eddy merx 2012
DESCRIPTION
EDDY MERX 2012TRANSCRIPT
issue 02 > 2012
The Quick-STep Team’S Training camp in calpe page 04
Do you want to see how professional cyclists train?
See what they eat for breakfast and what they do in
their downtime!
emx-7 emx-5
gran Fondoeddy merckx
page 16
5 Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx specials give you
the chance to ride alongside the legend himself.
Feel what it´s like to ride in a mass start race.
emx-3emx-1eFx-3eFx-1
The eddy merckx cycleS company
page 28
Eddy Merckx started his company over 30 years
ago. Times and materials were very different, but
the passion and the attention to detail were there
from the beginning.
amx-3aFx-1
The creaTion oF an urban legend
page 36
Made of steel and based on the famous flaming
orange “hour-record” 1972 bike, the fabulous new
UMX series tips its hat to fixies and single gear
bikes, and shows how urban bikes can be both safe
and cool.
umx-rumx-S
The brainS behindFrame Technology
page 44
It´s almost true to say that as much time and effort
goes into developing and designing our bikes as
you are likely to ride them!
ediTorial
page 03
a Frame For liFe
page 48
We believe in the strength and reliability of our
frames and so offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
2012 bike range
page 50
geomeTrieS
page 52
3
A lot has happened since last year, and there is much to look forward to.
Our sponsorship of the Quick-Step cycling team continues and we are making very good use
of our privileged relations there by getting good feedback from the team on the bikes. We’ve
had positive reactions and interesting conversations, particularly during the Calpe training
sessions at the beginning of the season. I do enjoy the chat and banter that goes with riding
in a team, and the testing and input on the bikes received is both useful and excellent.
The Quick-Step experience is good for us and good for you too - not only does it keep us up to date with the latest
demands of top cyclists, it lets us test our bikes in the most severe conditions. Our aim is to get to the end of a
season without any frame failures, and we do. For you this means we offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty on all our
frames, it’s easy to register your bike via our website - and we encourage all new owners to do so.
At Eddy Merckx Cycles, we’ve never tried to make the lightest bike, but we’ve always aimed to make the safest one.
With carbon fibre technology, the weight issue is now a non-issue - everyone makes a light bike - and in any case
none of us can go below the minimum mass stipulated by the UCI. We all know that if we want to race our bikes,
they have to be above that minimum weight. I have always believed that it’s more important that the cyclist rides
and controls his bike, not the other way round!
There are 5 Gran Fondo “Eddy Merckx” events this year, and we are proud that two of them have been chosen as
official events in the UCI World Cycling Tour. We are also very much looking forward to the final event in Eugendorf
near Salzburg. It’s the 5th edition of the Eddy Merckx Classic, and it’s there we’ll present the winner of the “Ride with
Eddy” campaign with his EMX-5 bike. He’ll also accompany me around the circuit in what should be quite a day.
We’ve moved! We’re now a little closer to Brussels city centre and in a much bigger space. There’s plenty of room
for the stock and our workshop team. The place has got a good feel to it, and I’m confident it’s a good move. All
in all, we’re well set up and happy to say that our bikes are now available in 21 countries. And talking about city
centres, we’re also ready with our new range of UMX bikes - our urban collection. They’re based on the look of
my old Mexico hour bike. They’re just safer and more comfortable! Just wait until you try it!
Good luck and ride with passion,
Eddy Merckx founder
> The new aerofork on the EMX-7 is even more aerodynamic than its
predecessor, and the fit into the frame is perfect. Torsional stiffness is
of course the aim, but stiffness without feel and stability is worthless.
And what’s the secret? Well, the cross-cut surface is now even bigger
at the point where the fork and frame meet.
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The
Training camp in calpea glimpse behind the scenes
calpe
spain
Twice a year, the belgian
Quick-Step team goes to a
training camp in Calpe (near
Alicante, Spain) before the
beginning of the season.
Mid December Tom Boonen
and co. first landed on the
Costa Blanca where they were
confronted not only with the
shape they were in, but also
with their brand new emx-5
and emx-7 bikes.
It was love at first sight...
© F
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Jan
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scarbon series
calpe, where The FlemiSh Feel aT homecalpe is known to most
Flemish citizens as the
ideal place for
pensioners to spend the
winter, which is
understandable,
considering its
microclimate and more
than 2,800 hours of
sunshine a year and an
average annual
temperature of 19°. But
in addition to these ideal
climatological conditions,
calpe is extremely
suitable for organising a
training camp thanks to
the enormous variation
of the countryside and
the excellent condition
of the roads.
FuTure FlemiSh riderS aT The TopTopsport Vlaanderen-Mercator,
the Flemish cycling team
that is also sponsored by
Eddy Merckx cycles, stayed
at the same hotel and also
trained on the costa Blanca
in Spain. For many riders of
the Quick-Step team it was a
happy reunion with former
colleagues.
chavanel and The eddy merckx bicycle, The perFecT maTch.“I’m constantly working on
how to sit on the bike as
efficiently as possible. The
bike fitting we get here is
fantastic. But apparently
there wasn’t much more we
could do to improve my
seat.” (laughs)
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after breakfast, down to the nitty-gritty
Just before leaving the hotel, most of the riders see their brand-new EMX-5 or EMX-7 for the first time, shining
outside in the sun. Everyone is pleasantly surprised by the cool look of the colouring and stripes of the Quick-Step
team’s colours. When the first “oooohs” and “aaaaahs” have faded away, the 27 top riders cycle into the mountains
behind Calpe for a ride that will last almost 5 hours. And who’s riding up front? Of course: Eddy Merckx himself
who has travelled with the team to taste the ambience and also do a photo shoot, together with the team. In the
beginning Merckx complains a little about it being nippy, but after the first two climbs we hear Boonen say to
Merckx: “Warming up a bit Eddy?”
Clearly he’s not forgotten how to ride.
> An early start for
the team in Calpe.
The 2012 Team bike
At the present time,
the colour scheme of the
2012 team bike has not been
finalised, but as soon as it is,
you´ll be the first to know.
Check out the website,
www.eddymerckx.com, for
the latest information and sign
up for our regular newsletter.
© F
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Jan
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When the Quick-Step Team sits down at the breakfast table at the Hotel Diamante Beach for the first time, it’s immediately
clear. They are by no means the only cycling team to have come up with the idea of training in the mountains behind
Calpe. The men from amongst others Topsport Vlaanderen-Mercator, Katusha and Astana are enjoying their first breakfast
in Spain at the resort.
cold spaghetti with brown sugar for breakfast? or do you prefer a slice of dry bread and a glass of buttermilk?
The entire Quick-Step team is down to breakfast on time. Gert Steegmans is happy to see his team mates again, after having
been away from Quick-Step for two years. And his team mates are also enthusiastic about his return, “Yikes, it’s been a long
time!”, “Everything OK Gert?”, and are looking forward to riding with him again. What’s noticeable during breakfast is that
all the riders each fill up on mountains of all kinds of breakfast cereals: Honey Pops, Smacks, Special K... Honey, all kinds
of jam and food supplements are also popular breakfast foods. Tom Boonen’s favourite breakfast? A bowl of Special K
covered with skimmed milk and a Meli honey cake with a cup or two of strong coffee. Eddy Merckx, who has come along
on this occasion: “I prefer the sausages, scrambled eggs and fresh fruit from the buffet” (laughs).
carbon series
DiamanTe beach in calpe heaven on earth for professional cycling teams in training.Smile wiTh eddy
Eddy Merckx was also
present at the training
camp. In calpe, Merckx
posed together with the
members of the team for
the new Eddy Merckx
cycles marketing campaign
‘ride with Eddy’. During
the photo shoot, Merckx
and the Quick-Step leaders
were soon recognised by
tourists spending the winter
in calpe who naturally also
wanted a picture with the
cycling legends.
you can admire the results
of the shoot on
www.ridewitheddy.com.
