VelopediaBicycle Archive · Specification report

1997 Merlin XLM

Velopedia Archive ID 66274

Overview

Model year1997
BrandMerlin
ModelXLM
Bicycle typeMountain bike, front suspension
Archive ID66274
Original MSRP$5,100.00
ColorsBrushed
Sizes12", 13.5", 15", 16.25", 17.5", 18.75", 20", 21.5"
Weight21.5 lb

Frameset

Frame constructionTIG-welded
Frame material3Al/2.5V titanium, double-butted
ForkRock Shox Judy SL
Fork materialMagnesium, triple-clamp crown
Rear shockN/A

Drivetrain

Component groupShimano XTR 950
ShiftersShimano XTR RapidFire SL
Front derailleurShimano XTR top-swing, bottom-pull/clamp-on 35.0 mm
Rear derailleurShimano XTR SGS
CranksetShimano XTR M950-HG, 24/36/46 teeth
Bottom bracketShimano BB-M950, 112.5 mm spindle
BB shell width68mm English
Rear cogs8-speed, 12 - 32 teeth
ChainShimano CN-IG90, 1/2 x 3/32"
PedalsNot included

Brakes

BrakesShimano XTR V-Brake brakes, Shimano XTR levers

Cockpit & contact points

Headset1 1/8" threadless Chris King NoThreadSet
HandlebarSyncros Hardcore
Handlebar extensionsNot included
StemSyncros Hardcore
SaddleBontrager w/titanium rails
SeatpostSyncros Pro Series aluminum, 27.2 mm diameter

Wheels & tires

HubsShimano XTR
RimsMavic 217 SUP, 32-hole
SpokesWheelsmith stainless steel, 2.0mm double butted
Spoke nipplesAlloy nipples
Front tire26 x 2.10" WTB VelociRaptor kevlar
Wheel size26" wheels

Geometry · Legacy reference

Top tube584.2 mm
Head-tube angle71°
Seat-tube angle73°
Chainstay / rear center425.4 mm
Wheelbase1056.6 mm
Fork offset / rake40.6 mm

Manufacturer-published archive data. Confirm exact standards and dimensions before ordering parts or performing service. Generated by Velopedia on October 3, 2026.