"For the new Reacto 5, Merida set four key goals... and then delivered on all of them. Break the 200W barrier, based on the TOUR Magazine test in the GST wind tunnel; lose weight to achieve a real 6.8kg race-ready weight, without compromising stiffness; maintain or improve rider comfort over rough roads; increase tire clearance to 32mm."
"The German TOUR Magazine benchmark aerodynamics test calculates weighted drag, measured in the GST wind tunnel from -20° to +20° yaw angles with a lower body dummy pedaling at 45km/hr. So far, only two bikes tested have come in under 200W - the 2022 Simplon Pride II at 199W and the 2025 Storck Aerfast.5 Pro 1x at 198W."
"It also puts a lot of value on all-conditions versatility with room for up to 32mm tires. And it delivers remarkable comfort with smart vibration-damping designs. Plus, it delivers surprising affordability, too. Sure, it does have three top-tier models that cost over €11K. But there is a complete bike that sells for literally <25% of that top-tier model."
The new Merida Reacto 5 represents a significant advancement in aero road bike design, achieving the lowest wind tunnel drag measurement of any bike tested in the GST benchmark at under 200W. The bike balances speed with versatility, accommodating up to 32mm tires for all-conditions riding while incorporating vibration-damping technology for enhanced comfort. Weighing 6.8kg in race-ready configuration, the Reacto 5 maintains structural stiffness without compromise. The bike lineup offers remarkable value, with entry-level models priced at less than 25% of top-tier €11K+ models while sharing identical aero frameset performance. These improvements stem from updated UCI frame regulations and refined carbon manufacturing techniques.
Read at Bikerumor
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