No connection whatsoever between the two. Mercier was a high volume French bike equivalent to Peugeot or Motobecane. In the 60's and 70's they sponsored strong TdF teams with riders like Raymond Poulidor.
Mercian is a long-standing British marque still very much in business. If you visit their web site, you will learn there that they are located in that part of England that was once the ancient Kingdom of Mercia, thus the name Mercian. Mercians range from simple and economical but good quality frames to custom models with elaborately cut lugs. Merciers, like Peugeot, ranged from gaspipe to pro quality, with the top Merciers equivalent to the PX-10. You should beware of any recent Merciers, though, as the name has been acquired by an American entrepreneur, possibly the same one who now owns the Motobecane name. Current Merciers, like current Motobecanes, are TIG-welded in Taiwan and have no connection to the original French marques, except for the name.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
Houston, TX
Hello All, I have been confused about these bicycle companys. Does anyone know the origins of these frame makers? I just won the auction for a Mercier but was I really thinking it was a Mercian? Any experience with the quality? Thanks! Randy in Raleigh