2020 Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert vs 2022 Merida BIG.NINE 700
The S is the Merida BIG.NINE 700 size closest to your XS Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert. 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 700
Compared with the Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert in XS, the Merida BIG.NINE 700 in S places the top of the head tube 20 mm higher and 18 mm further forward, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 17 mm longer, which can contribute to stability at speed.
- Frame stack
- +20 mm
- Higher front end
- Frame reach
- +18 mm
- Longer frame reach
- Wheelbase
- +17 mm
- Longer: steadier at speed
- Head angle
- +1.5°
- Steeper: sharper steering
- Chainstays
- +3 mm
- Longer: more planted
The two frames
Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert, XSMerida BIG.NINE 700, SDrawn to scale and lined up at the bottom bracket.
Geometry side by side
| Measurement | Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert XS | Merida BIG.NINE 700 S | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | 385mm | 403 | +18 mm |
| Stack | 594mm | 614 | +20 mm |
| Head tube angle | 68.5° | 70 | +1.5° |
| Seat tube angle | 74° | 73.5 | −0.5° |
| Chainstay length | 430mm | 433 | +3 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1063mm | 1080 | +17 mm |
| BB drop | 63mm | 65 | +2 mm |
| BB height | 309mm | not listed | |
| Standover | 732mm | 688 | −44 mm |
| Seat tube length | 367mm | 382 | +15 mm |
| Fork length | 486mm | 506 | +20 mm |
| Head tube length | 95mm | 95 | ±0 mm |
| Effective top tube | not listed | 585 |
Differences are the Merida BIG.NINE 700 minus the Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert. Full charts: 2020 Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert, 2022 Merida BIG.NINE 700.
Where each sits in its class
Specialized Epic Hardtail ExpertMerida BIG.NINE 700
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 Hardtail Expert | Merida BIG.NINE 700700 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | not listed | Merida BIG.NINE LITE |
| Fork | not listed | Manitou Markhor Comp |
| Shifter | not listed | Shimano XT |
| Derailleur | not listed | Shimano XT, Shimano XT M8120 Shadow+ |
| Cassette | not listed | Shimano SLX |
| Chain | not listed | KMC X12 |
| Crankset | not listed | Shimano XT |
| Bottom bracket | not listed | Shimano MT500-PA pressfit |
| Tire | not listed | Maxxis Ikon |
| Hub | not listed | Shimano SLX |
| Rim | not listed | Merida EXPERT CC |
| Brake | not listed | Shimano XT |
| Rotor | not listed | Shimano SM-RT54 |
| Handlebar | not listed | Merida EXPERT CC |
| Stem | not listed | Merida EXPERT CC |
| Grips | not listed | Merida COMP EC |
| Headset | not listed | Merida M2331 |
| Seatpost | not listed | Merida COMP CC |
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