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Trek Marlin 5 2022 Review

March 2, 2023

Trek Marlin 5 2022 Review
 | PedalChef

‍ Key Takeaways

  • The Trek Marlin 5 is great for a sturdy, capable commuter or getting into mountain biking.
  • A coil spring suspension fork, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and Shimano gearing give great value.
  • The Marlin 5 has a lot of great features like internal routing and rack mounts improve functionality.
  • Rear rack mounts and a kickstand mount make the Trek Marlin 5 a good bike for commuting.
  • If you’re serious about mountain biking, I’d recommend upgrading to a more trail-worthy bike.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ This Trek Marlin 5 2022 review gives you all the details you need to decide if this budget hardtail is the right bike for you.

The Trek Marlin 5 is a solid bike for the price, but just a bit more money could get you a lot more bike. If you’re looking for a daily rider that’s comfortable on your local tails, the Marlin 5 will serve you well with a solid aluminum frame and reliable components.

I got my first mountain bike when I was twelve, and I’ve ridden everything from ultra-budget hardtails to high-performance racing rigs. For this review I dug deep into the spec’s and performance of the Trek Marlin 5 to see how this budget mountain bike measures up to the competition.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ ‍ ‍ Trek Marlin 5 Performance

The Trek Marlin 5 is definitely an entry level mountain bike, so you shouldn’t expect serious capability for really technical trail riding. It does give you decent performance on easier flowy trails and definitely is enough bike to get you started in the sport.

The aluminum frame is durable and relatively light, so this bike feels rugged enough for taking on off-road riding and singletrack. It has enough capability for beginner riders, but you’ll quickly feel held back as your skills progress.

The Trek Marlin 5 definitely doesn’t have the same descending capability as a real trail bike, but it’s sturdy enough to handle some flowy singletrack.

The 100mm of front suspension isn’t very much, and you’ll find it bottoming out if you ride on very rocky, rough trails. The geometry is also limiting with a very steep head tube angle and short reach that will leave you in a sketchy position on steep descents.

The steep seat tube angle puts you in a good position for climbing efficiently. At under 31 lbs, this bike is relatively lightweight for it’s price and doesn’t feel like it’s slowing you down on the uphills.

If you’re looking at a bike like this, it’s likely it will be your only bike and will be used for multiple purposes. From trails to bike paths to cruising around town, the Trek Marlin 5 offers great versatility. I’ve used mountain bikes for commuting for years, and I think the Marlin 5 would be a great option for a commuter.

This bike is perfectly functional for commuting and comes with features like a kickstand mount and rear rack mounts so you can fully equip it for getting around town.

Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 Frame and Geometry

The Trek Marlin 5 is built around Trek’s Alpha Silver Aluminum frame which is durable and relatively lightweight. It’s awesome that this budget frame has internal cable routing that keep your shifting and brake lines protected and hidden away inside the frame. Combined with a chainstay disc brake mount, this makes the bike look sleek and clean.

The geometry is on-par with what you’d expect for a basic hardtail mountain bike, so you won’t get the most aggressive positioning. This geometry puts you in a nice comfortable position that’s great for all-around riding. Just don’t expect to feel comfortable on super steep trails.

Specs and Components

For the $740 price, the Marlin 5 gets you a decent selection of features including hydraulic disc brakes, a coil-sprung suspension fork, and reliable Shimano shifting. The components are nothing fancy, but they perform to my expectations for a budget bike.

The Marlin 5 comes equipped with a 2x8 Shimano Altus drivetrain for 16 total gears to choose from. This setup is a bit old-fashioned as most modern mountain bikes have shifted to one-by drivetrains for simplicity.

The Suntour XCM coil spring fork gives you 100mm of front suspension travel that helps smooth out bumps and chatter in the trail. It also has a hydraulic lockout so you can improve your efficiency on pavement.

This coil sprung fork doesn’t have as much adjustability as a higher end air fork, and it’s not lightweight, but it works well for the price.

The Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 comes with Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes. If you’re looking at getting a budget mountain bike, this may be the first bike you’ve ever had with powerful hydraulic disc brakes, and you’ll be amazed by the power and modulation you get over other mechanical disc brakes or V-brakes.

Brakes are an easy-to-overlook feature for mountain bikes, but they make a huge difference in giving you confidence to ride fast knowing that you’ll be able to stop at a moment’s notice.

This bike comes with Bontrager alloy wheels. For this model Trek chose to have wheel size depend on the frame size. XXS comes with 26” wheels, XS and S come with 27.5” wheels, and M and above come with 29” wheels.