The shoot for the marketing
campaign that is.
Sylvain chavanel became French road race champion in 2011. a break 25 km from the
end saw the time trial
champion of 2005, 2006
and 2008 finally get the
road race jersey he
coveted. a group of 16
took off shortly after the
start, and while there
was jockeying for
position, it was an attack
with 45 km to go that
put Sylvain ahead. With
25 km, he was alone out
front and at one stage
had a lead of over a
minute. he won by over
half a minute from
anthony roux and
Thomas Voeckler.
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Or is it more a case of the riders letting him ride up front out of respect for the Master?
The group is split into two for the training that follows: the climbers are given climbs and mountains; the other
riders, including Tom Boonen, get to enjoy themselves on a more varied course.
greedy guts!
In the meantime the sun and temperatures have risen considerably and the riders fortify the inner self with lots of
water, bananas, rice tarts and Meli Honey waffles. A scuffle breaks out for the last can of cola that had to be saved
until the end of the training. In the end Boonen drinks most of the can, leading to comments from his team mates:
“Hey, greedy guts!”
italian driving skills
A handful of journalists from a few Belgian newspapers are given the honour of attending this Quick-Step training
session from the official following car. And that’s not as easy as it seems on these climbing and winding mountain
roads. Since as many pictures as possible have to be taken, Alessandro, the Quick-Step team’s press officer, completely
ignoring all the exhortations and cautious remarks of his passengers, flies back and forth to make sure the journalists
get the best pictures. A few of them will remember Alessandro’s driving skills for the rest of their lives. Just like the
sharp drops he brushes past during this crazy ride.
carbon series
iTalian caTenaccio on SpaniSh Soil?
Supper follows after a day of training and riding. In general the riders are all
tucked up by around 10 pm. however one evening a sports quiz was organised,
and on another a footy match between the Belgian and Italian members of the
team. Belgium was resoundingly beaten 6-1.
becauSe alone iS STill aloneTwice a year, the entire Quick-Step team goes to a
training camp to prepare for the new season.
They go for the first time in mid December and
then again in mid January, for just under a week
each time. In addition the riders naturally also train
individually. For example Tom Boonen and Gert
Steegmans have a personal trainer in Monaco and
they also often train together with riders from
other teams who live in Monaco.
Tom wiTh Quick-STep unTil 2013It’s been confirmed that
Tom will stay with Quick-
Step for the next couple
of years. Quick-Step has
been built around Tom’s
talent and it was his first
team when he turned
professional in 2003. as
he said after signing the
contract, “I feel great
here, it’s like a family.
The whole set-up is
professional which is
exactly what I want.”
Good for Tom and good
for the team is the first
few victories of the year,
and as he said “reaching
this agreement will be a
further incentive to do
my best in the next few
races and so give the
team new successes as
soon as possible”.
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colourBlack White (BkW)
Framecarbon cL+ 620 OSr – 1k
emc SizeS50/52/54/56/58/60
For details, check geometry chart p. 52
Forkcarbon aerofork – 1k
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 ½”
groupSeTwheelSeTcomponenTSshimano dura ace compact configuration
Wheelset: Eddy Merckx 38mm
Full Carbon Clinchers DT Swiss
Stem: FSA OS-99 CSI
Handlebar: FSA K-Wing
Seatpost: FSA ISP K-Wing stubby
Saddle: Prologo Scratch Nack
Tyres: Vittoria Open Corsa Black
campagnolo super record compact configuration
Wheelset: Eddy Merckx 38mm
Full Carbon Clincher DT Swiss
Stem: FSA OS-99 CSI
Handlebar: FSA K-Wing
Seatpost: FSA ISP K-Wing stubby
Saddle: Prologo C.One Nack
Tyres: Vittoria Open Corsa Black
STiFFneSS To weighT130nm/°/kg
notes:
• both configurations available on both colours
• Also available in frame-kit
EMS7000 E
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OSR FRG
CA
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sTW (Nm/°/kg) 130
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EFX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EFX-1
carbon series
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advanced compoSiTe deSign
Gpa 620 Fiber combinationcarbon Laminate +OSr technologyaBaQUS lay-up optimisation
aerodynamic Shape deSign
airfoil shaped tubingairfoil shaped seatpost designIntegrated aerofork designInternal cables (smooth design)
opTimal power TranSFer
asymmetric chain stayTapered head tube 1,5 – 1 1/8 inchOversized bottom bracket
regular rouNd seaT Tube
cd = 1,2
airfoil shape seaT Tube
cd = 0,12
1
1
2
1
1
2
2
3
3
1
2
3
4
4
carbon series
advanced high modular
stiffness fibers are used
in combination with
high-strength fibers to
achieve unparalleled
performance.
They are used in different
strategic areas of the
bike, as and when
required. The front
fork for example needs
both for optimum
weight reduction and
improved stiffness
and feel.
OSRopTimizedSTrucTuralreinForcemenT
colourBlack red (Bkr)
also available in frame-kit
EMS7000 E
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EMS7000 E
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carbon laminaTe +
carbon fiber bikes are made using sheets of carbon fiber, and these are built up in layers one on top of the other. The carbon Laminate + process, developed by and for Eddy Merckx cycles, assemble the sheets together in ways that maximise the strength and rigidity of the resulting frame. The result? Optimized performance, comfort and weight.
emx-5 Black Red (BKR)
Framecarbon cL+ 500 OSr – 1k
emc SizeS50/52/54/56/58/60
For more details, check geometry
chart page 52
Forkcarbon fork – 1k
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 ½”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano dura ace compact configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 3
Stem: FSA OS-99 CSI
Handlebar: FSA K-Force Light
NANO
Seatpost: FSA K-Force Light
Saddle: Prologo Zero Nack
Tyres: Vittoria Diamante Pro
shimano ultegra glossy greycompact configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 5
Stem: FSA OS-99 CSI
Handlebar: FSA K-Force compact
Seatpost: FSA K-Force Light
Saddle: Prologo Scratch Pro Nack
Tyres: Vittoria Rubino Pro
STiFFneSS To weighT125nm/°/kg
notes:
• both configurations available on both colours
• Also available in frame-kit
15
geomeTries page 52
sTW (Nm/°/kg) 125100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EFX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EFX-1
emx-5 Black White (BKW)
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vicTory in STage 1 aT The Tour oF QaTarafter riding to seventh place
in the prologue, Tom Boonen
won the first stage in the
Tour of Qatar. he was part of
a breakaway of 19 riders -
alongside teammates Gert
Steegmans and nikolas
Maes. The strong wind on
the course caused a split
into several groups, meaning
that the next group was
some 5 minutes behind.
In the decisive sprint Boonen
showed some impressive
speed, beating haussler and
renshaw with a powerful
sprint.
