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Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2

5190,00  kr

Marlin 4 er den perfekte inngangsporten til stisykling. Den er ideell for nye syklister som vil ha en terrengsykkel med knastedekk som også fikser jobben som robust sykkel i hverdagen. Skivebremser, framdemper, 21 gir og fester for bagasjebrett og skjermer gjør dette til en glimrende sykkel for nye stisyklister og skoleelever.

Mer info: https://trekbikes.com/p/29759 Produktnr: 29759 Kategorier: Hardtail , Sykkel , Terrengsykkel Stikkord: Trek

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Passer for deg hvis…

Du vil ha en første terrengsykkel til en utrolig pris, men også en sykkel som er solid nok til å hoppe opp og ned av fortauskanter på vei til skolen.

Teknologien du får

En lettvektsramme av aluminium med innvending føring for å beskytte kablene dine og gjøre sykkelen enda penere, 21 gir, en bred girutveksling slik at du alltid har riktig gir for terrenget, kraftige mekaniske skivebremser, og en dempegaffel som tar brodden av humper og krevende terreng.

Det siste ord

Marlin er laget for alle eventyr. Festene for bagasjebrett og skjerm gjør den til et topp valg for alle som vil leke litt på veien til klasserommet eller dagligvarebutikken.

Hvorfor du elsker den

– Den er en ekte terrengsykkel som også passer perfekt for daglig pendling, turer og sykling rundt på skoleområdet, eller bare til å ta deg fra A til B uansett underlag – Feste for bagasjebrett og skjerm gjør det enkelt å utstyre terrengsykkelen slik at den også kan brukes til og fra skolen. – Mindre rammestørrelser (XS og S) har hendler med kortere avstand til styret for å gjøre det enklere og mer komfortabelt for små hender å bremse med selvtillit. – Marlin-modeller med rammestørrelse XS og S har buet overrør og bedre rammeklaring som gjør av- og påstigning enklere for mindre syklister – Som alle andre modeller i Marlin-familien omfattes den av Treks livstidsgaranti

Du liker kanskje også…

Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2

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Trek Marlin | Hardtail Mountain Bikes

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Trek Marlin 5 Review: The Best Entry-Level Mountain Bike Around

I reviewed the entry-level Trek Marlin 5 bike and compared it to similar bikes - how did it fair?

As an experienced rider, I know what it takes to make a good bike, whether that's a top-of-the-range road bike or an entry-level mountain bike .

Overall I found the Trek Marlin 5 to have plenty of positives, including hydraulic disc brakes and Shimano derailleurs - honestly, it doesn't stop there!

For a more in-depth look, continue reading my Trek Marlin 5 review!

Table of Contents

Full Specification

Key features, alpha silver aluminum frame.

Trek Marlin 5 comes with an impressive alloy frame and things are kept tidy with the cables being internally routed.

For an entry-level bike, this is most surprising (but also welcomed!). It is rare to see internally routed cables. I love it, it makes the bike look sleek and it stops the cables from collecting dirt and becoming damaged.

SR Suntour XCE 28 Suspension Fork

It comes with 100mm of travel suspension so when faced with rougher terrain, it excels. There isn't a moment when things feel too demanding for the Marlin 5 thanks to the SR Suntour XCE 28.

Bontrager Arvada Saddle

Trek appears to like to kit their bikes out with Bontrager components and you won't hear me complaining! This saddle is there to give you comfort on long days riding and it works well for the commuter too!

Shimano Tourney 21 Speed Drivetrain  

It's common to see Shimano Tourney components at this price point. The quality is good and you have options!

You can either choose between a 3 x front derailleur or if you wish to reduce weight, you can opt for a 1 x Shimano Tourney at the front.

Which one should you choose?

Choosing the 3x will give you greater flexibility but more to think about. The 1x system will reduce the number of gears but allows you to spend more time focusing on your riding.

I favor 1x systems for their simplicity. When you're mountain biking, needing to changing the big ring can be one thing too many to get used to, especially if this is your entry-level bike and therefore your first!

If you're looking where the bike could be upgraded in the future then it could be the Shimano Tourney TY300 parts. Whilst they are decent and they are certainly a fantastic starting point, there are better options out there. A small upgrade in the future could see you finding it easier to climb hills.

Tektro HD-275 Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes on an entry-level bike? Trek has nailed it.

For beginner riders out there, hydraulic disc brakes are (for many, not all), the best type of braking system there is.

A slight touch on the brake levers is all you need to get a response...you don't get that from mechanical discs or rim brakes.

I came to fully appreciate hydraulic disc brakes going down Coll de sa Batalla for the first time, where I gripped on like my life depended on (it felt it did).

Since then. No turning back for me, there's only one form of brake system for me!

Bontrager XR2 27.5/29 x 2.2/2.0” Tires

Another Bontrager component!

These tires are of brilliant quality and they excel on mountain roads as well as gravel.

A downside to them is that they don't perform as well when things get muddy.

Wheel Sizes

There are different wheel sizes depending on the bike size you get.

The XS frame comes with 27.5" wheels.

Whereas, anything above that frame size gets 29" wheels.

At 5'4 in height, a lot of manufacturers would like to see me on 27.5" wheels, however, I ride 29ers on my MTB. I find this to be more comfortable and I don't feel hindered by having larger wheels.

What I'm saying is, test some bikes out, get a feel for what you like. Rules are there to be broken!

As I briefly touched upon earlier, the Marlin 5 comes with an alpha silver aluminum frame.

An alloy frame is a popular choice within this price bracket as it doesn't add extra weight to the bike as a steel frame would but it provides a good level of durability for a mountain bike.

Whilst you do get a good amount of durability, you have to factor in that this is a bike on a budget and it can't take on everything. It isn't designed for jumping so this is something to keep in mind if you're wanting a bike for serious trails.

All of the cables are internally stored in the bike, helping it to have a cleaner, more stylish look as well as improve the durability of the cables. 

The bike is available in three attractive colors, including black, green, and teal. These shades are uniquely beautiful and well-selected, so every cyclist will find the right color for them.

You can add a rear rack and kickstand to the Marlin 5’s frame, which makes this model a great choice for commuters, as well as adventurous cyclists. 

Do keep in mind that if this mountain bike was made of carbon fiber, it wouldn’t weigh the frame down as much, but the Trek Marlin 5 would come in at a much higher price point.

On Which Terrain Does The Trek Marlin 5 Perform Well?

We have to keep in mind that the Trek Marlin 5 is an entry-level machine so it isn't designed to be ridden by an expert rider, taking it on challenging trail riding.

Saying that the Marlin 5 is capable of rougher terrain and it works well as a trail bike. I'd always suggest that you check what the difficulty levels are before you hit the trail.

[Want some beginner tips? Check this out]

Bontrager Components

Let's clear something up for beginner riders getting into mountain biking.

Trek fits their bikes with 'Bontrager' parts. This is a Trek brand and made in-house.

For some brands, this isn't a sign of quality, yet this isn't the case here. Bontrager is a sign of quality.

On the Trek Marlin 5, Bontrager features a lot; the seat, seat post, handlebars, grips, and stem.

The stem is Bontrager alloy,  31. 8mm 7-degree Blendr compatible .

One of the best things about using these parts is that they are truly compatible across the Trek range of bikes.

As they are made by Trek, for Trek, the parts are made with the precise specification of their bikes so everything will fit seamlessly together!

For beginner riders, this is perfect as you won't need to give much thought about whether you're buying the correct parts.

[Check out this video from Trek for an overview of the range.]

Alternatives To The Trek Marlin 5

Without a doubt the Marlin 5 is feature-rich but how does this entry-level mountain bike compare to other bikes?

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Marlin 6

The first difference has to be the cost, the Trek Marlin 5 comes is quite a lot less than the 6 - this makes it an ideal first trail bike for those new to mountain biking, or those on a budget.

Having said that for trail riders looking to spend a bit more money, you do get a durable fork, a 2x drivetrain - including a better groupset and you even get a lighter bike!

One thing I do like with the Trek Marlin 6 is that there is the option to have either a man's frame or a women's. Whilst I find that women can ride men's bikes, it's nice to have an angled top tube.

You also get more options to customize certain features, so if you fancy a different wheel size, then the Marlin 6 can cater to that.

The standout benefit would be the upgrades with the fork - the fork on the 6 is a fair bit lighter than that on the Marlin 5. This reduces the weight of the bike, making biking trails or the commute easier.

Equally, the fork has a lockout and preload function so you are able to completely lock the fork to increase how efficiently you pedal - making your adventures easier!

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Giant Talon 3

The Giant Talon 3 has some good reviews and they're well deserved. In a lot of ways, these entry-level bikes are similar so are there any features that set them apart?

When compared to the Marlin 5, the Talon 3 seems to offer more traction when pedaling. This could potentially mean that as a rider, you don't feel as safe underfoot on the Trek Marlin and you could find that you're more likely to slip.

Though, the Trek Marlin 5 does give you a greater range of color types to choose from. So for trail riders who want to make their bike their own, the Trek could be the way to go.

There is a difference in wheel size too, with the Trek Marlin 5 you get 29" wheels, whereas Giant Talon 3 gets 27.5". Which one is better will come down to what you want from a bike.

The 27.5" wheels do mean the bike is lighter, which could be an appealing bicycle option to the commuter, beginners, or anyone who wants a bit more control!

Both hardtail mountain bikes have plenty to offer and the specifications are similar. For me, it all comes down to wheel sizes and the experience you want when you're cycling.

[Want to read more about the Talon 3? Find out here. ]

Trek Marlin 5 FAQs

Can i do tabletop jumps on the trek marlin 5.

The Marlin 5 is part of Treks' entry-level range and is not suitable to be taken on any type of jumps.

