eddy merx 2012

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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 FONDO EDDY 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-3 EMX-1 EFX-3 EFX-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-3 AFX-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-R UMX-S THE BRAINS BEHIND FRAME 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

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Page 1: EDDY MERX 2012

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

Page 2: EDDY MERX 2012

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

rieke

Jan

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scarbon series

Page 4: EDDY MERX 2012

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

rieke

Jan

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s

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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© F

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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”.

© F

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© F

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© F

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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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ON

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MIN

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E +

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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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.

Page 8: EDDY MERX 2012

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

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com

Page 9: EDDY MERX 2012

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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Page 10: EDDY MERX 2012

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.”

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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.

carbon series

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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

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

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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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 EMX-3 EMX-1

100

120

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EMX-7 EMX-5 EFX-3 EMX-1

100

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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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31

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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Page 19: EDDY MERX 2012

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

Page 20: EDDY MERX 2012

39

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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

Page 21: EDDY MERX 2012

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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

Page 22: EDDY MERX 2012

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

43

umx-S Orange

umx-r Orange

43

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Page 23: EDDY MERX 2012

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

Page 24: EDDY MERX 2012

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

Page 25: EDDY MERX 2012

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.

49

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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

Page 26: EDDY MERX 2012

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

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umx-r

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BIk

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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

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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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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

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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

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Page 27: EDDY MERX 2012

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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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perFormance geomeTry

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

REACH

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pro geomeTry

emx-7 . emx-5

Page 28: EDDY MERX 2012

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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

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Page 29: EDDY MERX 2012

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.