I think this is a pretty smart way to do wheel sizing for a bike like this. On small frame sizes, the rear wheel can be annoyingly close to the seat tube. Variable wheel sizing ensures that riders of all sizes have a frame and wheel size that feels easy-to-control.

The wheels are not tubeless compatible and use a schrader valve, so you’ll be limited if you’re looking to upgrade tires.

The Bontrager XR2 Comp wire bead tires on the Trek Marlin 5 are nothing special, but they work well for giving grip in a wide range of conditions. They aren’t particularly lightweight or aggressive, but they do the job.

Other Components

  • The Bontrager alloy handlebar is a good width that gives you control on the trail or in traffic.
  • The Bontrager Arveda saddle with steel rails is durable and comfortable on longer rides.
  • The bike has a durable and lightweight Shimano aluminum crankset.

Competition for the Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

At $750, the Trek Marlin 5 is at the lower end of the price range for mountain bikes. There are a lot of bikes to choose from in this category so it’s hard to stand out. The Marlin 5 does a good job of providing high-value features and components, but it isn’t anything unique in the category.

In my opinion, the Trek Marlin 5 is at the edge of the price cutoff where you can start to get a really capable aluminum hardtail for trail riding. Unfortunately, I think it falls on the wrong side of that cuttoff.

The Trek Marlin 5 is a perfectly functional mountain bike for everyday use and occasionally hitting the trails, but if you want to spend more time on singletrack and develop your skills, there are better options.

Read on to see some other options to consider, including two of the best mountain bikes you can buy if you’re on a budget: the Marin Bobcat Trail 4 and the Canyon Grand Canyon 5.

Trek Marlin 5 vs Marin Bobcat Trail 4

Marin Bobcat Trail 4

For a more trail-worthy bike at a similar price, the Marin Bobcat Trail 4 is a fantastic option that’s built for progressing mountain bikers. At $800, the cost is only slightly more than the Trek Marlin 5, while the design and components make this a more capable trail bike.

The Bobcat Trail 4 has the same coil spring suspension fork and hydraulic disc brakes as the Marlin 5 and comes with a super reliable Microshift Advent 1x9 drivetrain. This budget 1x drivetrain offers fantastic value with wide 11-46 cassette gear range and a clutched rear derailleur. This drivetrain will be a big upgrade for trail riding.

The biggest difference between these two bikes is in the frame and geometry. Marin has done a much better job of bringing progressive modern mountain bike geometry into this budget frame. The slacker head tube angle and longer reach will make the Bobcat Trail feel much more confident on singletrack.

Personally, I would definitely recommend the Marin Bobcat Trail 4 over the Marlin 5 as it has more capability to ride well on trails as you progress your mountain bike skills. For $200 more you can upgrade to the Bobcat Trail 5 for even more capability.

Trek Marlin 5 vs Cannondale Trail 6

Cannondale Trail 7

The Cannondale Trail 7 is a popular entry-level aluminum hardtail that competes with the Trek Marlin 5 in price point and specs. There really isn’t too much differentiating these bikes. Both have basic but sturdy aluminum frames, 2x8 drivetrain setups, 100mm Suntour forks, and similar geometry.

One advantage of the Marlin 5 is that it comes with 29” wheels for size medium and above, where the Cannondale Trail 7 only has 27.5” wheels across the sizes.

Trek Marlin 5 vs Canyon Grand Canyon 5

Canyon Grand Canyon 5

If you can scrape together just a little bit more cash, the Grand Canyon 5 is an incredibly high-value mountain bike that delivers a lot more bang for your buck than the Marlin 5.

With a 1x12 Sram Shimano Deore drivetrain, a better suspension fork, better Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and a lightweight aluminum frame with trail-ready geometry, this bike gives you a boatload of functionality that’s left off a mountain bike like the Trek Marlin 5.

Because of their direct-to-consumer model, Canyon is able to offer bikes at significantly lower prices than most manufacturers. The Grand Canyon is just $900. In my opinion, this is one of the best value hardtail mountain bikes on the market.

Where to Buy the Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

  • Direct from Trek
  • High Mountain Sports
  • Your local bike shop

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About THE AUTHOR

Jakob Thygerson

Jakob Thygerson

I love mountain biking and live in Salt Lake City: a central hub for the MTB community. I started biking four years ago when a series of injuries put me out of commission for trail running. While biking started as cross-training, I fell in love with the sport. I mainly enjoy using my bike as a tool for exploration, I've done 50-mile all-day epic rides in the mountains and have been to some amazing places on my bike.

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Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

  • AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / XS, XXS, SM, MD, MD/LG, LG, XL, XXL

At a glance

Where to buy.