The wheels and tires are not designed to cope with jumps and could bend, even on a small jump so don't try it!

Can I Use Tubeless Tires On The Trek Marlin 5 bike?

Unfortunately not. The wheels aren't compatible with tubeless tires.

However, the wheels and tires are robust and suit mountain bikes well.

Does the Trek Marlin 5 have lockout suspension?

The Marlin 5 doesn't have a full lockout suspension. You do get a coil spring that has a pre-load adjuster though.

[Here are some ideas for when you really want to push yourself! 😉 ]

Related Posts:

• Best Budget Mountain Bike: Entry-Level & Mid-Range MTBs
• Trek 820 Review - The Ultimate Bike For A New Rider?

Final Thoughts

If you're wanting performance on a budget, there are plenty of plus points from this 29er.

The aluminium frame and Shimano Tourney components give the Trek Marlin 5 something to shout about.

Let's not forget the hydraulic disc brakes, making them ideal for dirt roads or a commute in any weather conditions. Braking at all speeds shouldn't be an issue with disc brakes.

Overall I have positive things to say about this bicycle. All terrains, mountains, trails, or commutes, the Trek Marlin 5 can do them all!

One Bike to Rule Them All? Hybrid vs Mountain Bikes

Best Budget Bike: Giant Talon 3 Review

Everything You Need To Know - Best Fat Bike Under $1000

How Much Does A Mountain Bike Weigh? (Why Does It Matter!)

Gratis frakt på ordre over kr 1000,-*

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2

NAVY/ANTHRACITE

Allsidig terrengsykkel Shimano Deore M4100, 10-delt gir RockShox Judy 100mm dempere

Beskrivelse

Marlin 7 er startpunktet for konkurranseklare terrengsykler. Den smoothe, lette demperen fra RockShox og oppgraderte deler gjør denne modellen til det beste valget for ferske syklister som vil ha en rask XC-halvdemper som står seg mot dyrere konkurransesykler.

Passer for deg hvis… Du er fersk på stiene men har seriøse ambisjoner, og vil ha en allsidig, konkurranseklar terrengsykkel med oppgraderinger som gir en stor forskjell i egenskapene, som en bedre dempegaffel og et enkelt 1x-drivverk.

Teknologien du får En lett ramme med innvendig føring av girvaier og bremseslange, en smooth RockShox Judy-gaffel med lockout, Shimano hydrauliske skivebremser, og Bontrager-hjul. Et enkelt 1x-drivverk dropper framgiret for mindre kluss og enklere bruk. Du trenger ikke bekymre deg, for med den brede utvekslingen til 11-46 kassetten får du fremdeles alle girene du trenger for å klore deg opp klatringer og gi full gass nedover.

Det siste ord RockShox-dempegaffel, bred girutveksling og kvalitetsdeler gjør den til det beste valget av Marlin-modellene for ferske terrengsyklister som vet at de vil ha en seriøs sykkel. Den er fullt i stand til å dra på store sti-eventyr og terrengritt.

Sykkelen, steg for steg Hvorfor du elsker den

Dette er en av våre mest populære sykler med god grunn. Du får hele verdien-for-pengene, pluss allsidigheten—den er absolutt en terrengsykkel klar for konkurranse, med feste for bagasjebrett bak hvis du også bruker den til pendling Den er veldig morsom å sykle på, og føles som en mye dyrere terrengsykkel Topp demping til en enda bedre pris 1x-drivverk gir deg alle girene du trenger og ingen du ikke har bruk for Marlin-modeller med rammestørrelse fra XS til S har et buet overrør og bedre rammeklaring, som gjør på- og avstigning enklere for mindre syklister Vi forbeholder oss retten til å endre produktinformasjonen på dette nettstedet når som helst og uten forvarsel, inklusiv det som gjelder utstyr, spesifikasjoner, modeller, farger, materialer og priser.

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Trek Marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 Compared: Which One to Choose?

CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links.

In this article, I’ll help you navigate the Trek Marlin mountain bike family by comparing the Marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. 

You’ll learn about the differences between each model, who they are best suited for, and more. 

Plus, I’ll tell you which model gives you the best value for your money to help make your decision easier.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Trek Marlin mountain bikes are ideal for beginners and intermediate riders. They are suitable for cross-country-like terrains. They have relatively short fork travel and no rear suspension, so I recommend avoiding too demanding terrains and technical trails. For those, check out Trek Roscoe .

Trek Marlin 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 vs. 7 vs. 8

The following table summarizes the main differences between all Marlins that belong among the Trek hardtail mountain bikes .

Marlin Pros & Cons Summary

I summarized the pros & cons of the Marlin series below.

Marlin Pros

• Affordability
• Availability in multiple sizes and colors
• Compatible with racks, kickstands, etc.
• Partially internal cable routing
• Lifetime warranty

Marlin Cons

• Unsuitable for demanding MTB terrain due to the short fork travel (100mm)
• Relatively heavy
• No full-suspension
• No dropper post (except Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3), Gen 3 models are compatible with dropper posts

Marlin Main Features

Let me now explain the most important features of the Trek Marlin bikes.

Frame and Geometry

All Marlin bikes have the same aluminum cross-country frame , available in many sizes and colors that vary between models.

The XXS-S sizes have a differently shaped top tube , which is curved to increase the clearance between the rider’s crotch and the frame. This allows riders with shorter legs to stand over the bike more comfortably, for example, when stopping.

The frames of Gen 2 Marlins have a standard cross-country geometry , which provides a comfortable riding position and easy pedaling uphill and downhill. It also gives you easy maneuverability and visibility.

On the other hand, it’s not quite suitable for steep descents and challenging terrain – especially without a dropper seatpost.

The Gen 3 Marlins have a trail geometry (wider wheelbase), which provides more stability, especially when riding downhill. It’s similar to the Trek Roscoe geometry .

Lastly, it’s worth noting that the bike’s partially internally routed cables improve its overall appearance.

One of the biggest limitations of Marlin bikes is their front fork suspension. These bikes are not primarily designed for challenging terrain but rather for those who want a versatile bike that can handle various surfaces.

All Marlin bikes have suspension travel of only 100mm , which is capable of absorbing small bumps. However, it’s not ideal for riding on rocky trails, and especially not for downhill riding.

Therefore, if you want a bike for more challenging terrain, choose one with longer travel (for example, the Trek Roscoe series ).

All forks of Marlin bikes have suspension lockout. Lock it when riding on smooth surfaces for less energy loss when pedaling.

Wheels and Tires

The wheel size varies depending on the frame size. Frames smaller than size S are equipped with 27.5″ wheels, which are more agile and accelerate faster than 29″ wheels. Frames size M and larger have 29-inch wheels, which are more stable and better at maintaining speed.

All models have the same rims (Bontrager Connection, double-wall) except for the highest model, the Marlin 8 , which has Bontrager Kove rims. The former rims are not tubeless-ready, while the latter are.

The same goes for the tires. The highest model already has tubeless Maxxis Ardent tires, while lower models have Bontrager XR2 Comp inner tube tires.

The groupset is one of the main areas where the different models vary, and it’s probably the deciding factor for many people.

They differ primarily in the number of gears . Modern mountain bikes mainly use 1X drivetrains , which are popular due to their simplicity for maintenance and shifting. They are also lighter than 2X or 3X groupsets .

On the other hand, they offer fewer gears, so you may not always find the ideal one for your preferred cadence.

I recommend choosing from the 1X drivetrains, which are available on Marlin 6 and higher models. This way, you won’t have to think too much about shifting and cross-chaining.

Another difference between the Marlin models is their brakes. The entry-level Marlin 4 uses mechanical disc brakes , while higher-end models have Tektro or Shimano hydraulic brakes .

Better brakes provide higher braking power. However, if you mainly ride on flat terrain leisurely, you don’t have to worry about a lack of braking performance.

Quality brakes are especially important if you plan on riding technical descents, so consider your riding style.

To learn more about disc brakes, read my article comparing mechanical and disc brakes .

Marlin frames have mounts for kickstands and racks , so you can easily install these accessories.

You can also use a Blendr stem , which is a mechanism that allows you to easily attach things like lights, speedometers, or bike computers.

The last detail is the lock-on grips that are easier to install and replace than slip-on grips.

So, which bike from the Marlin family is the best?

In my opinion, the Marlin 6 is the best choice because it has a modern 10-speed 1X Shimano Deore drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. Plus, it’s priced in the middle of the entire Marlin range.

Another option to consider is the Marlin 5 , which is similar but has a Shimano Altus 2×8spd drivetrain, is lighter, and more affordable.

On the other hand, I recommend avoiding the Marlin 4 because it uses the outdated 3X drivetrain. The value of the Marlin 8 is also questionable, as you can get mountain bikes with better components in this price range.

Trek Marlin FAQ

Trek Marlin mountain bikes are perfect for people who are new to mountain biking, recreational riders, and those who use their bikes to commute. Marlins are reasonably priced, versatile, and comfortable. They come in various sizes and colors, so you can always find the best fit. However, they have entry-level components and are not suitable for challenging terrain because their fork travel is short. Check out Trek X-Caliber and Procaliber families if you want a better XC bike.

Marlin bikes (4 to 8) differ mainly in components like the groupset, front fork, brakes, weight, and price. I recommend reading this entire article for more information and a helpful comparison table.

The geometry is the main difference between Trek Marlin Gen 2 and Gen 3. Gen 3 Marlins have a trail geometry, which means a wider wheelbase providing better stability. Gen 2 has a standard XC geometry. Marlin Gen 3 bikes use wider tires and different wheels and are heavier. They are also available in different colors and are more expensive (except for the Marlin 7 Gen 2 vs. Gen 3). Most other components, like the groupset, suspension fork, saddle, grips, etc., are the same.