Top oF The SprinTerS in wevelgemBy winning the Gent-
Wevelgem race for the
second time, Tom established
that he is still one of the top
sprinters of his generation.
after a tough 203 km, there
was a mass sprint at the end
- so Mount kemmel was not
decisive this year. It was
again Gert Steegmans that
led the sprint out, so giving
Tom and Quick-Step their
second victory of the year.
Seven years after his victory
in the race, and the one that
shot him to prominence - this
win was particularly sweet
coming at the beginning of
the season and after a long
fight with injury.
The victory also put the team
up the World Tour rankings -
good for the sponsors and
good for the moral.
and the jury’s scores are?
After this varied drive with a few sharp climbs, the riders have been able to make an initial evaluation of the shape
they’re in. Luckily everyone’s in good shape. And the talk is all positive about the Eddy Merckx bikes.
The driving qualities of both the EMX-5 and the EMX-7 receive great acclaim from the entire team. One of the
differences between the EMX-5 and the EMX-7 is the fusion of the frame with the saddle, which leads to even
more stability. So, applause from all sides. And the applause kept coming, even after the other 16 rides each lasting
4 to 5 hours that the riders made in the mountains.
perfect isn’t good enough
Two professional ‘bike fitters’ have come along from the Leuven sports university to fit the Eddy Merckx bikes
perfectly to each rider’s physique and how they distribute their strength. This investigation is carried out at least
once a year for each rider. The pressure points of the knees, feet, back and bottom are monitored with electrodes
on the rider’s body. Everything is visualised and registered on the computer. The seat of the rider and the height
of the handle bars, the saddle, the distance between the saddle and handle bars and the length of the pedal cranks
can, if necessary, be adjusted, to fit the rider’s size and physique perfectly. In this way bike and rider become one.end
> The EMX-7 has an integrated seat post that both enhances aerodynamics and increases stiffness still further.
carbon series©
TD
WSp
ort.
com
There are 5 gran fondo eddy
merckx events this year: one
each in Portugal, Belgium, Italy, the
UK and Austria.
But what exactly is a Gran Fondo? While these are
ostensibly recreational events, they often attract a
mixture of amateurs and active and retired profes-
sionals. not officially races - though sometimes
they feel like one - they are mass start events for
fun! To add a bit of spice, Gold/Silver/Bronze
medals are given to participants who make the
tour within a certain time category, hence the
race feel.The biggest Gran Fondo type events
can attract literally 1000s of riders, and the Gran
Fondo Eddy Merckx in Italy with more than
2000 riders must be the most spectacular of the
5 Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx events. With a
mass start, these events are as close to the feel
of a professional cycle race as many amateurs will
experience. The chance to compete and compare
yourself with so many other people is certainly an
opportunity not to be missed, especially as there
are often large crowds of spectators, refreshment
stations - just like in a real tour event - and warm
welcomes at the finish.
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A chAnce to live & experience A group stArt one-dAy rAce
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prepArAtion is key
We interviewed one particular gentleman who plans to compete in (and
complete) two Gran Fondo events this year, the one in Italy and the other
in Belgium. Only on his bike for about a year now, he is
new to cycling. He has however always been a competitive
sportsman, and was previously a keen amateur footballer.
As he explains, “training in those days was 3 times a week
and a match at the weekend.” This gave him in that time as
he says, “short power muscles”! He’s seen the change
though since he took up cycling, and even after just a year
in the saddle he can feel the difference - and see it too. “I’ve
never been very heavy but am now 5 kg lighter than I was
- in fact I’m down to 62 kg for a height of 1m75 - and that’s
with me eating all I want. And another thing my muscles
have definitely become longer and stronger.”
“When I first started training, I took the time to read what
kind of preparation was best for cycling. I’m 35 now, and before I started I
had a medical check to see if everything was in good working order! It was
and still is, and so I started riding more regularly. It quickly became clear
why I was so attracted to the sport - I missed the physical challenge
and the competition, but most of all I wanted to see how far I could go.”
“Now I cycle to work every day - that’s 23 km in the morning and the
same back in the evening, though sometimes I’ll go out
of my way to make it longer - just to get extra time in
the saddle. On Mondays, I take it easy, it’s my wind
down from the long ride on Sunday. The rest of the
week, I vary it as I can, so that by Wednesday again I’m
pushing myself hard.”
“There are at least 2 other guys training for the Gran
Fondo events in my cycling club. It means that I’ve got
some good company for those extra kilometres I do after
the Sunday morning ride with the rest of the club. We try
to get down to the Belgian Ardennes as often as possible
- there’s so much more variety there, and the variation in
climbs is good preparation for the race days ahead.”
One piece of good advice? “Don’t forget to take the food offered at the
feeding stations, failure to do so can easily lead to a total collapse in
form later in the event!”
inTernal cableS
oF The emx-3
a cool new feature that
is both practical and
beautiful is when the
cables are neatly and
cleanly passed through
an internal cable routing,
as on this EMX-3 frame.
The outer frame finish is
sleeker, smoother and
sexier, meaning that the
aerodynamics are better
and there is less chance
of wear and tear.
“the variation
in climbs
is good
preparation
for the
race days
ahead.”
Gr
an
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the grAn Fondo eddy Merckx events this yeAr
8 May 2011 ÉVORA / Portugal – 157 km www.gfeddymerckxportugal.comWith over amateur 250 participants, the Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx in Portugal was a success. “It was the first race of its
kind in Portugal, bringing together the core of keen amateur cyclists in the country”, says Joao Serralheiro, the organiser
and importer of Eddy Merckx Cycles in Portugal.
12 June 2011 BRENTINO BELLUNO, VENETO / Italy – 155.5 km www.granfondoeddymerckx.comBrentino Belluno is a small town in the Province of Verona in the Italian region of Veneto, about 110 km west of Venice.
Limited to 2200 riders, the Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx Italy will for the first time be accredited “International GF Amateur”
status, and as such will be the 5th and final stage of the circuit. The route this year contains 3204 metres of climbing.
18 June 2011 HUy / Belgium – 175 km www.granfondoeddymerckx.beThe Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx Belgium follows a classic route through the beautiful Ardennes scenery. For large parts of the
event, it follows the route the professionals ride during the Liège-Bastogne-Liège and La Flêche Wallonne. The Gran Fondo
starts in Huy and ends with the famous “Le Mur de Huy” (wall of Huy), a 1.3km 10% climb with a maximum ascent of 19%.
31 July 2011 CHARD, SOMERSET / U.K. – 100 miles www.granfondoeddymerckx.co.ukThe Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx will be the first Euro style Gran Fondo event to be held in the UK. A limited field of 1000
riders will be allowed to ride the course through the beautiful county of Somerset. As in all Gran Fondo events, there is a
long list of rider extras and support services including refreshments and food along the way, free gifts, pasta party, full
event village and goodie bags.
5 SepteMber 2011 SALzBURGERLAND / Austria – 155 km www.eddy-merckx-classic.comThis final event of the calendar is where the prize winner of the RidewithEddy.com competition receives his/her prize
and then meets its maker! The ride around the picturesque Salzburg lakes is an unforgettable climax to the season, and
just as in each of the events, Eddy Merckx himself will be there and ride in the event, though this time with “our” winner by
his side. A very professional set-up awaits the riders of this event and some stunning cycling too.
