trek marlin vs procaliber

Which Trek mountain bike is right for you?

• Benjamin Haworth
• October 3, 2017

Get to know your Remedy from your Fuel

We have a look over the 2018 range of Trek mountain bikes to see who suits what in a range featuring the Fuel EX, Remedy, Marlin and Powerfly models.

>>> All our recent Trek mountain bike reviews

Getting to grips with 2018 Trek mountain bikes

If you pop over to Trek’s website and click on ‘mountain bikes’ more than 120 bikes appear in front of you. It’s rather daunting. Choice is good but can be bewildering. So we’ve boiled Trek’s MTB range down to the basics to get you started.

>>> Trek road bikes: which model is right for you?

What type of bike do you want?

We think it’s best to split the whole range into three categories and then go from there: hardtail , full suspension and electric .

What type of riding will you be doing?

Once you’ve chosen one of the three categories you can refine it to the type of riding you want to do: cross-country, trail or downhill.

With those two category types chosen you’ll be left with a much smaller pool of Trek models to consider.

We’re going to assume that you already know the type of mountain bike you want. We’re not going to go into any debates or theorising (hardtail vs full suspension, 27.5 vs 29 , Plus vs Fat etc etc).

Trek hardtails

There are five hardtail models in Trek’s range: Marlin, X-Caliber, Roscoe, Procaliber and Stache.

Trek use their own proprietary frame materials. Their aluminium stuff is called Alpha. Their carbon stuff is called OCLV.

Some of their high end hardtails have the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ configuration where the seat tube is designed to flex for compliance.

The Trek Marlin is an entry level cross-country focussed hardtail ranging from £370 up to £550. Thee are four models in total (the Marlin 4, 5, 6 and 7). The frame is Trek’s ‘Silver Alpha’ aluminium.

The Trek X-Caliber cross-country range starts from £650 and tops out at £1,150. The frame is Trek’s ‘Gold Alpha’ aluminium. The frames have internal routing for stealth dropper seatposts. The components are of a higher quality than the Marlins.

The Trek Roscoe range of Plus-tyred trail hardtails running from £800 to £ 1,250. The frame has internal routing for dropper posts and is made from Trek’s ‘Alpha Gold’ aluminium.

The £1,300 to £6,500(!) Trek Procaliber cross-country race bike range can look a a bit confusing; there are aluminium Procalibers, OCLV carbon Procalibers and Super Light OCLV Procalibers. Although the frame material varies the intent of Procalibers is the same: xc racing. The geometry remains the same. All Procalibers have the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ feature of deliberate flex.

The Trek Stache bikes are rather unique in that they are 29er Plus bikes. They roll on some seriously large rubber! Monster trucking hardtails. Price: £1,300 to £3,500.

Trek full suspension bikes

There are five Trek full susser types: Fuel EX, Remedy, Top Fuel, Slash and Session.

All Trek full sus bikes use a version of the ‘ABP’ suspension design. ABP stands for Active Braking Pivot. The rear wheel axle is also the rear pivot. The idea is to prevent the suspension from locking up during rear braking.

Fuel EX, Remedy and Top Fuel bikes also have RE:aktiv rear shock damping. This damping design claims to ‘know’ which forces are coming from the pedals/rider and which forces are coming from the trail, and it reacts accordingly.

The Trek Fuel EX 130mm travel, full sus, all-rounder, trail bikes come as either 29er or as 27.5 Plus. They can be run with either wheel size but are initially purchased with one or the other. Starting from £1,800 for aluminium versions they top out at £6,500 for the top end carbon version.

>>> Trek Fuel EX Plus 9.8 27.5 (2017) review

The Trek Remedy is the 150mm travel trail-cum-enduro bike. Prices range from £2,300 to £6,000. There are aluminium Remedy models and carbon fibre Remedy models. For 2018 they are all 27.5in wheel.

The Trek Top Fuel bikes are full suspension XC race machines. 100mm of travel at either end. Begins with the aluminium Top Fuel 8 for £2,400 and goes up to the £7,800 carbon Top Fuel 9.9 RSL.

>>> Trek Top Fuel 9 (2017) review

2018 Trek Slash

The 160mm travel enduro racing Trek Slash range is all 29in wheels and carbon only for 2018. It’s a bold move by Trek but one that makes the Slash arguably the most defined model in their range.

>>> Trek Slash 9.9 29 RSL (2017) review

The Trek Session is the downhill bike. Aluminium or carbon. And now available as a frameset as a 29er with 190mm of travel. Complete build Sessions are all 27.5in wheel and deliver 210mm of rear travel.

Trek electric mountain bikes

There are three electric mountain bike types: Powerfly, Powerfly FS and Powerfly LT Plus.

The Trek Powerfly hardtails start at £2,300 and go up to £3,300. Aluminium frames with 100mm travel forks up front. The motors come from Bosch. There is also a £4,200 Powerfly Plus with 2.8in tyres.

On the Trek Powerfly FS bikes the ‘FS’ stands for Full Suspension, 130mm of suspension to be precise. The Powerfly FS bikes are aimed at cross-country riding with a bit of rougher stuff every now and then. All but the entry level £3,500 Powerfly 5 FS come with Plus tyres.

Trek Powerfly Launch in Verbier, Switzerland

The Trek Powerfly LT Plus models have more travel (150mm) and fatter tyres (2.8in Plus tyres). These e-bikes are up for a bit more aggro riding and technical trails. Prices: £4,200 to £5,250.

>> Trek Powerfly 9 LT (2018) first ride

Trek Women’s mountain bikes

Even as stalwarts of the whole Women’s Specific Design thang, Trek (along with most other bike brands) are now seemingly moving away from design theories that assume that women’s body proportions are different to men’s.

Bikes fit humans, not genders. Rider height is the only thing you should really be factoring in when choosing a bike. It really is only saddles that need to be a bit different to men’s.

It’s fine to opt for a supposedly ‘men’s’ Trek model if it fits your height. Get the saddle swapped out for a ladies saddle at time of purchase. Sorted.

Having said that, if you want a Women’s bike because you prefer the different colourway and decals, fair enough.

• Trek Skye – entry level cross-country hardtails
• Trek X-Caliber Women’s –  lighter and fancier cross-country hardtails
• Trek Roscoe Women’s – Plus tyred trail hardtail
• Trek Procaliber Women’s – XC racing hardtail
• Trek Fuel EX Women’s – 130mm travel full suspension all-rounder
• Trek Remedy Women’s – 150mm trail/enduro full susser
• Trek Powerfly Women’s – entry level e-bike hardtail
• Top Fuel Women’s – XC racing 100mm travel full suspension

Race Shop Limited models

You may spot some Trek mountain bikes with ‘Race Shop Limited’ (or ‘RSL’) in their model name. These are essentially super high spec models. Often limited edition. And sometimes with slightly tweaked designs (a bit more travel, slacker geometry etc etc).

Mark Webber’s Top Fuel Project One

Trek’s Project One

This is Trek’s custom paint and decals option. Yep, if you have the funds and are prepared to wait a bit for your bike, then you can get a Trek in pretty much any colour scheme you want.

Be warned: you can waste hours (days!) tinklering away with the online Project One dream bike builder.

