SPEED IS OUR HERITAGE

THE NEW REACTO

AERODYNAMICS REFINED FROM EVERY ANGLE

The thrill of speed is what unites road cyclists, professional and amateur alike. Pushing harder, accelerating and breaking free; nothing embodies this desire better than the REACTO. Designed to cut through the air so rider effort is translated into motion more efficiently than ever, there are few bikes that symbolise this search for speed better.

AERO EFFICIENCY. SMOOTH RIDE.

First launched in 2011, when aerodynamic shapes in road race bikes were a rarity, the REACTO has been a driving force of innovation. Our focus has been on speed, but also on making the bike a capable all-rounder. Unwilling to sacrifice comfort and predictable handling in our search for outright pace on the road, the bike has evolved over five generations to become beloved by road racing professionals as well as speed-loving enthusiasts. Whether on flat, fast runs or more hilly terrain, time and experience have shown the advantages an aerodynamically optimised road bike brings. With many varied victories from the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix to stages of the Tour de France, the REACTO has helped racers go faster with less effort, becoming the most lauded bike in our history.

ONE REACTO

THREE SETUPS

While we have spent a lot of time refining the frame, seat post and fork of the new REACTO, the bike must work as a whole, and this is where our industry partners come in. At this level of performance, there is no one ‘best’ solution, and to excel in one area, compromises must be made in others, especially when it comes to equipment choices. The REACTO has always been about delivering a complete package, rather than chasing figures at the expense of usability. That is why we offer not one but three top-end models, all of which have a slightly different focus, whether it be low drag, low weight or all-round performance.

REACTO ONE

The most uncompromising aero configuration

Wind tunnel: 196 watts (Tour Magazine wind tunnel test)
Weight: 7.4 kg (size M)
Drivetrain: 1x drivetrain with Classified hub gearing (full 2x range)
Wheels / Tyres: DT SWISS ARC wheels – Continental Aero 111/Grand Prix 5000S TR 29/30 mm tyres
Power Meter: Rotor Power Meter
Brakes: 160 mm rotors front and rear

REACTO 10K

The ultimate all-round aero performer

Wind tunnel: 202 watts (Tour Magazine wind tunnel test)
Weight: 7.2 kg (size M)
Aero Balance: Most balanced aerodynamic performance (front and side wind)
Stability: Excellent stability and crosswind handling
Power Meter: SRAM Power Meter
Brakes: 160 mm rotors front and rear

REACTO TEAM

The lightest REACTO in the lineup

Wind tunnel: 203 watts (down from 211 watts of the REACTO IV TEAM)
Weight: 7.1 kg (size M)
Power Meter: Shimano Power Meter
Brakes: 160 mm rotors front and rear

THE PROCESS

BUILT FROM THE GROUND UP

The REACTO V has been completely redesigned. Work on the project began in May 2022, and it has therefore been in development for almost four full years. During this time, we computed and tested numerous tube profile variations through CFD analysis to achieve optimal aerodynamic harmony and stiffness balance. This process has also enabled us to develop a new level of internal expertise that will benefit future MERIDA models. In total, four detailed wind tunnel sessions were conducted to verify our CFD findings, and our long-standing, highly renowned testing partner, the Zedler Institute, also supported our in-house lab testing.

TESTED BEYOND INDUSTRY STANDARDS

While speed is our goal, we have been unwilling to sacrifice durability and safety in our pursuit of it. Despite having a highly competitive frame and fork weight, the REACTO is tested to the Zedler Road Advanced+ standard, considered one of the industry’s toughest. It simulates loads exceeding the standard ISO requirements of rivals, allowing a maximum system weight of 120 kg for bike and rider despite a highly competitive frame and fork weight. Despite this being a significant engineering challenge, it means the REACTO delivers stable and predictable handling for everyone from elite sprinters to weekend warriors.

A new design philosophy for the fifth generation

With previous models, the design took a back seat in favour of the bike’s all-round performance. The edges and radii were kept subtle due to the focus on weight. Now, in the fifth generation, no compromises have been made! New manufacturing processes enable us to maintain a low weight while speaking a distinctive design language.

Where aerodynamics meet expressive form

The highly dynamic design of the new model stems primarily from the interplay of large, sail-like surfaces, such as those on the downtube and head tube, which are connected by slim, delicately designed cross-sections. Examples include the top tube and the lower section of the seat dome. This reduces the weight in certain areas while also creating an extremely dynamic, vibrant object. In a way, it is reminiscent of a yacht with masts, rigging and sails.

