Tech news from Merida, RockShox, Microshift and more
The best tech stories of the week, all in one place
It's certainly been a bike-launch-heavy week this week! We've seen new mountain bikes drop left right and centre, and some very interesting new gravel stuff come out from Microshift and Ortlieb. But that's not all - we've also put together some handy guides for you on how to fix your chain, and how to service your Fox or RockShox shock. Read on to get up to date on our top off-road cycling tech content this week!
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The Mega Murmur is Starling's new long-travel platform
2023 starling mega murmur hero.jpg, by Liam Mercer
Bristol-based Starling Cycles has launched the Mega Murmur, a new bike that builds on the popular features of its Murmur model while adding more suspension travel. The Mega Murmur is designed for those seeking a capable steel full-suspension bike or taller riders in need of a better-fitting option.
The bike comes with 165mm of rear travel and 170mm at the front, with the option to adjust to 140mm in trail mode. The frame is made of heat-treated Reynolds 853 steel tubing and has a longer 455mm chainstay for improved handling. The Mega Murmur is available in three sizes and offers a range of build kits, or it can be purchased as a frame only starting at £2,330.
All-new RockShox SID suspension fork unveiled
2023 rockshox SID side.JPG, by Liam Mercer
RockShox has updated its 2023 fork range, focusing on the cross-country SID model. The new SID fork comes with significant improvements, including a new three-position damping system, a more tuneable Debonair+ air spring, and increased air volume for better mid-stroke support, traction, and comfort. The fork's design now resembles an enduro fork, offering improved strength and reduced friction. There is also a lighter version called SID SL, featuring most of the updates and 32mm stanchions for weight savings.
How to service your shock - tips for both Fox and RockShox
2023 air can service hero.jpg, by Liam Mercer
Talking of RockShox, we've also put together this handy four step guide on how to service your shock's air can.
Merida Big.Nine 10k first ride review
2023 merida bignine 10k hero.jpg, by Liam Mercer
Merida is about to bring out an updated version of its Big.Nine cross-country hardtail bike after seven years - and our Liam took the bike for a spin before the official launch date. The new model, available in both carbon and aluminium builds, features a revised geometry with a focus on handling and fit.
During the first ride, the Big.Nine impressed Liam with its efficiency during climbs and descents alike, showcasing the bike's capability and stability. In essence, it’s this is a modernised Big.Nine - an aggressive and lightweight race machine suitable for cross-country racing at various price points.
How to fix a chain on a bicycle
2023 chain cover.jpg, by Liam Mercer
This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know about chains and repairing them. This is one of the most essential trailside skills, so well worth learning to do it!
Can Microshift’s new Sword gravel groupset threaten Shimano and SRAM?
Microshift SWORD-Release-shifter, by microshift
Taiwanese company Microshift has introduced a new gravel groupset called Sword that aims to compete with Shimano and SRAM- at least in terms of price. The Microshift Sword groupset is a 10-speed system with mechanical shifting (cable-operated) available in both 1x and 2x configurations. It comes with mechanical disc brakes and modern ergonomics, offering a wider cassette range and a fully mechanical design that is easy to service and adjust.
And the prices? A basic 1x setup would start at £371.95, excluding a chain and brake calipers, while the prices for individual components range from £24.99 to £99.99. The groupset is expected to arrive in the UK soon.
Norco introduces Fluid FS Carbon trail mountain bike
2023 Norco Fluid FS Carbon trail mtb -c1-greenwhite.png, by Norco
Norco Bicycles has unveiled the Fluid FS Carbon trail mountain bike, a new addition to its lineup. The bike features an all-new carbon-fibre front triangle, which results in a 600g weight reduction compared to the aluminium model. The Fluid FS Carbon retains the successful geometry and 130mm rear suspension design of the Fluid FS Aluminum model, ensuring the same top performance.
The Fluid FS Carbon is available in various complete build models, each with different specifications priced from £4,199 to £6,599.
Mondraker introduces the Neat - company's first lightweight e-MTB
Mondraker Neat , by Mondraker
Mondraker has introduced its first lightweight electric mountain bike called the Neat to its lineup. The Neat comes in three different builds, starting at £6,800, and is designed to offer a balance between the performance of the Foxy carbon and Crafty carbon models.
It features a Stealth Air carbon frame weighing 2,300 grams, and a compact TQ-HPR50 motor providing 50Nm of power and a 360Wh removable battery, with an optional range extender available. Each build includes 160mm front suspension and 150mm rear, with a new suspension kinematic for a more compact and lighter swingarm. The top-of-the-range Neat RR SL model retails for £10,500 and weighs 17.9kg.
Ortlieb releases limited edition bikepacking set
New Limited Edition Bikepacking Set by ORTLIEB, by ORTLIEB
Lastly, we have news from Ortlieb. The brand has released a limited edition bikepacking set in a trendy mustard colour. The set includes a Handlebar Pack (9L), Seat-Pack (16.5L), and Frame-Pack Toptube RC (3L), all made from repurposed fabric to promote sustainability.
Prices for the set range from £100 for the frame pack to £159 for the seat pack.
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