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carbon laminaTe +
cable proTecTorEddy’s thought of
everything. Special Eddy
Merckx branded frame
protectors prevent cable
rub and potential damage
if ever the cables touch
the frame when turning
for example.
carbon fiber bikes are
made using sheets of
carbon fiber, and these
are built up in layers
one on top of the other.
The carbon Laminate +
process, developed by
and for Eddy Merckx
cycles, assemble the
sheets together in ways
that maximise the
strength and rigidity of
the resulting frame.
The result? Optimized
performance, comfort
and weight.
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the FundAMentAl rules oF group riding
It’s always more fun to ride in a group than going out
alone. However, riding with someone or riding in a group
requires some attention and adherence to some basic rules.
Follow them and you’ll be safe, but more importantly the
others in your group will be safe too.
01 Always wear a helmet. No excuses for anybody.
02 Make sure your bike is in good working order - espe-
cially your brakes and your lights - especially if you
are out in the twilight.
03 Drive smoothly and calmly. It’s not a race! Don’t
change direction suddenly - cars may be coming in
the other direction or other cyclists may be passing.
04 Stay the right distance from the bike in front – half
a bike length is about right. In this way you can enjoy
the significant benefit of the slipstream created by the
bike ahead of you. Don’t let gaps open up, and
don’t overlap wheels with the bike in front.
05 Point out potential danger. For example potholes,
rocks, and other objects on the road should be indi-
cated to those behind you. These signals should be
fed back through the pack so that those at the back
know what to expect.
06 Signal and say when your turning, moving out,
slowing or stopping - so that other cyclists and cars
will know your intentions. If your group uses hand
signals, get the group to explain it after you’ve been
out a couple of times. It’ll help you become a better
member of the group.
07 Change positions correctly. A common mistake
from beginners to a group is to stop pedalling just
before pulling off the front. Keep a steady rhythm
on the pedals until you have moved off, from the
front. And after pulling off, soft pedal and let the
group pull through - but keep moving or else you’ll
create a gap - and that’s not good either.
08 Climbing. If you need to stand, shift up a gear to
compensate for the slower cadence and stand up
smoothly keeping a steady pressure on the pedals.
This will keep you from moving backward relative
to the rider behind you. Apply the opposite technique
when changing to a sitting position.
09 Descending. If you are leading, keep pedalling!
Riders to the rear will accelerate faster downhill
as slipstreaming becomes more effective, espe-
cially at higher speeds. If you are following, back
off a couple of bike lengths to compensate for the
greater slipstream effect.
10 Ride easy and stay relaxed. It’s not only easier, it’s safer
too. Too much tension can cause small bump move-
ments to move the front wheels immediately and this
may cause an accident. If you are relaxed, it’s much
easier to absorb the bump without losing control.
There are many blogs and sites that discuss this issue on the
web, and a whole host of good advice is offered. This infor-
mation has been edited from interviews, experience and a
few web sources, including a long and interesting story on
the subject published by Mike Munk @ Bamacyclist.com.
carbon series
The competition to
ride with Eddy
(www.ridewitheddy.com)
involves answering a few
bike related questions
- all of them linked to
either Eddy Merckx
cycles or one of the other
sponsors in the competi-
tion. If you get all 3 of the
answers right, you can
choose what prize you
would most like to
receive, and this from
either the 20,000 € worth
of prizes or the grand
prize of a ride with Eddy,
at the Eddy Merckx
classic in Salzburgerland,
in September.
Each participation is
also a contribution
to the children’s
cardiology Unit at the
UZ hospital in Leuven.
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efx-3 White Carbon (WCA)
Framecarbon cL+ 300 – 3k
emc SizeS40/43/46
For more details, check
geometry chart page 53
Forkcarbon fork – 3k
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 1/4”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano ultegra glossy grey
compact configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 5
Stem: FSA SL-K Black
Handlebar: FSA Wing Pro
Compact
Seatpost: FSA SL-K Black
Saddle: Prologo Nago
Evo Dea Ti
Tyres: Vittoria Rubino Pro
STiFFneSS To weighT115 nm/°/kggeomeTries page 53
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a lady in love wiTh cyclingMore and more ladies are riding in Gran Fondo events.
We stopped one and asked her a few questions so we could
better understand why. katrien is a huge fan of cycling, and
is currently training for 2 Gran Fondo races this year, having
raced the Dolomite Martoni in 2010. 50 this year, she and her
husband christian both ride Eddy Merckx cycles, an EFX-1 for
her and an EMX-7 for him! katrien tells us what it’s like:
“the cycling world has changed for ladies for the better in
the last few years, and all in all we feel there’s more attention
being paid to our needs. There are bikes like the EFX series
from Eddy Merckx that are just made for our build and
shorter, more compact shape - and they feel just right.
There’s also lots of new style ladies clothing. The results are
clear and I see more and more ladies riding and competing
at the top levels.” She goes on, “I cycle for fitness and fun
of course, but it’s more than that - for me it’s an occasion to
push myself and see just how far I can go, and whether I’m
better this week than last.”
more aNd more ladies ridiNg aT The graN foNdos.
Framecarbon cL+ 300 – 3k
emc SizeS42/45/48/51/54
For more details, check geometry
chart page 53
Forkcarbon fork – 3k
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 1/4”
groupSeT wheelSeT
emx-3 White Carbon (WCA)
shimano dura ace compact configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 5
Stem: FSA SL-K Black
Handlebar: FSA Wing Pro Compact
Seatpost: FSA SL-K Black
Saddle: Prologo Nago Evo Ti
Outer tires: Vittoria Rubino Pro
shimano ultegra glossy greycompact configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 5
Stem: FSA SL-K Black
Handlebar: FSA Wing Pro Compact
Seatpost: FSA SL-K Black
Saddle: Prologo Nago Evo Ti
Tyres: Vittoria Rubino Pro
emx-3 Black Orange (BKO)
shimano ultegra glossy greycompact configuration
Wielset: Eddy Merckx 38mm Full Carbon Clinchers
Stem: FSA SL-K Black
Handlebar: FSA Wing Pro Compact
Seatpost: FSA SL-K Black
Saddle: Prologo Nago Evo Ti
Tyres: Vittoria Open Corsa Black
STiFFneSS To weighT115 nm/°/kg
geomeTries page 53
emx-3 Black Orange (BKO)
emx-3 White Carbon (WCA)
carbon series
sTW (Nm/°/kg) 115
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
120
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EFX-3 EMX-1
100
120
140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EFX-1
also available in frame-kit
also available in frame-kit
Eddy Merckx cycles is above all a manufacturer of racing bikes, and Eddy is the champion of racing bike geometry. It was normal therefore that the company should design a real racing bike for women. It means that the angle of the seat tube is kept as close to a proper racing angle as possible, and so the top tube is made shorter, and the front head tube is made larger. It’s more adapted to women’s body morphologies and much more comfortable to ride.
FRGFemale race geomeTry
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the emx-3 has been designed with both
performance and comfort in mind. More comfort,
better fit and feel equates to better results on the bike.
