Merida’s new Reacto CF4 might be the sexier bike of the two, but the Reacto CF2 shouldn’t be ignored. Like many halo bikes, the Reacto line’s third generation was introduced with two parts – the ultra high end, no expense spared CF4 and the more realistic CF2. But just because you probably won’t see anyone racing the CF2 in the Tour, it doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a look. Built with many of the same improvements as the Reacto CF4, the CF2 offers a comfortable, aerodynamic ride that may even appeal to more riders…
Many of the changes in for the CF2 can be seen in the shot above. Calling the CF2 and CF4 completely different products, the CF2 blends a different geometry with a bit less aerodynamic integration to appeal to a different audience. Instead of the sculpted headtube and matching one piece cockpits from Vision, the CF2 uses a standard stem and bar with a headset that still uses aero spacers, but not the integrated spacers of the Metron 5D.
The frame also has a different geometry with a 15mm longer head tube, and slightly shorter reach for a more upright riding position. The CF2 also gains an XXS size which isn’t available for the high end CF4. Not visible to the naked eye is the difference in carbon construction which results in a slightly heavier frame weight of 1093g vs. 1010g. Using a blend of 24t and 30T carbon fibers, the frame also sees larger cross sections of many of the tubes.
The last major difference comes in the form of the seat post which uses a two piece design instead of one. That design allows for the head to be reversed to offer a 0-15° degree set back which may make the Reacto CF2 appeal to riders looking for a road bike and something they could use for short distance triathlons in a single package. The post still uses the S-Flex window design with the new elastomer insert, and the posts from the Cf2 and CF4 are interchangeable. While the Cf2 post offers more adjustability, it’s also 50g heavier than the Cf4 post.
Merida placed a big emphasis on the one piece aero cockpit of the CF4, but for practicality and adjustability, the two piece set up on the CF2 should be a plus for the target consumer. The bar does use a f shape on the top of the bar though to make it as aerodynamic as possible.
Like the Reacto CF4, the CF2 moves to direct mount rim brakes with the rear brake hidden under the chainstays with a small shelf in front of the brake to block the wind. There is also a disc brake version of the CF2, though only for the 7000-E model, not the 6000. The 7000-E disc moves to thru axles front and rear, but uses threaded 12×100 and 12×142 axles instead of the RAT system on the CF4.
Both the 7000-E and 6000 models use some combination of Shimano Ultegra, with the 7000-E running a mix of Ultegra Di2 and FSA Energy, and the 6000 getting the new Ultegra mechanical drivetrain. Both the CF2 and CF4 frames use the same internal routing and BB386 bottom bracket configurations and 25mm tire clearance.
Pricing and availability is TBA.