Trek Logo

Specifications

  • Frame Alpha Silver Aluminium, internal routing, chainstay disc-brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5 mm QR
  • Fork Size: XXS, SR Suntour XCM 30, coil spring, lockout, preload, 100 mm QR, 100 mm travel, 26"" wheel; Size: XS, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 42 mm offset for 27.5" wheel, 100 mm QR, 80 mm travel; Size: S, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 42 mm offset for 27.5" wheel, 100 mm QR, 100 mm travel; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 46 mm offset for 29" wheel, 100 mm QR, 100 mm travel
  • Hubs Formula DC-22, alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, 135x5 mm QR
  • Wheels Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20 mm width, Schrader valve
  • Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
  • Tires Size: XXS, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 26x2.20""; Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5x2.20"; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29x2.20"
  • Chain KMC Z8.3, 8 speed
  • Crank Size: XXS, Prowheel TM-CY10, 36/22, 160 mm length; Size: XS, S, M, Shimano M315, 36/22, 170 mm length; Size: ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano M315, 36/22, 175 mm length
  • Bottom Bracket Sealed cartridge, 73mm
  • Front Derailleur Shimano Altus M315, 34.9 mm clamp, top swing, dual pull
  • Rear Derailleur Shimano Altus M310
  • Shifters Shimano Altus M315, 8-speed
  • Brakeset Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc, 180 mm rotor
  • Handlebar Size: XXS, XS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 5 mm rise, 690 mm width; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 5 mm rise, 720 mm width
  • Saddle Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138 mm width
  • Seatpost Size: XXS, Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 300 mm length; 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: XXS, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 35 mm length; Size: XS, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 50 mm length; Size: S, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 60 mm length; Size: M, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 70 mm length; Size: ML, L, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 80 mm length; Size: XL, XXL, Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 90 mm length

Q: Where to buy a 2023 Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2?

The 2023 Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2023 Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 have?

The 2023 Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2023 Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 should I get?

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Trek Marlin 5 Review: A Comprehensive Guide to the Stellar Entry-Level Mountain Bike

In the diverse world of mountain biking, the Trek Marlin 5 emerges as a notable contender, especially for those venturing into the thrilling realms of off-road cycling. Its blend of affordability and functionality has caught the eye of both novices and seasoned riders, making it a popular choice in the entry-level segment. This review offers an in-depth look at the Trek Marlin 5, dissecting its features, performance, and overall suitability for various riding conditions and styles. Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or a beginner eager to hit the trails, this guide aims to provide valuable insights to help you assess if the Trek Marlin 5 is the ideal mountain bike for your adventures.

Table of Contents

Overview of the Trek Marlin 5

trek marlin 5 review

The Trek Marlin 5 stands out as a hardtail mountain bike , tailor-made for recreational cross-country riding and light trail expeditions. At its core is a sturdy aluminum frame, paired with a comfortable geometry that appeals to a broad range of riders. It’s equipped with a reliable Shimano drivetrain, which underscores its versatility and dependability.

This section will explore the bike’s key features including its frame, suspension, drivetrain, and more, offering a clear picture of what the Trek Marlin 5 brings to the table for recreational and serious bikers alike.

Key Features

trek marlin 5 review

Diving deeper into the Trek Marlin 5, its array of features stand out, contributing to its robust performance and reliability. The durable aluminum frame is the backbone of the bike, offering strength without unnecessary weight. Its 100mm front suspension fork is a key component, designed to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride over varied terrains.

The Shimano Altus 2×8 drivetrain offers a wide gear range, making steep climbs and fast descents more manageable. Other notable features include hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power, 29-inch wheels for improved stability and traction, and the convenience of rack and fender mounts. This section will provide a detailed examination of these features, highlighting how each contributes to the overall performance and comfort of the Trek Marlin 5.

Performance

The Trek Marlin 5 is more than just a sum of its parts. Its performance on the trails is where it truly shines. The bike’s 100mm front suspension fork ensures a comfortable ride, effectively handling bumps and vibrations. The Shimano Altus 2×8 drivetrain, a super important aspect of the bike, facilitates a smooth and responsive ride, adaptable to various terrains and riding styles. This segment will delve into the real-world performance of the Trek Marlin 5, discussing its handling, responsiveness, and capability across different trail conditions.

Suitability

When it comes to suitability, the Trek Marlin 5 is a versatile option for a broad spectrum of riders. It is an excellent choice for beginners thanks to its user-friendly features, yet it also meets the demands of more experienced cyclists looking for a reliable trail partner. The bike’s design and components make it apt for cross-country journeys, light trail riding, and even daily commutes. This section will explore the various scenarios where the Trek Marlin 5 excels, helping potential buyers understand how this bike can fit into their cycling lifestyle.

