trek marlin 7 review 2023

2023 Trek Marlin 7 Review

The 2023 Trek Marlin 7 is an ideal mountain bike model offering superior performance, a comfortable ride, and great value. 

It’s easy to see why the Marlin 7 has become one of the most popular hardtail models on the market.

In this review, we’ll take a look at some of its key features, so you can decide if this is the right bike for your needs.

The frame of the 2023 Trek Marlin 7 is constructed with strong and lightweight aluminum that offers stiffness, strength and low overall weight.

This gives you plenty of power when it comes to pedaling up hill climbs or powering through tricky terrain. 

Plus, its geometry provides an upright riding position for unhindered views over challenging sections.

Suspension:

The Marlin 7 is fitted with a RockShox Judy fork with 100mm travel to soak up every bump you encounter along the way and provide superb control in any riding conditions.

You also have access to lockout technology which provides further efficiency when out of technical sections where you don’t need as much dampening feature from the suspension setup.

Kitted with huge 29” tires to provide huge amounts of grip on both wet and dry trails and offer improved rolling resistance so you have more speed where it counts!

The 2.2″ WTB Riddler tires come ready tubeless without any hassle, so all you have to do is set them up, add sealant and hit the trails!

Shimano SLX components make up most of the groupset from front chainring to rear derailleur and hydraulic disc brakes for sure stopping power no matter what weather conditions you encounter!

Plus these components are strong enough to take whatever rough treatment occurs during trail running so your shifts are always spot on when working their hardest!

Conclusion:

Overall, the 2023 Trek Marlin 7 offers affordable performance thanks its quality components combined with tough construction material that can hand le anything as well as providing comfort thanks its suspension setup; making it a great choice for anyone looking for an introductory mountain bike model.

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Review: Affordable, Feature-Rich XC MTB

The Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is the second-from-top model in this family of versatile cross-country hardtails. 

The Marlin 7 is ideal for beginner mountain bikers who want to experience light off-road riding and use their bike for mixed-terrain commuting, bikepacking, and running errands.

However, although it looks the part, entry-level components mean this bike is limited in its capability on the trail.

The 2023 model is the same as the Trek Marlin 7 2022, only with an updated ‘Gen 2’ label, a feature of the brand’s new naming system for the upcoming year.

This Trek Marlin 7 review aims to help you figure out if it’s the right bike for you and your needs. 

How Much is the Trek Marlin 7?

Trek Marlin 7’s price is $1,030. The cheaper Marlin model costs $850, so for just $180 more, this bike has an improved RockShox fork, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and a bottom bracket and crankset from FSA. While these upgrades are modest, they easily justify the extra money. 

• RockShox fork
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
• Progressive sizing
• No tubeless-ready rims or tires

Trek Marlin 7 2023 Full List of Specs

Trek marlin 7 gen 2 full review, what kind of bike is a trek marlin 7.

So is the Trek Marlin 7 a trail bike? Not quite. Trail MTBs have 130mm or more of suspension travel; this model is a cross-country hardtail mountain bike for beginners.

Marlin 7 is available in three diverse color schemes, which makes it attractive to a wide range of riders.

The Marlin 7 has entry-level components to match the affordable price and thus has limitations on its ability to handle rougher trails. However, it performs well as a day-to-day bike for recreation, transport, and commuting. 

RockShox Judy Coil Fork 

RockShox’s Judy Silver coil spring fork is a notable inclusion at the ~$1,000 price point. This fork is light for the price and provides decent ride characteristics for a coil spring. In general, mountain bikes in this price range will have SR Suntour forks, like the cheaper Marlin models. 

The RockShox Judy coil fork offers 100mm of travel, but is not suitable for heavy-duty trial riding. However, it can handle dirt and gravel roads with ease.

The 100mm travel (80mm on XS) Judy Silver coil fork uses TurnKey lockout , which absorbs an unexpected hit with the lockout on, so you don’t blow it out. It also has preload adjustment.

Full Shimano Groupset

The Trek Marlin 7 is the only one of the five bikes to have a complete Shimano groupset , consisting of a Deore 10-speed drivetrain and MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, a solid, reliable setup for this price. 

Shimano’s Deore 10-speed groupset is a good fit for this bike as its parts are affordable to replace (such as the chain and cassette), yet it provides plenty of range and crisp shifting.

This drivetrain mixes a Deore 11-46t cassette with an FSA Alpha Drive 28t crankset, providing plenty of range for steep climbs. In addition, the Shimano shifters and derailleur can take a beating and maintain a relatively smooth shifting performance. 

Shimano hydraulic disc brakes are another noteworthy inclusion in this price range, as most brands use Tektro to keep costs down. These brakes are plenty powerful and dependable for a light-use mountain bike like the Trek Marlin 7.

Progressive Frame and Wheel Sizing

A shared design feature across the Trek Marlin family is the progressive sizing that provides a consistent fit across the wide range of rider heights.

The Marlin 7 has seven sizes spanning 4’9″ to 6’8″. For this reason, modifying the geometry and components was essential so the shortest rider gets the same experience as the tallest . To achieve this, Trek uses a curved top tube on the smaller sizes for a lower standover height, ‘Smart Wheel Sizes’ for a wheel that fits (27.5 or 29″), and short-reach brake levers and narrower handlebars for better control.

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Sizing Chart

• XS — 4’9″-5’1″ / 145-155cm
• S —  5’1″-5’5″ / 155-165cm
• M —  5’5″-5’8″ / 165-173cm
• M/L — 5’8″-5’11” / 173-180cm
• L —  5’11”-6’2″ / 180-188cm
• XL —  6’2″-6’5″ / 188-195cm
• 2XL — 6’5″-6’8″ / 195-203cm

Who Is Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Best Suited For?

Trek’s Marlin 7 XC mountain bike is ideal for beginners who want a first bike to experience the trail and handle daily riding, such as commuting to work or school, transport around the city, or even multi-day bikepacking trips . 

With a rear rack fitted, Trek Marlin 7 transforms into a capable daily commuter or bikepacking companion.

The affordable price tag makes this model accessible to a wide range of budgets. In addition, the reliable Trek aluminum frame means you upgrade components as you develop your mountain biking skills. Unfortunately, the fork limits you to light off-road riding, so consider the Trek Marlin 8 if you want a more capable hardtail. 

Other Trek Marlin Bikes We Reviewed:

• Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

Is Marlin 7 Gen 2 a Good Buy?

This Trek bike is another competitive choice in the $1,000 price range . Innovative frame engineering, a solid Bontrager build kit, and reliable Shimano componentry make this bike a good deal. 

Marlin 7 in navy blue looks serious in elegant, which is just one of the three modern-looking paint jobs available.

Trek Marlin 7 reviews we’ve read online are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the value for money that it offers. Sure, it’s not very capable on bumpy terrain, but it serves its purpose as a beginner’s hardtail, giving you the opportunity to develop your technique on a bike that can do a bit of everything, on and off-road. 

Add the Marlin 7 to your shortlist if you want a stylish and affordable cross-country hardtail that’s built to last. 

Buy from Trek Bikes

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Trek Marlin 7 Review: Is This Bike Worth It?