It’s only available on a few mountain bike models: Top Fuel, Fuel EX and Procaliber.

• off.road.cc
• Dealclincher
• Fantasy Cycling

off-road.cc

Your complete guide to the 2021 trek mountain bike range.

Trek has had a long-standing presence in the mountain bike world with a vast range of bikes to back it up. The brands offering ranges from featherweight cross country bikes right through to downhill thoroughbreds. If you're in the market for a Trek bike and wondering which will suit you best, read on for our complete guide to their 2021 range.

• Your complete guide to the 2021 Canyon mountain bike range
• Your complete guide to the RockShox rear shock range - Deluxe, Super Deluxe, SID, Monarch and Vivid air and coil
• Buyer's guide to mountain bikes - get the best MTB for you

2021 Trek mountain bikes

• Full Stache
• Supercaliber

Understanding Trek's naming system

Trek's naming system follows a similar style to how Canyon names its bikes. Each bike's name is suffixed with a number, with higher value numbers corresponding to pricier and better-kitted bikes. Once we get to 9, Trek adds decimals to the suffix to denote changes in the bike's suspension package. All bikes with a 9 in the name get carbon frames but a 9.7 might get its suspension from Fox's Rhythm range for example, while a 9.8 will get better something from higher in the range. Also, you'll see that a lot of kit on the bikes come from Bontrager, for the uninitiated that's Trek's in-house component brand.

At the '9' level, we also see XT, XO1, and GX finding their way into the names. Yep, you've guessed it, that's the drivetrain the bike comes kitted with.

Another thing that's definitely worth mentioning is that a small selection of Trek's bike range is available through what the brand calls Project One. Project One offers the opportunity to have your bike personalised and custom painted with special, exclusive colours. This will mean you have to part ways with a heap of cash but in return, you'll get a bike that's unique to you.

As with the brand's range of bikes, the price range is vast with bikes starting from £440, right up to £9,200 and that's not even considering the Project One options. There's also a comprehensive range of gravel bikes and e-bikes.

Let's kick things off with the Slash. It's Trek's enduro bike which rolls on 29" wheels and gets 160mm of travel at the rear, paired with 170mm at the front. For 2021 it gets both an aluminium and carbon frame option all of which benefit from Trek's proprietary Knock Block system which saves your top and down tube if your front end spins during a crash. This bike also gets the Mino Link which is a geometry adjusting flip-chip, down tube guards threaded bottom brackets, an Active Braking Pivot, and storage in the downtube. As for the geometry, in the low setting, the Slash sees a 75.6° effective seat tube angle, a 64.1° head tube angle, and a 435mm chainstay. A large frame gets a 486mm reach. If you're after something a little more special, the Slash is available through Project One.

Slash 9.9 XTR

Topping the Slash range is the Slash 9.9 XTR. It gets Trek's OCLV carbon frame with the all-new RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock with an updated ThruShaft damper. At the front, you'll find the RockShox ZEB Ultimate RC2 which features chunky 38mm stanchions. As its name suggests there's a full Shimano XTR 12-speed drivetrain with an e*thirteen LG1 Race Carbon crank. The brakes here also come from the XTR lineup and they come with 4-pot calipers for extra stopping power. This bike rolls on a pair of Bontrager Line Pro 30 which are wrapped with a Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.6" Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewall, aramid bead tyre at the front and an SE5 Team Issue with the same spec in 2.4" at the rear. It also gets a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper with Bontrager supplying the 820mm wide carbon bar, 35mm stem along with the rest of the build kit.

Slash 9.9 XO1

The Slash 9.9 XO1 gets all of the same trimmings as the 9.9 XTR but benefits from a SRAM XO1 Eagle drivetrain and SRAM Code RSC Brakes, along with a slightly friendlier price tag.

Slash 9.8 GX

Shaving a few thousand pounds of the range-topper is the 9.8 GX. This one is still built around Trek's carbon frame but this one gets a slightly downgraded RockShox ZEB Select+ RC with a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate. Here we get a SRAM GX drivetrain with a matching crankset and SRAM Code R brakes. As for the rest of the bike, it's the same as the 9.9 XTR.

Slash 9.8 XT

As its name suggests, the Slash 9.8 XT gets a very similar built kit to the 9.8 GX. However, this bike sees a Shimano XT drivetrain with SLX M7120 four-piston brakes.

Dropping a full £1.8k off of the 9.8 models, the Slash 9.7 is still built around a carbon frame and it swaps the RockShox suspension with a Fox Rhythm 36 fork and a Fox Performance DPX2 EVOL shock. The drivetrain is a mix of SRAM GX and NX Eagle and the wheels here are the alloy Bontrager Line Comp 30's. Those come shod with a Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewall, aramid bead 2.6" tyre at the front with a Bontrager XR4 with the same spec and a 2.4" width at the rear. Trek has also swapped the dropper post for a TransX post and there's Bontrager's own alloy finishing kit.

With the Slash 8, we no longer get a carbon frame but we do get a RockShox Lyric Select+ RC fork with a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate at the rear. This bike is driven by a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and there's a pair of SRAM Code R brakes. Everything else is the same as what you would get on the 9.7 model.

The Slash 7 rounds of the range with its alloy frame, RockShox Yari RC fork, RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock, and SRAM NX drivetrain. Here we get a pair of SRAM Guide T brakes and the rest of the bike follows suit with the 8.

Trek Remedy

The Remedy is Trek's long-legged trail bike which comes with four models for 2021. It rolls on 650b wheels and gets 160mm of travel at the front, with 150mm at the rear. Much like the Slash, the Remedy benefits from the Knock Block, the Active Braking Pivot, and the Mino Link. Geometry-wise, it gets a 65.6° head angle, a 74.2° effective seat tube angle, and 435mm chainstays in the low position. A large frame gets a 455mm reach, again in that low setting.

The Remedy 9.8 is the only bike in the 2021 line up that gets a carbon frame. It also gets a burly Fox Performance 38 paired with a Fox Performance Float DPX2 EVOL shock at the rear. This bike benefits from a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain matched with SRAM Code R brakes. As for the wheels, they're a pair of carbon Bontrager Line Elite 30's and they're wrapped with a Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls with an aramid bead in 2.6" with a Bontrager SE4 Team Issue with the same specs in the 2.4" width. Bontrager also supplies the dropper post with the Line Elite and the 820mm handlebar along with the 35mm stem.

As suggested by the lack of a '9' in its name, the Slash 8 comes kitted with an alloy frame. As for the fork, it's a RockShox Lyrik Select+ RC and that's paired with a RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ shock. This bike is also driven by a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and it gets the same brakes as the 9.8 rig. Differing from the range-topper, this build sees in a pair of Bontrager Line Comp 30 alloy wheels which get an XR5 Team Issue tyre that's tubeless-ready with Inner Strength sidewalls and an aramid bead in 2.6", also from Bontrager. At the rear, there's an XR4 with the very same specification. The rest of the bike follows suit with the 9.8 model.

Remedy 8 XT

Rather unsurprisingly, the Remedy 8 XT comes with a very similar build to the 8 but gets an XT drivetrain and Deore M6120 four-pot brakes. Everything else on this build matches the Remedy 8.