Specifications

trek marlin 5 review

To better understand the Trek Marlin 5, a closer look at its specifications is super important. This includes its aluminum frame, SR Suntour XCR 32 100mm fork, Shimano Altus 2×8 drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and 29-inch wheels. The bike weighs approximately 27.5 lbs (12.5 kg), balancing durability with maneuverability. This detailed overview of the specifications will offer readers a technical perspective, allowing them to gauge how the Trek Marlin 5 measures up in terms of build quality and component selection.

Pros and Cons of the Trek Marlin 5

The Trek Marlin 5 offers several advantages that make it a compelling choice for many riders. Its affordability is a significant plus, making it accessible to a wider audience. The bike’s durable construction ensures longevity, while the comfortable geometry enhances the riding experience. Its versatile performance makes it suitable for various terrains and riding styles. The reliable components from trusted brands add to its appeal. This section will highlight these pros, providing readers with concrete reasons why the Trek Marlin 5 could be an excellent choice for their mountain biking needs.

Despite its many positives, the Trek Marlin 5 does have some limitations. The 100mm suspension travel may not suffice for more aggressive trail riding, and its weight is slightly heavier compared to some of its competitors. This honest evaluation of the cons will help readers understand the potential limitations of the Trek Marlin 5, making sure they make a well-informed decision based on their specific requirements and riding preferences.

Overall Impression

In summary, the Trek Marlin 5 makes a strong case as an outstanding entry-level mountain bike . It strikes a fine balance between cost and quality, showcasing Trek’s commitment to delivering high-caliber mountain bikes at an affordable price point. This section will offer a final assessment of the Trek Marlin 5, emphasizing its value proposition and its suitability for various types of riders.

To conclude, the Trek Marlin 5 exemplifies Trek’s dedication to creating quality mountain bikes that are accessible to a broad audience. It stands out in the entry-level category for its versatility, affordability, and reliable performance. For those seeking an enjoyable and confidence-boosting ride, the Trek Marlin 5 is an excellent choice. This conclusion will tie together the key points discussed in the post, reinforcing the bike’s strengths and suitability for different riders. Additionally, it will include an internal link to the homepage of Best Bike Parks ( https://bestbikeparks.com/ ) for readers seeking more information and resources related to mountain biking.

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About Mike Strobel

Mike Strobel is the founder of BestBikeParks, a go-to resource for mountain bikers around the world. He is passionate about supporting mountain biking and helping people find the best places to ride. Under his leadership, Best Bike Parks has grown into a respected and influential voice in the mountain biking community.

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  • Marlin 5 Gen 2

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"Look fast, feel fast, go fast."

"Unlike some bikes on the cheap end of the spectrum that cater to the recreational user, this one is aimed firmly at entry-level riders who want a bike that's affordable yet capable of riding and racing hard."

Which generation is right for you? 

Snag Marlin Gen 3 for the trail-taming geometry and features or opt for Marlin Gen 2 for a classic XC ride at a more pocket-friendly price.

Load up. Or not.

Whether you're after a lightweight singletrack shredder or sticking to the pavement on your commute to work, Marlin is compatible with all the gear you need to have a great ride.

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Do this quick pre-ride safety check before you hit the trails.

Product features

Will my bike have a curved top tube.

Smaller frames have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frame sizes have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Fit for every rider

Marlin comes in seven frame sizes to suit riders of any height, and Smart Wheel Size ensures you’re on the fastest wheel that fits. The smallest sizes even come with short-reach brake levers and narrower handlebars that give smaller riders better comfort and control.

High tech, high value

Marlin looks and feels great. It’s packed with features usually found only on more expensive bikes, like a stylish frame with internal shift cable and brake hose routing, which can help your cables last longer by protecting them from the elements.

Upgrade your pedals and love your bike more

Pedals are two of the five touchpoints that connect you with your bike, and even though this bike comes with a pair, upgrading to pedals that boost control and grip will greatly improve your ride. See the pedal guide and find the best pedals for your riding style. We recommend flat pedals for simple versatility.

Rear kickstand mount

Chainstay mounts make it easy to install a rear kickstand that stays out of your way and supports bikes of all sizes. No more laying or leaning.

Suspension lockout

Locked suspension means your fork remains inactive, increasing pedaling efficiency. Perfect for extended road sections where efficiency is more important than bump absorption.

Rack mounts

Going for a long ride? Rack mounts make carrying accessories a breeze.

Blendr stem

Bontrager stem technology lets you clip your gear directly to the stem for clean looks, maximum user friendliness.

Internal cable routing

We route shift and brake cables through the frame to keep things clean and simple. And it looks great, too.

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Marlin 5

$719.99 MSRP

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