Merida takes over from Specialized as Soudal Quick-Step's bike supplier for 2027

Soudal Quick-Step and the women's team AG Insurance-Soudal have confirmed a change of bike supplier. From 2027 both teams will ride Merida, replacing Specialized, whose partnership with the Belgian squad ran for 18 seasons and produced more than 800 wins, according to Velora Cycling. The contract is reported as at least four years, with an option to extend beyond 2030.

What changes on the bikes

Velora reports the road bike will be the Merida Reacto, with the Time Warp as the time trial bike. Shimano stays on as groupset partner, so the teams keep Dura-Ace drivetrains and pedals and add the latest Dura-Ace wheelsets. Continental becomes the tyre supplier from the start of 2027, according to Cyclingflash.

Why it matters beyond the peloton

The move was first reported in April and was confirmed this week. It puts Merida back with a WorldTour team for 2027. The Reacto already went on sale in Australia in a redesigned form in September, so the timing suits the brand.

What it means for buyers

A pro team deal does not change what a bike costs or how it rides, though it tends to bring a brand more attention and sometimes more promotion. If you are weighing an aero road bike, compare the Merida Reacto against rivals from Specialized, Giant and others on BikeFinder, looking at price, weight and groupset rather than team colours.