The Remedy 7 is the cheapest 2021 Remedy on offer. It gets a RockShox Gold RL fork and a RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock. There's a SRAM NX drivetrain with SRAM Guide T brakes. Apart from that, everything else is the same as what you'll get on the Remedy 8's.

Trek Fuel EX

The Fuel EX is Trek's do it all trail bike. It gets 130mm of rear travel and 140mm at the front. Just like the Slash, the Fuel EX gets built-in downtube storage and the Active Braking Pivot. It comes with a RE:aktiv shock with Thru Shaft, something that you'll only find on Trek bikes. It promises more grip and control with a shock the reacts to the ground faster than anything else on the market, says Trek. This bike also gets the Mino Link, Knock Block, and Straight Shot downtube. The Fuel EX comes in five sizes with XS getting 650b hoops and M upwards getting 29" wheels. However, size S comes with a choice of either wheel size. As for the geometry in the low setting, the bike gets a 66° head angle, a 75° effective seat tube angle, and a 437mm chain stay. A large frame benefits from a 470mm reach.

Fuel EX 9.9 AXS

Topping the range with a pretty hefty pricetag is the 9.9 AXS. On this model, you'll get a Fox Factory 36 with a GRIP 2 damper, paired with a Fox Factory Float EVOL RE:aktiv shock. Of course, we then get wireless shifting from SRAM and the AXS range along with a wireless RockShox Reverb AXS dropper. It rolls on a pair of Bontrager Line 30 carbon wheels and they're wrapped with two Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads, measuring in with a 2.6" width at the front and a 2.4" at the rear. Bontrager supplies the finishing kit with a Knock Block stem and a 780mm OCLV carbon handlebar.

Fuel EX 9.9 XTR & XO1

Next up, the Fuel EX 9.9 XTR gets all of the bling. It's built around Trek's OCLV carbon frame and gets a Fox Factory 36 fork with a GRIP2 damper. At the back, there's a Fox Factory Float EVOL, RE:aktiv. As its name hints, this bike comes with a Shimano XTR 12-speed drivetrain with matching XTR M9120 four-piston brakes. There's also an option with a SRAM XO1 drivetrain with SRAM G2 RSC brakes. This one rolls on a pair of Bontrager Line Pro 30 OCLV carbon wheels which are wrapped in a pair of Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tyres with the brand's Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid bead. At the front, there's a 2.6" tyre with a 2.4" at the rear on both wheel sizes. Then the bike comes kitted with a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper and the rest of the kit comes from the same brand.

Fuel EX 9.8 XT & GX

Offering a saving of over £2,000 over the top of the range bike is the 9.8 GX and XT. This bike comes with the same carbon frame as the most expensive bike but sees a downgrade in suspension and drivetrain. Here we get a Fox Performance 36 with a GRIP damper and a Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv shock. This rig comes with a choice of drivetrain with either SRAM's GX groupset or Shimano's XT. The GX build comes with SRAM G2 RS brakes whereas the XT model is stopped with a pair of Shimano SLX M7120 four-piston brakes. Everything else on these builds is the same as what you'll find on the 9.9 XTR model.

Fuel EX 9.7

The 9.7 is Trek's most affordable carbon-framed Fuel EX. It comes kitted with a Fox Rhythm 36 with a GRIP damper and a Fox Performance Float EVOL shock. The drivetrain here is a mix of SRAM NX and GX with the former making up the shifter and the latter handing the mech. Gone are the carbon wheels, unfortunately, but instead we get a set of Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels wrapped in the very same tyres like the rest of the range. The rest of the bike follows suit with the pricier models but there's an alloy bar and stem.

Fuel EX 8 XT & GX

At the sub £3k mark Trek does away with the carbon frames and replaces them with cheaper alloy alternatives. On the priciest alloy option, we get a Fox Rythm 34 Float with a GRIP damper and a Fox Performance Float EVOL RE:aktiv shock. On this build, there's a choice of either a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain or a Shimano XT with the former benefitting from SRAM G2 R brakes and the latter receiving a pair of Shimano MT4100 levers mated to MT420 four-piston callipers. This bike gets a pair of Bontrager Line Comp 30 alloy wheels and the rest of the build is the same as what you'll get on the 9.7 bike.

Fuel EX 7 NX

On the Fuel EX 7 NX we find a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork and a Fox Performance Float EVOL shock, note that this shock doesn't come with that special RE:aktiv tech. You've guessed it, this one comes equipped with a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain it gets its brakes from Shimano with a pair of MT4100 levers and MT410 callipers. The rest of the bike, including the wheels and tyres on this bike, is the same as the rest of the alloy range but we see a TransX dropper on this model.

Fuel EX 5 Deore

Rounding off the fairly extensive range is the reasonably priced Fuel EX Deore. It gets a RockShox Recon Silver fork with an X-Fusion Pro 2 shock. Then there's the Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes made up of MT201 levers and MT200 callipers. The wheels see a downgrade from the rest of the range with an Alex MD35 rim laced to Bontrager hubs. They're wrapped in a pair of Bontrager XR4 tyres and there's a TransX dropper post. The rest of the finishing kit comes from Bontrager.

Trek Top Fuel

Like it or not, but down-country bikes are becoming more and more prolific. Luckily for those who are on board with the trend Trek has a bike for you. It comes kitted with 120mm travel up front and 115mm at the rear with 29" wheels. In keeping with the rest of Trek's bikes so far the Top Fuel also gets a Straight Shot downtube and Trek's Active Braking Pivot. It's also kitted with the Mino Link and Control Freak cable management system. Moving onto the geometry, the Top Fuel sees a 68° head tube angle, a 75.7° effective seat tube angle and a 434mm chainstay. A large frame gets a 470mm reach and those numbers have been taken with the bike in its low setting. As for frame sizes, there's a choice from XS right up to XXL.

Top Fuel 9.9 XX1 AXS

A few hundred pounds shy of the 10k mark, this bike comes with all of the top tech. It's made around a carbon frame with a RockShox SID Ultimate fork with a Race Day Charger damper and a RockShox SID Luxe Ultimate shock. There's a RockShox TwistLoc Full Sprint lockout remote too. As for the drivetrain, here we get a SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS 12-speed wireless set up with SRAM G2 Ultimate brakes. The wheels on this bike area pair of Bontrager Kovee Pro 30 Carbon hoops and they're kitted with a pair of Bontrager XR3 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads in a 2.4" width. Finally, there's a RockShox Reverb AXS wireless dropper post, Bontrager OCLV carbon bar with a 750mm width and 35mm clamp and a Bontrager stem.

Top Fuel 9.9 XTR & XO1

Next up, the Top Fuel XTR and XO1 models get the same carbon frame but this time there's a Fox Factory 34 Step Cast with a FIT4 damper paired with a Fox Factory Float shock. This bike also gets the RockShox Twistloc remote lockout. With this model, there's a choice of either a SRAM XO1 drivetrain or the Shimano XTR set up. The XO1 model gets SRAM G2 RSC four-piston brakes while the XTR gets XTR M9100 brakes. Everything else on the bike is the same as the AXS model but the dropper, which is a Bontrager Line Elite.

