: ~440mm (M) |
| Price (at launch) | Around €5,499 – €6,499 / £5,500 – £6,350 depending on region |
This spec made the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E a beast on rough terrain, with the plus tires providing massive grip and the electronic Di2 shifting offering seamless gear changes even under power.
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Merida eOne-Sixty 900E e-mtb review | off-road.cc
On-Trail Performance and Riding Experience
Riders and testers consistently described the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E as “playful yet composed,” with handling that belied its e-bike weight. The short chainstays and modern geometry allowed it to carve turns aggressively, while the Fox suspension soaked up big hits with supreme confidence. On descents, the bike felt sure-footed, thanks to the grippy Maxxis tires and powerful Saint brakes – reviewers noted it had “grip by the shed load” and excelled on technical trails.
Climbing was equally impressive. The Shimano E8000 motor delivered smooth, natural-feeling assistance, with enough torque to conquer steep inclines without wheelspin. The semi-integrated battery kept the center of gravity low, enhancing stability. In mixed terrain, the bike’s versatility shone: nimble enough for tight singletrack, stable at speed, and fun for popping off features.
Real-world range varied from 40-70km depending on mode and terrain, with Eco for long days and Boost for maximum punch. Testers loved the quiet operation and rattle-free battery mount, making it ideal for natural trails where silence matters.
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MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 900E review – How good is this new entrant? | E …
Design Features and Build Quality
Merida’s attention to detail elevated the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E above many competitors. The aluminum frame used hydroforming for strength and lightness, with internal cable routing via “Smart Entry” clamps to prevent rattles. Boost spacing front and rear improved wheel stiffness, while the motor placement allowed for short chainstays – a rarity in early e-MTBs.
The green/black color scheme gave it a distinctive, aggressive look, and features like integrated chainstay protectors added durability. The bike was Di2-ready out of the box, and the overall build screamed premium without unnecessary gimmicks.
Pros and Cons from Expert Reviews
Pros:
- Exceptional suspension performance from Fox Factory components
- Playful and agile handling despite e-bike weight
- Powerful, reliable Shimano STEPS system with good battery life
- Outstanding value for the high-end spec
- Massive grip from plus tires and wide rims
- Multiple award winner, including Design & Innovation Award
Cons:
- Geometry, while aggressive for its time, is now considered slightly conservative compared to modern ultra-slack e-enduro bikes
- No room for a water bottle due to battery placement
- Heavy compared to newer lightweight e-MTBs
- Limited size range (no XL in some markets)
- Electronic Di2 requires main battery power (though reserves some for shifting)
Overall, testers found few faults, often calling it “the most sure-footed E-Enduro” in group tests.
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MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 900E review – How good is this new entrant? | E …
How It Compares to Competitors and Successor Models
In its era (2017-2019), the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E outperformed bikes like the Specialized Turbo Levo and Scott Genius eRIDE in handling and fun factor, while offering better value than premium rivals. It rivaled the Focus JAM² and Giant Trance E+ but with superior suspension and braking.
Merida has since evolved the line significantly. Modern eOne-Sixty models (2024-2025) feature mullet wheels (29″ front/27.5″ rear), larger 600-750Wh batteries, updated Shimano EP8/EP801 motors, and more progressive geometry. The new alloy frames include flip-chip adjustments and even longer travel options. While the original Merida eOne-Sixty 900E remains legendary, today’s versions build on its success with lighter weight and greater versatility.
Pricing, Availability, and Legacy
At launch, the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E retailed for around €5,499-€6,499, making it a bargain for the spec level. Today, used examples can be found for significantly less, offering incredible value on the second-hand market.
Though no longer in production, its influence lives on – Merida’s current eOne-Sixty range continues to win tests, proving the original formula was spot-on.
Final Thoughts on the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E
The Merida eOne-Sixty 900E wasn’t just another e-MTB; it was a game-changer that proved electric bikes could be genuinely fun, capable, and exciting on real enduro trails. With its award-winning design, bombproof build, and rider-focused performance, it earned every accolade and remains a sought-after classic. If you’re hunting for a used high-performance e-enduro or simply appreciate e-MTB history, the Merida eOne-Sixty 900E deserves legendary status. For modern riders, check out Merida’s latest eOne-Sixty – the evolution is even better!
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eONE-SIXTY 900E tested by E-Mountainbike extension – MERIDA BIKES
