Merida Big Nine tfs 500 Any thoughts?

[Ryan]

Hi Guys,

 

I was wondering if anyone owns one of these and what there experience has been. Brief summary :

 

Deore Shifters and Brakes 10 spd

XT rear Derailer

Deore Crank

RL Base Suntour Front Shock

29er Big Nine Rims

 

I am leaning towards a new 29 er as opposed to well specced used 26 er.

 

Thanks

[Oom Kaspaas]

Your specs look like the 2012 model if you remove the Deore crank. Are you looking to buy new? Then you will be looking at the 2013 model. Good specs for the price, you can pick them up for R9000-R9350 if you shop around.

[SSS]

Great bike, I love mine. Only problem in 2000km+ was a broken chain. If I had to choose another bike in the same price range, I'd consider the Silverback Veda range. Paid R8800 at Manyak Cycles in Pretoria for the 2012 TFS 500 model in Feb.

[Tankman]

Yea, that is the 2012 specks, get the 2013 bike with Rock Shox Recon Air fork - R10 500

 

PM me

[MTBc]

Deore Shifters and Brakes 10 spd

XT rear Derailer

Deore Crank

RL Base Suntour Front Shock

29er Big Nine Rims

 

I picked up a similar spec'd 29er (different rims and shock, decent saddle, SLX shifters & brakes on a Silverback Vida frame). Previously had an entry level 26er, and am completely loving it the new ride, much better experience (after about 4 or 5 months of riding)! its a comfortable ride, and do not regret going with lower spec'd 29er over better 26er (i was considering 26er DS). Was fortunate enough to get a great deal on it from Xtreme Cycles in Klerksdorp. ( https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/41588-silverback-vida-build-up-29er/ ). I think the transition from egg beaters to cleats has also contributed to a better riding experience.

[Ryan]

Hi thanks guys,

 

Yip its a 2012 model new for around the R8500 mark, I was explained the air fork difference and to me its not a train smash.

 

SSS that sounds pretty reliable what type of riding have you done in those 2000km?

Brett Im in the same boat Boet...just got about 20 odd kgs to forcibly remove from my body with a bit of blood sweat and tears...I upgraded to cleats about two months back and loving it! I enjoyed the comfort of the 29er so will be taking the plunge.

[Audible Anarchy]

My old man weighs close on 130kgs and he hasnt broken his yet - theyre bomb proof. Rather pitch in for the 2013 with the rock shox if you can.

[Ryan]

Thanks AA thats good to know Bud as Im also on the Large side and looking for something that will hold me and my gut ; )

[SSS]

Hi thanks guys,

 

Yip its a 2012 model new for around the R8500 mark, I was explained the air fork difference and to me its not a train smash.

 

SSS that sounds pretty reliable what type of riding have you done in those 2000km?

Brett Im in the same boat Boet...just got about 20 odd kgs to forcibly remove from my body with a bit of blood sweat and tears...I upgraded to cleats about two months back and loving it! I enjoyed the comfort of the 29er so will be taking the plunge.

 

80% dirt roads, trails and races and 20% road to get to the local trails.

 

The one thing I would want to upgrade in the future though, is the fork, it's not bad, it's just not that good imo. My mates Rock Shox recon gold looks a lot more comfy/absorbing over the smaller bumps! I figured I'll upgrade that as soon as I really feel I need to, or it breaks which has not happened yet and doesn't look like happening soon...

[Oom Kaspaas]

Rather go for the 2013 big9 tfs500. The rockshox is better than the suntour and Hotspot cycles quoted me R9000 last week and eventually I bought one from Trinity cycles for R9350 with an external bb crank included. worth the extra over the R8500 for the 2012 model.I have done only a few km's with mine, but it seems fine so far. Not a lightweight (+/- 12.8 kg) but it is probably the best buy at the price if you want a 29er.

[ericdj]

Hi Guys,

 

I was wondering if anyone owns one of these and what there experience has been. Brief summary :

 

Deore Shifters and Brakes 10 spd

XT rear Derailer

Deore Crank

RL Base Suntour Front Shock

29er Big Nine Rims

 

I am leaning towards a new 29 er as opposed to well specced used 26 er.

 

Thanks

I have one in the 300 TFS range but a big nine as well, and i am very happy with this bike, same group set and never had an issue. Eric Edited November 12, 2012 by ericdj

[ericdj]

I have one in the 300 TFS range but a big nine as well, and i am very happy with this bike, same group set and never had an issue. Eric

[Ryan]

Thanks Guys for the input much appreciated... I think I will be sticking with the 2012 with the intention of upgrading the shock when I can to something decent. Thanks for the update SSS and wishing you many more safe and trouble free miles! Eric there is not much difference between the 500 and the 300 except the 500 is a 10 speed I think?

Edited November 13, 2012 by Ryanie