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

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

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

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

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

What Is the Weight Limit on a Trek Marlin 4?

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

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

Trek Marlin 4 2023 Full Specs

Trek marlin 4 gen 2 full review.

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

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

Is the Trek Marlin 4 a Trail Bike?

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

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

Stylish Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame

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

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

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

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

What Is the Difference Between Trek Marlin 4 and 5?

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

Progressive Sizing

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

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

Reliable Bontrager Componentry

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

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

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

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Sizing Chart

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

Who Is Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Best Suited For?

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

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

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

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

Other Trek Marlin Bikes We Reviewed:

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

Is Marlin 4 Gen 2 a Good Buy?

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

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

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

Buy from Trek Bikes

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About the Author

Jordan Grimes

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Review

Are you in the market for a new mountain bike? With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect one.

If you’re considering the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2, you’re in luck.

In this review, we will dive into the features and performance of this popular mountain bike to help you make an informed decision.

Mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that requires a reliable and high-performing bike.

The Trek Marlin series has gained a reputation for its quality and durability, making it a top choice for many entry level riders.

The latest generation, the Marlin 4 Gen 2, has some exciting updates and improvements that make it worth considering for both beginners and experienced riders.

In this review, we will take a closer look at the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 and explore its key features, performance on different terrains, and overall value for money.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned mountain biker, this review will provide you with the information you need to decide if the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 is the right bike for you.

So, let’s get started and find out if this mountain bike lives up to its reputation.

– Lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum frame for easy maneuverability and durability.

– Shimano Tourney 3×7-speed drivetrain for smooth and efficient gear changes.

– Front SR Suntour XCE 28 suspension fork absorbs shocks and vibrations for a smoother ride.

– Tektro mechanical disc brakes provide powerful and reliable stopping power in all conditions.

– Wide Bontrager XR2 Comp tires offer excellent traction and stability on various terrains.

– Internal cable routing for a clean and sleek look.

– Designed for both beginners and experienced riders.

– Suitable for trail riding, commuting, and recreational use.

– Easy to assemble and maintain.

– Offers great value for money.

– Backed by Trek’s reputation for quality and customer support.

One of the standout features of the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 is its frame.

Constructed from high-quality Alpha Silver Aluminum, the frame is not only lightweight but also durable, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of off-road biking.

The frame geometry is designed to provide a comfortable riding position, allowing riders to tackle even the toughest terrains with ease.

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Equipped with a Shimano Tourney 3×7-speed drivetrain, the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 offers a wide range of gears, making it suitable for various types of trails and terrains.

Shifting between gears is smooth and precise, thanks to the reliable Shimano components.

Whether you’re climbing steep hills or descending fast descents, this bike’s drivetrain will ensure that you have optimal control and efficiency.

The Marlin 4 Gen 2 also features a SR Suntour XCE 28 suspension fork with 100mm of travel, which helps absorb shocks and bumps on the trail, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.

This is particularly beneficial when riding on rough terrains or tackling obstacles.

The fork has a decent amount of travel, allowing riders to confidently navigate through uneven surfaces.

When it comes to braking performance, the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 does not disappoint.

It comes equipped with Tektro mechanical disc brakes, which offer reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.

This is essential for off-road biking, where quick and efficient braking is crucial for safety.

Wheels and Tires

Another notable feature of the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 is its wheelset.

The bike is equipped with 29-inch Bontrager Connection wheels, which are known for their ability to roll over obstacles more easily compared to smaller wheel sizes.

This allows riders to maintain momentum and stability, even on challenging terrain.

In terms of aesthetics, the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 boasts a clean and modern design.

The color options are sleek and eye-catching, ensuring that riders can ride in style.

Additionally, the bike is equipped with high-quality components and finishes, giving it a premium look and feel.

Overall, the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 is a reliable and versatile mountain bike that offers excellent performance on various terrains.

Its durable frame, smooth drivetrain, efficient brakes, and comfortable suspension make it a top choice for both beginners and experienced riders.

Whether you’re exploring new trails or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, this bike is sure to provide a thrilling and enjoyable biking experience.

Order yours online today and pick it up at your local Trek store, or have it delivered to your home!

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The Trek Marlin 4 Review That You’ll Love

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Mountain biking or even simple daily commutes can be a thought, especially if you don’t have the right bike for this type of terrain. The Trek Marlin 4 is a premium quality bike that was designed to deliver superior performance and responsiveness for the efficient daily rider in varied terrain locations and environments. The design of this amazing bike is very efficient thanks to the lightweight aluminum that the frame is crafted from.

This rugged commuter and real mountain bike provide excellent handling capabilities under virtually all conditions so you can be confident that it will withstand any brutal trails thrown it’s way making it a great experience . A unique design feature about this particular model is that it has what is known as progressive geometry, which gives you added control over your bike .

In addition, the mountain bike comes with an extensive set of different features and design implementations that bring its true power and versatility to the forefront. From the frame to the wheels, everything about this bike screams optimized performance. If you’ve been wanting to try a premium quality trail bike but haven’t had the money to do so, this is a great opportunity for you to get an exceptional bike for an incredible price .

