The EMX-7 was introduced as the flagship steed in Merckx's 2012 race collection. And while the previous year's EMX-5 workhorse was raced with much success by the majority of the QuickStep squad, the latest to come from the Belgian masterminds is even faster, lighter, and more stable than before. This is due to its oversized, aerodynamic tube shapes, internal cable routing, and advanced carbon fiber blends. If "The Cannibal" were still out devouring his opponents today, no doubt he'd be aboard this new racing frameset. For the construction of the EMX-7, Merckx employed its tried-and-true full Carbon Laminate + layup. Essentially, this technique involves layering the carbon fiber sheets together in ways that maximize the strength and rigidity of the frame. This layup was combined with Merckx's Optimized Structural Reinforcement (OSR), which, as the name suggests, places multiple layers of 62-ton (per square millimeter) carbon reinforced fibers in strategic areas for added reinforcement. These fibers were used in conjunction with high-strength pitch fiber weaves at force-load-heavy zones, such as the BB86 bottom bracket and head tube junctions. By using these methods together, Merckx engineers were able to add material where it's needed for increased rigidity, while removing material at less flex-prone areas to keep the overall weight as low as possible. This is the same method that's used for all of Merckx's top-end carbon road frames, as it yields the ideal combination of stiffness, low weight, and vertical compliance. In addition to the different carbon layup schedule found on the EMX-7, its tube shapes also differ from those found on the EMX-5. Merckx calls it the Aerodynamic Shape Design, which features airfoil-shaped tubing throughout, including both the seatpost and new aero fork. To further the aerodynamic properties, the frame was constructed with full internal routing. The EMX-7 provides a comfortable ride, yet it still possesses the race-tuned charact...
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