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In the world of high-performance entry-level mountain bikes, the Trek Marlin 7 is ahead of its time. This mountain biking crusher is an affordable and featured-packed bike with an awesome design that draws inspiration from race-inspired geometry to give the bike a superior advantage over similar options in its class and even better price range. That being said, for an entry-level bike, the Trek Marlin 7 is a reasonably expensive bike at right around $800; which makes a big difference, however. However, when you buy this bike from the Marlin lineup you will get access to tons of advanced features for the price.  The core value of this bike lies within its seamless integration of budget-friendly components with race-ready design elements that deliver real-world, and track-ready performance. 

You’ll find components of mid-range and high-level quality sprinkled throughout the main design of the Marlin 7, making it an ideal bike for those who want a taste of what higher priced models can do for their soft ride game.

Overall, the Marlin 7 is very lightweight and efficient yet powerful and streamlined, which gives it a unique appeal that you don’t find too often. It weighs about 31.05lbs in total and has 18 gears, which provides you with versatile shifting capabilities. 

The Trek’s Marlin 7 also features an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is very durable and light. It also features Bontrager wheels, which look great and provide excellent support when riding.

You’ll find that the suspension of the Marlin 7 is more than capable of handling rugged terrain and complex rides with ease. All of the features integrated into the Marlin 7 combine to create the perfect entry to mid-range bike for anyone looking to enhance their rides on and off the trails. 

If you’re interested in purchasing your first mountain bike which is  high-performing, feature-packed, yet affordable entry-level to intermediate mountain bike, the Trek Marlin 7 is a great choice, even for new mountain bikers.

To help you make an educated purchase decision, we’re going to provide you with a detailed review of the Trek Marlin 7 below. Make sure you read this entire review so that you can decide whether or not the Marlin 7 is the right bike for you, at least for giving it a test ride.

Marlin 7 is where race-worthy mountain bikes begin. The smooth, lightweight RockShox fork and upgraded parts make this model the best choice for new riders who want a fast cross-country hardtail that will hold its own against our higher-end race bikes.

Who is the Trek Marlin 7 for? 

The Trek Marlin 7 was designed for a wide range of riders, including new riders, trail riders, leisure riders, and full-on racers. Its race-inspired design in addition to its mid-quality components makes the Trek Marlin 7 the perfect bike for the average to advanced rider looking for a sturdy bike that is packed with tons of tailored features to fit their busy lifestyle.

This model is considered an entry to intermediate level bike due to the price and the manufacturing quality of some parts; however, that in no way correlates to a subpar product. 

In fact, Trek has been able to pull off its idealistic concept of a medium-level, high-performing, budget-friendly mountain bike that provides enough versatility for average riders to improve their existing expertise. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to upgrade to the more expensive categories of trail bikes but want to try one out before shelling out the big bucks. 

For those that fall into any of these categories, you’ll be more than satisfied with the Trek Marlin 7 as you go-to bike for quite some time. Now, let’s take an in-depth look at some of the main pros and cons of current owners of the Marlin 7 report after their experience. 

Pros & Cons: Trek Marlin 7 

The Trek Marlin 7, like any other mountain bike, has its own unique design advantages in addition to downfalls. Every rider wants a personalized experience out of their bike, so it can be hard to classify what one rider may deem as a con because another may see it like a pro.

However, that doesn’t exclude the fact that some flaws are more practical and measurable, so regardless of your opinion, it will affect your ride either unknowingly or knowingly. 

Below, you’re going to find our list of all the main pros and cons to consider before purchasing the Trak Marlin 7. 

• 18 Gear shifter provides versatile performance capabilities under a wide range of riding conditions
• Lightweight design that facilitates high-performance standards
• Race-ready design geometry delivers superior ride handling effortlessly
• Durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame
• Superior suspension system
• Versatile design and functionality
• Trek’s Lifetime warranty included with every purchase
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Rear kickstand mount
• Coil spring could use improvements
• The fork does not provide performance capabilities consistent with the rest of the bike.

As you can see, the Trek Marlin 7 is a capable mountain bike that keeps your budget in mind. Based on the pros and cons alone, the Marlin 7 delivers a very consistent amount of power for its build quality. Continue reading to find a full breakdown of the core features that the Trek Marlin 7 offers so you can know precisely what you’re getting if you decide to go with this bike. 

Core Features: Trek Marlin 7 

Like we’ve said before, the Trek Marlin 7 is a robust and versatile mid-range mountain bike that can deliver adaptable performance standards for riders of all types.

What truly makes this bike great is all of the thought and intuitive genius that went into designing it. If you polled most casual to moderate riders and asked them what they would want in a budget-friendly mid-range bike, they would likely list all of the features included with the Trek Marlin 7. 

Take a look below to find all of the critical specifications and details about the Trek Marlin 7 that can translate into real-world performance enhancements for all of your future rides. 

Front/Rear Derailleur 

The Marlin 7 comes outfitted with a Shimano Altus M2020 2-speed front derailleur and a Shimano Acera M3000 9-speed rear derailleur. Both components work together seamlessly to deliver smooth gear transitions that allow you to adapt your riding style in a wide range of terrains.

Their durable build quality enhances their functionality to provide you with consistent reliability with every pedal. 

Brakes 

The Marlin 7 also has MT200 Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, which deliver almost instant stopping power regardless of the terrain. These brakes perform great for providing immediate braking action when faced with high-speed docents and all sorts of other intense situations.

When you look at the brakes on this bike compared to its tire and wheelset, it’s the ability to stop in wet climates in unmatched in bikes of a similar class. 

Rims/Tires 

For the tires and rims, the Marlin 7 is packing Bontrager aluminum connection double-wall wheels and Bontrager XR2 Comp tires.

This combination provides real ride support in various conditions while also aiding the brakes in delivering an immense amount of stopping power that will impress any rider. While the wheels on the Marlin 7 are not tubeless-ready, you can convert them into a tubeless setup. 

Frame 

The Trek Marlin 7 has an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is ultra-lightweight and very durable. The Marlin 7 frame uses race-ready frame geometry to deliver actualized performance benefits when taking on demanding tasks such as serious singletrack aspirations or high-speed downhill attacks. The head tube angle on this bike is 69.5-degrees, and it has a 73-degree seat tube angle that puts in an optimal position for maximum handling control in all situations. 

The agile yet stable performance of the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame on this bike definitely makes it one of the leading choices for mid-range trail bikes. 

The fork on the Marlin 7 is a RockShox XC 30 adjustable fork that delivers enhanced performance upgrades that add 100mm of travel underneath your hands. In addition to this, it also comes with a preload function that makes it easy for you to adjust your ride before hitting the trails.

You’ll also find a turnkey lockout feature, which makes it easy for you to lock it in place with the simple switch of a button even while riding. This fork is optimal for rough terrains, technical trail rides, and fast descents. 

The Trek Marlin 7 comes outfitted with an efficient and lightweight 2×9 drivetrain that is built using a 36/22t crankset in addition to an 11-36T cassette.

These features combine to deliver broad gear range while also reducing the amount of time it takes to transition from one gear setting to another. It’s fast, high-performing, and built to last, enhancing the overall value of the Marlin 7. 

These are all of the main features that come packed into the Trek Marlin 7, after taking a look at them, you can probably see why it’s one of the best mid-range bikes currently available. In addition to all of the advanced ride capabilities mentioned above, the Marlin 7 also comes in seven different sizes ranging from XS up to XXL, so virtually anyone can enjoy the benefits of this bike. 