A signature detail that defines the REACTO V

The recurring ‘V’ design element that can be found in many details, such as the wheel arch on the fork and the connection of the seat stays, creates a physically uniform overall picture and forms the connecting link in the new REACTOs. Last but not least, the design, with its striking edges, creates an almost prismatic frame, allowing the paintwork to truly shine and make the bike’s colours pop!

ONE FRAME SHAPE - TWO CARBON LEVELS

Balancing Comfort and Efficiency

Carbon fibre layup is an art form that requires our engineers to blend the right combination of stiffness and flex. Balancing the contrasting needs of comfort and efficiency is no easy task, but by using knowledge gained over years of carbon fibre manufacture and the efforts of our in-house testers and world-class athletes, we’ve found what we feel is the correct balance in each area of the bike.

Two levels share one geometry

The new REACTO is available in two frame levels: CF5 and CF3. Both the CF5 and CF3 frames share the same race-proven geometry and offer identical aerodynamic performance. The only difference is in the carbon lay-up, with the CF3 offering a more affordable option than the CF5.

Stiffness Targets Exceeded

Stiffness levels are identical across both, to ensure stable, confident handling. Our CF5-equipped models feature the new TEAM CW cockpit, and this can also be mounted to the CF3 level frame, which will feature other one-piece or two-piece cockpit options. Our stiffness targets for Head tube stiffness and Bottom bracket stiffness for the CF3 and CF5 were 90 and 60, but our design not only met those targets but substantially exceeded them.

REACTO 8000

Cutting-edge technology at an affordable price. Created on the basis of our latest CF3 REACTO frame, the 8000 features identical aero performance and frame stiffness values as its higher-grade relative, but allows us to create a more price-competitive package.

Featuring identical air slicing capabilities and the same frame stiffness numbers as the top-end CF5 frame, the CF3-equipped 8000 only makes small weight concessions to create one of the most attractive REACTOs in our lineup. The proven Ultegra Di2 groupset and Reynolds AR 60 carbon wheels keep shifting fast and precise, and help to slice through the air as efficiently as possible.

Pushing an established design further

Cockpits, particularly one-piece designs, have a significant impact on the aerodynamic performance of a road bike. While our current MERIDA SL 1P cockpit, combined with our fully integrated cable routing, offers outstanding aerodynamics, weight savings and control, we felt that an updated design could further improve the REACTO’s ability to slice through the air.

Optimised for speed and regulations

A lower frontal area of bike and rider can help reduce drag massively, so we created a narrower cockpit design that allowed a more compact and aerodynamic rider position. Our track testing produced impressive aerodynamic gains while delivering the comfort and control our riders wanted.

Aerodynamic precision efficiency

The TEAM CW 1P features an aerodynamically optimised ‘Seagull Wing’ design that minimises airflow separation and drag. Its V-shape and foil profile maximise efficiency across all wind conditions, while its ergonomic design ensures comfort even on the most demanding rides.

BEYOND AERO

BALANCED PERFORMANCE

While improving aero values alone would be enough of a challenge, unlike most of our competitors, however, we did not simply focus on pushing the bike below the 200-watt Wind Tunnel-certified barrier; we also wanted to continue our quest to create one of the most aerodynamic bikes that maintains its impressive comfort and control attributes, while offering our customers the choice to find the perfect REACTO for their preferred riding and racing style.

ICONIC SHAPE - REFINED IDENTITY

At the same time, our design team has reinterpreted the iconic REACTO silhouette to give it a fresher, sharper, and more dynamic presence. The bike should have a stronger identity and be clearly identifiable at first glance as the Merida REACTO, particularly when its silhouette is compared to competitor models. The result is a true tribute to all speed enthusiasts and weight fanatics who demand a unique bike that is agile, precise, and built for one direction only.

REACTO PRO

Top-level components, paired with the latest super lightweight CF5 REACTO aero frame, and all put together in a keenly priced package. Our PRO is the perfect bike for the keen amateur who is looking for class-leading aero performance, low weight and the kind of riding comfort rarely found on an aero bike.

Built around Shimano's class-leading Dura-Ace Di2 groupset and rolling on DT SWISS ARC 1600 carbon wheels, the CF5 framed REACTO PRO has all the key ingredients for a top-level road bike.

REACTO 9000

Fast, agile, comfortable and lightweight. The REACTO 9000 is the proven combination of the three pillars our REACTO concept is based on - the perfect balance of air-slicing capability, comfort, and control.

