2017 Specialized Epic Hardtail vs 2019 Merida BIG.NINE TEAM
The XL is the Merida BIG.NINE TEAM size closest to your XL Specialized Epic Hardtail. We match frame stack and reach. This is a geometry comparison, not a fit recommendation; stem, spacers, handlebars and saddle setup also affect your riding position.
What changes on the Merida BIG.NINE TEAM
Compared with the Specialized Epic Hardtail in XL, the Merida BIG.NINE TEAM in XL places the top of the head tube 6 mm higher and 4 mm further back, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 11 mm longer, which can contribute to stability at speed.
- Frame stack
- +6 mm
- Higher front end
- Frame reach
- −4 mm
- Shorter frame reach
- Wheelbase
- +11 mm
- Longer: steadier at speed
- Head angle
- −1.0°
- Slacker: calmer steering
- Chainstays
- +3 mm
- Longer: more planted
The two frames
Specialized Epic Hardtail, XLMerida BIG.NINE TEAM, XLDrawn to scale and lined up at the bottom bracket.
Geometry side by side
| Measurement | Specialized Epic Hardtail XL | Merida BIG.NINE TEAM XL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | 458mm | 454 | −4 mm |
| Stack | 639mm | 645 | +6 mm |
| Head tube angle | 71° | 70 | −1.0° |
| Seat tube angle | 73.5° | 73.5 | ±0.0° |
| Effective top tube | 643mm | 645 | +2 mm |
| Chainstay length | 430mm | 433 | +3 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1131mm | 1142 | +11 mm |
| BB drop | 61mm | 65 | +4 mm |
| BB height | 310mm | not listed | |
| Standover | 849mm | 819 | −30 mm |
| Seat tube length | 505mm | 532 | +27 mm |
| Fork length | 496mm | 506 | +10 mm |
| Head tube length | 130mm | 125 | −5 mm |
Differences are the Merida BIG.NINE TEAM minus the Specialized Epic Hardtail. Full charts: 2017 Specialized Epic Hardtail, 2019 Merida BIG.NINE TEAM.
Where each sits in its class
Specialized Epic HardtailMerida BIG.NINE TEAM
Each bike is ranked against the other XC bikes on Quiver, on frame geometry alone. Not your hand position or ride feel.
What each ships with
The stock build of each bike's first listed trim. Parts that match are dimmed.
| Part | Specialized Epic HardtailHardtail | Merida BIG.NINE TEAMTEAM |
|---|---|---|
| Fork | RockShox Reba RL | RockShox SID World Cup |
| Shifter | Shimano SLX M7000 | not listed |
| Derailleur | Shimano SLX M7025, Shimano XT M8000 | SRAM XX1 Eagle |
| Cassette | SRAM PG-1130 | SRAM XX1 Eagle |
| Chain | SRAM PC-1110 | SRAM XX1 Eagle |
| Crankset | Race Face Aeffect | not listed |
| Tire | Specialized Fast Trak | Maxxis Ikon |
| Rim | Specialized Stout | not listed |
| Brake | Shimano Deore M506 | SRAM Level Ultimate |
| Handlebar | Specialized Stout XC | Merida TEAM CC |
| Grips | Specialized Sip Grip | Merida TEAM CC |
| Saddle | Specialized Phenom Comp | Prologo Scratch 2 |
| Frame | not listed | Merida BIG.NINE CF5 |
| Bottom bracket | not listed | SRAM BB DUB PF MTB 92 |
| Wheelset | not listed | Fulcrum Red Passion 3 |
| Hub | not listed | attached |
| Rotor | not listed | SRAM Centerline X |
| Stem | not listed | Merida Team CC |
| Seatpost | not listed | Merida TEAM CC |
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