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Framecarbon cL+ 240 – UDM
emc SizeS42/45/48/51/54
For more details, check geometry
chart page 53
Forkcarbon fork – UDM
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 1/4”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano ultegra glossy greycompact configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 5
Stem: FSA Team Issue
Handlebar: FSA Wing Compact
Seatpost: FSA Team Issue
Saddle: Prologo Kappa STN
Tyres: Vittoria Rubino Pro
STiFFneSS To weighT105 nm/°/kg
Framecarbon cL+ 240 – UDM
emc SizeS40/43/46
For more details, check geometry
chart page 53
Forkcarbon fork – UDM
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 1/4”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano 105 silver compact/triple configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 7
Stem: FSA Team Issue
Handlebar: FSA Wing Compact
Seatpost: FSA Team Issue
Saddle: Prologo Kappa Dea STN
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro Pro
STiFFneSS To weighT105 nm/°/kg
efx-1 Carbon White (CWH)
geomeTries page 53
emx-1 White Red (WRD)
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Framecarbon cL+ 240 – UDM
emc SizeS42/45/48/51/54
For more details, check geometry
chart page 53
Forkcarbon fork – UDM
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 1/4”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano 105 black compact/triple configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 7
Stem: FSA Team Issue
Handlebar: FSA Wing Compact
Seatpost: FSA Team Issue
Saddle: Prologo Kappa STN
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro Pro
STiFFneSS To weighT105 nm/°/kg
geomeTries page 53
emx-1 Black Red Carbon (BRC)
emx-1 Black White Carbon (BWC)
carbon series
sTW (Nm/°/kg) 105
100
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140
EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EMX-1
100
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EFX-3 EMX-1
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EMX-7 EMX-5 EMX-3 EFX-1
also available in frame-kit also available in frame-kit
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ChroniCle legend
eddy louis joseph merckx won
525 cycle races in the years he was racing
and that included the Tour de France five
times, the Giro d’Italia five times, the Vuelta
once, all the great classic one day races except two and the World
championship four times. Now, years later, eddy merckx
needs no encouragement to talk enthusiastically about his past:
«When I ended my cycling career in 1978, I didn’t really know
what to do with my life. All I’d really done was ride, ride, ride
my bike. But there was one thing I did know: I always wanted
to do something I was as passionate and enthusiastic about as
I had been about my cycling career. I had to be able to keep
living life to the full just like I had always done.»
zell ik
belgium
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28 March 1980. The day of the official opening of eddy merckx’s new company: ‘eddy merckx cycles’.
T h e d ay h a d f i n a l ly c o m e
The workshops were established at Birrebeekstraat in Meise, in the town
where Merckx himself now lives. Merckx continues the story, "we started
with seven employees: two welders, two bench fitters and Martine
Acou, who - 30 years later - still works for the company, and is now
an executive of the company. My former lieutenants Jos Huysmans
and Ward Janssens were also with us from the beginning, as was
Robert Lelangue, who had been my director at Molteni. All three of
them were responsible for sales. De Rosa, who had after all taught me
the trade, remained my technical adviser until 1981. And me? For the
first time in my life I got to be the boss" (laughs out loud).
S u c c e S S S To r y
When the first completely finished bike left the factory in Meise in
1980, no one expected Eddy Merckx Cycles to be such a success story.
Merckx: "Between 1980 and 2008 we sold about 5000 bikes a year."
Of course that success didn’t just come by itself. "We never stopped
investing in new technologies and always kept our eyes open for the
latest developments," says Merckx. "It's always been the case that
I liked new products, product design and geometry. My aim was to
have our entire production in Meise so that we could keep a good eye
on quality control. That was the reason why we added spray cabins
after a while so that we could paint the bikes in-house as well." In the
heyday of production at the factory, the company employed
42 people and the entire production, from the first spoke to the final
assembly, took place in the factory in Meise.
c o n S Ta n T e vo lu T i o n
When titanium was on the up and started to replace steel, Merckx
decided to send his head welder Johan to the United States to learn how
to weld titanium. Merckx: "When I went to trade fairs, I always took
people from the factory with me. In that way they could see the latest
developments, the latest materials, etc. with their own eyes. I remember
that in the beginning of our carbon production days, we cooperated with
an Italian company."
e v e r yo n e wa n T S To r i d e w i T h e d d y m e r c k x
The number of professional cycling teams that rode on Eddy Merckx Cycles
cannot be counted on one hand or even on two! "Anyone who produces
bicycles naturally wants the major cycling teams to ride on them,"
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The eddy Merckx cycles coMpany
Eddy had for years been riding in the Italian based Molteni
team, and it was there that Eddy met Ugo De Rosa, one of
the sponsors. It was he who offered advice and encouragement
when Eddy had the idea of creating his own bicycle brand.
“I did not feel ready at that time to start producing bicycles
myself“, Merckx explains,. “But with my contacts I was able
to learn how it was done. I travelled to Milan regularly to
learn all I could. I remember that they didn’t weld the frames
but soldered them. I then sent the Belgian welders that
I wanted to work with to Milan to familiarise them with this
technique.”
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e d d y m e r c k x . T h e b i k e . T h e m a n .
Thanks to Eddy Merckx, a number of really famous people have also been able to ride on
a real Eddy Merckx bike. He has given bikes to King Juan Carlos of Spain, Johnny Hallyday
and Jacky Ickx - even Tia Hellebaut, the high jumper has been riding an Eddy Merckx
bike since she won an Olympic gold medal in Beijing. And the Belgian King Baudouin
was presented with the bike on which Eddy had won the Tour de France in 1971.
T h e l e g e n d l i v e S o n
Now, its 30 years since the very first Eddy Merckx bike was finished in 1980, and Eddy Merckx
bikes are doing better than ever. "I think you have to stop when you’re on a high, like I did with my
career," Merckx explains. It's why I gave up my majority share of the company in 2008 and let some
professional young entrepreneurs run it, namely Joris Brantegem’s Sobradis group. Eddy Merckx
still has his foot firmly in the door though and he retains a minority interest. "I'll keep doing the
things I enjoy and can do well just like before," says Merckx. "As long as I can, I will keep being
involved in product development, perhaps to the irritation of other people (laughs out loud). I’m
very happy I can still contribute actively to the growth of my brand of cycles," Merckx says. "It's an
honour and a pleasure to travel all over the world as an ambassador for my bikes. My entire life has
been about bikes, and now the dream continues as I share my passion for bikes with others."
> Eddy Merckx wins his 3rd Milan-Sanremo in 1969.
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a new STarT (up)There’s no stopping the growth of Eddy Merckx
cycles. kurt Moons has been appointed as the new
cEO to push the growth across more markets.
"The Eddy Merckx brand is so rich and still has so
many opportunities that I didn’t hesitate a second
to put myself into this fantastic project," says
Moons, who earned his spurs developing the
Brantano and Santana brands. "and to prove that
we mean business," says Moons, "we've already
moved to new premises in Zellik on the outskirts
of Brussels as we just needed more room. as you
can see, we’re getting ready for the future."
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Merckx explains. "In 1980 we struck lucky - the De zeepcentrale team had lost its sponsor
so we managed to conclude an interesting contract with them at the last moment. The
very first thing they do is to go and win two stages in the Tour de France on our bikes!
yes, we started well." After that other teams were lining up to ride on Eddy Merckx cycles:
Panasonic, Hitachi, Telecom, GAN, SevenEleven, Motorola, Kelme, Eurodecor, HDR and
Lotto-Domo; they all achieved their successes on Eddy Merckx cycles. Now it's the turn of
Quick Step, Tom Boonen’s team, and Topsport Vlaanderen-Mercator, a non-profit organisation
of which Eddy Merckx is the president, to ride on Eddy Merckx cycles.
a b i k e f o r w i n n e r S
"Seeing someone win a major race on a bike you’ve built yourself, is one of the best things
that can happen to you," says Eddy. "Did you know that Paris-Roubaix was won four
times on an Eddy Merckx bike? Museeuw, Knaven, Demol, and Van Petegem all did it.