Marlin mountain bikes are a great choice for those who need an affordable bike. They are versatile, allowing you to ride on different surfaces like paved roads with potholes, dirt, forest roads, and easy trails. Plus, they have mounting options that make adding accessories like racks and kickstands easy. The high-volume tires and front suspension provide a comfortable ride, better than what you’d get on a gravel bike , for example.

Marlin mountain bikes come with entry-level components that may limit their performance for serious mountain bikers. The groupsets are not as fast and effective, and the fork travel is limited to only 100mm. These bikes are also relatively heavy and don’t have a carbon frame option or a dropper post.

About The Author

Petr Minarik

10 thoughts on “trek marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 compared: which one to choose”.

You mentioned you can get mountain bikes with better components for try price of the Marlin 8. Which ones come to mind?

Hi Andrew, Check out the Polygon Syncline C3 , which has a longer suspension travel and carbon frame (yes, it’s currently discounted), or Polygon Siskiu D5 , which is a full suspension MTB. 🙂 I hope it helps. – Petr

The Gen 3 Marlin 8 has a dropper post and many other gen 3 models have the holes to run a dropper.

Hi Brandon, Thanks for noticing that. I’ve updated the info. – Petr

Hi Guys, I am interested in Marlin 8, 3 gen. I live in Columbus, OH, what store location is the best for a test drive? Very Respectfully, Luis

Hi Luis, Please, try using Trek store locator . It should give you a list of retailers near you. I hope it helps. 🙂 – Petr

Hi Peter, I purchased a 2022 marlin 7 and I simply love the bike. I usually ride 40 miles a week basically bike trails it handles very well and the braking system is great I would buy this bike all over again. Best regards John from New Jersey.

Hi John, I am glad to hear that. 🙂 I wish you many more miles ahead. – Petr

This blog about Trek Marlin bikes compared has been a tremendous resource for me. Thank you for the awesome content.

I am glad you like it. Thanks. – Petr

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Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Review: A Capable Budget-Friendly XC MTB

Trek Marlin 4 is the second cheapest model in Trek’s mountain bike range, at just $630. 

This stylish, modern-looking hardtail is a solid introductory bike for day-to-day riding, commuting, and leisurely weekend spins on gravel and dirt trails. 

Although it looks the part, the Marlin 4 can’t handle actual mountain trails, as the low-performance fork won’t take much abuse. 

This Trek Marlin 4 review will provide a detailed look at the bike, its strengths and weaknesses, and the type of rider who should buy it. 

What Is the Weight Limit on a Trek Marlin 4?

The weight limit on a Marlin 4 MTB is 300 lbs, which includes the bicycle, rider, and cargo. The bike weighs just under 32 lbs, leaving around 268 lbs for the rider and cargo. 

• Sleek design with internal cable routing
• Shimano drivetrain
• Cheap 
• Heavy, low-performance fork

Trek Marlin 4 2023 Full Specs

Trek marlin 4 gen 2 full review.

The Trek Marlin 4 2022 is the same as the 2023 model. It has a basic 3×7-speed Shimano Altus/Tourney groupset and Tektro mechanical disc brakes, a typical pairing for the price range. The SR Suntour XCE 28 isn’t worth much on mountain trails but takes the sting out of bumpy gravel trails and roads. 

This section will cover the features and components that make the bike stand out in its price category. 

Is the Trek Marlin 4 a Trail Bike?

The Trek Marlin 4 is not a trail bike. Trail mountain bikes typically have above 120mm of travel, and the majority of models are full-suspension. Instead, the Marlin 4 is a light-duty off-roader better suited to urban riding and gravel trails.

If you want a proper trial bike, check our list of the best full-suspension mountain bikes out there.

Stylish Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame

The whole Trek Marlin series uses the same Alpha Silver aluminum frame. However, at less than half the price of the premium model, this frame is a notable strength of the Marlin 4. 

Marlin 4 has full internal cable routing, which is a popular feature that not all mountain bikes in this price range offer.

Trek’s Alpha Silver frame comes from years of materials innovations and design expertise, resulting in a balanced ride quality that balances stiffness and compliance compared to the overly stiff aluminum frames typical of this price range. 

This frame also has sleek internal cable routing that gives the bike a higher-priced finish and mounts for a rack and kickstand for commuting or even light bikepacking. 

What Is the Difference Between Trek Marlin 4 and 5?

There isn’t a big difference between the performance of the Trek Marlin 4 vs. 5. The Marlin 5 has a slightly more robust fork, improved 2×8-speed gearing and hydraulic disc brakes, and a slightly lower weight. However, the Trek Marlin 4’s price is $110 lower than the Marlin 5 . 

Progressive Sizing

The Trek Marlin 4 2023 comes in seven different sizes, with almost two feet in between the shortest and tallest recommended heights. The company uses progressively sized wheels and components and a modified top tube for the smaller bikes to deliver the same performance for each rider . 

The XS and Small sizes both have a curved top tube which lowers the standover height, which shorter riders have issues with, and ‘Smart Wheel Sizes’ means the smaller sizes get 27.5″ wheels instead of 29ers. In addition, the brake levers, handlebars, stems, and cranks all change throughout the size range. 

Reliable Bontrager Componentry 

Trek Bikes’ in-house brand Bontrager provides the whole build kit aside from the groupset and fork. These are well-made components that will stand the test of time. In addition, they are easy to replace by visiting the Trek online store. 

Premium all-black finish and quality Bontrager parts help Trek Marlin 4 look good and provide better value for the money.

It’s worth noting that the saddle, handlebars, seatpost, and stem are the same across the five Marlin bikes, which benefits the Marlin 4 and increases its value as it is the cheapest. 

Trek Marlin 4 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 4 Gen 2 Best Suited For?

The Trek Marlin 4 mountain bike is suitable for urban riders, commuters, and anyone who enjoys riding on light off-road paths, fire roads, and gravel trails. 

By equipping Trek Marlin 4 with a rear rack and kickstand, you can use it for commuting, running errands, or even bikepacking.

The level of components is typical for this price point, and they perform as expected. However, there are clear limitations to this bike’s capabilities off-road. So if you’re looking for a capable XC mountain bike, this isn’t it. 

Anyone looking for a cheap, reliable run around that doesn’t sacrifice style will appreciate the Trek’s Marlin 4. 

Other Trek Marlin Bikes We Reviewed:

• Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

Is Marlin 4 Gen 2 a Good Buy?

We believe the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 is an excellent buy in the ~$600 price range, easily competing with similarly-priced hardtails like the Cannondale Trail 8 or Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0. 

Trek bikes are renowned for their reliability, and with the Marlin 4, you’re getting this reliability at an unbeatable price. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s got a sleek modern design that makes it look more expensive than it is. 

Consider the Marlin 4 if you want a Trek mountain bike that doesn’t break the bank and will get you from A to B in comfort and style.  

Buy from Trek Bikes

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Trek Marlin+ 8 test

Trek marlin+ 8 er elsykkelen som kan fylle et tomrom for mange. den skal gi elsykkel-moro, og ikke minst nytte..

Pris:  39 999 kroner

Vekt:  22,3 kilo, uten pedaler, størrelse large veid av oss

Produsent:  trekbikes.com

Størrelse testet:   Large

Størrelse tester:   178 cm

Hjulstørrelse:   29 (Som testet. Størrelse XS og S kommer med 27,5-tommer hjul.)

Vandring f/b:  120 mm vandring

– Er de kanskje en egen type folk?

Jeg begynner å lure på det. Hvem snakker jeg om nå, lurer du kanskje på?

Jo, jeg snakker om dem som ikke har kjøpt elsykkel ennå, men som lefler litt med tanken, men som ikke helt har tatt steget ut ennå.

Og i min umiddelbare vennskapskrets finnes det der igjen en egen type folk; de som tenker at hvis de først skal kjøpe elsykkel, så bør den kunne tjene flere formål: først og fremst være en jobbsykkel, men at den også skal kunne brukes på turer, og da gjerne på sti. 

Ikke vet jeg hva produktfolkene hos Trek tenkte da de satte i gang med Marlin+ serien, men det var kanskje denne typen folk de hadde i bakhodet. 

For Trek Marlin+ 8 er noe så enkelt som en sti-hardtail, som også skal kunne brukes til tursykling. 

«Passer for deg hvis...Du ser etter en boost, men vil ikke tømme bankkontoen.»

Det sier hvertfall Trek selv.

Og nei, 40 000 kroner er ikke småpenger, men når de fleste fulldempede elsykler av en viss kvalitet ligger på rundt 60 000 kroner og oppover, er jo dette nesten som et kupp å regne. 

Pssst! De aller fleste el-syklene vi tester er fulldempet. Marlin+ 8 er en hardtail, og her har vi vurdert den mer for seg selv, enn opp mot andre, når det kommer til poengscore.

Klart, det er budsjettnivå på utstyret, men det er smart komponert. Deore-gruppa har vi testet på flere rimelige stisykler før. Bremsene har ekstra store skiver - det er vi glade for å se. Ellers finner du in-house komponenter fra Bontrager, forståelig nok. 

Trek bruker mye Bosch-motorer på elsyklene sine, og det er en Active Line som er valgt her. Mer om hvordan den drar på sti, senere. 

Praktisk bruk

Vi har testet Trek Marlin+ 8 de siste månedene av året, i 2023. Vi har brukt den til turer både på sti, grus, og til og fra jobb, for å sjekke om potensialet er så stort som Trek mener.

Billig Bosch-motor

Det er en gang sånn at du får det du betaler for, og når denne sykkelen er (relativt sett, hvertfall) så billig som den er, er heller ikke motoren det beste som finnes på markedet.