The versatile design of this amazing bike contributes to its overall build quality and real-world performance capabilities, which you’ll experience when you dig into the pedals. You’ll also find entry-level premium quality Shimano parts on this bike that consistently deliver precise handling, feel, and adaptability for daily commutes and the hardest trails. Another powerful feature on the Marlin 4 is it’s 21-speed Shimano branded drivetrain that provides extreme power assistance with every pedal.

If you’re interested in the Trek Marlin 4 but need to know more information before making your purchase decision, you’ve come to the right place. To begin, let’s take a look at exactly who the Marling 4 was designed for and how you can benefit from this particular trail bike , even if you are just a commuter who loves using biking to get to the supermarket, go to a perfect gateway or if you are one of those campus commuters who like to ride to campus instead of other transport.

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.

Who is the Trek Marlin 4 for?

Fully-capable yet simple to use bike . It comes as a 21-speed, meeting the needs of every environment you come in contact with. This trail bike uses some of the same technology found in higher end mountain bikes made by the same company, all of this combined with an Alpha Aluminum frame that is lightweight and very durable.

Even though it’s for new trail riders , you can find advanced features such as knobby tires , disc brakes , and more, which create a very reliable trail bike that you can depend on. For those that want an affordable quality bike , that will allow them to tackle simple trails as well as rough terrain, this is a great experience and choice.

Now, we’re going to take a close look into all of the various pros and cons one can expect to encounter when using the Trek Marlin 4 for their biking adventures.

Pros & Cons

This is an all-around high-performance trail introductory mountain bike packing many advanced features and capabilities you will enjoy regardless of your riding style or experience.

Prior to purchasing yours, you need to know about all of the various pros and cons so that you can make an educated purchase decision about whether or not this is the right choice for you. Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed look into the various pros and cons of the Trek Marlin 4, so you will have a solid idea of what to expect when you buy it.

SR Suntour XCE 28 100mm fork that delivers stable ride performance and handling throughout various terrains
Frame made from lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum which is very durable
21-gear shifter gives you the ability to easily adjust the power of your ride on the fly
Double-wall Bontrager Connection rims
Tektro mechanical disc brake w/ 160/160mm rotor
27.5”/29” x 2.20” in. tires
Shimano Tourney TY300 7-speed 3-speed Front and Read Derailleur
Trek’s lifetime warranty applies to all the frames including their first frames made in 1976
Limited customization options in terms of configuring the fit and comfort level of the bike
The fork does not have a lockout feature

All of these are these pros and cons that can either hinder or aid your riding ability depending on the specific terrain and environment you’re in. It’s important to consider these different pros and cons so that you will be able to make an educated decision about whether this is the right bike for you.

Now, let’s take a look at some of the core features you can expect to encounter when using the Trek Marlin 4.

Characteristics

The Trek Marlin 4 is packed with a lot of different features that come together to deliver easy riding that works well for virtually any beginner or experienced riding enthusiast. By becoming educated about all of the features, you’ll gain access to when using it as your designated bike. Below, we’re going to give you a detailed breakdown of all the core features that the Marlin 4 has, so continue reading.

Frame

The Marlin 4 model is made from an alpha aluminum frame that is very durable and lightweight. This adds an enhanced level of control over the bike so that you can take on different terrains at your own pace. The frame also uses a unique design integration known as progressive geometry, which embeds natural adaptability and versatility to the bike overall. The frame also has an integrated SR Suntour fork, which reinforces ride stability and precision.

The fork has 100mm of travel, which is more than suitable for the riding style this bike was designed for. One of the negative features of this bike is that it does not come with a lockout feature, so you can’t lock it while riding on paver road. In addition, this mountain bike comes in seven different frame sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L, XL, and 2XL.

Shimano Integration

One of the best features of the Trek Marlin 4 is that it has Shimano branded parts that come as a standard option. These components are entry-level Shimano Tourney components that deliver 21 gears on a 3 x 7 configured drivetrain. The cassette on this bike also has a 14 x 28 tooth range which is not optimal for very steep hills, but it can still work.

Brakes

The Trek Marlin 4 comes with Tektro mechanical disc brakes that deliver accurate stopping power on the drop of a dime. These brakes enhance the overall capabilities and ride performance of the bike; overall, they come outfitted with 160mm rotors on both wheels, and they are trail-ready right out of the box. If you come across some very big drops or have to quickly hit the brakes, these will do the job effortlessly.

Tires & Wheels

The Marlin 4 comes outfitted with Bontrager tires and wheels that are very durable and long-lasting. These tires will allow you to tackle tough terrains and environments with little effort. The Marlin 4 comes in seven distinct sizes, and the smaller ones are outfitted with 27.5″ in wheels while the other models utilize 29″ in wheels.