And so I did a little too," (laughs). Merckx goes on to say "The Ronde Van Vlaanderen
was also won twice on one of my bikes - by Eddy Planckaert and Peter Van Petegem. Two
class acts. Not many people remember this, but at the beginning of his career, in 1993,
Lance Armstrong became world champion in Oslo on an Eddy Merckx bike. And my son
Axel became champion of Belgium in 2000 and won an Olympic medal ... on a bicycle
that I made. That really does something to you."
Eddy Merckx cycles are the unique users
of the EMS7000 alloy tube. It’s a different
shape than the rest of the market - it’s
uses the form of a bell - and delivers a
stiffer feel and stronger construction for
the same weight. It makes our scandium
alloy bikes lighter, stiffer and more robust.
eddy merckxShaping 7000
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> In the new workshop in Zellik, just outside Brussels, the skills to hand make frames is still omnipresent.
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3535
afx-1 White Blue (WBL)
FrameEMS 7000 series Triple Butted
emc SizeS42/45/48/51/54
For more details, check geometry
chart page 55
ForkFull carbon fork – UDM
Tapered 1 1/8” – 1 1/4”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano 105 black compact/triple configuration
Wheelset: Fulcrum Racing 7
Stem: FSA OS-150
Handlebar: FSA Omega Compact
Seatpost: FSA SP-SL-270
Saddle: Prologo Kappa STN
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro Pro
STiFFneSS To weighT90 nm/°/kg
Framealloy Triple Butted 60XX series
emc SizeS40/43/46
For more details, check geometry
chart page 55
Forkcarbon fork
alloy steerer tube 1 1/8”
groupSeTwheelSeTshimano tiagra triple configuration
Wheelset: Shimano RS10
Stem: FSA OS-190 LX
Handlebar: FSA Omega Compact
Seatpost: FSA SP-SL-280
Saddle: Prologo Kappa Dea STN
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro
STiFFneSS To weighT80 nm/°/kg
geomeTries page 55
amx-3 Black White (BKW)
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The inspiration for this new range of
eddy merckx cycles is nothing
less than the bike that broke the
one-hour record in Mexico City in 1972.
A sleek, simple and strong track bike
and made of steel - it is designed to
be ridden in the city, and to be used
on streets and roads whatever their
condition. It’s also painted in that
inimitable orange colour that reminds
us all of Eddy in Mexico.
The creaTionof an E
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urban series
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A fix for the fixies
The other bike has just one gear, and has the option - if the back wheel is
flipped - to become a fixed gear bicycle. This type of bicycle has been around
on the track for years - all track bikes are fixed gear bikes - but has slowly
built up a fan base on the streets.
For those in the know, it’s an all or nothing relationship - and it seems the
secret is in the permanent link to the road. With a normal pedal bike, you
can stop pedalling and free wheel for a little while, and there’s always a brake
to stop you if you need it. With a fixed gear bike, you’re either pedalling or
your standing still! There’s a tactile connection to the road that fixies love.
sAfety first
The Eddy Merckx hybride single speed/fixed gear bikes are made so that
they can be driven on the road. There’s a hand-controlled brake that helps
control speed and stopping. In many countries this is mandatory if you
want to go on the streets.
The gear set-up - important when you have just one gear is mid-range: 46
teeth at the front, and 17 at the back. Depending on where you live, you
might want to change this. Flip the wheel and you have a normal single
speed bike that can be used as a normal free wheeling bike. Lights are part
of the base equipment, and street credibility and style is guaranteed.
This is no ordinary urban bike. It’s ideal for those that want the best of both
worlds when and where they want it.
For those in the know, nutcase helmets are the best-kept secret in the business.
created by Michael Morrow in portland, USa, this X-nike creative director
saw a gap in the market for helmets that offered cool graphic designs and
decorations and high quality security standards. and cool they are, or as the
company brand slogan goes “the most fun a helmet ever had!”
The range now includes more than 60 helmet designs for any sport where a
helmet is advised and necessary: biking of course, skiing, snowboarding,
skating, mountain climbing, kite surfing, wakeboarding, kayaking and so on.
But from this year, there will be a new addition to the range: namely a joint
Eddy Merckx/nutcase helmet, one that will be offered free with the purchase
of an Eddy Merckx Urban bike.
noun. ‘nʌtkeɪs/ : a mad or foolish person.
The true definition of a nutcase is really anyone who DOESn’T wear a helmet
when cycling.
Look at the numbers:
• Head injuries are the most common and severe form of injury
• Anyone who rides without a helmet increases his/her risk of sustaining a head
injury or fatal crash by 14 times
• 85% of bicyclists killed in 2003 were not wearing a crash helmet (USA data)
• Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85%
• Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a brain injury by 88%
• 75% of fatal bike crashes could have been prevented if the person had been
wearing a bicycle helmet
One helmet will be
offered free with the purchase of one of the first 1000 Eddy Merckx
UMX bikes
There is a 14-speed bike that uses the famous
Rohloff gear hub. This particular mechanism doesn’t
need much of an introduction, it is quite simply one
of the best integrated gear systems available on
the market today. Handmade in Germany, it is pure
quality and outstanding functionality.
14 speed geArs
The Rohloff Speedhub 500/14 has perfect single gear ratios, a wide
range of gears, low maintenance and easy operation; its weight and efficiency
are ideal even for pro racing.
The sealed gearbox ensures reliability and durability even under the toughest
conditions. The even increments of 13.6% from gear to gear make it possible to
always ride at peak performance and the overall range makes sure that you have
the right gear in every situation. Pure fun is guaranteed.
The Speedhub 500/14 is operated by a twist shifter that changes gear
simply by pulling separate cables up or down. The indexing of the shifting lies
not in the shifter as with common designs, but inside the hub. There is neither
wear on the indexing system nor any need to adjust it.
urban series
There are Two differenT bikes in The range, and The main difference is The number of gears.
> Merckx designed UMX bike with Rohloff 14-speed gear hub
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rohloff “hAndmAde in germAny”
The company was found in 1986 as Rohloff GmbH (Ltd.) by Barbara and Bern-
hard Rohloff in Kassel (Germany) in order to produce bicycle chains, and the
first production site was in the backyard at Moenchebergstraße 30 in Kassel.
This is where more than 100,000 chains/year were manufactured - in triple
shift - with the help of a self-constructed assembly machine called the fabulous
“green monster”!
In 1990 the Rohloff chain - the S-L-T 99 - won the “Tour de France” and the
Street Bike World Championship. Over the next few years a host of other bike
related products were produced e.g. the Rohloff Revolver, the Rohloff Caliber,
the HG-IG Check and the automatic chain lubrication system, Lubmatic and
from 1994 onwards, the chain lubricant “Oil of Rohloff ” was introduced.
In 1996, just in time for the company’s 10th anniversary a new invention, the gear
hub SPEEDHUB 500/14, was created. Even after all these years, the Rohloff gear
hub is still the only hub drive able to replace a 27-gear chain drive completely and
which is especially made for active sport use. Made with separate parts manufac-
tured by over 150 German companies, a year’s production is only 20.000 hubs.
