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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.
Table of Contents
- Trek Marlin 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 vs. 7 vs. 8
- Marlin MainFeatures
- Trek Marlin FAQ
- My Verdict
Trek Marlin 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 vs. 7 vs. 8
The following table summarizes the main differences between all Marlins.
| Marlin 4 | Marlin 5 | Marlin 6 | Marlin 7 | Marlin 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $629.99 | $739.99 | $849.99 | $1,029.99 | $1,329.99 |
| Available sizes | XS-XXL | XXS-XXL | XS-XXL | S-XXL | XXS-XL |
| Suspension fork | SR Suntour XCE 28 (coil spring) 100mm travel | SR Suntour XCM 30 (coil spring) 100mm travel | SR Suntour XCM 30 (coil spring) 100mm travel | RockShox Judy (coil spring) 100mm travel | RockShox Judy Silver (Solo Air spring) 100mm travel |
| Wheels | Bontrager Connection, double-wall | Bontrager Connection, double-wall | Bontrager Connection, double-wall | Bontrager Connection, double-wall | Bontrager Koove, double-wall (tubeless-ready) |
| Wheel size | XS-S: 27.5″ M-XXL: 29″ | XXS: 26″ XS-S: 27.5″ M-XXL: 29″ | XS-S: 27.5″ M-XXL: 29″ | S: 27.5″ M-XXL: 29″ | XXS: 26″ XS-S: 27.5″ M-XL: 29″ |
| Tires | Bontrager XR2 Comp (2.20″) | Bontrager XR2 Comp (2.20″) | Bontrager XR2 Comp (2.20″) | Bontrager XR2 Comp (2.20″) | Maxxis Ardent (2.20–2.40″) tubeless-ready |
| Grips | Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on | Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on | Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on | Bontrager XR Trail Comp, lock-on | Bontrager XR Trail Comp, lock-on |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Tourney 3×7spd | Shimano Altus 2×8spd | Shimano Deore 1×10spd | Shimano Deore 1×10spd | SRAM SX Eagle 1×12spd |
| Brakes | Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc | Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc | Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc |
| Weight | 14.40 kg 31.75 lbs | 13.97 kg 30.81 lbs | 14.11 kg 31.11 lbs | 13.47 kg 29.7 lbs | 13.20 kg 29.1 lbs |
| Buy | Buy Marlin 4 | Buy Marlin 5 | Buy Marlin 6 | Buy Marlin7 | Buy Marlin8 |
This table compares the features of Trek Marlin (Gen 2) mountain bikes (4 vs. 5 vs. 6 vs. 7 vs. 8).
Specifications source: trekbikes.com
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
Marlin MainFeatures
Let me now explain the most important features of the TrekMarlin 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 frame itself has a standard cross-country geometry, which provides a comfortable riding position and easy pedaling both 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.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that the bike’s partially internally routed cables improve its overall appearance.
Suspension
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.
Groupset
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.
Brakes
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.
Extras
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.
Trek Marlin FAQ
Who are the Trek Marlin bikes for?
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.
How do the individual Marlin bikes differ?
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.
What are the pros of Marlin bikes?
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.
What are the cons of Marlin bikes?
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.
My Verdict
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.
FAQs
Trek Marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 Compared: Which One to Choose? ›
Bike Comparison
The Trek Marlin 5, Trek Marlin 6, and Trek Marlin 7 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, and the Marlin 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and a better fork.
Bike Comparison
The Trek Marlin 5, Trek Marlin 6, and Trek Marlin 7 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, and the Marlin 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and a better fork.
The Trek Marlin 4, Trek Marlin 5, and Trek Marlin 6 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 4 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components, the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork, and the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels.
Which is better Marlin 7 or 8? ›The Marlin 7 is the more affordable option, but it doesn't skimp on features. It's a great choice for someone who wants a quality bike without spending a lot of money. The Marlin 8 is the top-of-the-line model, and it shows in the features and quality. It's a great choice for someone who wants the best of the best.