Active Line-motoren fra Bosch har spinkle 50 newtonmeter dreiemoment, sammenlignet med hele 85 newtonmeter på de kraftige Performance Line-motorene fra Bosch. Men den drar faktisk ikke så alt for verst, tross alt. Det kan nok ha noe å si at vekten på sykkelen ikke er den aller verste heller. 

Snaue 22 kilo er ikke supertungt for en elsykkel, og jeg får bra respons fra motoren i ECO-modus - da drar den ikke for ivrig. Auto-nivået på motoren er sikkert fint når du ligger og durer langs sykkelveien hjemover, men i marka sparker det alt for mye.

Men at du må legge ned litt mer watt selv enn med kraftigere motorer i noen tilfeller, kommer du ikke unna. Det kommer litt an på hva du ønsker ut av en elsykkel - hvis du i større grad bare vil være gratispassasjer og la motoren gjøre jobben, så finnes det kraftigere alternativer på markedet. Men til stisyklingsdelen opplever ikke vi at det skorter på krefter.

Og ja, du kan også utvide batterikapasiteten, med et ekstra PowerMore-batteri, som gir deg 250 watt-timer ekstra.

Men funker Trek Marlin+ 8 på sti?

Den har jo de begrensningene en hardtail uten motor også ville hatt, AKA ikke demping bak. Men her har Trek gjort en god jobb med å tune både geometri og komponenter slik at det flyter ikke så aller verst likevel. 

120 millimeter vandring tar unna mye av slagene. Og store, volumiøse dekk hjelper noe voldsomt, spesielt når dempegaffelen ikke er helt top notch. For der har Trek spart inn en god del kroner. Forståelig nok. Et sted må det kuttes. 

Bremsene også, til en viss grad. Joda, bremsene er kraftige nok. Og det er bra, for elsykler har gjerne litt ekstra vekt, som igjen bidrar til at det er mer krevende å ta ned vekten. Hendelbladene er det derimot spart på.

Eller, om ikke spart, så er det hvertfall gjort et valg om å gå for varianten med hendelblad som er tilpasset dem som bruker flere fingre når de bremser. Allmenn-vennlig, er det kanskje nærliggende å tenke, men kom igjen:

På de aller, aller fleste skivebremser på market det i dag holder det i bøtter og spann med én finger på bremsen. Du får fortsatt stoppet sykkelen, men med mer kontroll siden flere av fingrene griper rundt styre.

Flisespikkeri? Joa, men her ville vi gjort et annet valg enn Trek har gjort. 

Spesifikasjoner

Ramme:  Aluminium

Gaffel: RockShox Recon Silver RL

Motor: Bosch Active Line Plus, 50 nm

Batteri: Bosch CompactTube 400 Wh (kan utvides med PowerMore batteripakke)

Styre/stem: Bontrager stem, Bontrager aluminium 750 mm styre

Sete/setepinne:  Bontrager Arvada sete, TranzX setepinne

Hjul/Dekk: Bontrager Line TLR 30 hjul, Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR 2,6 dekk

Drivverk: Shimano Deore M6100, 12-delt, 32T krank

Bremser: Shimano MT4100 hendel, MT420 kalipere, 203 mm bremseskiver

Men for en som vokste opp som syklist med hardtails, og både gleden og utfordringene det gir, er dette en hyggelig gjenforening.

Geometrien er tunet ganske godt inn mot allsidig terrengsykling. Marlin+ 8 er verken ekstremt progressiv eller konservativ i geometrien. Styrevinkelen på 66 grader føles just about right. Ikke så slak at sykkelen blir dorsk, og ikke så bratt at den blir nervøs. 

På stien er den mer stødig traver en spretten lekekamerat. Mye skyldes nok litt lange kjedestag. På hele 485 millimeter er de ganske mye lenger enn på andre stisykler med motor som vi tester. På Trek sin Fuel EX E, en av testfavorittene våre, er kjedestagene på 438 millimeter i korteste innstilling.

Dette har mye å si for både lekenhet og svingvillighet. Det kreves rett og slett litt mer jobb for å få den opp på bakhjulet, bunnyhoppe eller vri den rundt svinger.

Flipsiden på dette er selvfølgelig at den er god og stødig, og lite nervøs. Som er gode egenskaper når du skal ligge og dure langs grusveier eller til og fra jobb.

Men bortsett fra dette, så gjør den seg ikke bort på stien for dem som ikke er så fryktelig opptatt av å hoppe og sprette og leke mest mulig. Skal du herje og leke, får du mer å jobbe med enn om kjedestagene var superkorte.

Det er en annen type moro. Og for de som ikke skal presse sykkelen til det ytterste i en hver sammenheng, kan det være bra nok.

Så hvor allsidig er den? 

Marlin+ 8 funker på sti, for all del. Men i testperioden ble den også en hyggelig turpartner. Både på grusveiene i marka og til og fra jobb er den rett og slett litt inspirerende å sykle på. 

Skal du først bruke den til og fra jobb, bør du hvertfall investere i skjermer. 

Vi ser ikke helt at vi kommer til å herje rundt på stier med skjermer og bagasjevesker montert på denne sykkelen, men for dem som knapt er på sti, og heller sykler mer grus, og kanskje litt ulendte kjerreveier, er denne sykkelen virkelig allsidig. 

Og når du tar prisen i betraktning, er det vanskelig å komme bort i fra at her får du virkelig mye sykkel for pengene, for å bruke et utslitt begrep.

Hvem bør kjøpe en Trek Marlin+ 8? 

Det er et sabla godt spørsmål. 

Hvis du har en litt lengre pendlevei til jobb, og vil ha muligheten til å svinge innom et stiparti eller to, vil dette fungere himla mye bedre enn mer dedikerte hybridsykler med motor.

På en annen side, kan du ikke herje like hardt som du gjør med fulldemperen, da kommer den litt til kort. 

Men jeg ser for meg at du digger denne sykkelen hvis du: 

Vil ha muligheten til å utforske marka, men uten å være på de aller groveste stiene

Vil sykle turer inn til et vann, campe og sykle ut igjen

Vil sykle til og fra jobb, men vil ikke bruke den flotte fulldemperen til sånt, og vil ha muligheten til å sykle noe annet enn bare asfalt

Alternative produkter 

Skal du drive dedikert med stisykling, vil vi anbefale deg å kjøpe en fulldemper, hvis du har råd. 

Ellers er det ikke mange sykler i tur-kategorien vi har testet, men Tero X er et fulldempet alternativ fra Specialized som kanskje vil fenge dem som er i markedet for en allsidig elsykkel uten at de har ambisjoner om å oppsøke de mest krevende stiene. 

I dyrtiden skal man være forsiktig med å anbefale luksusprodukter, og det å selge inn en elsykkel som strengt tatt ramler mellom to stoler kan være lett provoserende hvis lommeboka er tynn som ei flis. 

Trek Marlin er kanskje ikke ekstremt leken, men den er likevel morsom. I testperioden ble jeg bare mer og mer glad i den. Den er ikke like rå på sti som fulldempere. Og ikke like kvikk langs asfalten. Men den dyrker det å kose seg på sykkeltur, og det skal man ikke kimse av.

Hvordan da? Jo, om du vil ta den svingen innom et stiparti, men ikke helt vil kjøpe en råflott fulldempet elsykkel til jobbsyklingen, kan den absolutt fylle et tomrom.

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Terrengsykkel.no skriver om gode sykkelopplevelser og er det naturlige startstedet på nett. Terrengsykkel.no gir deg inspirasjon til å sykle mer, finne nye stier og holder deg oppdatert med grundige utstyrstester.

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Billig sti-moro

Super Deore-gruppe

Kan brukes med ekstra batteri

Rimelig dempegaffel

Kunne med fordel hatt andre bremsehendler

Nytt batteri fra Bosch: 800 Wh og mulighet for enorm rekkevidde

Tre nye elsykler fra Merida

Super-integrert elsykkelnyhet fra Scott

Er dette verdens letteste elsykkel med fullkraftsmotor?

Nå kan din gamle sykkel bli elektrisk på sekunder

Elsykkel: 3 spådommer og ett stort spørsmål for framtiden

Fuel EXe 8 - halvparten så dyr, like bra?

Elsykler: Det sa vi da - dette sier vi nå

Ibis Oso - et råskinn av en elsykkel

Dette er nye Kenevo SL 2

Har et helt sinnssykt kick, men blir det for mye av det gode?

Transition Repeater med SRAM-motor

Motorisert enduro-beist fra Canyon - Strive:On CFR

Specialized Turbo Levo - originalen fortsetter å imponere

GasGas ECC - ny elsykkel med SRAM Powertrain-motor lansert

Elsykler står snart for halvparten av salget

Sram powertrain - alt du trenger å vite om den nye elsykkelmotoren.

Den første med lett motor fra Santa Cruz

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Trek Marlin Gen 3 review: Good bones

Solid fundamentals and outstanding geometry for XC newcomers, but also some inherent upgrade limitations.

When it comes to cross-country mountain bikes, the lion’s share of the attention is devoted to the high-end, short-travel, full-suspension machines like the Specialized Epic 8 , Trek Supercaliber , and Cannondale Scalpel . That’s perhaps as it should be for seasoned racers and/or buyers with deep pockets, but for newcomers coming from other cycling disciplines, kids, and the generally MTB-curious who will ultimately fuel the continuing survival (perhaps even growth?) of the segment, the aluminum hardtail is still where it’s at – and Trek’s third-generation Marlin line comes across as one of the better options out there.

The short of it: Trek’s entry-level aluminum hardtail mountain bike. Good stuff:  Fantastic frame geometry, excellent shifting, good tires, looks great, generous tire clearance, easy-to-live-with semi-internal routing, sort of a rear thru-axle. Bad stuff:  Mega-heavy fork with minimal adjustability, tubeless costs extra, limited upgrade potential.