Each and every part is inspected for quality and tolerance before being assembled
by the 35 highly qualified technicians. These hubs are rare birds indeed!
> The elegantly beautiful Rohloff gear hub has been handmade in Germany since 1996.
rohloFF “handmade in germany”
end
Framecolumbus steel SL tubing
SizeS50/53/56/59 (Urban geometry)
Forkcolumbus SL 1”
groupSeTwheelSeTumX-r groupset
Wheelset: UMX-White wielset
Rohloff 14spd Speedhub
Stem: Cinelli VAI
Handlebar: Cinelli LOLA bullhorn
Seatpost: Cinelli VAI
Saddle: UMX-White
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro White
Framecolumbus steel crOMOr tubing
SizeS50/53/56/59 (Urban geometry)
Forkcolumbus SL 1”
groupSeTwheelSeTumX-r groupset
Wheelset: UMX-White wielset
Stem: UMX-White
Handlebar: UMX-White bullhorn
Seatpost: UMX-White
Saddle: UMX-White
Tyres: Vittoria Zaffiro White
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umx-S Orange
umx-r Orange
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the brains behind frame technology
The conception of a new Eddy Merckx bike involves a subtle mix of
Formula 1 level technology, artisan craftsmanship and lots of experience and understanding.
We wanted to understand the process better, and examine just how much work, time and
effort is involved in the development process to produce the perfect bike, with the least
compromises possible in terms of comfort and efficiency.
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advanced developmenT
The first stage is a continuous one. It involves ongoing research into new materials, and how
they can best be used, exploited and maximised.
The advances in this domain have been remarkable over the last decade, and still there is
plenty of scope for new concepts, as new technology and manufacturing techniques are
developed. Eddy Merckx Cycles leads the way in the optimum use of carbon fibres, and the
results are there for everyone to see. It comes from a real appreciation of the material
characteristics and an in-depth understanding of how they can be put to the best use. CL+
technology and OSR are just two example of how the research engineers have been able to
make the difference.
It shouldn’t be underestimated, but a lot of work also goes into appreciating the latest trends
in design - and not just in terms of look and style, but colours too. Another reason why the
bikes always look so good.
as many hours goes into developing and designing an eddy merckx bike as you are likely to ride it!
45
frame technology
exclusive eddy merckx wheelsets
Both the emx-7 and emx-3 have full carbon clincher
rims of 38 mm. On the emx-7, the hubs are the famous DT
Swiss 240S hubs and Sapim spokes, while the emx-3 uses
custom created Eddy Merckx hubs and SkF bearings, again
with Sapim spokes.
These are Merckx designed and made wheelsets. They are
manufactured in the same workshop as the bikes and as such
are made to the same high specifications. This means reliability
and quality control, like no other.
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> Craftsmanship and a passion for details
proToTyping
After everyone is happy and satisfied with the theory of the bike, the rub-
ber starts hitting the road! yes, it’s time for the prototypes. A first frame
is produced, but this is just for the look and feel - it’s not strong enough
to be ridden on. A second frame is produced - actually at the size of the
leading design engineer!
He just happens to be a bike fan. It is he who gets to be the first guinea
pig, sorting out issues that he sees and feels, as well as making sure it’s safe
to ride - because the next frame is for Eddy.
It’s his instinct that can tell whether the combination of ride comfort and
racing performance is right. Naturally there’s discussion and a difference
in opinion, but ultimately decisions are made. Another series of frames is
produced, this time for the Quick-Step Cycling team members - it’s inter-
esting and useful to have their feedback too.
This is the stage where many of the small changes are made - particularly
relating to comfort for the rider. It’s a chance to check actual performance
against virtual performance. The frames are evaluated, measured and the
designs are modified if necessary.
The prototyping stage takes several months to complete, because there are
several stages of testing and retesting - each time involving the modification
of designs and the manufacturing of a new set of frames. As many as 15 or
more prototypes are made and tested before a final bike design is decided
upon. Finally, the bikes are ready to go into production. end
47
deTailed deSign
Now there is a clear idea of what the bike will look like, and the established
Eddy Merckx look and style is integrated into the design. After the first
sketches and long fruitful discussions with Eddy, the engineers start to
nail down the final frame geometry - and this for the different frame sizes. As
some of you may remember, Eddy was always fiddling about with his
bikes - he was even known to fiddle about during a race, often changing
the height of his saddle. With his 50 years of experience at the heart of the
bike world, there is no-one better at detailing just what it takes to make a
better bike. He can see things that others can´t, in fact you could say that
Eddy is the best test pilot there is. It is his tweaks and adjustments on the
final angles and lengths of the seat posts, wheelbase and trail that -
amongst the most important of measurements - make all the difference.
Before moving into actual frame prototypes, the detailed bike design is fully
tested and structurally analysed by technical research engineers at the
University of Gent. They work with the 3-D computer models of the bikes,
measuring and pushing the limits using different materials and composites.
concept engineeringand design
market launchdetailed design prototyping
0 +6 > +8 months +10 > +14 months +20 > +24 months
concepT engineering and deSign
First sketches are produced at this stage, and despite what anyone says there’s
always some sort of a trade-off. It’s a mixture of looks, price and performance.
With the last two being measurable and quantifiable. This stage often starts
almost 18 months to 2 years ahead of the actual bike getting to the dealers, so
while there’s scope for change, there’s also a deadline and a launch date. A lot
of the work is done here, and production options and decisions are mapped
out. A host of different elements come into the mix here: geometry, frame
sizes, loads, stresses, manufacturing, parts, orders, stock etc.
materials
production design
> A fraction of a degree and a few mm makes a world of difference.
frame technology
+18 > +20 months
productionengineering
eddy merckx bikes are designed and built to withstand years of riding, without incident or accident.
We test them in the toughest of conditions, and with the hardest of task-
masters - namely the professional cycling team at Quick-Step. Fortunately the
team bikes past the test with flying colours, and it confirms what we know
that the best demonstration of strength is that there are zero Quick-Step team
bike failures due to frame failure at the end of a hard season on the road.
a frame for lifeWE oFFEr you ThE saME GuaraNTEE
Eddy Merckx Cycles have so much belief in the quality of their frames
that each new carbon model bought at a recognized Eddy Merckx dealer
comes with a ‘Limited Lifetime Warranty’.
1. To benefit from the ‘Limited Lifetime Warranty’, you must register
your recently purchased Eddy Merckx Cycles bicycle via the website -
www.eddymerckx.com - within one month of the date of purchase.
you will receive a registration-verification via e-mail.
2. Every Eddy Merckx Cycles frame has its own unique ID number. That
number is the basis of the bicycle passport. you can find your number
underneath the bottom bracket of your bicycle. The ID number is
made up of 3 letters and 5 numbers.
3. The ‘Limited Lifetime Warranty’ is only available to a bicycle’s first
owner, and so please note that this guarantee is therefore NOT applicable
to second-hand bikes. Note too, that the Limited Lifetime Warranty
does not apply to bikes used in competitions.
4. The ‘Limited Lifetime Warranty’ is not the only benefit of registering
your bike. By signing up, you open a door to the Eddy Merckx Cycles
Community, making you one of the first to receive information about
new models, VIP tickets to competitions and events, special dealer
promotions, etc.