Which is better Marlin 4 or 5? ›We found the Trek Marlin 5. Compared to the 4, it has more paint color options, and the size is also very comprehensive, and the Trek Marlin 5 has hydraulic disc brakes, which are honestly better than mechanical disc brakes. braking is smoother.
What is the difference between Trek Marlin 7 and 8? ›The Trek Marlin 7 and Trek Marlin 8 are both aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a bigger fork, while the Marlin 8 has 26″ / 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and a 1 × 12 drivetrain providing a wider range of gears.
What is a Trek Marlin 7 used for? ›Marlin 7 is where race-worthy mountain bikes begin. The smooth, lightweight RockShox fork and upgraded parts make this model the best choice for new riders who want a fast cross country hardtail that will hold its own against our higher-end race bikes. What is my size?
Is Trek Marlin 4 good for trails? ›Marlin 4 is the perfect gateway to trail riding. It's ideal for new riders who want a mountain bike with knobby tires that can double as a rugged commuter. Disc brakes, front suspension, 21 speeds, and mounts for a rack and fenders make this a great bike for new trail riders and campus commuters alike. What is my size?
Is the Trek Marlin 6 good for trails? ›The Marlin 6 is the perfect ride for progressing your skills on the trails. Its updated slacker frame geometry makes it easier to control on descents while the suspension fork takes the edge off bumpy trails. Integrated rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to add accessories to this versatile steed.
Is the Trek Marlin 7 a fast bike? ›Marlin 7 is where race-worthy mountain bikes begin. The smooth, lightweight RockShox fork and upgraded parts make this model the best choice for new riders who want a fast cross country hardtail that will hold its own against our higher-end race bikes.
Is a Marlin 8 worth it? ›
The Marlin 8 is, overall, a fun bike to ride, and proved competent in a range of scenarios. However, although befitting of its price point, it's not the most confident descender on more technical terrain. That said, it'll get you down most things you can throw at it, within reason.
What Marlin is rated for Trex? ›Did you know that the Marlin Model 1895SBL 45-70 Gov't is the only rifle listed on Marlin's website rated for killing T-Rex's? This is due to it's role in the film Jurassic World!
Which is better 45-70 or 444 marlin? ›444 Marlin load has a muzzle velocity that is almost 300 fps faster than the 325-grain . 45-70 load, it generates more energy out to 300 yards and, when sighted in three inches high at 100 yards, drops three inches less at 200 yards than the . 45-70.
What is the rate of Trek Marlin 4? ›31.70 K in India.
Is Trek Marlin 5 good for commuting? ›Trek Marlin 5
Upgrades: Better 2X shifting, lockout, and hydraulic disc brakes. Marlin 5 improves light trail riding but still doubles as a versatile commuter.
This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider and cargo) of 136 kg (300 lb).
Is trek marlin 7 heavy? ›Trek claim that this is a “race-worthy mountain bike”, weighing in at 30.4 lbs / 13.8 kg. It is ideal for someone looking for maybe their first mountain bike. And want a serious bike for their money.
Do all Trek Marlins have the same frame? ›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.
Marlin 5 Women's is a trail-worthy daily rider that's perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail.
Can you do jumps with a Trek Marlin 6? ›They are a versatile style of bike, great for hitting small jumps, riding street or riding mountain bike trails. The lack of rear suspension makes this a light weight bike that is perfect for those who don't want to load and unload bikes with a heavy full-suspension setup.
What type of bike is the Trek Marlin 6? ›
The Marlin 6 is a cross-country mountain bike built to give you an efficient off-road ride with a suspension fork that locks out, and a simple 1x drivetrain. It's made for mountain biking, but it's also equipped with features like rack and kickstand mounts that make it a great choice for adventurous daily commutes.
Does the trek marlin 7 have a dropper post? ›Frame features
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.
The Trek Marlin 5, Trek Marlin 6, and Trek Marlin 7 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, and the Marlin 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and a better fork. Explore the differences below.
How do I choose a trek? ›If you're a beginner, the easy-moderate treks will suit you well. If you're very fit, you could also choose one of the moderate treks. For the moderate-difficult treks, you ideally need prior high altitude trek experience. That will help you enjoy the trek better.