Consider what your personal ride preference and demands are compared to what the Marlin 7 has to offer. By doing so, you will be able to decide whether or not this is the right bike for you. If in case you want to check more options, you can read here all about Trek Marlin 5 and Trek Marlin 6.

Check out our full Marlin 7 vs Marlin 6 Comparison.

Alternative Recommendations 

1. savadeck deck300 carbon fiber mountain bike.

The SAVADECK DECK300 Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike is built using a TORAY T800 carbon fiber frame that delivers a durable and lightweight basis for this bike’s other performance features. It’s also outfitted with an SR Suntour fork that provides 100mm of suspension travel in addition to more precise control.

The high-quality fork also aids in supporting a comfortable ride in various environments, which is a great bonus. This bike has a Shimano RD-M6000 front derailleur and a Shimano RD-M6000 rear derailleur that allows you to efficiently operate the bike and jumpstart your rides. 

The braking system on this bike is a Shimano MT200 disc brake system that uses double mechanical disc brakes to deliver top-notch stopping power in virtually any terrain. You’ll also find a continental tire on this bike, which adds more versatility to the bike’s ability to handle multiple ride conditions with ease. This bike is easy to assemble and is excellent for intermediate and even professional riders who want a nice entry-level to toss around.

The braking system on this bike uses double mechanical disc brakes to deliver top-notch stopping power in virtually any terrain, as we as a continental tire which adds even more versatility!

2. Tommaso Gran Sasso 29er Mountain Bike 

The Tommaso Gran Sasso, 29er Mountain Bike, features a durable alloy frame that can withstand virtually anything you throw at it. The bike comes with 29” wheels that deliver ultimate grip and propellent force to keep you moving even when you encounter difficult riding situations.

These tires can withstand roots, rocks, branches, and more without even breaking a sweat. This bike also has a 24-speed Shimano drivetrain that delivers enhanced power and accurate control consistently.

It also comes with a Suntour SF 15-XCM form that adds 100mm of travel for even more ride versatility. It’s outfitted with a 680mm handlebar, which is comfortable and optimized to provide you with superior posturing so that you always maintain precise control on the bike. 

The bike comes with a standard one year warranty from the manufacturer, and all of the Shimano branded a two-year warranty covers parts. If you’re a rider who is looking for professional performance at an excellent and affordable price, this bike is the perfect choice for you. 

3. Diamondback Bicycles Full Suspension Mountain Bike

The Diamondback Bicycles Full RockShox Suspension Mountain Bike is the only full-suspension and not-so-entry-level bike on our list. This monster comes outfitted with a level link design that delivers 130mm of optimal rear suspension support.

This bike is crafted from a lightweight yet durable carbon frame with a Boost 148x12mm Maxle dropout for added ride versatility. You’ll also find that this bike has a KS LEV Si dropper post w/ an integrated Southpaw remote lever that provides enhanced maneuverability when attacking descents. The rear shocks mounts on this bike are Fox 34 performance float and fox DPS EVOL LV which deliver excellent suspension travel. 

The gears on this bike use an SRAM NX Eagle 11-50T single-ring drivetrain to deliver maximum versatility and power. If you’re in the market for a premium high-performing mountain bike and have a few more dollars to spend, this is a great selection.

The Diamondback Bicycles Full Suspension Mountain Bike is a full-suspension and not-so-entry-level bike with a level link design that delivers 130mm of optimal rear suspension support. 

Our Honest Opinion 

After taking an in-depth look at all of the core features and capabilities that come with the Trek Marlin 7 package, we would have no other choice but to recommend this bike. When compared to many of the other mountain bikes in its class, the Marlin 7 outperforms them in all areas including design, functionality, and performance. 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trail bike packed with advanced features and practical performance, the Trek Marlin 7 is a great choice. 

FAQs About Trek Marlin 7

Yes, the Trek Marlin 7 is a good quality entry-level bike that delivers high-performance standards and versatile riding capabilities. Its racing-inspired design gives it an edge over its competitors, making it one of the leading options in the entry-level and mid-range bike class.

Yes, when you consider the number of features and quality parts that come integrated with the Trek Marlin 7, it is worth every penny.

Yes, while the Trek Marlin 7 is designed like a racing-style bike, making it great for downhill as well as any type of offroad trail.

Conclusion 

Use all of the information, tips, and advice we’ve given you throughout this article to help decide whether the Trek Marlin 7 is right for you.

Take the time to read over our entire review so that you can compare its core features with everything you want in a mountain bike. As long as you do that, you’ll be taking on new trails with confidence in no time with the Marlin 7.

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Review Of Trek Marlin 7: A Good Choice for Trail Enthusiasts?

Trek Marlin 7 is the flagship model from the Marlin lineup. This is a race-ready trail bike that doubles as a daily commuter or a leisure two-wheeler. Thanks to its attractive price, it will find its way into the hands of a variety of adventure-hungry riders.

Marlin 7 Gen 2 is the most expensive model from the beginner-friendly Trek Marlin series. However, its $1,030 price is more than justified.

This is an affordable cross-country bike with race-ready geometry and a much better RockShox fork compared to other cheaper Marlin series models.

If you’re more serious about mountain biking and you want the key to the door of real trail riding , then you should read the rest of our detailed Trek Marlin 7 review. You’re guaranteed to like it.

Trek Marlin 7 Quick Overview

Trek marlin 7 main features, does trek marlin 7 fit your needs, verdict: good value or not, trek marlin 7.

The secret to Marlin 7’s success on the entry-level MTB market is the fact that it combines race-ready elements to budget components to offer a versatile package that fits diametrically different needs, such as trail riding, leisure riding, and commuting.

Key Specifications:

• Frame:  Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork: RockShox Judy, 100 mm (80mm for XS)
• Cassette: Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Deore M5120
• Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
• Rims:  Bontrager Connection, double-wall
• Tire Size:  27.5″/29″ x 2.20″
• Weight:  13.47 kg / 29.7 lbs

Get From Trek

Trek has obviously put a lot of effort into making Marlin 7 Gen 2 a gateway model to some of their higher-priced and higher-specked lineups such as Roscoe or Supercaliber.

Marlin 7 has features from both the entry-level and the mid-range world. It has excellent competition-worthy suspension , brakes, and frame, coupled with a low-level Shimano groupset and a heavier-than-ideal wheelset.

With a few smart upgrades, it can certainly become a bike that can lead you to a cross-country race podium!

Light and Efficient 1×10 Drivetrain

One of the high points of the Trek Malin 7 bike is its light and efficient 1×10 drivetrain. It’s built with an 11-46T cassette.

This means that it has an excellent range of gears .

High-Performing 100mm RockShox Fork

The RockShox Judy fork on Marlin 7 is a big improvement compared to the SR Suntour forks found on other lower-priced Marlin models.

It puts 100mm of travel under your hands but also equips you with a preload function and a Turnkey lockout. Therefore, you can lock it with the flip of a switch even when you’re riding.

The coil spring might make the fork feel a bit inefficient if you are very short and light, but if you have an average weight, you’ll be happy with it.

This fork is ready for fast descents , rocky terrain, and more technical trails.

Budget-Friendly Components

Shimano Deore components are an upgrade from the previous combination of Shimano Altus and Shimano Acera.

Deore is part of the Shimano lineup, the groupset is the cheapest group marketed towards real mountain bikers.

