2020 Merida BIG.NINE vs 2019 Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset
The XL is the Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset size closest to your XL Merida BIG.NINE. 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 Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset
Compared with the Merida BIG.NINE in XL, the Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset in XL places the top of the head tube 6 mm lower and 12 mm further forward, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 52 mm shorter, which can contribute to quicker direction changes.
- Frame stack
- −6 mm
- Lower front end
- Frame reach
- +12 mm
- Longer frame reach
- Wheelbase
- −52 mm
- Shorter: quicker to change direction
- Head angle
- +2.8°
- Steeper: sharper steering
- Chainstays
- −30 mm
- Shorter: livelier
The two frames
Merida BIG.NINE, XLSpecialized Epic Hardtail Frameset, XLDrawn to scale and lined up at the bottom bracket.
Geometry side by side
| Measurement | Merida BIG.NINE XL | Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset XL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | 450 | 462mm | +12 mm |
| Stack | 643 | 637mm | −6 mm |
| Head tube angle | 67 | 69.8° | +2.8° |
| Seat tube angle | 74 | 74° | ±0.0° |
| Effective top tube | 630 | 649mm | +19 mm |
| Chainstay length | 460 | 430mm | −30 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1206 | 1154mm | −52 mm |
| BB drop | 53 | 61mm | +8 mm |
| Standover | 813 | 845mm | +32 mm |
| Seat tube length | 510 | 520mm | +10 mm |
| Fork length | 535 | 506mm | −29 mm |
| Head tube length | 130 | 125mm | −5 mm |
| BB height | not listed | 309mm |
Differences are the Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset minus the Merida BIG.NINE. Full charts: 2020 Merida BIG.NINE, 2019 Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset.
Where each sits in its class
Merida BIG.NINESpecialized Epic Hardtail Frameset
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 | Merida BIG.NINE100 | Specialized Epic Hardtail Frameset |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | Merida BIG.NINE TFS | not listed |
| Fork | SR Suntour XCM-HLO | not listed |
| Shifter | Shimano Altus | not listed |
| Derailleur | Shimano Acera M3000, Shimano Alivio | not listed |
| Cassette | Shimano HG200 | not listed |
| Chain | KMC M99 | not listed |
| Bottom bracket | Shimano UN100 BSA | not listed |
| Pedals | VPE-891 | not listed |
| Tire | Maxxis Ikon | not listed |
| Hub | Shimano TX505 | not listed |
| Rim | Merida COMP CC | not listed |
| Brake | Shimano MT200 | not listed |
| Rotor | Shimano SM-RT10 | not listed |
| Handlebar | Merida EXPERT CC | not listed |
| Stem | Merida COMP CC | not listed |
| Grips | Merida COMP EC | not listed |
| Headset | Merida M2345 | not listed |
| Seatpost | Merida COMP CC | not listed |
| Saddle | Merida COMP CC | not listed |
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