![\"ccs-62657-0-93333100-1521476035.jpg\"](\"https:\/\/wp-media.bikehub.co.za\/production\/uploads\/2023\/02\/ccs-62657-0-93333100-1521476035.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\nJoaquim Rodr\u00edguez is riding Merida’s Ninety-Six carbon marathon race bike with Shimano’s XTR gearing and brakes (with the exception of the XT cassette).<\/p>\n
The pairing is riding Fox Factory Series suspension with a Float shock and 32 SC fork both using Fox’s electronic lockout.<\/p>\n There is a lot for Rodr\u00edguez to look at in the cockpit. A custom top cap message should he need some insipration, his SRM PC8 computer, as well as the Di2 display. The handlebar (720mm) and stem (70mm) are from FSA’s carbon K-Force range.<\/p>\n Both Rodr\u00edguez and Hermida ride with a carbon JBG 2 dropper seat post with 60 mm travel. The team have drilled a hole in the top tube of the Ninety-Six to route the cable to the handlebars (do not try this at home).<\/p>\n The team have welded the spokes at the crossover. A trick from the old days, said to provide more stiffness and secure any broken spokes.<\/p>\n A saddle bag and Sahmurai Sword in the crankshaft deal with the stowing of spares. The #RIDEFORCHARLIE<\/a> sticker adds a human touch to the team’s bike – its a British organisation seeking to help fund young riders in the memory of Charlie Craig, a promising young rider who died in his sleep.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n