Deore is well-built and reliable, it even shares some features with more expensive groupsets.

Race-Ready Frame Geometry

By far the most important part of any bike is its frame. Trek Marlin 7 can be proud of its Alpha Silver Aluminum frame as its light, compliant, and nimble on the trails.

The race-inspired geometry makes this bike good both at tight and demanding singletracks, as well as at straight downhills attacked at high speeds.

Its 69.3-69.5-degree head tube angle combined with a 73.5-71.9-degree seat tube angle puts you in a good position to have maximum control.

Reliable Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes are a phenomenal mid-range choice. They are capable of providing you will all the braking power you need when attacking high-speed descents.

Combined with the aluminum Bontrager Connection double-wall wheels and knobby Bontrager XR2 Comp tires, you’ll get  maximum confidence in bends and in wet conditions.

These wheels are not tubeless-ready . Still, they can be easily converted to a tubeless setup which would give Marlin 7 even better trail properties.

To figure out whether or not Marlin 7 is the right bike for you, you first need to define your needs. If trail riding is your hobby or you believe that it might become that, then you should definitely buy Marlin 7. This is a race-ready bike that you can enter amateur competitions with or just have fun with your friends.

But, Marlin 7 is still not too trail-specific that it cannot accomplish other tasks as well. If you can only afford one bike and you want to be able to commute on it as well, this bike can do that.

A few miles on paved roads to get to work will feel like second nature. Best of all, on the way back home, you can hit some trails and end your day the right way.

Geometry & Sizing

Other marlin models.

• Marlin 4 – MSRP $630- Has a lightweight aluminum frame, plenty ogf gears, 100 mm of front suspension, and strong mechanical disc brakes.
• Marlin 5 – MSRP $740 – Combines a light aluminum frame, plush SR Suntour suspension, entry-level Shimano drivetrain, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes in a good-looking trail package.
• Marlin 6 – MSRP $850 – This model is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, a mid-range Shimano drivetrain, burly tires, and comes with 100 mm of front suspension travel with lockout.
• Marlin 7 – MSRP $1,030 – Trek’s race-worthy model with an Alloy frame, superior RockShox front suspension, quality drivetrain, Shimano components, and improved Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

Excellent geometry ensures agile steering and the coil-spring RockShox fork provides impressive shock absorption even on rocky surfaces.

The entry-level components keep the price in check but can be upgraded if need be. However, casual riders and first-timers on the trails can enjoy the original setup for years and miles to come.

• Efficient RockShox suspension
• Race-inspired geometry
• Strong Shimano hydraulic brakes
• Wide-range 1x10 drivetrain
• Three attractive colors
• Budget groupsets

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42 thoughts on “ review of trek marlin 7: a good choice for trail enthusiasts ”.

hi jeff im planning to buy marlin7 1,030 dollar DO I NEED TO CHANGE THE PEDAL IM GOING TO PERU INKAS TRAILS DO YOU THINK IS GOOD BUY TO TRAVEL THERE AND MAKE SOME HILLS IN MACCHU PICCHU TRAIL MOU

Hey Miguel, in my opinion, the stock pedals are perfectly fine. The only reason why you might want to change them is if you want to switch to clipless shoes and pedals. Otherwise, stick with the stock ones and enjoy your trip!

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Trek Marlin 7 Review: Is it A Good Bike?

• By Daniel Shakibaie
• Mountain Bike , Trek Bikes

Getting into trail riding and racing can be a little overwhelming. After all, most of the best bikes out there that can handle rough trails and high speeds are quite expensive. They’re highly specialized machines with a few goals in mind. 

Trail bikes must be:

• Lightweight
• Easy to steer and control

Fortunately, as technology continues to advance, more affordable XC bike options are becoming available. As frames become more streamlined, and advances in components make effective options cheaper, there are more choices available to cyclists and trail riders who don’t have sky-high bike budgets. 

Enter the Trek Marlin 7, the flagship of the affordable Marlin line. This is an affordable bike with a race-ready profile and fairly high-quality components. 

Our comprehensive review of the Trek Marlin 7 will cover the bike’s main features and benefits, how it performs in real life, and some head-to-head comparisons with similar models. 

Trek is one of the largest companies in the mountain biking world. It offers a wide variety of models from affordable entry-level bikes to premium racing bikes aimed specifically at the pros. Trek bikes are consistently high performing, thanks to great frame design and well thought out component choices. 

The Marlin line is one of Trek’s more affordable offerings, but this doesn’t mean that they aren’t serious bikes. The whole line is designed to be a good option for cross-country riding and mountain bikers who need a good, durable, fast bike without a huge price tag. 

This means that the Marlin line makes some compromises in order to keep prices lower. However, the total package of each bike is greater than the sum of its component parts. The Marlin 7 is the most expensive bike in the line, and it is also the most advanced. 

While it can be used as a commuter or a leisure bike, this really isn’t what the Marlin 7 is designed for. It’s aimed more at serious cyclists, and those who are looking to up their game, but who are limited to bikes costing under 1k. 

It’s also designed to enable customization and trail-performance improvements with some minor, relatively low-cost, modifications. 

Things to Consider Before Buying an XC Mountain Bike 

The main thing that you should consider before investing in an XC mountain bike such as the Trek Marlin 7 is whether you want to get into cross-country or mountain biking. While many of these bikes work as commuter bikes and leisure bikes in suburban and urban neighborhoods, this isn’t really what they’re designed for. 

More importantly, bikes that are designed to work as commuter bikes and leisure bikes are better designed for those jobs. XC Mountain bikes use their manufacturing budget on very different components and features to those of your typical commuter bike. 

You should also consider the price point when you’re in the market for an XC mountain bike. While good models are becoming more affordable, there’s still a limit as to what your dollar can get you. 

The more you spend, the more likely you are to get better suspension, more advanced braking systems, and a lighter, more streamlined frame.  

As you move down in price, you should pay close attention to frame and suspension systems. Those are the two most important aspects of any XC mountain bike, and they can both have a huge impact on performance. 

Even when you need to compromise for more affordable components in other areas, you should avoid compromising when it comes to the suspension and frame. 

Features and Benefits

Here are some of the key features and benefits of the Marlin 7. We’re only looking at the standard setup, but many of these components can be upgraded if you wish. 

The frame is the main component of the Trek Marlin 7 , as well as the only component which can’t be upgraded on the bike. Fortunately, there isn’t any reason why you’d want to upgrade this bike frame. 

The frame is designed with a reasonably aggressive rider stance and good racing balance. It’s very aerodynamic and about as light as can be expected from a durable XC mountain bike frame at this price. 

The carefully welded aluminum can handle just about the worst that any trail can throw at it. At 31.4 lbs., it’s heavier than some competition-oriented bikes, but lighter than many other models in its price range. 

Overall, it’s a good design and one which is ready for trail rides, races, and competitions, as well as for more casual riding. 

More: Best Folding Mountain Bike

Suspension System

This bike doesn’t offer a rear suspension system. However, the fork is a RockShox model and has 100mm of movement thanks to a spring coil in a hydraulic boosted system. 

This means that the front fork can absorb a lot of the jolts of impact without losing control. It can struggle a little on the roughest sections of the most technical trails, but this isn’t a huge downside as almost all bikes in this price range offer similar performance. 