Top Fuel 9.8 XT & GX

The Top Fuel 9.8 sees a saving of £2.4k and gets its suspension from RockShox with the SID Select+ RL fork and RockShox SID Ultimate RL shock. There's a choice of drivetrain on this bike too between either a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed with SRAM G2 RSC brakes or a Shimano XT drivetrain with SLX M7000 brakes. Everything else on this bike is the same as its pricier brethren.

Top Fuel 9.7

The 9.7 model is the cheapest with a carbon frame and it comes with a RockShox Reba RL fork and a Fox Performance Float DPS shock. There's a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes consisting of MT501 levers and MT500 calipers. This bike makes a move to Bontrager Kovee Comp 23 alloy wheels and they get the same tyres as the rest of the range. We get an alloy cockpit and a Bontrager Line Dropper.

Top Fuel 8 NX

At this price point, Trek introduces alloy frames into the mix. With the 8 NX there's a RockShox Recon Gold RL Solo Air with a Fox Performance Float DPS. There's still a remote lockout here but it comes from Bontrager in the form of the Drop Lock. As its name suggests, this bike is driven by a SRAM NX drivetrain and it's stopped with a pair of SRAM Level T brakes. The rest of the bike is the same as what you'll find on the 9.7 model.

Top Fuel 7 SX

The Top Fuel 7 SX is the most affordable bike in the range featuring suspension from RockShox with the Judy SL Solo Air fork and the X-Fusion Pro 2 shock. There's a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano MT200 brakes. This one rolls on the same alloy wheels as the rest of the range with the same tyres. In fact, apart from the TransX dropper post, everything else matches the Top Fuel 8 NX.

Trek Full Stache

While the Full Stache hasn't had an update for 2021, it seems rude not to include it as there aren't an awful lot of full suspension 29+ bikes on the market. Of course, it rolls on 29" wheels with chunky 3" tyres. It also has 130mm of travel at both ends but the frame is compatible with up to a 140mm fork if you fancy some extra lairy riding. There's also the Mino Link, Control Freak cable management and the Knock Block. It's built around an aluminium frame and gets a 67° head tube angle, a 75.5° effective seat tube and a 430mm chainstay in the low setting. A large gets a 480mm reach, again in the low setting.

Full Stache 8

With its aluminium frame, you'll find a RockShox Pike Select Plus RC fork with a Fox Performance Float EVOL RE:aktiv shock. There's a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, aTruvativ Descendant 6k crank and SRAM Guide R brakes. This bike gets a pair of SUNringlé Duroc 40 SL wheels and they're shod with a pair of Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads. We get a Bontrager Line Dropper on this bike with a 780mm wide alloy bar, also from Bontrager.

Trek Supercaliber

Filling the role of the full suspension cross country bike is the rather unique looking Supercaliber. The standout feature of this bike is its IsoStrut suspension platform. It offers 60mm of fully tunable travel and what makes it special is that it does away with a rocker link thus saving a chunk of weight. The IsoStrut is also a structural feature of the frame which Trek says prevents twisting, flex and deflection which the brand claims offers a more direct power transfer. The whole range of Supercalibers feature carbon frames rolling on 29" hoops, Straight Shot downtube and the Knock Block. The geometry on this bike sees a 69° head angle, 74° seat tube angle and a 430mm chainstay. The reach of a large frame measures in at 455mm. There are six sizes from S to XXL and an ML size which gets a longer top tube than the M. Up front there's 100mm of travel.

Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 AXS

The Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 AXS takes the crown as Trek's most expensive mountain bike. It comes dripping with top-shelf kit such as the RockShox SID SL Ultimate with a Charger Race Day damper and a Fox Factory IsoStrut shock. This bike gets SRAMs XX1 Eagle AXS wireless drivetrain with the carbon crank and SRAM Level Ultimate brakes. It rolls on a pair of Bontrager Kovee XXX OCLV carbon wheels and they're wrapped with a set of 2.2" Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, tubeless ready tyres with Inner Strength Sidewalls and aramid beads. Then the finishing kit also comes from Bontrager and the line of carbon components, including a 720mm wide handlebar.

Supercaliber XX1 & XTR

Next up the Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 and XTR get all of the same kit as the priciest model but they drop the fancy wireless shifting. Instead, there's a choice of either a SRAM XX1 Eagle drivetrain with SRAM Level Ultimate brakes or a Shimano XTR drivetrain with XTR M9100 brakes.

Supercaliber XT & GX

Seeing a considerable saving from the rest of the range, the Supercaliber 9.8 GX and XT models get a downgraded Fox Performance 32 Step-Cast fork with a GRIP2 damper. There's also that IsoStrut suspension also provided by Fox but this model doesn't get that sleek Kashima coating, coming from the brands Performance line-up. These models come with a choice of either a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed groupset with both choices coming kitted with Shimano Deore XT M8100 brakes. Here we get a pair of Bontrager Kovee Pro 30 carbon wheels, then the rest of the kit is the same as what you would get on the other bikes.

Supercaliber 9.7

The Supercaliber 9.7 is the most budget-friendly option in the range. It's still built around that OCLV carbon frame and the Performance level IsoStrut shock but gets a RockShox Reba RL fork. This one is driven by a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain and it's stopped by brakes from Shimano with the MT501 levers and MT500 calipers. This model gets slightly narrower Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon wheels with the same XR2 tyres but the rest of the bike comes from Bontrager's alloy line of kit.

Trek Procaliber

The Procaliber is Trek's lightweight cross country hardtail. Compared to the Supercaliber it presents a mighty cash saving if you're looking for a race-ready XC bike. That doesn't mean that it's not without some cool tech, however. The Supercaliber benefits from what Trek calls the IsoSpeed decoupler which allows the set tube to rotate independently from the top tube to seatstay junction which Trek says offers some vertical compliance without sacrificing pedalling efficiency. As with the rest of the range, this bike gets the Straight Shot downtube and Knock Block too. Each bike in the Supercaliber line up comes with a carbon frame which rolls on 29" wheels and can fit up to 2.4" rubber. Here we see a 68.8° head angle, a 73.8° seat tube angle and 432mm a chainstay. A large frame benefits from a 450mm reach and there are six sizes, from S up to XL, including an ML size which gets a longer top tube than the M. The Procaliber gets 100mm of suspension.

Procaliber 9.8

Built around an OCLV carbon frame the Procaliber 9.8 comes with a Fox Performance 32 Step-Cast fork with a GRIP damper. It's driven by a Shimano XT drivetrain with Deore XT M8100 brakes but this one gets an e*thirteen TRS Race Carbon crank. The wheels here are a pair of Bontrager Kovee Elite 30 carbon wheels and there's a pair of Bontrager 2.2" XR2 Team Issue, tubeless-ready tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads. The rest of the kit comes from Bontrager too, with a 720mm wide carbon handlebar.

Procaliber 9.7

This model comes equipped with a RockShox Reba RL Solo Air and a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano MT501 brake levers hosed to MT500 calipers. This bike gets Bontrager's Kovee Elite 23 wheels, then the rest of the bike matches the 9.8 model.

Procaliber 9.6

On the 9.6 model of the Procaliber you'll get a RockShox Recon Gold RL and a mixture of Shimano kit making up the drivetrain. There's an SLX M7100 shifter and an XT M8100 derailleur. With this model there's the move over to alloy wheels, they come from Bontrager and the Kovee's. Then there are the same tyres as the rest of the range and an all-alloy finishing kit from Bontrager.

