Merida has previewed a new Avinox-powered electric mountain bike called the ILIAC, with a teaser pointing to January 2027. The announcement pairs the two brands’ logos above a shadowy full-suspension bike, giving riders an early glimpse of a new addition to Merida’s eMTB range.
There is enough here to get interested, but this is still a teaser. The images do not specify the motor model, battery capacity, suspension travel or UK price, and the January date should not yet be read as a confirmed delivery window.
What does the Merida ILIAC teaser show?
The opening image shows a red Merida full-suspension mountain bike, with its rear shock tucked beneath the top tube. Much of the frame and equipment remains deliberately hidden, while the following slides spell out “Coming January 2027”.
The clearest news is the Avinox connection. Merida has put the drive-system brand front and centre, but there is no basis in these images for assigning the ILIAC a particular torque figure, battery size or complete-bike weight.
Nor does the announcement explain where it will sit within Merida’s existing range. Whether the ILIAC is aimed primarily at everyday trail riding or harder enduro use will become clearer when Merida releases the travel, geometry and build specifications.
Why the Avinox connection matters
For riders considering an Avinox-powered eMTB, the ILIAC gives them another forthcoming bike to watch. The useful question is how Merida will build around the system: frame geometry, suspension behaviour, tyres and battery placement all influence how an electric mountain bike handles.
Our Amflow PX Carbon Pro review illustrates why that distinction matters. We were impressed by its smooth, progressive assistance on technical climbs, but the rear suspension, brake feel and battery consumption still shaped the overall riding experience. Those findings relate to the Amflow; they cannot tell us how the Merida will ride.
For UK trails, we will be looking closely at how the ILIAC balances climbing assistance with grip and control on wet roots, tight woodland turns and rough descents. Charging access and the cost of the complete bike will matter just as much to many owners.
Merida ILIAC: price and availability
The teaser gives January 2027 as its headline timing, without specifying a UK price, an exact unveiling date or when customers will be able to take delivery. It also leaves the component specifications and choice of models open.
For now, the ILIAC belongs on the watchlist rather than in a buying recommendation. Riders comparing bikes already available can explore our guide to the best Avinox eMTBs, which explains the differences between complete bikes beyond their shared motor branding.
Source: Merida’s ILIAC teaser. Teaser imagery: Merida.