Does the trek marlin 4 have a dropper post? ›The 29er version of the bike fits 2.2" tyres and the 27.5" bike can fit up to 2.4's although it comes specced with skinnier stock Bontrager 2.2" rubber. There is routing for a dropper post, although Trek doesn't say, this might well be internal routing as the other cables are also internally routed.
What is a Trek Marlin 6 good for? ›Marlin 6 is a cross country mountain bike built to give you an efficient off-road ride with a suspension fork that locks out, and a simple 1x drivetrain. It's made for mountain biking, but it's also equipped with features like rack and kickstand mounts that make it a great choice for adventurous daily commutes.
Is Trek Marlin 6 good for road? ›Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brake (4.5/5)
The Trek Marlin 6 is equipped with Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes, which are a mid- to high-end accessory. It performs particularly well on descending roads, with precise braking yet not lacking in softness.
This is a race-ready trail bike that doubles as a daily commuter or a leisure two-wheeler. Thanks to its attractive price, it will find its way into the hands of a variety of adventure-hungry riders. Marlin 7 Gen 2 is the most expensive model from the beginner-friendly Trek Marlin series.
What is the difference between Trek Marlin 4 and 5? ›The Trek Marlin 4, Trek Marlin 5, and Trek Marlin 6 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 4 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components, the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork, and the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels.
What type of bike is the Marlin 4? ›The 2022 Trek Marlin 4 is an Cross Country Aluminium / Alloy mountain bike. It sports 29" and 27.5" wheels, is priced at $559 USD, comes in a range of sizes, including 13.5", 15.5", 17.5", 18.5", 19.5", 21.5", 23", has SR Suntour suspension and a Shimano drivetrain.
What is the difference between 21 speed and 7-speed mountain bike? ›
The biggest difference between a 7-speed and 21-speed bike is the range of gears. A 7-speed bike has a limited range of gears, while a 21-speed bike offers a wider range of gears. This means that a 21-speed bike is better suited for long rides, as it can more easily handle hills and other terrains.
What is the difference between Marlin 5 and 7? ›The Trek Marlin 5, Trek Marlin 7, and Trek Marlin 8 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and higher gearing, the Marlin 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, and the Marlin 8 has 26″ / 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components.
Does Trek Marlin 8 have air suspension? ›The Marlin 8 is a confidence-boosting trail bike with updated geometry that gives you more control on singletrack without skipping on features for everyday use, like mounts for racks and a kick stand. It's built for years of progress thanks to 12-speed SRAM shifting and an upgraded RockShox air-spring suspension fork.
How heavy is the Marlin 8? ›| MSRP | $1,329 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 29.1 lbs |
| Suspension | Hardtail |
| Travel | 80mm front |
| Frame | Aluminum |
While the effective range of the . 45-70 on individual targets was limited to about 1,000 yards (915 m) with either load, the heavier bullet produced lethal injuries at 3,500 yards (3,200 m).
What is more powerful 45-70 vs 308? ›Furthermore, the muzzle energy of a . 308 Winchester round averages out to 2620 ft-lb, while a . 45-70 Government round averages out to about 2270 ft-lb. One way to think about this is as such: a foot-pound is a unit of energy equal to the amount of energy required to raise a weight of one pound a distance of one foot.
What Marlin does Chris Pratt use? ›In the film Jurassic World, we see Chris Pratt play park ranger/dinosaur tamer Owen Grady. When things inevitably go south, he retrieves a Marlin 1895 SBL in . 45-70.
What is the effective range of the .444 Marlin? ›According to M. L. McPherson (editor, Cartridges of the World), "the 444 is fully capable against any species in North America" and describes its useful range as being out to about 200 yards (180 m).
How far can you shoot a deer with a 444 Marlin? ›444 Marlin has a practical, open-sighted maximum hunting range of about 300 yards.
What is the hardest hitting lever action caliber? ›The . 50-110 WCF (also known as the . 50-100-450 WCF , with different loadings) in modern 1886 Winchesters with modern steel barrels is the most powerful lever-action cartridge, with up to 4,000 foot-pounds (5,400 J) of energy.