Aesthetic

The Trek Marlin 4 has a very optimized and modernized look that appeals to both new riders and experienced ones. Considering its price, this bike has a stunning look that will leave you absolutely mesmerized when riding it.

All of these different features combine to create a very powerful trail bike that is affordable yet very capable. Consider what key features and design elements you’re looking for in an introductory mountain bike so that you will be able to make a decision about whether or not this is the right option for you. Everyone has a different riding style and depending on yours, all of these various features can aid you in achieving the type of ride you want on virtually any terrain.

If for some reason, the features we mentioned above don’t seem to apply to your specific situation, the good news is that we have a lot of alternative recommendations for you to choose from. Continue reading to find our list of some of the top alternative recommendations to the Trek Marlin 4 if it just doesn’t seem to be what you need.

Alternative Recommendations

#1 raleigh bicycles tokul.

The Raleig h Bicycles Tokul builds on top of the Tokul 3 frame design, which is a hardtail that is attached to a rugged aluminum frame that is longer and much more relaxed than previous bike models. The tires on this bike are Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR 27.5×2.8 variants placed on top of a 50mm wide rim that delivers more precise handling on all terrains.

You’ll also find that the drivetrain on this bike is an SRAM NX 1×11, and it has front/rear thru-axels and a RockShox Judy Silver Solo Air fork supports the ride mechanics of the bike very nicely. The fork has about 130mm of travel, and it is backed by Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes that provide smooth modulation when the bike is entering corners.

All of these various features combine to create a powerful and capable bike that can take on many terrains and features.

Raleigh Bikes Tokul 24 Kids Mountain Bike | Amazon

The Raleigh Bicycles Tokul has various features combine to create a powerful and capable bike that can take on many terrains and features.

#2 Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike

The Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike comes with an aluminum mountain frame in addition to a very powerful Schwinn suspension fork that is capable of taking on a lot of direct impact without transferring the shock to the rider.

The overall setup and mechanics of this bike provide a durable riding experience that is backed by a 24-speed Shimano EZ fire trigger shifter that sits atop front/rear derailleurs making gear changes seamless.

This bike also comes equipped with front/rear mechanical disc brakes that deliver precise and clean stopping power under a wide range of different variables. You’ll also find Schwinn alloy cranks on this bike that add solid gearing action and reduces the overall maintenance required for the bike.

High-profile double-wall alloy rims are also included on this bike, and they add tons of durability to the overall ride experience even when taking on bumpy terrains. The bike comes from the factory ready to be assembled, and it includes a standard 5-year warranty that protects the wheels and other parts in the event of a crash or damage.

With an aluminum mountain frame in addition to a VERY powerful Schwinn suspension fork, the Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike provides a durable riding experience without transferring the shock to the rider.

#3 Redline Bikes Monocog 29-Speed Mountain Bike

The Redline Bikes Monocog 29-Speed Mountain Bike has a full-chrome steel frame and fork combination that lasts an extremely long time. Tektro mechanical disc brakes are on this bike to deliver immense stopping power under nearly any possible conditions.

The wheels on this bike ae 29in. Alloy aluminum that allows you to tackle rough terrains without having to stop or worry about your bike being damaged during the process. Pedals are included in the package with this bike, and it has a vee rail 29×2.25in. The tire that has awesome gripping capabilities in gravel and paved roads.

This is a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable trail bike that comes packed with tons of great features and versatile specifications.

Redline Bikes Monocog 29 Single Speed Mountain Bike | Amazon

The Redline Bikes Monocog 29-Speed Mountain Bike is a GREAT choice if you're looking for a reliable trail bike that comes packed with tons of great features and versatile specifications.

FAQs About Trek Marlin 4

The Trek Marlin 4 is the optimal beginner bike for those who want to get into the sport or hobby of all-terrain and trail riding. Every component on this bike is premium quality from the suspension system to the brakes and even the gear shifter, and the frame makes it great both on and off-road.

Yes, in the world of trail riding Trek is known as one of the leading bike manufacturing companies. On Trek’s official website, their slogan is “The world’s best bikes” which should tell you something.

Yes, when you consider the features and design specifications that come with all of the Trek bikes, they are well worth the money and are good investments.

Our Honest Opinion

After looking at all of the core features and design specifications of the Trek Marlin 4, it’s time to give you our honest opinion. If you’re looking for an affordable trail bike that is powerful yet not too complicated to set up, the Marlin 4 is the perfect fit for you.

With entry-level Shimano parts and components that come as a standard feature on this bike, you can expect to get a lot of enhanced performance benefits even on simple rides.

It’s pretty affordable price doesn’t mean much in relation to the quality of this bike as it looks and feels like a premium selection. Its 21-speed gear shifter gives you the ability to easily transition to the optimal gear so that you can easily adapt to your environment.

In terms of its customization, the bike comes in seven different sizes; however, the larger bikes do not provide any specific benefits when compared to the smaller sizes. All in all, this is a great bike that is well worth the money you’ll spend on it, considering it’s primarily meant for beginners.

$529.99 MSRP

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