Looking at what goes into Trek’s latest-generation Marlin, there’s not a whole lot that leaps off the page, which perhaps shouldn’t be entirely surprising given most buyers at this price point will probably be making their decisions based on spec and aesthetics. In that sense, the Marlin is exactly what you’d expect.

The frame is a TIG-welded aluminum affair with chunky weld beads that do without the additional hand-sanding that can sometimes go with a higher-end alloy chassis. The layout is low-slung with a highly sloping top tube that offers heaps of standover clearance, and straight-gauge tubing is featured throughout.

The hydroformed shaping on those tubes is much more dramatic than the outgoing Gen 2 Marlin. The top tube is squished down almost flat to help soften the ride of the front end while the down tube sports a rounded trapezoidal cross-section to minimize twist under load; both are notably flared where they meet the straight 1 1/8” integrated head tube to increase front-end strength. 

The seatstays are subtly flattened – presumably for the same reason as the top tube – and while the seat tube is basically round, it’s slightly curved to leave a bit more space for the rear tire with a welded-on gusset for the extension up top. Pretty standard stuff all around, so far.

The chainstays are where things get really interesting. They feature a bridgeless design to prevent mud build-up, and the S-bend at the bottom bracket is much more complex than before. Trek has also dropped both sides a bit as compared to the previous Marlin, and the changes help boost claimed tire clearance to a more useful 2.4” (up from 2.2”). 

Further back, the previous Marlin’s open quick-release dropouts have finally gone away in favor of a hybrid setup that Trek calls ThruSkew. Make no mistake: the hub dimensions are the same as before. But whereas the old Marlin uses the common quick-release skewer, the new one gets a thru-bolt arrangement that Trek claims is more secure than an open dropout while still saving production costs as compared to the oversized thru-axles found on more expensive bikes. 

Far and away the biggest improvement lies somewhat beneath the surface with vastly more modern and progressive frame geometry. Compared to the Gen 2, head tubes are dramatically slacker across the board – by almost 3°, in fact – the seat tube angles are more subtly steeper by about a degree, reach dimensions have grown by a 15-54 mm (depending on size), and bottom bracket heights have dropped a few millimeters.

Taken together, the changes are intended to place the rider is a more central position between the wheels, and they also push the front wheel further out in front for more confidence on steeper and/or more slippery terrain, similar to trends we’ve seen more generally elsewhere in the mountain bike space over the past several years. 

Impressively, Trek continues to offer the Marlin in seven frame sizes that are designed to accommodate a huge range of rider heights from 1.35 to 2.03 m (4’ 5” to 6’ 8”), with all but the two smallest sizes built around 29”-diameter wheels.

Other features include a conventional English-threaded bottom bracket shell, partially internal cable routing, and a big molded rubber guard for the driveside chainstay to keep things quiet and clean. There’s even a fair bit of versatility baked into the Marlin frame with mounts for a rear rack and kickstand, and there’s also an extra port in the down tube for a dropper seatpost should you decide to add one later. 

Trek says a raw medium Marlin frame tips the scales at about 1,800 g, plus another 100-150 g for paint. 

Trek offers the Marlin in four build kits, and for this review I went with a middle child to stick below that critical US$1,000 / AU$1,500 / £775 / €850 price point. In early April, Trek added new build options of the Marlin 7 (with a dropper post), 6, and 5, while still offering the pre-existing ones, which are themselves still current model year. It’s somewhat confusing, not least to dealers, but for clarity my test bike was the dropper-less Marlin 7 build kit.

For that fairly modest sum, Trek outfits the Marlin frame with a 100 mm-travel RockShox Judy suspension fork, a 1×10 Shimano Deore transmission with an FSA Alpha Drive aluminum crank, 23 mm-wide Bontrager Kovee tubeless-compatible aluminum wheels rolling on sealed cartridge bearing hubs and wrapped with 2.4”-wide Bontrager XT3 Comp tires, and Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm-diameter front and 160 mm rear Shimano RT26 rotors. Finishing kit is pretty basic aluminum stuff all around, capped with a Bontrager Arvada saddle and Bontrager XR Trail Comp lock-on grips. 

It’s no lightweight in stock form at 14.12 kg (31.13 lb), but that’s pretty much par for the course.

Gone fishing

While there are definitely bikes that continue to push the envelope of just how long, low, and slack you can go, Trek has found a nice sweet spot with the Marlin and there’s a very good reason why this sort of thing has become so popular: it works. I’ve come to prefer this style of geometry on my personal bikes – both longer- and shorter-travel ones – because of how they provide more flexibility in where I put my weight in different situations and the added stability at higher speeds. But what really matters in the context of the Marlin is how that layout makes for a more forgiving setup than XC geometries of yesteryear.

If you chuck the Marlin into a corner that doesn’t have quite as much grip as you expected, the front end is more apt to just push a little – otherwise known as understeer – instead of immediately and unceremoniously dumping you onto the dirt. On steep descents, the Marlin allows you to stay centered over the bike instead of awkwardly shifting your weight rearward to keep you from feeling like you’re about to go over the bars. And yet on steeper climbs, the front end isn’t so long that you need to work to keep the wheel from lifting off the ground with each pedal stroke. 

In other words, the Marlin’s geometry leaves more room for error as you continue to learn how knobby tires work on dirt, but also more space to grow your skills without constantly having to pick yourself off the ground and wonder what went wrong. Put in simpler terms, the Marlin’s modern frame geometry also just makes it fun and confidence-inspiring to ride.

The Marlin frame is pretty good in the more traditional metrics, too.

It pedals about as you’d expect for a hardtail (at least compared to lower-end full-suspension bikes), with pleasant levels of snappiness and feedback when you get on the gas and impressively good frame stiffness. I was expecting a backboard-stiff ride quality given the straightforward aluminum hardtail frame and thick-walled, 31.6 mm-diameter seatpost, but even that was a pleasant surprise. The Marlin is still a hardtail, of course, but even with those 2.4”-wide tires inflated a smidgeon more than usual to keep from pinch-flatting on all the sharp rocks I have around here, it’s actually reasonably smooth over rough stuff. 

Bonus points to Trek for not following the lead of lower-end road bikes by routing the control lines through the upper headset bearing for absolutely no good reason whatsoever ( aside from misguided vanity ). The ports on the side of the down tube are clean-looking and effective, and although the foam tubing installed at the factory still allowed a bit of internal rattling on particularly bumpy sections of trail, it’s overall a very clean setup that won’t rub the paint off of the frame over time, either.

Build kit breakdown

It’s pretty easy for a product manager to do a good job on spec when the bike is an ultra-premium model with a five-figure price tag, but that task is far more challenging when you’re watching every last penny. Trek has gotten a lot of things right on the Marlin 7 Gen 3, but also left a fair bit of room for improvement.

Let’s touch on the high points first.

Trek likely saved a bit of cash in the drivetrain by speccing an FSA Alpha Drive crankset and KMC X10 chain instead of a 100% matched setup, but the Shimano Deore bits are there where it matters most and serve as a potent reminder that at this end of the market, Shimano absolutely obliterates the performance of its rivals. Individual shifts under normal pedaling efforts on the Marlin 7 were as smooth as could be, and even multiple shifts under harder efforts were consistently reliable. The whole setup was pleasantly quiet and feels impressively premium, too, and bonus points to Shimano for making the Deore pulley cage clutch a user-serviceable item. If there’s a better option than this at this price point, I’m all ears.

The Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes are more ho-hum. The levers are weirdly long (probably because newer riders are more comfortable using two fingers instead of just one), but the lever action is light and snappy with a clearly defined engagement point and user-friendly mineral oil-based system. Pad clearance is fairly generous and it’s easy to set the calipers to run rub-free. MT200s aren’t exactly renowned for their power what with their two-piston format and fairly small pads, but the 180 mm-diameter front rotor helps boost the overall performance to more reasonable levels – a good thing since the RT26 rotors aren’t approved for use with metallic pad compounds. Overall, these aren’t going to blow anyone’s socks off, but they get the job done.

I usually don’t expect much for base-level mountain bike tires, but the Bontrager XT3’s tread design genuinely surprised me. The well-reinforced shoulder knobs and moderately squared-off profile offered grip through loose corners, with just enough intermediate tread for a smooth transition between being upright and leaned over. The center tread also sports a ramped leading edge and spacing that’s close enough that it doesn’t feel like you’re dragging an anchor behind you, but yet with enough open area to dig into softer dirt when available. They’ve even been wearing decently well, which is a good thing considering tires aren’t exactly cheap these days.

The Bontrager finishing kit was quite nice in general, actually. The Arvada saddle’s flat profile and firm padding offer good support, while the deep central channel keeps pressure off of your sensitive bits. The lock-on grips sport plastic, not metal, collars but still clamp tight and offer a secure hold with tacky rubber and a ribbed pattern that’s easy on the hands, and the aluminum riser bar is usefully wide at 750 mm. Heck, Trek even does size-specific widths here, with small bikes getting a 720 mm-wide bar and XS bikes getting a 690 mm one. 

As for the stem and seatpost, they’re nothing special. I do appreciate that the former is compatible with Bontrager’s handy Blendr system of accessory mounts, while the two-bolt head on the latter is definitely easier to adjust and more reliable than just about any single-bolt system out there.

The list of not-so-great stuff isn’t necessarily longer, but it unfortunately includes some major drawbacks.

The RockShox Judy suspension fork is about as basic as it gets, with a steel coil spring on one side and a non-adjustable damper on the other. Spring preload can be increased via a handy crown-mounted knob, but spring rate is fixed – and unfortunately, too stiff for my 73 kg (160 lb) body weight. Although it should be straightforward to swap to a softer spring, RockShox doesn’t offer any alternatives.