Top components paired with our latest Generation V REACTO frame make the perfect recipe for a top-level aero bike. With an abundance of air-slicing capability but without compromising on weight, comfort, or the control that the REACTO is famous for, the REACTO 9000 feels equally at home at races as it does on extended club rides or fast and furious chain gang sessions.

REACTO 7000

Top components, including SRAM's latest power meter-equipped Rival wireless groupset and Vision's SC60 wheelset, paired with our latest Generation V REACTO frame, make the perfect recipe for this top-level aero bike. This bike is built for racing.

Featuring the Vision SC60 carbon wheelset and the latest SRAM Rival 12-speed wireless groupset with an integrated power meter, our REACTO 7000 is one of the top aero bikes in our line-up. If you want to win races or just be the fastest out of all your riding friends, this is the bike to get you there. The tyre clearance of up to 32 mm wide tyres and the well-proven MERIDA S-FLEX seat post for maximum comfort and to limit fatigue.

REFINED THROUGH REAL WORLD TESTING

From an early stage in the design process, as soon as rideable prototypes were available, we received extensive feedback from our internal MRD team, including engineers, product managers, and mechanics. Furthermore, top-level race testing in the 2025 Tour de France and Vuelta also helped to refine the carbon fibre layups and other small details. We started the design process with virtual testing, using sophisticated CFD simulations to refine and optimise every aspect of the design. Each simulation was evaluated in detail to identify areas for improvement. Even at an early stage, we took 3D-printed prototypes to the wind tunnel to verify the CFD simulations and further optimise the process. Regarding the lay-up development, and to achieve the perfect balance between weight and riding behaviour, we created multiple versions of rideable prototypes and conducted extensive ‘blind’ testing in which the testers were unaware of which lay-up they were riding. Finally, we conducted an extensive velodrome aerodynamic test to determine the optimal handlebar shape and the most aerodynamic rider position.

REACTO 6000

Fast, efficient, comfortable and easy to control, that is what every road rider is looking for when choosing the next road bike. Our REACTO offers all these qualities in abundance, not to mention looking great outside your favourite coffee stop.

Based on the latest version of our record-breaking REACTO frame, which in its ONE model configuration undercuts the magic 200 watts mark in the Tour Magazine wind tunnel test, our 6000 combines the frame's air-slicing ability with our lightweight one-piece aero carbon cockpit and Vision deep-section carbon wheels into one breathtaking package. Our REACTO 6000 is just as much made for racing as it is for leaving your mark amongst your riding buddies.

Fork, frame and component integration

The fork features deeper and thinner fork legs to reduce air resistance between the fork and the tyre. The head tube has also been redesigned to better integrate the cockpit and stem into the frame.

The down tube is positioned further away from the front wheel to improve aerodynamics while reducing weight. The Di2 battery is now located in the bottom bracket area, lowering the centre of gravity and improving accessibility.

Tyre clearance and chainstay optimisation

Tyre clearance has been increased from 30 mm to a maximum of 32 mm, still with 5 mm clearance. While we still fit 30 mm tyres, this increased clearance improves airflow at the tyre/frame/fork intersections without losing performance and agility. For that and to fulfil Shimano’s requirements, we have also extended the chain stays from 408 to 410 mm, without any handling disadvantages.

Proven geometry – zero offset seat post

Looking at the geometry, we have retained the key elements of the World Tour proven and race-winning geometry of the previous REACTO. However, our new, much lighter (approx. 100 g weight saving to the predecessor) zero offset seat post has been added to the bike, which brings some impressive weight savings and puts the rider slightly more above the bottom bracket for a more effective pedalling position.

SPEED IS OUR HERITAGE

NEVER DONE. PUSHING LIMITS.

While the new REACTO is another milestone in our technological and innovative history, setting new standards in terms of aerodynamics, as well as maintaining the perfect balance of air-slicing capability, comfort, and control, our constant pursuit of marginal gains doesn’t end here. Through the lessons we learned and the processes we further refined while creating the new REACTO, we are already able to explore additional ways to let key details trickle further down the REACTO range and find their way into our broader road and gravel offerings in the future. This drive is the foundation of our REACTO’s heritage and what it stands for.

CLEAR GOALS - KEY TARGETS

Playing a game of marginal gains, and with predecessors which remain at the top of the aero leaderboard, the new REACTO had big shoes to fill. The key targets for the fifth evolution of the REACTO were to maintain the perfect balance between aerodynamics, comfort and control.