IMporTaNT
- The warranty is only available for bicycles purchased from officially
recognized dealers, and for the Limited Lifetime Warranty to remain
valid, the frame must be inspected at least once a year by an official
Eddy Merckx Cycles dealer.
- When claiming against the Limited Lifetime Warranty, you must
present the original receipt of purchase. We recommend you keep a
copy of your receipt inside the back cover of your passport.
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a dealer giveS hiS opinionWe asked Mr. Godeau,
owner of a dealership
that’s been working with
Eddy Merckx cycles for
more than 30 years what
his experience with the
Limited Lifetime
Warranty has been like,
and he was happy to
give his comments.
“Truthfully, we haven’t
had any claims as yet -
and I’m not surprised.
Eddy has always made
quality - and safe - bikes,
and the latest carbon
fibre range is no
exception. I know
however that if we did
have an issue, there
wouldn’t be any
problems or hesitations
from the company. Eddy
has always been
extremely correct in that
respect.” When asked
what customers actually
think about the LLW, he
says “it is indeed a little
extra reassurance that
some of the clients need
- yet another rational
reason to choose an
Eddy Merckx bike.”
frame technology
performance alloy enthousiast alloy
emx-3
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRGefx-3
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
emx-1
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
amx-3
efx-1
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
afx-1
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
performance carbon enthousiast carbon
ca
rb
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columbus steel columbus steel
umx-r
ST
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umx-s
BIk
E r
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GE
pro carbon elite carbon
emx-5
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
emx-7
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
EMS7000 CL+
OSR FRG
EMS7000 E
DD
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CL+
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MA
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OSR FRG
CA
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EMS7000 E
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CL+
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MA
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OSR FRG
CA
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carbon laminaTe +
carbon fiber bikes are made
using sheets of carbon fiber, and
these are built up in layers one
on top of the other.
The carbon Laminate + process,
developed by and for Eddy Mer-
ckx cycles, assemble the sheets
together in ways that maximise
the strength and rigidity of the
resulting frame. The result?
Optimized performance, comfort
and weight.
EMS7000 E
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CL+
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MA
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OM
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OSR FRG
CA
RB
ON
LA
MIN
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E +
Eddy Merckx cycles are the
unique users of the EMS7000
alloy tube. It’s a different shape
than the rest of the market - it’s
uses the form of a bell - and
delivers a stiffer feel and stronger
construction for the same weight.
It makes our scandium alloy bikes
lighter, stiffer and more robust.
eddy merckxShaping 7000
EMS7000 E
DD
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HA
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CL+
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EM
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FE
MA
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OM
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OSR FRG
CA
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ON
LA
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EMS7000 E
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CL+
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MA
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OSR FRG
CA
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MIN
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E +
advanced high modular stiffness
fibers are used in combination
with high-strength fibers
to achieve unparalleled
performance. They are used in
different strategic areas of the
bike, as and when required.
The front fork for example
needs both for optimum weight
reduction and improved
stiffness and feel.
Eddy Merckx cycles is above all a
manufacturer of racing bikes, and
Eddy is the champion of racing
bike geometry. It was normal
therefore that the company
should design a real racing bike
for women. It means that the
angle of the seat tube is kept as
close to a proper racing angle as
possible, and so the top tube is
made shorter, and the front head
tube is made larger. It’s more
adapted to women’s body
morphologies and much more
comfortable to ride.
opTimizedSTrucTuralreinForcemenT
Female race geomeTry
EMS7000 E
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CL+
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EM
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MA
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OM
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OSR FRG
CA
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ON
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EMS7000 E
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CL+
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MA
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OSR FRG
CA
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TE
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emx-3 . emx-1 perFormance geomeTry
eFx-3 . eFx-1 perFormance geomeTry
size reach stack a b c d e f g h i j classic size (k) trail
42 368 526 519 129 74.2 71.5 71 414 973 570 365 43 507 67.4
45 373 547 534 149 73.7 71.9 71 414 982 578 365 43 530 64.9
48 378 568 550 173 73.2 72.3 69 414 991 586 365 43 554 62.4
51 383 589 567 193 72.7 72.7 69 414 998 594 365 43 577 59.9
54 388 610 583 216 72.2 73.1 67 414 1006 602 365 43 600 57.4
size reach stack a b c d e f g h i j classic size (k) trail
40 353 523 498 130 75.0 70.4 73 408 967 570 365 48 502 69.0
43 360 546 514 155 74.5 70.8 71 410 980 581 365 48 527 66.5
46 366 569 531 178 74.0 71.2 71 410 990 591 365 48 553 64.0
REACH
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emx-3 . eFx-3 . emx-1 . eFx-1
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emx-5 pro geomeTry
emx-7 pro geomeTry
size sl size reach stack a b c d e f g h i j l trail isp
50 450 383 511 533 114 73,8 71,3 71 408 979 581 365 43 139 68,7 680
52 466 387 526 545 129 73,4 71,7 71 408 985 587 365 43 149 66,2 710
54 482 392 541 557 145 73,1 72 69 410 995 595 365 43 157 64,3 740
56 498 396 556 569 160 72,7 72,4 69 410 1000 600 365 43 167 61,8 770
58 514 401 571 582 174 72,4 72,7 69 412 1009 606 365 43 175 59,9 800
60 530 405 586 595 191 72 73,1 67 412 1014 611 365 43 185 57,4 830
size sl size reach stack a b c d e f g h i j l trail
50 475 383 511 533 114 73,8 71,3 71 408 979 581 365 43 139 68,7
52 491 387 526 545 129 73,4 71,7 71 408 985 587 365 43 149 66,2
54 507 392 541 557 145 73,1 72 69 410 995 595 365 43 157 64,3
56 523 396 556 569 160 72,7 72,4 69 410 1000 600 365 43 167 61,8
58 539 401 571 582 174 72,4 72,7 69 412 1009 606 365 43 175 59,9
60 555 405 586 595 191 72 73,1 67 412 1014 611 365 43 185 57,4
geometries
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pro geomeTry
emx-7 . emx-5
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perFormance geomeTry
amx-3
REACH
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perFormance geomeTry
aFx-1
size reach stack a b c d e f g h i j classic size (k) trail
40 353 523 498 130 75.0 70.4 73 408 967 570 365 48 502 69.0
43 360 546 514 155 74.5 70.8 71 410 980 581 365 48 527 66.5
46 366 569 531 178 74.0 71.2 71 410 990 591 365 48 553 64.0
aFx-1 perFormance geomeTry
size reach stack a b c d e f g h i j classic size (k) trail
49 368 526 519 129 74.2 71.5 71 414 970 570 365 43 507 67.4
51 373 547 534 149 73.7 71.9 71 414 982 578 365 43 530 64.9
54 378 568 550 173 73.2 72.3 69 414 991 586 365 43 554 62.4
56 383 589 567 193 72.7 72.7 69 414 998 594 365 43 577 59.9
59 388 610 583 216 72.2 73.1 67 414 1006 602 365 43 600 57.4
amx-3 perFormance geomeTry
REACH
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editor Eddy Merckx cycles
Frans Schachtstraat 29, 1731 Zellik, Belgium
www.eddymerckx.com
bike shotsEric cherpion, www.shimera.be
retouchinghyacinthe arthurs, www.shimera.be
art direction [SIGn*] www.designbysign.com
writerGavin Watt, www.wow.be
all products presented subject to change without prior notice.
all rights reserved. Unauthorised copying of this brochure prohibited.