Procaliber 9.5

Finally the Procaliber line-up is rounded off with the 9.5. Even as the cheapest bike, it still gets that OCLV carbon frame but sees a RockShox Judy SL fork. There's a full Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano MT200 brakes. Then the rest of the bike features the same kit that you'll find on the 9.6 model.

Trek X-Caliber

If you're looking for a race-ready cross country bike but you're on a budget, the X-Caliber is the bike for you. Accommodating for its affordable price point is an aluminium frame rather than the carbon you'll find on its pricier sibling, the Procaliber. The X-Caliber comes kitted with rack mounts, so it's bike-packing ready, along with a mount for a kickstand. All frames feature internal routing and they all come kitted with Trek's Blendr stem. The X-Caliber comes with either 650b wheels on sizes XS and S with all larger bikes (up to XXL) roll on 29" hoops. As for the geometry, there's a 73° effective seat tube angle on sizes M and up while the smaller two sizes get a 73.5° effective seat tube angle. Then there's a 69.5° head tube angle (S and XSs get a 69.3° HA) and a 438mm chainstay on M and up, and a 425mm chainstay on the smaller bikes. Sizes S to XL get 100mm of travel leaving XS with just 80mm. Although, the frame will accept a maximum of a 120mm fork while the XS can accept a 100mm fork.

X-Caliber 9

Heading up the range, the X-Caliber 9 gets a RockShox Judy Silver Solo Air with a TurnKey remote lockout. This bike gets a Shimano SLX M7100 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes made up of an MT401 lever and an MT400 caliper. The wheels on this one are a pair of Bontrager Kovees and they're wrapped with a pair of Bontrager XR3s in the 2.3" width on all sizes. The finishing kit comes from Bontrager too with an alloy bar, stem, and seat post.

X-Caliber 8

The middle of the range X-Caliber 8 comes with a RockShox Judy SL Solo Air fork with a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain. Stopping the bike is a pair of MT200 brakes from Shimano. As for the wheels, the rims come from Bontrager with a pair of kovees and they're laced to Formula DCL-141Q hubs. Then the rest of the bike is the same as the X-Caliber 9.

X-Caliber 7

The X-Caliber 7 gets much of the same kit as the X-Caliber 8 with the only difference in spec being its Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain.

Trek Roscoe

If you're looking for a trail orientated hardtail, the Roscoe fits the bill. Each build comes properly sorted with dropper posts, 120mm of travel (size S gets 100mm), 1x drivetrains and alloy frames. The bike also rolls on 650b+ wheels and tyres. They all feature internal cable routing, rack and kickstand mounts too. Onto the geometry, the Roscoe sees a 67.3° head angle, a 70.8° effective seat tube angle (with the medium frame getting a 70.7° effective seat angle and the S and XS getting 71.2° and 71.1° angles respectively), and a large frame gets a 428mm reach. As a 650b+ bike, it can run either 27.5x2.8" or 29x2.4" rubber.

On the Roscoe 8, you'll find a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork with a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes in the form of the MT501 lever paired with an MT500 caliper. It's worth noting that the fork comes with a flexy QR axle. The wheels here are made of rims from Bontrager and the Line 40s with a Bontrager hub at the front and a Formula hub at the rear. This bike gets a pair of Maxxis Rekon tubeless tyres with a 2.8" width and then the rest of the kit comes from Bontrager and the alloy range apart from the dropper post, which comes from TranzX with the JD-YSP18.

The Roscoe 7 benefits from most of the same kit as the 8, but this one gets a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and Shimano MT200 brakes.

On the cheapest Roscoe 6 you'll get an SR Suntour XCM 32 coil sprung fork with a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain and MT200 brakes. This bike then rolls on Alex MD35 rims and Formula DC hubs which get a pair of Kenda Havok, wire beaded, 2.8" tyres. As for the rest of the build, that's just the same as the rest of the range.

Trek Marlin

If a sub £1k cross country, everyday bike is more your speed then it's worth checking out the Trek Marlin. Each bike in the range comes with an alloy frame and a fork with 100mm of travel (XS frames get 80mm). There are also rack and stand mounts, the Blendr stem, and internal cable routing. XS and S sizes roll on 650b wheels while sizes M to XXL get 29" hoops. On the Marlin, you'll get an effective seat tube angle of 73.5° on the XS and S frame while everything else benefits from a 71.9° effective seat tube angle. As for the head angle, on the smaller sizes it'll measure in at 69.3° and from M upwards it's a couple of degrees steeper at 69.5°. All frame sizes share a 438mm chainstay length and a large frame gets a 451mm reach.

The Marlin 7 comes kitted with a RockShox Judy coil sprung fork with a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain and Shimano MT200 disc brakes. The wheels are made of Bontrager Kovee rims laced to Formula DC hubs and they're wrapped with a pair of Bontrager XR2 Comp 2.2" tyres with wire beads. The rest of the bike comes with Bontrager's own finishing kit.

Trek Farley

Perhaps fat bikes are more your things. Allow me to introduce the Farley. There are two in the 2021 range with an alloy and a carbon option which, of course, roll on 4.5" tyres. Both bikes come with a dropper post, horizontal sliding dropouts, ideal for single speed setups and tubeless-ready tyres. As for the geometry, the Farley gets a 69° head angle, a 73° effective seat tube angle and a 455mm chainstay. The reach on a large is 441mm and there are four sizes available, from S to XL. 

The Farley 9.6 gets an OCLV carbon frame with a Bontrager Haru OCLV fork. The drivetrain on this bike comes from SRAM and the GX Eagle 12-speed shifting. As for wheels, they're Sunringle Mulefut 80 SL rims laced to Bontrager alloy hubs. Those are wrapped in a pair of Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue, tubeless-ready tyres with inner strength sidewalls and aramid beads. The dropper kitted here is a TransX JD-YSP18 and the rest of the kit comes from Bontrager with a 750mm wide bar.

The Farley 5 is Trek's best value fat bike and it's built around an alloy frame. It gets a Shimano Deore M4100 10-speed drivetrain with SRAM Level brakes and there's a Race Face crank. It gets the same wheels as the 9.6 but the tyres here are a pair of Bontrager Gnarwhals. The rest of the kit is the same as the 9.6. It's worth mentioning that while the Farley 5 comes with a rigid fork, it'll happily accommodate a 100mm travel suspension fork.

Trek Session

The Session needs no introduction, but it's the brand's 650b downhill bike. There's only one model in the 2021 range which is built around an alloy frame. It gets Trek's Active Braking Pivot and the geometry adjusting Mino-Link. Up front, there's 200mm of travel and at the rear, there's 210mm. In the low setting, the Session gets a 63.6° head angle, a 445mm chainstay and a large frame gets a 426mm reach. There are four sizes, from S to XL and the 8 27.5 model will set you back £4,200

Trek Ticket

Finally, rounding off the Trek range of mountain bike is the Ticket. It's available as the full suspension, Ticket S (pictured) with 100mm of travel and the Ticket DJ, which is the hardtail version. Both come as a frame only with prices starting from £725, up to £1,400.