The fork also offers an easy-to-reach locking system which makes it possible to turn off the suspension when you don’t need it, saving on wear and tear. 

It doesn’t have the scaling suspension sensitivity of more advanced forks, but this isn’t a huge disadvantage as this model is reactive without being overly springy or aggressive. Most of the time you won’t want to adjust the shock sensitivity anyway. 

More: Check our guide to Trek Marlin 4

The wheels are a fairly standard setup and work with tire sizes 27.5″/29″ x 2.20″, which gives you a reasonable range of different tire setups. The rims aren’t tubeless-ready, but it’s a relatively easy upgrade if you want to go tubeless for better trail performance. 

The basic Marlin 7 setup has 18 gears. The gear indicator gives you a handy reminder of which gear you’re using, making it simpler to learn to use the full range of gears and to switch gears quickly on more technically difficult trails. 

The entire gear system, including front and rear derailleur, is made from affordable Shimano parts. Shimano is one of the best manufacturers for high-performance gear systems. You get an Atlus shifter and front derailleur with an Acera rear derailleur. 

The whole system moves smoothly between gears. The gearing system is well-optimized for durability and switching quickly between gears. 

More: Check our Review of Trek 1120

You also get a hydraulic disc braking system with this bike, which is quite an upgrade from what you usually see on a bike in this price point. More specifically, you get Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, although this isn’t Shimano’s best braking system. 

These brakes are quick and responsive, and don’t cause shuddering or instability. They also don’t tend to pull to either side, which makes them a good choice for more technical trails. 

You should schedule regular maintenance for your brakes. Regular tune-ups and simple maintenance is all these brakes should require unless you really put them through the ringer. 

Is the Trek X Caliber 7 or the Trek Marlin 7 a Better Bike Option?

Looking for a reliable bike? A trek x caliber 7 bike review can help you decide. With its lightweight frame and smooth gear shifting, the X Caliber 7 is perfect for trail enthusiasts. However, the Trek Marlin 7 offers superior suspension and more versatile features, making it a great choice for adventurous riders.

What Other Customer Says

Users consistently comment that the Marlin 7 exceeds expectations for a bike in this price range. The racing-ready frame and reasonable mix of price and quality from each component out-performs similar bike models. 

It’s also consistently noted that this bike is a little beefier than most casual riders and commuter riders will need. It is certainly designed for mountains, trail riding, and even difficult cross-country riding, so it may be too much for less difficult applications. 

The only real downsides to this bike are the heavier weight of the frame and the fact that the wheel rims aren’t tubeless-ready. 

Alternatives

It’s difficult to get a real sense of any bike without comparing it to other similar models. In this section, we’ll look at two other contenders from the Marlin line, as well as two similar bikes which aren’t quite as connected to the Marlin 7. 

Trek Marlin 7 vs Giant Talon 2

The Giant Talon 2 is another Trek model just released in 2020. Both bikes offer a sturdy aluminum frame and hydraulic disc brakes. 

The Marlin 7 has two compatible tire sizes, giving you a little more flexibility than the Giant Talon 2, which only supports 27.5” wheels.

Both bikes also have a 2 x 9 drivetrain, and a RockShox fork. 

However, the Giant Talon 2 offers a slight improvement in its gearing system (still a Shimano system) and is a slightly lower price. 

While both bikes are similar, the Giant Talon 2 is ultimately a better deal thanks to its lower price and improved gear system.  

Trek Marlin 7 vs Marlin 6

Design-wise, the Marlin 6 and Marlin 7 are incredibly similar bikes. The frames are similar, and both are aluminum and durably welded. 

There are two major differences between the Marlin 6 and the Marlin 7 in terms of design. The Marlin 7 has an upgraded fork, as well as an upgraded rear derailleur. These differences can have a significant impact on performance as the Marlin 6 doesn’t offer much in the way of a suspension system. 

At the time of writing, there is about a $150 difference in price. This difference is largely just the difference in the price of the parts, so generally, we’d say it’s better to go ahead and upgrade to the Marlin 7 if you’re debating between the two. 

The performance differences are more than worth the price increase.  Check our guide to Marlin 6

Trek Marlin 7 vs Roscoe 6

The Trek Marlin 7 and the Roscoe 6 are both Trek models, and both are designed as entry-level bikes that are racing ready. 

However, there’s roughly a $200 difference in price between the Marlin 7 and the Roscoe 6. The Marlin is currently the flagship of the Marlin line, while the Roscoe 6 is a couple of generations behind the latest Roscoe model. 

One of the biggest differences is in the shifter. The Marlin 7 has a very affordable entry-level set of Shimano shifters, while the Roscoe 6 is upgraded several steps to a Shimano Deore system. 

The SR Suntour XCM 32 fork is also a serious upgrade in the suspension system, which offers a smoother ride which is much easier to control. 

While both are good entry-level options, the Marlin 7 is definitely the more affordable of the two. However, if you can afford some of the component upgrades that come with the Roscoe 6, its performance improvements are well worth it. 

Trek Marlin 7 vs Marlin 5

The Trek Marlin 5, two generations behind the Marlin 7, shows some of the tech differences between the two. 

As with the differences between the Marlin 7 and the Marlin 6, there are several similarities with a couple of significant performance differences. 

Between the 5 and the 7, the Marlin line has upgraded the derailleur and shifter sets. For example, the Marlin 5 uses the Tourney line of Shimano shifters, while the Marlin uses Atlus and Avilio models. 

The Marlin 5 also relies on a mechanical disc brake system, while the Marlin 7 has upgraded to hydraulic disc brakes. 

That being said, while there are serious performance differences, the Marlin 5 can still be considered to be a good investment for many riders. Noticeably cheaper, the Marlin 5 is best as more of casual bike, while the Marlin 7 is a good entry-level racing and cross-country bike.  check our detailed review of Trek Marlin 5 here.

Overall, the Marlin 7 is about the best low-cost entry-level racing bike you can buy for less than 1K of upfront investment. There are a few components you’ll most likely want to upgrade as you start to take racing a little more seriously

The Marlin 7 is a rugged, durable, and relatively flexible bike for all kinds of different applications. 

About The Author

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Trek Marlin 7 2023 Review

In todays article we take a look at the all new Trek Marlin 7 2021 model. The Marlin 7 is the beginning of Treks higher end bikes. This bike comes with upper mid-range components and also a inviting price tag of $1,099.99

What is the Marlin?

The Marlin 7 is a crosscountry hardtail Mountain Bike. It is one of Treks most popular selling MTB. The Marlin 7 is the best option you can pick up in their line-up. With other Marlin options offer even more affordable price tags. However this Marlin 7 is the best bang for buck.

Is Trek Marlin 7 a good bike?

For the money you can’t go wrong with this bike.

It has a RockShox Judy fork with 100mm travel, (which is rated 2 out of 5 stars compared to all suspension forks on the market.) While it is powered by a 1 x 10 Deore, FSA groupset, (which is rated 3 out of 5 stars compared to all MTB’s).

This means a FSA Alpha Drive, 28T steel ring, Boost crank. With a Shimano Deore M4100, 11-46 cassette. Combined with the Bontrager Connection rims and 29×2.20″ Bontrager XR2 Comp tires. The bike achieves an 17.62″ climbing gear and 73.66″ largest gear. That’s a 0.61 to 2.55 gear ratio.