Performance Goal

Striving to hit the magic 200-watt barrier as measured according to the Tour Magazine test standard.

Weight & Stiffness

Making the bike as light as possible while getting close to the UCI weight limit of 6.8 kg, without compromising on stiffness and durability targets, and using only reliable, proven equipment.

Comfort & Tyre Clearance

Maintaining the impressive comfort levels set by the outgoing REACTO. Further increasing the tyre clearance for up to 32 mm tyres.

REACTO 5000

Our most aerodynamic road frame ever at an accessible price. We've paired our latest lightweight CF3 carbon frame with high-value and high-performance equipment to create a great way to benefit from our latest technology without blowing the budget.

Benefit from our fastest ever road bike frame without blowing the budget. The REACTO 5000 pairs our latest CF3 carbon fibre aero frame with high-value kit such as Shimano's benchmark 105 Di2 electronic groupset to create a ride that's almost as fast as our pro level bikes but at a fraction of the cost. With a tubeless-ready Vision 35 wheelset and quality Continental tyres, it's a blend of speed, perfromance and value that's hard to beat.

Optimised for UCI regulations - maximum aero potential

The new REACTO is perfectly adapted to the latest frame and handlebar design boundaries set by the UCI. The TEAM CW 1P cockpit leads the way in this improvement, offering the perfect balance of cutting-edge design, aerodynamic efficiency, and a low weight of just 320 g, with better frame and bar integration that optimises airflow and reduces drag. The combination of this deep integration, the ‘Seagull wing’ shaped profile, and a very flat top-bar profile contributes around 50% to the overall drag improvement over our TEAM SL 1P cockpit, already a highly efficient setup.

Front end stiffness and headset bearings

Looking at the front end and specifically at the size of the headset bearings, the previous REACTO model used the large size 1½” bearing at the top only to enable the crucial internal cable routing while focusing on a smaller bearing size at the bottom to reduce the front surface area. Due to the more aerodynamic design of the new REACTO and the desire to increase head tube and fork stiffness, we were able to use long-lasting, large-size upper and lower 1½“ bearings without adding drag.

Seat post redesign for comfort and weight saving

A further focus on the overall design was the seat post. For the new REACTO, we moved away from the 15 mm offset post to a zero-offset version, but more importantly, we were able to save 100 g due to a new super slim design (which also has aero benefits), removing of the Di2 battery mounting and changes to the saddle clamp. We were able to do this without sacrificing the REACTO-known horizontal deflection that adds comfort on rougher surfaces. To provide additional visibility, a new rechargeable light can be integrated into the cut-out using a special adapter.

FLEXIBLE BOTTLE POSITIONS FOR OPTIMAL AIRFLOW

In our search for aerodynamic gains, we also focused on less obvious areas, especially the position and integration of the water bottles. Many aero road bikes have a downtube shaped to help direct air around a conventionally shaped bottle and cage, but this compromises the performance, whether a bottle is fitted or not. With that in mind, we used a more conventional aero downtube profile, developed our own aero bottle and cage combination, which easily outperformed a classic bottle and cage combination in our wind-tunnel tests, whether with one or two bottles and cages fitted. The most aerodynamic configuration is one aero bottle mounted in the lower of the two positions, but two of our aero bottles are still faster than a conventional single bottle.

REACTO 4000

The thrill of speed at a price that's hard to ignore. We've packed in a huge amount of performance and value by using our latest more aerodynamic CF3 carbon frame and pairing it with high-value, no nonsense kit. The ideal starting point for any aspiring road rider or racer.

The perfect entry to our aero bike range. The REACTO 4000 uses exactly the same super-aero frame shape as our top level models, but by combining our lightweight CF3 carbon frame with high-value components, we've created a bike with performance that puts more expensive machines to shame. Using the utterly reliable Shimano 105 groupset with hydraulic disc brakes and some choice components, it's ready to ride and race from the box, as well as being a great platform to upgrade as you progress.

Merida Benelux M.O.R.E. BIKE

Merida Benelux BV

Laan van Westenenk 102
7336 AZ Apeldoorn
Postbus 799
7301 BA Apeldoorn
Nederland
+31(0)55 506 2200
info@merida.nl
www.merida.nl

Merida Experience Center

Laan van Westenenk 102
7336 AZ Apeldoorn
Nederland
+31(0)55 506 1001
info@merida.nl
www.merida.nl

Birzman Bicycle Tools

+31(0)55 506 6699
info@birzman.nl
www.birzman.nl

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