2021 Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert vs 2022 Merida BIG.NINE 700
The M is the Merida BIG.NINE 700 size closest to your M 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 M, the Merida BIG.NINE 700 in M places the top of the head tube 11 mm higher and 8 mm further back, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 17 mm shorter, which can contribute to quicker direction changes.
- Frame stack
- +11 mm
- Higher front end
- Frame reach
- −8 mm
- Shorter frame reach
- Wheelbase
- −17 mm
- Shorter: quicker to change direction
- Head angle
- +1.5°
- Steeper: sharper steering
- Chainstays
- +3 mm
- Longer: more planted
The two frames
Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert, MMerida BIG.NINE 700, MDrawn to scale and lined up at the bottom bracket.
Geometry side by side
| Measurement | Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert M | Merida BIG.NINE 700 M | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | 430mm | 422 | −8 mm |
| Stack | 608mm | 619 | +11 mm |
| Head tube angle | 68.5° | 70 | +1.5° |
| Seat tube angle | 74° | 73.5 | −0.5° |
| Chainstay length | 430mm | 433 | +3 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1117mm | 1100 | −17 mm |
| BB drop | 63mm | 65 | +2 mm |
| BB height | 309mm | not listed | |
| Standover | 792mm | 740 | −52 mm |
| Seat tube length | 430mm | 444 | +14 mm |
| Fork length | 506mm | 506 | ±0 mm |
| Head tube length | 95mm | 100 | +5 mm |
| Effective top tube | not listed | 605 |
Differences are the Merida BIG.NINE 700 minus the Specialized Epic Hardtail Expert. Full charts: 2021 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 ExpertHardtail Expert | Merida BIG.NINE 700700 |
|---|---|---|
| Fork | RockShox SID SL BRAIN | Manitou Markhor Comp |
| Shifter | SRAM X01 | Shimano XT |
| Derailleur | SRAM X01 Eagle | Shimano XT, Shimano XT M8120 Shadow+ |
| Cassette | SRAM GX Eagle | Shimano SLX |
| Chain | SRAM GX Eagle | KMC X12 |
| Crankset | SRAM X1 Eagle | Shimano XT |
| Bottom bracket | SRAM DUB | Shimano MT500-PA pressfit |
| Tire | Specialized Fast Trak | Maxxis Ikon |
| Hub | DT Swiss 350 | Shimano SLX |
| Rim | Roval Control | Merida EXPERT CC |
| Brake | SRAM TL | Shimano XT |
| Handlebar | Specialized Mini Rise | Merida EXPERT CC |
| Saddle | Specialized Power Sport | not listed |
| Frame | not listed | Merida BIG.NINE LITE |
| Rotor | not listed | Shimano SM-RT54 |
| 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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