2026 Merida Big Trail 500 – Hardcore Hardtail, UK-Bred Fun
The 2026 Merida Big Trail 500 is the ultimate hardcore hardtail – born in the UK, refined for trail riders everywhere. With its modern progressive geometry, 140mm RockShox Psylo Silver RC air fork, and a no-nonsense build kit, it’s built to climb efficiently, descend with confidence, and deliver grin-inducing fun on every ride.
The Big Trail’s geometry was designed from the ground up with input from UK riders. A steep 76.5° seat angle keeps climbing sharp, while a slack 64° head angle and long reach provide stability when trails get steep or rowdy. Thanks to Agilometer sizing, you can pick a shorter size for agility or go longer for high-speed stability – tailoring the bike to your riding style.
Spec highlights include the new Shimano CUES 1x10 drivetrain, offering reliable shifting across a wide 11–48T cassette, paired with powerful SRAM DB4 4-piston brakes for maximum stopping confidence. Rolling on 29” Boost-standard wheels with aggressive Maxxis Minion DHF (2.5”) and Dissector (2.4”) tyres, this bike has grip and precision dialled. Add in a long-travel dropper post and tubeless-ready wheels, and you’ve got a bike ready for UK trails, bike parks, or Alpine adventures.
If you want serious trail performance without the fragility of full suspension, the Big Trail 500 is the hardtail that delivers everything you need and nothing you don’t.
Key Features
6061 Aluminium Frame – modern progressive trail geometry, Boost spacing, internal routing.
RockShox Psylo Silver RC Fork – 140mm air travel, trail-tuned performance.
Shimano CUES 1x10 Drivetrain – wide 11–48T range, simple and reliable.
SRAM DB4 4-Piston Hydraulic Brakes – 200mm/180mm rotors for powerful control.
29er Wheelset – tubeless-ready rims with 29mm inner width.
Aggressive Maxxis Tyres – Minion DHF 2.5” front & Dissector 2.4” rear.
Dropper Post – up to 230mm travel depending on frame size.
Agilometer Sizing – pick your size for agility or stability.