• www.trekbikes.com

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Liam Mercer

Tech Editor here at off.road.cc Liam can also be found photographing bikes as well as revelling in cycling's intricacies. Whether it's gravel, mountain, or e-MTB as long as it's a bike on dirt, he's happy.

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

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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 vs X Caliber ( 7 Comprehensive Differences)

Trek Marlin bikes and X Caliber bikes are both great options for those looking for a quality mountain bike. However, there are some key differences between the two that should be considered before making a purchase.

Trek Marlin bikes are designed with accessibility in mind. They offer a great ride at an affordable price and are a great option for those just getting into mountain biking.

X Caliber bikes, on the other hand, are designed for experienced riders who are looking for a more performance-oriented bike. They are typically lighter and have higher-end components, which results in a higher price tag.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bike

The biggest difference between the Trek Marlin vs X Caliber is that the Marlin has a non-tapered headset while the X-Caliber has a tapered headset.

The Marlin also has a non-boost 135mm QR while the X-Caliber has a boost of 141mm QR. The X-Caliber is also dropper post ready.

Trek’s Marlin and X-Caliber models are both entry-level hardtail mountain bikes designed for cross-country riding.

The Marlin has a slightly lower price point and is considered more of a budget option, while the X-Caliber is a bit more expensive and is aimed at riders who want a bit more performance.

Both bikes have similar geometry, but the X-Caliber has a slightly longer reach and higher stack. The Marlin is available in both 27.5″ and 29″ wheel sizes, while the X-Caliber is only available in 27.5″.

Both bikes come with suspension forks, but the Marlin has a coil spring fork while the X-Caliber has an air spring fork.

The Marlin has a 9-speed drivetrain with Shimano Altus components, while the X-Caliber has an 11-speed drivetrain with Shimano Deore components.

The X-Caliber also has hydraulic disc brakes , while the Marlin has mechanical disc brakes.

Both Trek Marlin and X Caliber bikes are great options, but it is important to choose the right bike for your needs. Consider your budget, skill level, and riding goals before making a decision.

Trek Marlin Overview

Trek Marlin bikes have been designed to provide riders with a comfortable and efficient ride. The bikes are perfect for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Trek began producing Marlin bikes in the early 1990s, and they have since become one of the most popular models in the company’s line-up.

The Marlin series was created with the average rider in mind. The bikes are lightweight and durable, making them ideal for both leisurely rides and more challenging trails.

Trek’s team of engineers have equipped the Marlin bikes with a number of features that make them easy to handle and enjoyable to ride.

Some of the most notable features of Trek Marlin bikes include:

– An upright riding position that is comfortable for long rides

– A suspension fork that absorbs bumps and vibrations

– Strong brakes that provide confident stopping power

– Large tires that provide traction and stability on all types of terrain

Trek Marlin bikes are available in a variety of models to suit the needs of different riders. Whether you’re looking for a simple bike to cruise around town or a more capable machine for tackling trails, there’s a Marlin model that’s perfect for you.

If you’re interested in learning more about Trek Marlin bikes, we encourage you to read our comprehensive review. Our team of experts has put these bikes to the test to help you make an informed decision about which model is right for you.

Trek X Caliber Overview

Trek X Caliber bikes have been around since the early 1990s. They are known for their lightweight frames and quality components. Trek has always been an innovator in the world of mountain biking, and the X Caliber is no exception.

The bike was one of the first to feature a full-suspension setup, and it quickly became a favorite among mountain bikers.

In recent years, Trek has updated the X Caliber with modern features like hydraulic disc brakes and a dropper post.

But at its heart, the X Caliber is still a great all-around mountain bike that can handle anything you throw at it. If you’re looking for a bike that can do it all, the

Trek X Caliber is a great option.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Frame

There are a few key differences to consider when looking at the frames of Trek Marlin bikes and X Caliber Bikes. Firstly, the Marlin frame is made from aluminum, while the X Caliber frame is made from carbon fiber.

This means that the Marlin will be lighter overall, but also more susceptible to damage. The X Caliber frame is also designed with more aggressive geometry, meaning it will handle better at high speeds.

Finally, the Marlin frame has internal cable routing for a clean look, while the X Caliber frame has external cable routing.

When it comes to choosing between a Trek Marlin bike and an X Caliber Bike, it’s important to consider what you value most in a frame. If you’re looking for a lighter, more nimble bike, then the Marlin is a great choice.

However, if you’re looking for a bike that can handle more aggressive riding, then the X Caliber is the better option.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Groupset

If you’re looking for a new bike, you may be wondering what the difference is between Trek’s Marlin bikes and X Caliber bikes. Both are great choices, but one key difference is the groupset. Groupsets are the collection of components that manage shifting gears on a bike .

Trek’s Marlin bikes come equipped with Shimano’s Tourney groupset. This is a basic, entry-level groupset that is great for riders who are just getting started. It offers 21 speeds and is relatively simple to use.

X Caliber bikes come equipped with Shimano’s Deore groupset. This is a more advanced groupset that is better suited for experienced riders. It offers 27 speeds and is more complex to use than the Tourney groupset.

So, if you’re just getting started, a Trek Marlin bike with a Tourney groupset may be a great choice for you. But if you’re looking for a more advanced bike, an X Caliber bike with a Deore groupset may be a better option.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Wheels

There are a few key differences to consider when comparing Trek Marlin bikes with X Caliber Bikes wheels. For one, Trek Marlin bikes generally have wider rims that provide added stability and support on rough terrain. Additionally,

Trek Marlin bikes typically use disc brakes as opposed to rim brakes, which can offer greater stopping power in wet or muddy conditions.

Finally, Trek Marlin bikes tend to be heavier than X Caliber Bikes wheels, making them better suited for riders who need a little extra help getting up steep hills. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your specific riding needs and preferences.

However, if you’re looking for a durable and reliable bike that can handle a variety of terrain, a Trek Marlin bike is a great option to consider.

And if you want a lighter bike that’s easier to maneuver, an X Caliber Bike wheel might be the better choice.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Tires

Tires are one of the most important components of a bicycle, and the choice of tires can make a big difference in performance. Trek’s Marlin bikes come with Bontrager XR1 tires, while X Caliber bikes come with Maxxis Aspen tires.

Both of these tires are designed for cross-country riding, but they have different strengths and weaknesses.

The Bontrager XR1 is a very light tire, which makes it faster rolling and easier to accelerate.

However, it’s not as durable as the Maxxis Aspen, so it may not last as long. The Maxxis Aspen is a bit heavier, but it’s much more durable and can handle more punishment.

It’s also a bit wider, which gives it better traction in loose conditions.

If you’re looking for speed and want to save some weight, go with the Bontrager XR1. If you’re looking for more durability and traction, go with the Maxxis Aspen.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Brakes

Brakes are an essential part of any bike , and both Trek and X Caliber offer great options. On the Trek Marlin, you’ll find Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc brakes that deliver great stopping power in all conditions.

The X Caliber comes equipped with Shimano BR-M355 hydraulic disc brakes, which are also impressive in terms of stopping power and durability.

Both bikes offer great options when it comes to brakes, so it’s really up to personal preference which you choose.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Saddle

When it comes to choosing a bike, there are many factors to consider. One important factor is the saddle. The saddle is the seat on the bike, and it can make a big difference in comfort and performance.

