Merida Silex 400 axle: distinguish hub dimensions from a replacement order

A Merida Silex 400 axle search can mix several different identifiers: wheel spacing, axle diameter, a removable lever and a frame-side nut. Those details belong together in a parts enquiry, but they do not mean the same thing. Start by deciding whether you need a wheel, the removable axle assembly or hardware retained in the frame.

Read the Merida Silex 400 axle and hub entries separately

The selected archived frame specification gives 100x12 mm front and 142x12 mm rear axle standards. The hub rows repeat those dimensions and identify VP CLK170F and CLK270R hubs with 32 spoke holes and Centerlock rotor interfaces. That is more informative than simply calling the bicycle a disc-brake Silex, but it is still not a complete specification for every individual replacement part.

The axle row names MERIDA EXPERT SL and describes a removable lever with 6/4 mm Allen-key functions. Preserve that description when asking about the original assembly. It does not establish that a lever or axle taken from another Merida will fit, nor does a matching hub width supply the removable axle's complete length and shoulder details.

Distinguish the rear nut from the whole axle

The spare-parts panel currently attached to the selected archive lists item A2302000018 as a rear-axle nut with M12x1.5 wording. This is a reference to the named nut in that panel. Do not turn it into an unqualified order for any M12 axle, or assume that a thread designation identifies the complete axle assembly and every Silex generation.

Ask the dealer to match the frame identity and the relevant drawing position before supplying parts. State whether the original nut, removable axle or lever is missing or damaged. If the bicycle has been modified, include that information. A photograph of an isolated loose part is more useful when accompanied by its original location and the bicycle's identifying details.

Prepare a wheel or hardware request that can be answered

For a wheel enquiry, identify front or rear position and include the actual hub, rotor interface and drivetrain details where relevant. For an axle enquiry, provide readable markings, photographs and the manufacturer's applicable part reference. Keep observations about the installed bicycle separate from the archive's original component list.

The yellow Silex 400 in the accompanying October 2021 photograph provides historical model context. It does not establish every hidden dimension or prove that its axle hardware matches the blue archived specification. Do not measure a thread or axle length from the image. This article is an identification aid, not a tightening procedure; use the exact applicable instructions and competent workshop assistance for fitting and checks.

FAQ

Does 142x12 identify the complete rear axle?

No. The hub standard alone does not specify every dimension and fitting detail of the removable axle.

Is the panel's nut reference a universal Silex axle code?

No. Match the named component and drawing to the actual frame before requesting a replacement.

Can another Merida's removable lever be assumed compatible?

No. Confirm the exact axle assembly and lever arrangement rather than relying on shared branding.

Continue with the Silex hanger and parts-panel guide or browse the Merida topic.

Sources: Merida archived Silex 400 specification.