Just quick for those of you who don’t know much about gear inches. They typically range from 18 (very low gearing) via 70 (medium gearing) to 125 (very high gearing). So low gearing is for going up hills and high gearing is for going fast.

Giant Talon vs Trek Marlin – Comparing the Difference!

Anything under 18″ for climbing is ideal for a mountain bike. Sometimes 1x drivetrains are not the most capable for climbing running larger tooth cranks but this Marlin has no trouble here.

Trek claim that this is a “race-worthy mountain bike”, weighing in at 30.4 lbs / 13.8 kg. It is ideal for someone looking for maybe their first mountain bike. And want a serious bike for their money.

The bike comes with all the expected rack mounts, to carry all the gear and accessories for tours. Suspension lockout which helps when riding on road when you need efficiency compared to bump absorption.

On the chainstay you have to option to mount a rear kickstand, to keep the overall look of the bike clean and simple it has internal cable routing. Adding to the clean design, you get the option with Bontrager gear to mount accessories like lights directly onto the stem, thanks to the Blendr Stem.

Just quick…..

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In my latest video, I take you on a personal journey, sharing an unexpected struggle I’m experiencing – the tug of war between an insatiable wanderlust and an imposed static existence.

In this raw and unscripted narrative, I walk you through my inner battles – the constant wrestling between routine and adventure, the strange ‘travel blues’ that seem to descend when I’m not constantly on the move.

Is there a downside to the exploratory freedom we often laud? Could this relentless pursuit of the new and the unknown have unintended consequences? 

I invite you to join me in this introspective journey as we navigate these perplexing questions together. 

Are you ready? Click here to watch the video now. Let’s traverse this uncharted territory together.

Okay, let’s get back to the article…

Marlin 7 2020 vs Marlin 7 2021 vs Marlin 7 Gen 2 2023

What is the difference between the 2020 and 2021 Trek Marlin 7? It has seen some updates. The frame is pretty much the same, with an identical geometry. But the new 2021 model has much better quality components, 2020 having the 2 x 9 Acera, Altus groupset/drivetrain (rated 1 out of 5 stars out of all mountain bikes).

The 2020 Marlin 7 has a better gear range, with both bikes having the exact sample climbing capabilities. The new 2021 model is more limited and will spin out before the 2020 Marlin, because of the 1x drivetrain.

The 2020 also had a different fork, the RockShox 30 Silver TK. While the 2021 model is 300 grams lighter.

Below you can see a detailed table comparing both bikes side by side.

Also below is a comparison table of each bikes specs.

Trek Marlin 7 Women’s

The Marlin bikes also come in women’s options, which is perfect! His and her bikes anyone?

This bike has some slight differences compared to the Marlin 7. As a womens bike it comes in smaller sizes with slight adjustments. The frame is still the Alpha Silver Aluminium however it features a low standover. Thanks to the downward curved top-tube.

The women’s option weighs 29.8 lbs / 13.5 kg which is 300 grams lighter. All other components and parts stay the same. For the exception of a different saddle. The Womens Marlin 7 has the Bontrager Ajna 1 Women’s saddle. And the other Marlin 7 has the Bontrager Arvada.

Trek Marlin 6 vs Trek Marlin 7

What is the difference between Trek Marlin 6 and 7? We have a more detailed article which compares these two bike models.

In a nutshell, the main differences is the bikes components. The Marlin 6 has lesser quality components then the Marlin 7. But the Marlin 6 is cheaper by $200.

The Marlin 7 is slightly better at climbing but the Marlin 6 is more capable at descending. The Marlin 6 is 700 grams heavier then the Marlin 7. Check out this article if you want more info on these two bikes. (Coming soon)

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 14.5"", 15.5", 17.5", 18.5", 19.5", 21.5", 23"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Chain KMC X10, 10-speed
• Crank Size: XS, S, M, FSA Alpha Drive, 28T steel ring, Boost, 170 mm length; Size: ML, L, XL, XXL, FSA Alpha Drive, 28T steel ring, Boost, 175 mm length
• Bottom Bracket FSA , 73 mm, threaded cartridge, 122.5 mm spindle
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore M5120, long cage
• Shifters Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Brakeset Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Size: XS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 5 mm rise, 690 mm width; Size: S, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 15 mm rise, 720 mm width; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 15 mm rise, 750 mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS, S, M, Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 330 mm length; Size: ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 400 mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 35 mm length; Size: M, ML, L, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 50 mm length; Size: XL, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 60 mm length; Size: XXL, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 70 mm length
• Grips Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on

Q: How much is a 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3?

A 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 is typically priced around €999 EUR when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3?

The 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 have?

The 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 should I get?

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2024 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3

A 27.5″ / 29″ / 29″ aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bike with upper mid-range components. Compare the full range

Manufacturer Price

Marlin 7 Gen 3

In Stock: XS, SM, MD, MD/LG, LG, & XL

Biloxi Bicycle Works

For This Bike

View more similar bikes →

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Similar Bikes

(descending)

Add custom gearing

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

Compare the full Marlin model range

4'8" – 5'2"

5'0" – 5'6"

5'4" – 5'10"

5'8" – 5'11"

5'9" – 6'3"

6'1" – 6'6"

• 6'1", size Lg, Just right
• 5'10", size Ml, Just right

Not only is the Trek Marlin one of the most searched bikes on our website, it's also Trek's best selling mountain bike! And for good ...

Watch Review

Apr 2024 · James Huang

Trek’s entry-level aluminum hardtail mountain bike.

Fantastic frame geometry

Excellent shifting

Looks great

Generous tire clearance

Easy-to-live-with semi-internal routing

Sort of a rear thru-axle.

Mega-heavy fork with minimal adjustability

Tubeless costs extra

Limited upgrade potential.

Read Review

Riders can expect updated geometry, a new frame, increased tire clearance and a rear axle system that "enhances stability," Trek said.

Feb 2023 · Oscar Huckle

Can the Marlin compete with the bigger players?

Lots of frame sizes

Excellent tyre choice

Dropper seatpost

Upgrade potential

Roomier seated position would be preferred

Quick-release rather than thru-axle

Rattly internal cable routing

Last updated April 28

• Buyers Guide

• Technical Details

• Beginners-Bike

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 Review

• good value for money
• climbing ace
• very good wheels
• 25 years warranty

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Marlin 7 Gen 3 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (Beginners-Bike up to 1000 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 999 €.

Expirience with the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3

best alternatives

mostly compare

Trek marlin 7 gen 3 vs trek marlin 8.

Je steiler der Winkel des Sitzrohrs ist, desto effizienter können Sie in die Pedale treten.