Trek and X Caliber are two popular brands of bikes, and they offer different options when it comes to saddles. Trek offers the Bontrager H1 Saddle, which is a basic, comfortable saddle that is great for recreational riding.

X Caliber offers the WTB Volt Saddle, which is a more performance-oriented saddle that is great for racing or hard riding.

It depends on what kind of riding you plan to do. If you are just getting into biking, or if you plan to do mostly leisurely riding, the Trek Bontrager H1 Saddle is a great option.

If you are an experienced rider who likes to go hard on the trails, or if you are planning to do some

racing, the X Caliber WTB Volt Saddle is a great option.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes Riding Experience

When it comes to choosing a bike, it’s important to consider your riding experience. If you’re new to biking, you’ll want to choose a bike that is comfortable and easy to ride. Trek’s Marlin bikes are a great option for beginner riders.

They offer a smooth, comfortable ride with plenty of traction and stability. If you’re looking for a more adventurous ride, X Caliber Bikes’ mountain bikes are perfect for experienced riders.

They offer a challenging and exciting ride with plenty of features to keep you safe and comfortable on the trails. Whichever bike you choose, make sure it’s the right fit for your riding experience.

Trek Marlin vs X Caliber Bikes How To Choose?

When it comes to choosing a bike, there are many factors to consider. Two of the most popular brands on the market are Trek and X Caliber.

Both offer a range of models that cater to different riding styles. So, how do you choose between them?

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Budget: Trek and X Caliber offer bikes at a variety of price points. It’s important to consider how much you’re willing to spend before making a decision.

Riding style: What type of riding are you planning on doing? If you’re looking for a bike to take on trails, a mountain bike might be more suitable. However, if you’re mostly riding on the road, a road bike might be better.

Features: Both brands offer a range of features on their bikes. It’s important to think about what’s important to you and choose a bike that has the features you’re looking for.

Test ride: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s always a good idea to test ride the bikes to see which one feels best.

At the end of the day, choosing between Trek and X Caliber bikes comes down to personal preference. Consider your budget, riding style, and desired features to narrow down your options. Then, take the bikes for a test ride to see which one is the best fit for you.

Related Posts:

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Race you to the top Procaliber is a game changing cross-country race machine that pairs classic hardtail efficiency with capable geometry for a ride that’s chomping at the bit to attack off the starting line and sprint up climbs. From short track to ultra-endurance, for the World Cuppers and the first timers, Procaliber is a XC mountain bike built to deliver the speed and power you need to stay at the front of the pack. 

• Shop procaliber

Two steeds built for speed With a pedigree in racing, Procaliber is ready to ride fast, and its two unique frame builds make it the perfect fit no matter your budget. Whether you go carbon or alloy, you get 29˝ wheels, internal cable routing, and stiff thru-axles for hardtail efficiency that’ll keep you at the front on the climbs and point you straight toward the podium.

Cool carbon composure

Extra light, extra stiff, extra comfortable. Procaliber Carbon gives you trail-smoothing OCLV Carbon and IsoSpeed technology that decouples the seat tube from top tube to reduce chatter. A 100mm fork keeps it lean and mean, so you get a lighter ride that saves precious watts when your quads are scorched and every millisecond matters. 

Ride metal, earn medals 

Procaliber alloy delivers speed at a value with a lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum chassis. It’s the perfect hardtail for those looking to hit the trail quickly, cover some miles, and race a little – or a lot. You get a lightweight alloy frame with progressive geometry and a longer 120mm travel fork to handle tricky sections of trail. 

IsoSpeed: Fast with a side of smooth Smooth means fast. Our innovative IsoSpeed decoupler increases vertical compliance and smooths trail chatter without sacrificing pedaling efficiency so you can ride faster, longer and stronger. Available on Procaliber Carbon only.

Sleek and stealthy

Internal routing on all models keeps cables quiet, reducing rattling and maintenance along with it. Plus, it looks modern and sleek. 

Wheely big benefits

Every Procaliber comes with 29˝ wheels that drop rolling resistance and help you get more distance out of every pedal stroke. Plus, they come set up tubeless for improved traction and flat protection. 

Stiff and responsive

Snappy acceleration and hairpin turns are no match for Procaliber. With 148mm thru-axle in the rear and a tapered headtube, handling stays precise, nimble, and quick, even through gnarly terrain. 

Beefy chainstay guards keep your ride shielded from rocks and knocks on the trail. Plus, Procaliber Carbon gets Knock Block for added protection when the bars go sideways.

Choose your Procaliber 

Looking for something else?

Supercaliber

If you’re looking to step up your racing game with even more trail smoothing technology, Supercaliber is the ride for you. See how its integrated IsoStrut shock can give you hardtail efficiency with full suspension confidence. 

Looking for something that rolls beyond cross country and into all-mountain trails? Roscoe is a hardtail with relaxed geometry for handling rowdier terrain and more travel for gobbling up rocks and roots.

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Trek Marlin vs Trek Roscoe, which Trek hardtail is right for you?

Comparing Trek's two latest hardtail mountain bikes

Katherine Moore

Choosing which bike to buy, whether it’s your very first mountain bike, an exciting upgrade or you’re looking to try something different, is always a task worth taking your time over.

While on the face of it, some bikes may seem similar, when you dig down into the bike’s geometry, frame design, suspension setup and specs, there are often key differences that go hand-in-hand with their intended use.

Take two of Trek’s most popular hardtail mountain bikes : the best-selling Marlin and the more aggressive Roscoe. On the face of it, they look very similar, but understanding the differences will help you work out which is best suited to you.

What type of riding are you doing?

Forget drool-worthy paintjobs, detailed geometry figures and component choices to start with – the most important thing to consider when choosing the best mountain bike for your needs is to align the type of bike with the style of riding that you’re likely to be doing.

Mountain biking is a broad church, after all, covering everything from multi-day cross-country stage races to four-minute downhill runs, and everything in between.

Bikes intended for these different mountain biking disciplines are designed accordingly; cross-country bikes are best for pedalling and downhill bikes are best for descending. Those in between, including downcountry bikes , trail bikes and enduro bikes , are typically built to balance pedalling efficiency and trail capability on a sliding scale between them.

The Trek Marlin is a beginner-focused hardtail that sits at the cross-country end of the mountain biking spectrum, with a 100mm short-travel suspension fork.

However, the third-generation Marlin has been updated with a number of features that make it both more trail-friendly and upgradeable.

Cleverly, the Marlin also boasts some additional mounts that make it a versatile choice beyond mountain biking, with the capability to fit a kickstand, pannier rack and bags. This enables it to double up as a rugged tourer or urban commuter for cycling to work .

With a greater level of suspension on offer (140mm on most models), more trail-focused geometry, mountain-bike specific frame features and larger tyres, the Trek Roscoe, on the other hand, is a dedicated trail hardtail built for more rugged terrain.

Both the Marlin and Roscoe are alloy hardtails, which helps to keep the prices towards the budget end of the spectrum. Expect to pay more for a lighter carbon fibre frame if you cast your eye at the Procaliber family, designed with fast-paced cross-country racing in mind.

