De Rosa Merak

by Simon · 02/07/2013

[two_third]

BB30 bottom bracket, carbon cranks, deep chain stays and a massive bottom bracket , keeps flex to a minimum

The Merak has a number of interesting tube shapes and profiles, that all add up to that lovely compliant ride. The seat stays curve down to the alloy drop outs, allowing some comfort. These are fixed into the chunky asymmetric chain stays and combine with the cutaway aero seat tube to create a nice tight rear end. The stiff, oversized BB30 bottom bracket and that box like down tube help explain the Merak’s climbing ability.

The Athena derailleur uses the same motors as it’s more expensive siblings

So it climbs and descends well, and has the kind of geometry and carbon layup that hints at day long comfort; what’s not to like about the De Rosa Merak? Well maybe a lighter wheelset wouldn’t go amiss? The Fulcrum Racing Quattro’s are a great all round choice, but maybe something a little more ‘special’ for those important events would add to the Merak’s performance?

A cool seat clamp, adds no performance benefit, but looks great!

Here’s hoping we get one for a longer test, it would be good to try it out on a couple of longer sportives and maybe a race or two, and give it a good going over. From my two short test rides, I can’t see any of that causing any problems for the De Rosa Merak. Its a real smooth operator that doesn’t disappoint.