• Frame Marlin Alpha Silver Aluminum, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR
• Frame Material Aluminium
• Fork Größe: XS , S RockShox Judy, Spiralfeder, verstellbare Federvorspannung, TurnKey-Lockout, 42 mm Vorbiegung für 27,5"-Laufrad, 100-mm-Schnellspannachse, 100 mm Federweg
• Spring Unit coil
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Gearrange 655%
• Drivetrain 3x10
• Gear Lever Shimano Deore M4100, 10fach
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore M5120, langer Käfig
• Crank Größe: XS , S , M FSA Alpha Drive, Stahlkettenblatt (28 Z.), 170 mm Länge
• Cassette Shimano Deore M4100, 11-46 Z., 10fach
• Chain KMC X10, für 10fach-Kassette
• Brake Set Hydraulische Scheibenbremse Shimano MT200
• Brake Rotors 180/160
• Rims Bontrager Kovee, Hohlkammerfelge, Tubeless Ready, 28-Loch, 23 mm Innenweite, Presta-Ventil
• Front Hub Formula DC-20, Aluminium, 6-Loch
• Rear Hub Größe: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Formula DC-22, Aluminium, 6-Loch-Scheibenaufnahme, 8/9/10-Freilaufnabe von Shimano, 135 x 5 mm-Schnellspannachse
• Tires Front Größe: XS , S Bontrager XT3 Comp, Drahtwulstkern, 30 TPI, 27.5 x 2.40
• Tires Rear Größe: XS , S Bontrager XT3 Comp, Drahtwulstkern, 30 TPI, 27.5 x 2.40
• Saddle "Bontrager Arvada, Stahlstreben, 138 mm Breite
• Seat Post Größe: ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager aus Aluminium, 31,6 mm, 12 mm Versatz, 400 mm Länge
• Stem Größe: M , ML , L Bontrager Comp, 31 8 mm, Blendr-kompatibel, 7 Grad, 50 mm Länge
• Handle Bar Größe: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager aus Aluminium, 31,8 mm, 15 mm Rise, 750 mm Breite
• Handle Bar Width 750
• Head Set Semi-integriert, 1 1/8"

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Is Trek Marlin 7 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 7 Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2

• Trek marlin 7 price: $1,029.99
• Tires: 29×2.20″
• Frame: Alpha Silver Aluminum

What we love about it: 1×10 drivetrain for quicker and easier shifting, great value for money, and versatile hardtail bike.

What we don’t like about it: Tubeless tires are not ready.

Rating: (4.7/5)

As we all know, Trek is a very hot bike brand. While Trek bikes are also a big hit, it’s the high-end version that comes at a price that makes it prohibitive for most ordinary people. For this reason we have found the most popular as well as price-friendly model of Trek mountain bikes they produce – Trek Marlin 7.

Our 2-month-long review of the Trek Marlin 7 started off with a sense of its 7-size option, as it’s suitable for riders of any height. Not only did we experience its improved climbing performance, but also on the descents, but also its versatility.

Below is our take on the Trek marlin 7 for mountain biking and descents, general riding, key features, components and specs, and other editions in the series.

If you want to know more, you can refer to our review.

Mountain Biking

Based on past experience, I don’t think hardtails are very good at climbing, and we can see the Trek Marlin 7’s slender tires, and the first impression is that maybe it’s not that good for climbing.

Unexpectedly, the Trek Marlin 7 took me by surprise. We stumbled across a hill on our way to our review site, and there were a lot of riders doing climbing rides, so we wanted to give the Trek Marlin 7 a try as well.

The trail leading to the top of the mountain is not that steep, but rather tortuous. The slope up the hill is not that steep, the road has many ruts and is covered with loose gravel, which makes the road a little smooth.

Unexpectedly, the performance of the Trek Marlin 7 is so unexpected. The Trek Marlin 7’s 29’’ x 2.20’’ tires show incredible grip, and the slack head angle (69.5) allows for more nimble steering.

What I didn’t expect was that when it encountered a tree stump, it made a perfect jump without too much bump, which I have not experienced on other hardtail bikes. Some might argue that the Trek Marlin 7 isn’t for tough mountain climbing, but my real riding experience tells me that the Trek Marlin 7 is a hardtail bike that excels on this climb.

Front-wheel grip, as well as rear-wheel traction, are among the best in this price range.

Hardtail bikes aren’t usually known for their descents, but the Trek Marlin 7 surprised us with the descents. When descending this trail, we faced not only tree stumps and gravel obstacles, but also downhill stability and smooth handling.

The Trek Marlin 7’s Alpha Silver Aluminum frame material keeps weight down, and the 1×10 drivetrain not only allows me to shift smoothly. Its 11-46 gear range allows me to shift to a large-gear cassette on descents, which allows me to maintain a steady speed and feel more secure on my descents.

Based on the characteristics of the Bontrager XR2 Comp MTB tires, professional RockShox forks and durable coil springs, and a solid Bontrager alloy seatpost, they work even on loose, muddy singletrack descents. Of course, we also noticed that the trek marlin 7 doesn’t have a dropper post, so we’d be concerned that we might have a hard time dealing with potholes and boulders on singletrack.

However, the design of the Trek Marlin 7 tire pattern and the fork will effectively reduce vibration, but if it is a technical race off-road track, there will be vibration. But I personally think that at this price the Trek Marlin 7 is pretty amazing.

General riding

Does it mean that mountain bikes can only be used for mountain biking? Of course not, to test the versatility of the Trek Marlin 7, we did not only commuter rides, but also exercise rides around the ocean and short camping rides.

I found that the Trek Marlin 7 30tpi Bontrager XR2 Comp probably won’t have as much wear resistance as the pricier tires. However, in the four weeks I have been riding continuously, whether it is flat roads, cobble trails or even leaf-sprinkling country trails, it has been very strong to accompany me through this part of the ride, and the tires are very good. Wear is low.

Not only that, because of the installation of the rear bracket, it also achieved the ultimate load when we were doing short trips. All in all, the Trek Marlin 7 got our unanimous praise in our 2-month review.

Main Feature

In fact, I had a stereotype that fit and good looks couldn’t go hand in hand, but the Trek Marlin 7 changed that. First of all, we can see that the Trek Marlin 7 has a clean and elegant frame, and the curved top tube that comes with the small frame size is beneficial for smaller riders, making it easier for them to get on and off.

Although it looks indistinguishable from other hardtail mountain bikes. However, we noticed that it comes in three colors, with the gradient paint color making it the most appealing whether you’re commuting or riding downhill.

It is undeniable that I really like these three colors. And the Trek Marlin 7 uses Alpha Silver Aluminum as the frame, which keeps the entire body weight at only 29.7 lbs, and the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame is stronger than other bikes in this price range.

With internal cable routing, the Trek Marlin 7 is easy to maintain, even on muddy roads, so you don’t have to worry about taking care of your bike after an adventurous ride. Plus, the Trek Marlin 7 comes in a variety of frame ranges, allowing any cyclist to choose the bike that’s right for them.

Rear frame mounts and two water bottle mounting holes give the Trek Marlin 7 plenty of room for your luggage when you go camping further afield. Provide plenty of water while exercising so that you don’t end early and interrupt your workout plan because you don’t have enough water to rehydrate.

The geometric design of the Trek Marlin 7 is ergonomic. Its aggressive head angle (69.5° in size M) allows me to take less force and have more responsive control in tight corners.

However, the handling is too fast, and for beginners, this will increase the instability of the wheel swinging from side to side, and will encounter some obstacles, but I think the 7 is not so obvious here for me. In addition, theTrek Marlin 7’s steep seat tube angle (71.9° in size M) allows me to maintain a comfortable upright ride on my commuter rides.

The longer trail (9.3cm) makes me more stable when riding forward, and I can clearly feel the greater the force. And the moderate Reach puts my arms and torso in a comfortable position during the ride, so I can enjoy the ride to the fullest.

Components and Specifications

Shimano deore m4100 1×10 drivetrain.

