Merlin Works 4.0 First Look - Monday 5th June, 2006.

Merlin Works Press Release

"Merlin introduces I.C.T Technology

Merlin Metalwork’s has introduced their first full suspension cross-country bike utilizing the internationally acclaimed I.C.T suspension technology. In a partnership with Tony Ellsworth, Merlin has met the challenge of producing a Titanium bike with a superior quality suspension system.

The Works 4.0 is a 4 inch travel bike that completes an already successful line of bikes from Merlin. The bike stands in the "Works" category alongside the hugely successful XLM hard tail. For those not aware, Merlin created the Works product category for high-tech, race specific performance and function.

Brad DeVaney, Product manager for Merlin states, “The developments and products that Ellsworth has created makes perfect sense for this new bike. Merlin demands the very best materials, fabrication, and design. The I.C.T suspension system does not escape this expectation." DeVaney further states, “Tony Ellsworth’s knowledge and input has been invaluable and without his help this would be such a lesser bike. The key factor is the enjoyment and pride that we want to show through in our products. Tony shares this philosophy and passion."

"For years I have been asked when a 'titanium company' is going to put a premium suspension system on their bikes" states Ellsworth. "When I was approached by Merlin, I just knew this was going to be a great partnership, their passion for bikes is matched by my passion for making the very best suspension system in ICT."

David Cash (Merlin Brand manager) believes the partnership has created the finest cross country bike available by bringing together Merlin’s materials and craftsmanship with the best suspension system in the market place. I.C.T. "Most riders think of us as producing very pristine, performance bikes with a poetic presence. For Merlin, Works is everything but poetic, it represents pure performance."

Merlin has been producing the finest titanium bike frames for over 21 years. Their passion is quality and performance with a design team focused on producing the very best possible.

I.C.T is a globally patented suspension system designed to give the rider instant center tracking through out all terrain giving maximum pedalling efficiency."

"Instant gratification

Merlin has licensed Tony Ellsworth's Instant Centre Tracking (I.CT.) suspension technology' to produce a high-end titanium full-susser. Well it's not quite a titanium full-susser as the rear-end and link plates are made from aluminium. Information on the new bike is thin on the ground but what we do know is that it's called the Works 4.0. has four inches of travel from an Ellsworth four-bar rear end will come with Magura's Hugin Air shock as standard. The oversized Ti tubes should ensure that the front triangle is plenty stiff enough, but the big questions are, how much will it cost and is there really any point in using Titanium on a full-suspension bike? Both of which we should be able to answer when we get a Works 4.0 on test. Details at www.merlinbike.com." - MBR Magazine June, 2006.