Merida Scultura Endurance 300 (2025) - Text Review

The frame is “Scultura Endurance Lite” aluminium, paired with a carbon fork (CF3 disc) for the front end. This helps absorb some road buzz up front while keeping costs and stiffness more manageable.

Stem choices vary by size (shorter stem in smaller sizes), and reach/stack geometry is tuned to give a more upright, endurance posture rather than an aggressive race frame. That helps reduce strain over longer rides.

Groupset: It uses Shimano Tiagra 2×10 speed—as shifters, front and rear derailleurs. The crankset is 50-34 teeth, with cassette HG500 12-28 teeth. That gives a decent spread for both flats and moderate climbs. Chain & Secondary Components: The chain is KMC X10. Small details like this matter; reliability and smooth shifting come not just from the major components but the chain, jockey pulleys, etc.

Performance on the road: The shifting is smooth, though Tiagra is not top level in terms of crispness or ultra-light weight. The trade-off: more affordability, easier servicing. On rolling terrain it works well; on steep climbs you’ll be pushing the limits of the 28T cassette. Downhills and flats benefit from the stronger side of the cassette but again you won’t be achieving elite level gear ratios.

The aluminium frame with carbon fork helps moderate road vibrations especially from the front wheel. Combined with wider tyres (32-35c) you get a more compliant ride. Handlebar width, stem angle, and geometry aim for comfort over aggression, meaning less strain on back/neck over long sorties. Even though you give up some aerodynamic performance, you gain rideability for more hours on the saddle. The seat post is aluminium, rigid, 27.2 mm diameter, 5 mm setback. It does the job, though it doesn’t flex or absorb as much as a more premium carbon or micro-suspension offering. Saddle is Merida COMP SL (with V-mount). Acceptable for endurance, though for extremely long rides or rough roads some riders may want to upgrade.

Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes (Shimano Tiagra) are a major strength. They provide strong, consistent stopping power—especially in wet or variable conditions. Less maintenance than rim brakes when rims or wheels get worn.

Steering / Handling: With thru-axles front and rear, the bike tracks well, with good stability. The more upright geometry gives more confidence in descents and corners, though you sacrifice a little in tight, aggressive handling compared to race geometries.

Wheels & Tyres: Fitted with MERIDA EXPERT SLII aluminium rims, hook less, tubeless ready (though tubeless tape/valves not included). Rims are 23 mm inner, 25 mm height. Stock tyres are Maxxis Detonator 700×32c folding. This gives a good balance between rolling resistance and comfort. Tubeless capability is a plus if you want to run lower pressures for comfort and grip. Saddle: Merida COMP SL with V-mount. Comfortable for many, but the saddle is an easy upgrade if you have specific anatomy or plan very long rides.