MERLIN MALT-G TIAGRA
£649 > Does cheap mean cheerful?
Merlin’s direct-buy Malt-G gravel-specific bike represents fantastic value for money.
Using Shimano’s 10-speed Tiagra groupset found on bikes nearly double the Malt-G’s price, a carbon fork, with carbon steerer and dropout blades, and Tektro Lyra mechanical disk brakes with 160mm rotors, it’s almost a ‘too good to be true’ ride.
The carbon fork and frame – made from 6061 aluminium – both have mudguard-mounting bosses and pannier fittings. The mix of own-brand and Kalloy Uno finishing kit keeps the price down, but works as expected. On road, the bars’ 41cm width is fine but a wider set up for gravel would be preferable.
The flat centre surface of the Kenda Kwick 35mm tyres keeps rolling resistance down on paved surfaces, but lean over to corner and the sharp transition between the centre and side knobs and square tyre profile makes for an unnerving cornering experience. Off-road, those same knobs do a better job of keeping the bike in check on softer ground, but the tyres are best suited to dry or harder surfaces.
The ride’s overall compliance is impressive and akin to a more expensive bike thanks to the carbon fork and steerer and the Mavic XM 119 rims. Shimano’s Tiagra shifted faultlessly, and the 50 and 34-tooth chainrings mated to an 11-32 tooth cassette is a great range for the road, but on steep gravel slopes you may want for a 34/34 bottom gear.