When we see the drivetrain of the Trek Marlin 7, our first reaction may be to worry whether the Shimano Deore M4100 1×10 drivetrain will not be enough for the speed selection.

Obviously, such concerns are not groundless, because the 1×10 transmission does seem to be entry-level now. But don’t worry, Shimano will give you enough assurance that the Shimano Deore M4100 1×10 drivetrain is lighter in weight than any other 2× or 3×.

The Shimano Deore M4100 1×10 drivetrain offers a wide selection of gears. Its precision in shifting makes me doubt its $1,029.99 price, and almost thought it would cost more.

I am also amazed by the KMC X10 10-speed chain, which is 100% compatible with the derailleur system, and the asymmetrical chamfers avoid shifting interference, and use anti-stretch heat treatment for longer life.

Not only that, but the mushroom-shaped rivet pins provide the highest pin power to move confidently under load. To be honest, if it weren’t for the fact that I’ve checked the documentation before reviewing it, I might have thought the Marlin 7 wouldn’t have cost less than $2500.

If you want to spend your money efficiently on your bike and want to get the best value for your money, I recommend you try the Marlin 7.

Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc Brake System

Personally, I value the braking effect of the bike very much, so I was a little disappointed when I saw the Shimano MT200. But let me decide to try to evaluate its brakes.

After all, the real riding experience cannot be given to me by data. We rode it on slippery trails, on fast downhills. In terms of overall performance, the Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes are lighter, and the handlebars on the Shimano MT200 are just perfect for me when I’m braking.

Not only that, there is no screeching sound when braking, and the brakes are quiet when they work. It has to be mentioned that Shimano MT200 will bring you a comfortable and safe riding experience even in rainy days.

RockShox Judy Fork

The RockShox Judy fork is a great value fork for the budget-conscious, with a coil spring that’s a bit heavier than an air spring, but it’s durable and low-maintenance.

Some might argue that its shock absorption won’t be very good. I must say to this that it may not have as good a shock as an expensive fork, but it is reasonable and affordable for the price.

Other Versions Trek Marlin

Learn more: Is Trek Marlin 6 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 6 Review]

Trek Marlin 5 Review

In fact, the Trek Marlin series(Trek marlin 7 hardtail mountain bike) has always been the hottest series, one of the reasons is that its price is really cheap among hardtail mountain bikes, and its components are always upgraded to serve customers better put in effort.

The Trek Marlin 7 uses a smoother 1×10 transmission in transmission than the Trek Marlin5 and 6, which makes its shifting friendly to beginners, let alone me. And the Trek Marlin5 and Marlin 6 both use Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic discs. For someone like me who loves Shimano, I would prefer the Trek Marlin 7, which uses Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes.

Although I thought it was low-end in Shimano at first, its braking is not only suitable for all kinds of weather, but also saves more effort, allowing me to enjoy more riding pleasure. And Trek Marlin 7 is faster than Trek marlin 7 . Trek marlin 7 weight is only 29.7Ibs, lighter than Trek Marlin 7 . This is proof that the two generations of version updates, Trek is with the heart. So although the Trek Marlin 7 price will be a little more expensive than these two models also does not matter.

If you are careful enough, you will find that you may spend more to upgrade the money you save, and the Trek Marlin7 is worth the experience.

What do we like about it?

• The 1×10 transmission system not only reduces the weight, but also makes shifting easier, which is very friendly to beginners.
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brake system is stable in any situation.
• Multiple size options and a small top tube bend is nice.
• Variety of color car paint options, providing more choices to meet the needs of more people.
• Not only suitable for beginner mountain biking, but also suitable for commuting and fitness.

What do we not like about it?

• Some people may feel that the pedals look low-end.
• The design without a dropper will be a hindrance in technically difficult terrain.
• What is the frame material of the Trek Marlin 7?

The frame material for the Trek Marlin 7 is Alpha Silver Aluminum.

• What is the drivetrain of the Trek Marlin 7?

The drivetrain of the Trek Marlin 7 is 1×10.

• What is the maximum tire size for the Trek Marlin 7?

The maximum tire size for the Trek Marlin 7 is 29×2.20″.

Trek Marlin 7 Specs

Comparison Chart

Trek marlin 7 vs marlin 6.

We can see both bikes, first of all in terms of price, the Trek Marlin 7 is $180 more expensive than the Trek Marlin 6 , but for their hydraulic disc configuration, I prefer the Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes for the Trek Marlin 7.

And I prefer the grips of the Trek Marlin 7’s Bontrager XR Trail Comp when riding, which has a unique fin texture that adds to the comfort and control of my rides.

Not only that, we also tested their speed, the trek marlin 7 top speed reached 22 mph. while the top speed of the Marlin 6 was 24 mph under the same conditions. So if comfort matters more than components, you can experience the Marlin 7.

Trek Marlin 7 vs Scott Scale 970

The Scott Scale 970’s $1,499.99 price would have made me think it would have been better if I hadn’t gone for a ride, but the real ride tells me otherwise, and a higher price isn’t necessarily better.

First of all, we see that both of them use aluminum frames, and they both have maximum fork travel of 100mm. This makes me complain a little bit.

After all, the Scott Scale 970 is a bit more expensive and can get an important fork upgrade. Still, the 1×12 drivetrain of the Scott Scale 970 has a wider range of speed options, so I’m a no-brainer for the Scott Scale 970 at this point.

In addition, their braking system is also Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, and I think the Scott Scale 970 should be equipped with a slightly better Shimano braking system.

Specs-wise, I think they’re on par, but in my actual riding experience, I like the feel of the Trek Marlin 7’s grip more, and I like its price even more.

Trek Marlin 7 vs GT Avalanche Comp

In terms of frame design, I was really drawn to the GT Avalanche Comp. However, after careful comparison, I found that the GT Avalanche Comp is only $46 more expensive than the Trek Marlin 7.

Again, they’re both 1×10 drivetrains, but the GT Avalanche Comp uses a microSHIFT M851 drivetrain, but I prefer the Shimano Deore M4100 1×10 drivetrain, which feels smoother and more stable. On the brakes, the GT Avalanche Comp uses Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic discs and the Trek Marlin 7 uses Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes.

Although both are hydraulic disc brakes, I’m sorry if you ask me which is better, I can’t answer exactly, all I can say is that I prefer Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes. Because it guarantees stable braking on any terrain, and it’s Shimano.

Trek Marlin 7 vs Canyon Stoic 2

The Canyon Stoic 2 is an almost pure white paint color. As beautiful as it is, I was terrified of riding it on muddy trails that would force me to clean it.

Not only that, but the Canyon Stoic 2 has a body weight of 32.83Ibs, which is heavier than the Trek Marlin 7 29.7Ibs. In terms of lightness, the Marlin 7 is slightly better.

Also, the Canyon Stoic 2’s 29×2.35″ tires are wider than the Marlin 7’s 29×2.20″, which gives it an advantage over the Marlin 7 Trek on hills.

On the flat ground though Driving, the speed may not be able to keep up with the Trek Marlin 7. Also, the brakes on both are Shimano MT200 hydraulic discs, so in my case, that is enough.

The price difference between the two bikes is not huge, if If you prefer something lighter, you can try the Trek Marlin 7.

The Trek Marlin 7 is worth trying, both for its price, and for its performance at this price you’ll be screaming awesome! And Trek’s warranty service gives you peace of mind.

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