This is the point in the range where you get a proper gravel-specific groupset, and it makes a difference. Shimano GRX handles shifting and braking on the Silex 400: the levers are shaped for riding on the hoods over broken ground, and the clutch rear derailleur keeps the chain quiet when things get rough. Underneath, the Lite II aluminium frame is the same adventure-focused shape as the rest of the platform, with a long top tube and head tube, a short stem and clearance for 700 x 45c tyres.

The 400 runs a 2x10 setup - a 46-30 GRX600 chainset with an 11-36 cassette - which suits riders who mix plenty of road miles in with the gravel and want closer steps between gears. GRX400 hydraulic discs do the stopping, the Expert SL III rims are tubeless ready, and Schwalbe G-One Comp tyres come fitted at 45c. Rack mounts, five sets of bottle bosses and internal dropper routing mean it will take luggage or a bit of extra comfort later on, and the second-generation fork design lets you fit a suspension fork without upsetting the handling.

Features

• Lite II 6066 triple butted aluminium frame with internal cable routing
• Silex II CF2 full carbon fork with tapered steerer
• Shimano GRX 2x10 drivetrain, GRX600 46-30 chainset with 11-36 cassette
• Shimano GRX400 hydraulic disc brakes with GRX410 levers
• Schwalbe G-One Comp K-Guard tubeless ready tyres, 700x45C
• Merida Expert SL III tubeless ready rims, 23mm internal width, on Shimano TC500 hubs
• Expert GRII flared aluminium bar, width by frame size
• Five sets of bottle bosses plus rack mounting points
• Internal routing for a dropper post and dynamo
• Threaded bottom bracket and 142 x 12mm rear axle
• Clearance for 700 x 45c tyres, 42c with mudguards