Merida Reacto 500 (2019) - Review

The Reacto 5 is built on a lightweight 666 triple butted and hydroformed aluminium frame. The geometry is a bit aggressive which is needed for fast and compact rides and races. This frame has a tapered head tube, a smoothly welded frame and an integrated seat clamp. The aerodynamic tube profiles from NACA, essentially means that Merida have taken the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics profiles and lopped the back end off, trimming the trailing edges to aid in the smooth reintegration of air. It's the same aero concept that is used on many high-end cars like the Toyota Prius. The Reacto CF Carbon fork was bladed and helped with keeping the front of the bicycle light.

The Reacto 5 is equipped with a full Shimano Ultegra road drivetrain. These derailleur components are lighter and also faster in shifting. The latest design from Shimano for Ultegra makes the component build narrow and hence is tucked in as close as possible to the frame. This is useful when in case of a crash, the possibility of the derailleur components getting damaged is very less. The integrated Ultegra gear shifters were easy to use and responded well.

Merida's road bicycle designs are always considered outstanding. When it comes to the Reacto, the design pattern combines aesthetics with aerodynamics, which resulted in a premium classic look. The Gloss White paint job was top notch in quality and made the bicycle shine. The White primary colour with Black graphics was simple yet classy. The internal cable routing made it less clustered around the frame and increases the life of the cables.

Shimano's 15 Caliper brakes handle the braking department on the Reacto 5 road bicycle. These brakes are considered to one of the best in qualityand during the test ride these brakes were powerful and precise.The Merida Expert CW handlebar was compact not too wide, this made sure the rider can tuck in and get into an aerodynamic position.

The Maxxis Dolomites 7x25C folding tires on the Reacto 5 (2019) are race specific tires built to be lightweight but reliable. Maxxis have found the perfect balance in the Dolomites using technology such as their own silkworm puncture protection and duel compound tread. The Merida Comp SL stock saddle was not only colour coded, but also has a level of support and cushioning that suits the rider on faster rides just as much as those riding a century. The integrated seat post clamp was aero shaped and made adjustments easier. The overall ride quality was fast and comfortable on flat tarmacs.