New riders might find the handy crown-mounted lockout knob to be a plus, but not when it comes at the expense of adjustable rebound damping as I’d take the latter over the former any day of the week. Coupled with that overly firm spring, I found the rebound to be too fast for my liking, and the fork did only a marginal job of keeping the front wheel planted on the ground when things got even remotely tricky. 

The wheels could stand some improvement for sure. The 23 mm inner rim width is on the narrow side – I run wider rims on my gravel bike – and although both the tires and rims are tubeless-compatible, Trek doesn’t use tubeless tape on the rims so that’s an additional conversion cost on top of the valve stems and sealant you already have to buy extra. Build quality was disappointing, too, with insufficient spoke tension on the rear wheel and enough popping and pinging to tell me neither wheel was properly de-stressed at the factory, none of which bodes well for long-term durability. And that external-cam front quick-release skewer? Have we learned nothing, bike industry? Mine came loose on the first ride and definitely needed an unusually high amount of lever force to keep it from happening again.

Another ding against the fork and wheels is their weight, as all three of them are seriously hefty items. RockShox doesn’t even bother to list an official weight for the Judy, but I can tell you its steel stanchions (and steel steerer!) push the actual weight of my test sample to just shy of 2.4 kg (5.29 lb). The wheels aren’t quite as egregious at around 2,300 g per pair, but the stock tires don’t exactly help matters at over 1 kg each. 

Upgrade conundrum

One thing that should be considered for bikes at this price point is the potential for upgrades. Oftentimes, these bikes are purchased as a stepping stone in hopes of becoming more proficient at the sport, and it’d be nice if the bike could grow with your skills to some degree. In that sense, the Marlin 7 is … interesting.

Tires should always be the first items on that list as they have the biggest effect on how a bike – any bike – performs. You can thankfully get decent replacements for under US$100 per pair, and given how heavy the stock rubber is on the Marlin, you can also lop off hundreds of grams of rotating weight in the process. So skid away with those stock tires, my friends, skid away.

Another obvious addition is a dropper seatpost, which Trek facilitates with that spare internal routing port. The PNW Components Rainier is widely regarded as working well and reliable, and it’s less than US$200. Given how heavy the Marlin is already, why add weight with the dropper, you ask? Simple: control. Given the choice between a hardtail with a dropper and a full-suspension bike without one, I’d choose the former every time – and I don’t think I’m in the minority.

On the surface, upgrading the wheels and/or fork isn’t as straightforward since Trek has unfortunately limited your options with the quick-release hubs and straight 1 1/8” steerer, as even mid-range components have moved on from those antiquated standards long ago. That said, Hunt (and likely others) still offers good aluminum wheels with quick-release hubs for a few hundred bucks, and there’s heaps of potential in the used market since parts with those outdated fitments can be had for a song – sometimes even at local community bike shops where there’s a good chance someone has donated parts that can be purchased for next to nothing. 

“On the front of the bike, thru axle costs are not only higher with hubs and axles, but also the forks themselves,” explained Trek mountain bike product manager Chris Drewes. “These costs trickle down to headset cost, and frame manufacturing costs as well. Rear quick-release saves cost in many ways. When you add in the cost of thru axles for frame manufacturing and thru-axle compatible hubs, there is a significant cost difference. That being said there are quite a few wheel manufacturers that offer endcap swaps with their higher-end wheels. Upgrading the Marlin, we see a lot of riders doing drivetrain/dropper post/cockpit upgrades rather than the bigger items like a fork or wheels.”

Would I have preferred that Trek gone with modern thru-axles and a tapered steerer? No question. But the reality is both are still the norm at this price range throughout the industry, and for a bike like the Marlin, I’m not sure I’d consider either a total deal breaker.

Sizing up some of the competition

There are a whole bunch of similar bikes at this price range – so many (and with so much international variation) that it’d be impossible for me to compare them all here. That said, it’s worth taking a look at how some of them fare versus the Marlin 7 Gen 3, keeping in mind that this is only a hypothetical look on paper as I haven’t actually ridden any of these other bikes.

First up is the Specialized Rockhopper Comp . Despite the similar frame and fork, it has a major weight advantage of over 1.5 kg, much of which is in the wheels and tires, which would likely make it feel fleeter on its feet than the Marlin. It’s also more XC-oriented in general with a 2° steeper head tube angle and shorter reach for quicker handling, and while those tires are substantially lighter, the faster-rolling tread won’t offer nearly as much grip, either. This is an interesting option if you’re seeking an aluminum hardtail with a longer-term eye on racing, but the Marlin strikes me as the better all-rounder.

Ok, and then there’s the Giant Talon 1 . Giant historically has offered unusually strong spec for the money compared to other mainstream brands, and it’s no different here. Although most of the components are comparable to the Marlin 7, the biggest upgrade here is the house-brand SXC32-2 RL fork. The stanchions are larger in diameter for more precise handling, and along with the steerer, they’re aluminum for dramatically lower weight than what comes on the Marlin. The air spring drops weight even further and adds critical adjustability, and the hydraulic damper also includes adjustable rebound, all of which should make for a far more capable front end that’ll offer more control and speed. 

Like the Rockhopper, the Talon’s frame geometry is on the more traditional side of things with a similarly steep head tube angle and short reach, but that fork alone is a big advantage over both the Marlin and Rockhopper.

Finally, there’s the Canyon Grand Canyon 5 . Consumer-direct outfits like Canyon often blow mainstream offerings out of the water in terms of value, and the Grand Canyon 5 makes a strong case for that here. The frame is still QR front and rear with geometry that isn’t quite as progressive as the Marlin’s, the Suntour fork features steel stanchions and a steel coil spring, and the wheels are similarly basic aluminum units. If the claimed weight is accurate, it’s actually heavier than the Marlin. 

However, you do get a proper Shimano external-bearing crankset and adjustable rebound on the fork, and at a price that undercuts the other three bikes mentioned here by about US$200-250. From a value perspective, this one seems tough to beat.

The final word

There’s a saying about buying a house that often comes to mind when comparing the pros and cons of various bikes: location, location, location. The idea there is that while you might be sucked into a home’s freshly renovated kitchen or additional bedroom, many of those features can be changed over time (albeit often at greater expense, but still). What you can’t change, however, is where the house is located.

What’s that have to do with bikes? In this case, location is analogous to frame geometry. Without question, the Marlin 7 Gen 3 isn’t the clear-cut best bike out there in terms of spec. If you want a more complete package straight out of the gate, there are obviously better options if you know where to look. But if you’re in it for the longer term, the Marlin’s frame geometry is so good that it’s hard to overlook. Despite the heavy fork and wheels, it’s the frame geometry that ultimately makes the Marlin so entertaining and capable – and arguably, the one most amenable to upgrades, quick-release dropouts and all. 

If your budget allows, though, I’d nevertheless strongly recommend saving up a few extra pennies and splurging on the Marlin 8. It costs US$300 more, but if you even think you’re in it for the long haul, you’ll thank me later for the substantial fork upgrades included there and the stock dropper seatpost, both of which will ultimately save you money later on. 

Whichever way you go, if you’ve exclusively been a drop-bar rider for the last few years and are thinking of heading to the dirt, there are plenty of good options available that won’t cripple you financially. Hope to see you out there!

More information can be found at www.trekbikes.com .

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Trek Marlin+ adds Bosch e-Bike Power to Popular Hardtail

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The new Trek Marlin+ takes their all-purpose alloy hardtail and gives it the Bosch Active Line upgrade. The e-bike variant has all the same features as the analog original, giving you a wide range of use options, from trail to town.

Featuring 2.6″ tires, a 120mm suspension fork, and size-specific wheel selections, the Marlin+ scoots all of that along with a 50Nm mid-mount motor.

It’s a Class 1 e-bike, assisting up to 20mph or 25km/h, depending on market. A bolt-on cover on the non-drive side makes motor service easy, and a protective plate under it makes cable routing simple.

That’s paired with a 400Wh CompactTube battery, augmented with an optional 250Wh PowerMore range extender. Expect 2-4 hours of run time on a full charge, and about 50% more than that with the external battery pack. It uses the slim Bosch Purion display/remote for simple mode switches and easy visuals for power, speed, etc. Switch to Auto mode for automatic assist changes based on terrain, cadence, and your output.

Size medium frames and up get 29″ wheels, small & XS get 27.5″ wheels. All frame sizes get rack and fender mounts, letting you set it up for backroad touring and urban commuting. Or shed the cargo and shred the trail.

Trek Marlin+ Specs & Pricing

Two builds are available, both on the affordable end of Trek’s e-bike lineup.

Marlin+ 8 Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, dropper seatpost, Shimano 4 piston hydraulic disc brakes, 120mm RockShox Recon Silver Air fork, Tubeless Ready wheels and Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR 29×2.6” tires. MSRP $3,499. Also available in gray/silver.

Marlin+ 6 Shimano wide range CUES drivetrain, Shimano Linkglide cassette, Tektro hydraulic brakes with 203mm rotors, 120mm SR Suntour XCM 34 fork, Bontrager Montrose 29”x2.4” tires. MSRP $2,699. Also available in black.

Available now globally in most markets. Prefer the standard version? The analog Trek Marlin got a refresh in 2023.

TrekBikes.com

Tyler Benedict is the Founder of Bikerumor.com . He has been writing about the latest bikes, components, and cycling technology for almost two decades. Prior to that, Tyler launched and built multiple sports nutrition brands and consumer goods companies, mostly as an excuse to travel to killer riding locations throughout North America.

Based in North Carolina, Tyler loves family adventure travel and is always on the lookout for the next shiny new part to make his bikes faster and lighter.