How many speed is Trek Marlin 6? ›
Marlin 6 is a quality introductory cross-country mountain bike with front suspension, 24 speeds and a wide range of gearing for easier pedalling on climbs.
How heavy is the Trek Marlin 6? ›A 2021 Trek Marlin 6 weights M - 14.50 kg / 31.97 lbs (with tubes).
How many gears does a Marlin 4 have? ›Disc brakes, front suspension, 21 speeds and mounts for a rack and mudguards make this versatile ride an excellent entry point for new trail riders and campus commuters alike.
Which commuter bike is best for long drive? ›- Hero Xtreme 160R. 4.4/5. 375 Ratings. ...
- Yamaha FZ X. 3.6/5. 345 Ratings. ...
- Bajaj Platina 110. 4.4/5. 362 Ratings. ...
- Hero Passion Pro. 3.9/5. 876 Ratings. ...
- Honda Livo. 4.4/5. 975 Ratings. ₹ 75,665. ...
- Suzuki Gixxer. 4.3/5. 211 Ratings. ₹ 1,30,731. ...
- Honda X-Blade. 4.5/5. 797 Ratings. ₹ 1,15,764. ...
- Bajaj CT 110. 4.2/5. 254 Ratings. ₹ 66,898.
A lightweight aluminum frame with internal routing to protect your cables and add to the bike's sleek look, 2x8 drivetrain, a wide range of gearing so you always have the right gear for your terrain, powerful hydraulic disc brakes, and a terrain-smoothing suspension fork with a lockout.
How is the trek Marlin 5? ›Marlin 5 is a great ride for all your adventures. But it's also versatile, and Marlin 5 is a popular ride on college campuses, because the rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to accessorize and haul a load.
What is the difference between a Trek Marlin 4 5 and 6? ›The Trek Marlin 4, Trek Marlin 5, and Trek Marlin 6 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 4 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components, the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork, and the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels.
What is the difference between the Trek Marlin 5 and the Trek Marlin 6? ›The Trek Marlin 5, Trek Marlin 6, and Trek Marlin 8 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, and the Marlin 8 has 26″ / 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and a better fork.
Is Trek Marlin 4 aluminum? ›The 2021 Trek Marlin 4 is an Cross Country Aluminium / Alloy mountain bike. It sports 29" wheels and has SR Suntour suspension. The bike is part of Trek's Marlin range of mountain bikes.
What is the difference between Merlin 5 and 6? ›The Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and higher gearing; while the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork. Explore the differences below. Marlin 5 Frame Protection kits available. Up to 95% coverage.
Is the Trek Marlin 6 good for mountain biking? ›
It is an affordable and capable entry level mountain bike, great for developing skills. The lack of a tapered head tube means you will be limited on front end updates. The frame geometry is solid and will give you that mountain bike feel. The mountain bike feel is an aggressive position for a fast downhill ride.
Which Merlin seasons are the best? ›The third season is the most enjoyable. The plot keeps the audience on their toes, the characters include a not-totally evil yet Morgana and in-love Gwen and Arthur, as well as several completely ridiculous and hilarious episodes (Goblin's Gold is one of the best in the entire series).
When was Merlin discontinued? ›Merlin, the popular King Arthur fantasy show, came to an end in 2012 after five seasons. The show seemingly had no hope for a renewal. The cast has gone on to star in other projects like The Fall, Damien, and even the upcoming John Wick prequel series.
Should I buy a Trek Marlin 7? ›Is Trek Marlin 7 a good bike? For the money you can't go wrong with this bike. It has a RockShox Judy fork with 100mm travel, (which is rated 2 out of 5 stars compared to all suspension forks on the market.) While it is powered by a 1 x 10 Deore, FSA groupset, (which is rated 3 out of 5 stars compared to all MTB's).
How many speed is Trek Marlin 4? ›Disc brakes, front suspension, 21 speeds, and mounts for a rack and fenders make this a great bike for new trail riders and campus commuters alike.
How much weight can a Trek Marlin 6 hold? ›| Weight | M - 14.50 kg / 31.97 lbs (with tubes) |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg). |