The new Merida Reacto V breaks the 200-watt barrier to reach 45 km/h: more aerodynamic, lighter, and designed to fly

Merida presents the fifth generation of its most iconic aerodynamic bicycle. The new Reacto V arrives with a complete redesign of the frame, significant aerodynamic improvements, and a clear ambition to rank among the fastest road bikes on the market without sacrificing comfort or control. The project has involved nearly four years of development and an approach that combines digital simulation, wind tunnel testing, and competition testing.

The Merida Reacto V sees the light after four years of development and competition testing

The development of the new Reacto started with the challenge of improving the aerodynamic performance of a bike that was already among the fastest on the market.

One of the main objectives was to reach the so-called "200-watt barrier," a benchmark established in the aerodynamic tests of the German magazine TOUR Magazine. This test measures the power needed to maintain a constant speed of 45 km/h under conditions that simulate real-world riding, with a mannequin pedaling and variations in wind angle.

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To achieve this, Merida's engineers conducted hundreds of simulations using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), analyzing different tube profiles and component combinations. The process was completed with several validation sessions in a wind tunnel and additional tests conducted by the independent institute Zedler.

The Reacto V project began in May 2022 and has accumulated nearly four years of work until its final version. During that time, the development team evaluated multiple aerodynamic profile configurations and different carbon fiber arrangements to find the balance between stiffness, weight, and efficiency.

The tests were not limited to the lab. The first prototypes were tested in real conditions by Merida's internal R&D team and later in competition at the highest level, including the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España in 2025. These trials helped to adjust both the frame design and the carbon arrangement in critical areas.

Additionally, the process included tests on a velodrome to optimize the cockpit and the aerodynamic position of the cyclist.

The Merida Reacto V is completely renewed to take aerodynamics to the next level

Although the Reacto maintains the essence of Merida's aero family, the fifth generation introduces a more pronounced and recognizable aesthetic.

The new design combines large aerodynamic surfaces with very thin sections in strategic areas of the frame to create a dynamic and lightweight appearance. One of the most characteristic visual elements is the "V" shape, present at various points on the frame such as the fork's wheel passage or the junction of the stays.

This visual language is complemented by sharper profiles and flat surfaces that enhance the paint and reinforce the bike's identity.

The aerodynamic improvement of the Reacto V is not limited to a single element but affects the entire bike-cyclist system.

One of the key components is the new integrated TEAM CW 1P cockpit, developed alongside Vision. This one-piece handlebar uses a profile inspired by a "seagull wing" that reduces airflow separation and improves aerodynamic efficiency. Weighing approximately 320 grams, it combines high stiffness with a more compact position that allows the cyclist to adopt a more aerodynamic posture.

The front of the bike has also been redesigned to increase stiffness and durability. The steering now uses upper and lower bearings of 1 1/2", improving stability without penalizing aerodynamic resistance.

The fork incorporates deeper and narrower legs to reduce the turbulence generated by the airflow around the wheel, while the diagonal tube has been slightly repositioned further away from the front wheel to improve aerodynamic flow.

More comfort and greater tire clearance

Although speed remains the main goal of the Reacto, Merida has also worked to improve the comfort and versatility of the bike.

The tire clearance increases to 32 mm, compared to 30 mm in the previous generation. This improvement not only provides more comfort on uneven surfaces but also optimizes airflow in the interaction area between tire, fork, and frame.

The chainstays have also been slightly lengthened to 410 mm, allowing for that additional tire clearance without compromising dynamic behavior.

Another important change is the new setback-free seat post, which not only reduces the total weight by approximately 100 grams but also positions the cyclist slightly further forward over the bottom bracket to promote a more efficient pedaling position.

Frame tested under more demanding standards

Despite its focus on aerodynamic performance and weight, the new Reacto has been designed to maintain high levels of durability.

The frame has undergone the Zedler Road Advanced+ standard, one of the industry's most demanding testing protocols. These tests simulate loads exceeding those required by ISO standards and allow a maximum system weight (bike plus cyclist) of 120 kg, ensuring stability and safety in both competitive and recreational use.

Two levels of carbon with the same geometry

The Reacto V will be offered with two types of frame construction: CF5 and CF3.

Both share exactly the same geometry and aerodynamic performance. The difference lies in the carbon fiber layup, which determines the final weight and positioning within the range.

CF5 frames are associated with the most advanced builds and use the new integrated TEAM CW cockpit, while CF3 allows configurations with different types of handlebars and stems.

Merida Reacto V: models, weights, and prices

Merida proposes three main builds of the new Reacto, each with a distinct philosophy: pure aerodynamics, overall balance, or minimum weight.

Reacto ONE – the most aerodynamic configuration

• 196 watts in TOUR Magazine tests
• Weight: 7.4 kg (size M)
• 1x transmission with Classified system
• DT Swiss ARC wheels
• Continental Aero 111 / GP5000S TR 29-30 mm tires
• Rotor power meter
• 160 mm disc brakes

Reacto 10K – balance between weight and aerodynamics

• 202 watts in wind tunnel
• Weight: 7.2 kg
• Stable behavior even with crosswinds
• SRAM power meter
• 160 mm disc brakes

Reacto TEAM – the lightest

• 203 watts in aerodynamic test
• Weight: 7.1 kg
• Notable improvement over the Reacto IV TEAM (211 watts)
• Shimano power meter
• 160 mm disc brakes

With this fifth generation, Merida reinforces its commitment to a bike capable of combining speed, efficiency, and comfort, a formula that has defined the Reacto since its inception.