We’ll take a look at the specific features of the Marlin and Roscoe in turn. Key to weighing up which of these hardtails is best for you is deciding what you want to do with it, whether you’re looking to push yourself on challenging trails or are looking for something that’ll help you get about town just as easily as it takes on a local off-road loop.

Because the frame design is so key to how bikes feel to ride, geometry is a good place to start when comparing bikes. You can read BikeRadar’s full guide to mountain bike geometry for more; we’ll focus on the key numbers when comparing the Trek Marlin and Trek Roscoe here.

In terms of head tube angles, while the Marlin’s geometry, updated on the newest third-generation models, has recently been slackened to 66.5 degrees, the Roscoe hardtail is designed around an even slacker 65-degree angle.

Essentially, the slacker the head tube angle, the further forward the front wheel is placed in front of you, and the more capable the bike becomes over rougher terrain.

In combination with the greater level of suspension travel, the slacker head tube angle of the Roscoe means you have to shift your weight further forwards on the bike to weight the front wheel. This results in a more aggressive riding position compared to the more upright position of the Marlin.

Seat tube angles are similar across the Marlin and Roscoe, at 73.4 and 73.1 degrees respectively, steepened to enhance pedalling efficiency for flatter gradients, pedal ups and linking sections of trail.

Both the Roscoe and Marlin offer a wide range of frame sizes, including Trek’s extra size option sitting between medium and large. However, it’s the Marlin that can accommodate the widest range of riders, catering for teens as well as adults with the XXS option.

Another point of difference between these two hardtails is the handlebar width, with the Marlin using 690/720/750mm bars (dependent on frame size), while the Roscoe is fitted with wider 750/780mm handlebars, again for added control on steeper and trickier off-road descents.

With a cross-country-oriented design for efficient pedalling, the Marlin uses a short-travel 100mm fork.

For a more trail-ready ride, the new third-generation Marlin can accept a 120mm-travel fork on all frame sizes from XS up, if you fancy upgrading your ride as you gain confidence and start to tackle larger trail features.

With a hefty 140mm suspension on offer, the Roscoe is positioned firmly in the aggressive hardtail category, best suited for trail riding.

The budget Roscoe 6 is the only exception, retaining a shorter-travel 120mm fork.

Frame features

With a more moderate level of suspension, the Marlin can double up for urban duties as well as hitting the dirt, so Trek has added a number of frame features with the commuter in mind.

You’ll find a mount for a kickstand as well as pannier rack mounts, so you can kit out your Marlin to carry luggage, whether that’s using it as a commuter bike around town or on a longer bike touring adventure.

The updated, third-generation Marlin frame also boasts internal cable routing for a dropper post, should you wish to add one later down the line. A rubberised chainstay guard comes pre-fitted to all Marlin models, to protect the frame from chain slap and minimise any noise.

As a more dedicated dirt shredder, the Roscoe doesn’t include the same rack and kickstand mounts, streamlining the frame.

Instead, you’ll find an in-built down tube guard in addition to the chainstay protector, designed to take the impact of stones and other trail debris.

You’ll also find ISCG mounts around the bottom bracket on the Roscoe, allowing you to fit a chain guide or bash guard.

Wheels and tyres

While most of the Marlin and Roscoe models on offer use modern 29er wheels , they do vary by frame size to offer the best fit for shorter riders.

For the Marlin, size XXS uses 26in wheels, sizes XS and S both use 27.5in wheels (also known as 650b ), while the larger sizes use 29er wheels.

There are slightly fewer sizes on offer with the Roscoe, starting with XS, which uses 27.5in wheels. With the exception of the Roscoe 6, which is built with 27.5in wheels across all sizes, the rest of the Roscoe models and sizes use 29in wheels.

While we’re talking rolling stock, one of the main differences between the Marlin and Roscoe is the tyre clearance, hence the width of tyres they are fitted with.

The new Marlin can accommodate up to 2.4in-wide mountain bike tyres with 29in wheels, whereas the Roscoe is fitted with plus-size 2.6in rubber, also with 29in wheels, for added traction. This wider rubber is fairly typical of trail hardtails, yielding extra grip in lieu of rear suspension .

To drop or not to drop

A dropper post is a key component when it comes to tackling trail features and steeper off-road terrain. You’ll find a dropper post included on some, but not all Trek hardtail mountain bikes.

A standard seatpost saves on both cost and weight, so with the exception of the top-tier Marlin 8, the Marlin family isn’t specced with a dropper. The good news is that internal cable routing means you can easily add one later though – a popular option when it comes to upgrading a mountain bike .

All Roscoe models are equipped with a dropper post from the get-go, correlating to their design for rowdier off-road pursuits.

With five models on offer, starting from a budget-friendly £475 / €599 for the Marlin 4 up to £1,230 / €1,349 for the Marlin 8, the Trek Marlin makes for an accessible entry to mountain biking. Third-generation Marlin models start from £760 / €849 with the Marlin 6.

The Roscoe starts at £1,160 / €1,299 / $1,199.99 for the Roscoe 6, though bikes from the Roscoe 7 (£1,620 / €1,799 / $1,899) onwards feature the latest frame, with the range topping out at £2,550 / €2,799 / $2,799.99 for the Roscoe 9.

You can expect to find an improvement in component choice and performance as you increase the amount you spend. For example, the base-level Marlin 4 is kitted out with Tektro M280 mechanical disc brakes, whereas the top-spec Marlin 8 uses more powerful Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes.

It’s worth noting that Trek’s recent overhaul to the Marlin frame only applies to models 6, 7 and 8, whereas models 4 and 5 retain the previous frame design to help keep these entry-level options priced competitively.

Another good example of how the components differ between models is the wheel and tyre setup. The entry-level Roscoe 6 uses tubeless-ready rims but not tubeless-compatible tyres, the Roscoe 7 features both tubeless-compatible rims and tyres, though set up with tubes, and the top two Roscoe 8 and 9 models are set up tubeless from the get-go.

The quality and configuration of drivetrains change significantly as you move up through the models. All of the third-generation Marlin hardtails, and all Roscoe models, use modern 1x drivetrains , while the second-generation Marlin 4 and 5 use a triple chainring and double chainring respectively.

Trek Marlin vs Trek Roscoe, so which should you choose?

Despite initial appearances as fairly similar alloy hardtails, the Trek Marlin and Trek Roscoe are actually very different machines.

Choosing between them largely comes down to what sort of riding you’re planning, and whether you’d like to prioritise versatility or are seeking all-out trail capability.

Want something that’ll make for a great first mountain bike for teens and adults alike, with the added versatility to take you across town to work and back, as well as to the trailhead? The do-it-all Marlin is the smarter choice.

Looking for a ride that’ll level up to meet you as you progress over larger, steeper and techier trail features? Kitted out with a dropper post, progressive frame geometry, wide, grippy tyres and a beefy 140mm fork, the Roscoe is Trek’s dedicated trail option. There’s a reason it’s dubbed the ‘hardcore hardtail’.

Once you’ve worked out which sounds most like you, then you have a choice of four or five models, each with their own component options. Spending more as you work up through the models will give improved performance, as well as a lighter build, which will only help to widen your grin once you swing a leg over.

Can’t afford the top model from the outset? The good news is that both the Marlin and Roscoe have been designed to be upgrade-ready when the time comes.

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