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Looks fantastic. Please don’t refer to regular bicycles as analog? Pretty Please? With sugar on top?

I completely agree with ya, unfortunately even the manufacturers use it in their online training videos… which is pretty infuriating to listen to.

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• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2019 Trek Marlin 4

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bike with mid-range components and mechanical disc brakes. Compare the full range

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This cheap mountain bike is the perfect gateway drug to your next (trail riding) addiction.

Wide range of gears with 2x9 drivetrain

Wheels and tires aren’t tubeless-ready

Read Review

Jun 2019 · Alan Muldoon

The first of two 29er to make it into the sub 500 category, the Trek Marlin 6 certainly didn't behave like a fish out of water.

Top-rate frame quality, available in seven sizes Independent Shimano shifters

Cable and chain rattle. Rear tyre is too skinny

Last updated April 28 Not listed for 1,827 days

Review Of Trek Marlin 5: Budget-Friendly MTB for Beginners

T rek Marlin 5 is a phenomenal, trail-ready 29er that costs little and gets the job done on different types of surfaces, including paved and unpaved roads.

Beginner riders are often faced with a tough dilemma — purchase a versatile and comfortable city bike to commute or a real MTB to have fun and embark on off-road adventures.

With Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 , you can do both. This 29er has the ruggedness of a true trail-blazer but has the ability to double as an everyday workhorse to take on short urban commutes.

One of Marlin 5’s biggest advantages is the low price. This bike costs just $720 , which puts it in the budget category. Still, there’s a lot to be excited about even with such an attractive price.

Trek Marlin 5 Quick Overview

Marlin 5 main features, is trek marlin 5 the right choice for you, verdict: worth the money (or not), trek marlin 5 (2022).

Marlin 5 is characterized by an excellent off-road-ready aluminum frame, cushy front suspension, burly wheels and tires, hydraulic disc brakes and a lot more.

It’s one of the best-valued models from the Marlin series, offering multiple improvements compared to the lower-priced Marlin 4. Some of these are better brakes, better hubs, and a better bottom bracket.

It’s an entry-level bicycle, most suitable for beginner riders who plan to do a little bit of everything and too much of nothing.

• Frame : Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork: SR Suntour XCT 30, 100 mm
• Front Derailleur: Shimano Altus M315
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Altus M310
• Brakes: Tektro hydraulic disc, 160/160mm rotors
• Rims: Bontrager Connection, double-wall
• Tire Size: 27.5″ / 29″ x 2.20″
• Weight: 13.97 kg / 30.81 lbs

See All Specs on Marlin 5 Product Page

If you have a budget of $740 to spend on your next trail bike, Marlin 5 is pretty much the most you can get in this category.

Trek is known for bikes that have good value to money, so this Marlin series model has some worthy components and does not make too many compromises.

Lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame

Trek Marlin 5 has the same Alpha Silver Aluminum frame seen on all bikes from this lineup. It is characterized by a versatile head tube angle of 69.5 degrees. That’s a good compromise between steep and slack geometry. That means this bike will perform well in most conditions, including climbing, descending, and cornering.

Light, durable, and comfortable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame is Marlin 5’s biggest selling point, seen on other more expensive bikes from Trek’s MTB lineup.

All cables are internally routed which makes them last longer and improves the overall appearance of the bike. Riders can add a rear rack and a rear kickstand, which would make Marlin 5 ready for daily commutes as well.

You can get Marlin 5 in four modern and attractive colors: Lithium Grey, Radioactive Red, Volt to Miami green fade, and Azure. They’re beautiful!

Springy SR Suntour Fork

Marlin 5 is equipped with a low-ranked SR Suntour XCT 30 fork with a coil spring. This fork is quite heavy but beginner riders without too much off-road experience will like it because it provides plenty of comfort.

When it comes to adjustability, just the preload function is available, so you can dial the fork to your liking and ensure a more comfortable ride and better responsiveness.

It’s important to note that the XS frame size comes with 80 mm of travel, whereas all other frame sizes have 100 mm of travel in the fork.

Best Feature: Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The feature that will make all Marlin 5 owners happy is the hydraulic disc brakes . This is the biggest improvement compared to the cheaper Marlin 4 which comes with mechanical disc brakes.

Hydraulic disc brakes present a major increase in stopping power and precision . They require less strength input from your fingers but offer more braking power output.

Trek has gone a step further and equipped the smaller frame sizes with short-reach brake levers to accommodate short riders with smaller hands.

Delicate Shimano Derailleurs

The main points of improvement on Trek Marlin 5 are its derailleurs. Compared to the previous releases, Marlin 5 has Shimano Altus components

Depending on how you take care of them, they might last you for years and miles to come. However, if you’re not careful and you shift under tension or you fall off your bike and smash them, they might give you some headaches.

Still, that’s not something an average rider planning to take Marlin 5 out on weekend adventures and weekday commutes should worry about. Plus, updating to higher-value Altus, Acera, or Alivio groupsets is not a big investment.

Beefy Bontrager Wheels and Tires

Last but not least, the beefy Bontrager wheels and tires are some of the first things you will notice on your Marlin 5. The 13.5″ and 15.5″ sized frames come with 27.5″ wheels, whereas all larger frames come with 29″ wheels.

The wheels are Bontrager Connection. They have 32 spokes, so they are quite strong, and they’re double-walled which means they can withstand some beating.

The Bontrager XR2 tires are 2.20″ wide on 27.5″ wheels. However, when it comes to 29″ wheels, the rear is narrower at 2.0″.

These wheels and tires are a bit heavier than ideal , but once you get them going, they’ll take you wherever you direct the handlebars.

Geometry & Sizing Table

We especially like it because it’s good at more than one thing.

Trek Marlin 5 is not strictly a trail-specific bike that would feel sluggish in all other settings. It’s equally efficient on both paved roads and dirt roads.

However, its wide tires, massive wheels, and capable hydraulic disc brakes still make it more suitable for riders who plan to spend more time in forests and on mountains than on smooth city streets.

Other Marlin Models

• Marlin 4 – MSRP $630 – Has a lightweight aluminum frame, 21 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. Men and women-specific models available.
• Marlin 6 – MSRP $850 – This model is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, a 1×10 mid-range Shimano drivetrain, burly tires, and comes with 100 mm of front suspension travel with lockout. It’s available in men’s and women’s versions.
• Marlin 7 – MSRP $1,030 – Trek’s race-worthy model with an Alloy frame, superior RockShox front suspension, quality 1×10 drivetrain, Shimano components, and improved Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

To the right buyer, Trek Marlin 5 is definitely worth the money . This is a lot of bike for just $740, specifically when it comes to the components. The hydraulic disc brakes increase the value of the bike, as well as the high-quality aluminum frame.

However, if you value every cent and you don’t intend to tackle steep hills or ride in wet weather, you can save and get Trek Marlin 4 with mechanical disc brakes and slightly lower-ranked hubs and bottom bracket.

Get Directly From TrekBikes.com

Or see best Trek bikes

• Alpha Silver Aluminum frame
• Powerful hydraulic disc brakes
• Good price-to-value ratio
• Attractive colors

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30 thoughts on “ review of trek marlin 5: budget-friendly mtb for beginners ”.

My wife and I just bought 2 29 inch Lithium Gray Marlin 5 Gen 2 bikes. So far so good other than a flat tire I experienced but that’s not Treks fault by any means. We like the weight and the smooth ride it has.

Trek 5 is my 1st Mountain Bike I have been riding it 3x a week Doing some hard bush trails. It really seems to handle all trails well. No one knows that my bike isnt really expensive . They all say “love your bike ” I just love my bike but will upgrade to a better Trek when I have obtained more skills. Thanks Natalie

Hi Natalie, Well as they say, a Trek is a Trek. The brand itself speaks for itself. It also depends on the kind of ride you do.

lol “my son doesn’t abuse his bike he just broke all of the most easily abused parts of it”

Hi Boknows, Sounds like a future athlete there 😉

Very helpfull!!! , thanks dude!

I am 15 and got my trek Marlin 5 a couple years ago. I have ridden some insane tracks on it and haven’t really had any issues. The only thing I’ve broken so far is the derailer hanger but apart from that nothing. I use it for riding on streets, dirt roads and mountain bike tracks of different difficulties including black diamond tracks. It is still working great and I would think of it as a good bike. I found that the seat post was originally at my good pedaling height when I got it at its lowest point but have now upgraded that to dropper.

Hi Jayden, Have you tried getting a regular maintenance check with your local bike shop? Regular maintenance check can help prolong the life of a bike 😉

I bought a 29″ blue Marlin 5 for my son’s 14th birthday 16 months ago and initially I really liked it. But, it’s been a flaming pile of broken parts since then. My son doesn’t abuse this bike (no downhill or big jumps) and mainly rides a few miles into town and occasional wheelies. Since new here’s the things that have broken on it: rear shifter cable, rear axle, right pedal stripped out of crank arm, left pedal stripped out of crank arm, rear axle again, right pedal stripped out of crank arm again and the chain broke (which pulled the rear rerailer into the spokes and ruined it). Our closest Trek dealer is an hour away so running to the bike store is a real issue but they have been pretty good about helping me out. I’m a metal fabricator and part time motocross bike mechanic so I have a good background in metals and how they should operate. I honestly feel Trek has build a cheap bicycle with metal parts using allows that aren’t appropriate and as thin as materials as possible to save weight at the cost of reliability. I just called Trek directly and we’ll see where that goes.

Hi Dough, Sorry to hear about your experience. It looks like your drivetrain and the whole groupset have issues. Usually these are the most abused parts of the bike and an upgrade to better parts will do better. However I am curious as to what they will tell you. Let me know about it. Cheers!

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Cycle Travel Overload

Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Specialized Rockhopper Vs Trek Marlin: Which Is The Best Hardtail?

The budget hardtail bike battle, Specialized vs Trek, two big brands that have been around forever.

Which one is the best bike for you?

In this article, we are going to compare their highest-end quality bikes together alongside their budget and mid-range models. As each brand offers quite a few bike builds for each model.

The Specialized Rockhopper bike is a heavy-hitting yet lightweight bike that boasts exceptional performance and versatility, regardless of the model or size.

This bike continues the Rockhopper’s 30-year tradition of striving for excellence and refusing to settle for anything less than the best. The frame is made of butted aluminum and comes with modern gearing, versatile geometry, and class-leading equipment.

Additionally, the Rockhopper offers innovative sizing and custom Rx Tune suspension, ensuring that it provides the best fit and handling performance for every rider, regardless of their measurements. The bike comes in different sizes, each paired with the optimal wheel size, further ensuring a perfect fit.

With performance-focused components at every level, such as RockShox forks, tubeless-ready rims and tires, 1x drivetrains on the Expert and Elite, and dependable Shimano parts, the new Rockhopper is an excellent choice for any occasion.

The Trek Marlin bike has always been a popular choice for new riders and seasoned pros alike, but now it’s better than ever.

With a revamped design that offers more trail confidence and sleek looks, this bike is ready to take you on any adventure. Its geometry is perfectly dialed to give you a confident, planted feel when navigating steep and bumpy trails, while still being easy to pedal back up for another lap.

A new Thru-Skew axle provides better rear wheel security, and full-length, full-coverage guards protect your frame and keep your ride quiet.

With big 2.4˝ tires that elevate traction and an upgrade-ready frame, this bike is ready for any challenge.

Plus, it’s available in every size from XXS to XXL, so every rider can find a well-fitted bike with Smart Wheel Sizing that scales the wheel size with the bike size for comfortable standover height.

The Trek Marlin bike truly is a bike for everyone.

But which bike is the best fit for you? That’s the question we’re here to answer! In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into the Rockhopper and Marlin , comparing their features, benefits, and capabilities.

We’ll help you choose the perfect ride for your goals, whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a new challenge or a beginner who wants to explore the world on two wheels.

Introducing the Specialized Rockhopper

As mentioned in this article on the best budget hardtail mtb for bike adventures the Rockhopper Expert is a popular bike amongst fellow bikepackers. Considered a cross-country mtb with 100 mm travel and weighing around 30 lbs or 13.6 kg.

It is a bike that has been around for 30 years resulting in the constant redefining of the relationship between value and performance.

The Rockhopper has somewhat of a cult following. If you are after an affordable cross-country mountain bike this might be the one. They have even cheaper options, however, the Expert is preferred if you are looking to go on bike adventures.

When it comes to long-distance endurance events this is a rather popular steed of choice!

Introducing the Trek Marlin

We have reviewed the Trek Marlin previously and here’s what we had to say.

The Trek Marlin 8 is a trail bike designed to boost your confidence on any singletrack, while also being equipped with features for everyday use. The perfect choice which competes directly with The Rockhopper Expert as a potential budget hardtail mtb for bike adventures.

With updated geometry, this bike gives you more control on challenging trails without compromising on comfort or convenience.

The Marlin 8 is built to last, thanks to its 12-speed SRAM shifting and upgraded RockShox air-spring suspension fork.

This progressive trail bike is perfect for building skills and taking on daily life, with premium features in all the right places.

Whether you’re hitting the trails or cruising around town, the Trek Marlin 8 is a bike that will help you progress and build your skills for years to come.

Price – Rockhopper vs Marlin

When it comes to price the Rockhopper offers the most affordable price with the entry-level Rockhopper model starting at $560 and the most pricy option at around $1,400. While the Trek Marlin ranges from $629 to $1,440

Weight – Rockhopper vs Marlin

The  Specialized Rockhopper weighs around 30 lbs or 13.6 kg  while the  Trek Marlin weighs around 31.51 lbs or 14.29 kg (this is for each bike’s highest-end model).

All different build options and models weigh differently. But from the numbers above we can see that the Rockhopper is approximately 700 grams lighter. And it makes total sense as this is the bike best for fast and aerodynamic riding

Tire Clearance – Rockhopper vs Marlin

When it comes to tire clearance the Trek Marlin fits up to 29er × 2.4″ mountain bike tires. While the Rockhopper has room for up to 29er x 2.3″ tires.

The Marlin comes stock with Maxxis Ardent (27.5 x 2.4″ or 29 x 2.4″ tires). While the Rockhopper comes with Ground Control (27.5 x 2.3″ or 29 x 2.3″ tires).

Gearing – Rockhopper vs Marlin

When comparing the high-end models, the Rockhopper and Marlin both feature an SRAM SX Eagle groupset which means an 11-50T cassette combined with a 30T crank resulting in a 17.45″ granny gear and 79.41″ largest gear for riding down hills. (this is when running a 2.3″ tire, you can expect this gear ratio to be slightly different with the Marlins 2.4″ tires) But this would be a small difference.

Suspension – Rockhopper vs Marlin

Suspension is where these bikes slightly differ again.

Both the high-end models feature the RockShox Judy fork, however, for some reason, the fork on the Trek Marlin has 80mm of travel while the Specialized Rockhopper has 100mm and all the other bike models, both for the Marlin and Rockhopper all have 100mm of travel.

The entry-level models for both bikes have the Suntour XCE28 fork and the mid-range models slightly differ. With the Marlin featuring a RockShox Judy and the Rockhopper with a Suntour XCM fork.

Handlebars, Seatpost, and other specs – Rockhopper vs Marlin

When it comes to handlebars both the Marlin and rockhopper have a 15 mm rise for Medium sizes and up with a 5 mm rise for the smaller frames.

The main difference when it comes to seat posts is that the Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 has dropper posts while the Rockhopper doesn’t and all the other models we compared are all rigid.

Geometry – Rockhopper vs Marlin

Geometry can play a big part in the difference between how a bike rides and feels. It is definitely something to consider when buying a bike.

Want to learn more about understanding bike geometry? Read this article which goes through all the jargon and what it means for a comfortable ride!

Here is where we see most of the differences in bikes. All the measurements below are in mm and are for both medium-sized bikes.

The main geometry specs that can paint the picture of the type of bike we are looking at are; stack/reach ratio, trail, chainstay, and wheelbase.

Firstly the stack/reach ratio for the Marlin is average when compared with other hardtail cross-country mtb with 1.44 vs 1.42 for the Rockhopper which is somewhat aggressive.

Suggesting that the Marlin is a more upright bike, in comparison, the Rockhopper is slightly more aggressive.

Chainstay is rather close with only 2 mm in difference with the Marlin boasting 438 mm vs the Rockhoppers 440 mm chainstay.

Along with this, the wheelbase length is 18 mm longer on the rockhopper. considering the chainstay is slightly longer also. I would argue that the Rockhopper may be the better bike choice, especially when it comes to geometry for bike adventures. The numbers mean in theory that it is the better-suited bike to allow for better-suited riding with gear loaded on the bike.

Now we’ll look at the trail. This tells the story of how each bike will corner and what the handling is like upfront.

Both trail measurements for the Marlin and rockhopper are considered very high. The Rockhopper has a 9.8 mm higher trail. When compared to the Marlin this means the Rockhopper in theory would have a slower, but calmer, steering response.

However, the Marlin is still rather high. But when compared together this favours the Rockhopper again as the more superior bike when it comes to bike adventures and carry gear. Especially in situations where you are climbing technical trails and need precision when steering.

Bikepacking – Rockhopper vs Marlin

The fact that bikepackers alike seem to have this cult following when it comes to the Rockhopper means that personally, I would recommend this bike over the Trek Marlin .

Even if the Marlin comes with a dropper post and the Rockhopper is rigid. And 1″ larger tire clearance on the Marlin .

When it comes to geometry it’s obvious that the Rockhopper is the superior bike out of the two.

And it’s also a bonus that the Rockhopper is slightly cheaper across the board.

To me, it’s a no-brainer to get a Rockhopper especially if you’re looking for a hardtail mtb for your next epic bike adventure.

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 Introduces Marlin+, an Affordable eMTB Series

Trek offers the Marlin+ in two different builds, the Marlin+ 8 and the Marlin+ 6. These are hardtail eMTBs equipped with Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motors and 400Wh Bosch CompactTube batteries . Both e-bikes use 27.5-in. wheels for the XS and small sizes and 29-in. wheels for the medium, large and XL sizes. The XS is equipped with a 100mm-travel fork, while the small, medium, large and XL sizes all receive a 120mm-travel fork.

The Bosch Active Line Plus motors are rated at 250W and produce up to 50Nm of torque. The choice to go with a Bosch is a bit of a surprise; we don’t often see their motors spec’d in this price range, and that detail alone makes the launch of these eMTBs very exciting. In our experience, the Bosch motors are the gold standard for eMTB performance.

And because offroad terrain can vary so much, rather than list a mileage estimate, they suggest that riders will enjoy two to four hours per charge. Riders wanting greater range can purchase Bosch’s PowerMore range-extending battery. These are Class 1 eMTBs, legal to ride anywhere e-bikes are permitted.

With five sizes to choose from, Trek says that the Marlin+ will fit riders from 4 feet 9 inches up to 6 feet 5 inches.

The Marlin+ 8 features a 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, 4-piston Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, 203mm rotors and a dropper post. It comes set up for tubeless riding complete with sealant. The Marlin+ 8 retails for around $3500.

The Marlin+ 6 features a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, 203mm rotors and an alloy seatpost. The Marlin+ 6 retails for less than $3000.

The Marlin+ is available on Trek’s website and should be in Trek stores later this month.

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