trek 6 series specs

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Trek Marlin 6

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 13.5", 15.5", 17.5", 18.5", 19.5", 21.5", 23"

Weight / 14.11

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Silver Aluminum, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR
• Fork SunTour XCT, Size: XS, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 42mm offset for 27.5'' wheel, 100mm QR, 80mm travel; Size: S, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 42mm offset for 27.5'' wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 46mm offset for 29'' wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel
• Hubs Formula DC-22, alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, 135x5mm QR
• Wheels Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20mm width, schrader valve
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Spokes 14g stainless steel
• Tires Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5x2.20''; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29x2.20''
• Chain KMC , KMC X10, 10 speed
• Crank Prowheel C10Y-NW, 30T steel narrow-wide ring, 170mm length
• Bottom Bracket VP BC73, 73mm, threaded cartridge
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore, Shimano Deore M5120, long cage
• Shifters Shimano Deore, Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Brakeset Tektro , Size: XS, S, Tektro HD-M276 hydraulic disc, short reach lever; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Size: XS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 690mm width; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS, S, M, Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length; Size: ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 400mm length
• Stem Size: XS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 50mm length; Size: S, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length; Size: M, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length; Size: ML, L, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length; Size: XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length
• Grips Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on
• Headset Semi-integrated, 1-1/8''

Q: How much is a 2022 Trek Marlin 6?

A 2022 Trek Marlin 6 is typically priced around $779 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2022 Trek Marlin 6?

The 2022 Trek Marlin 6 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2022 Trek Marlin 6 weigh?

A 2022 Trek Marlin 6 weights 14.11.

Q: What size wheels does the 2022 Trek Marlin 6 have?

The 2022 Trek Marlin 6 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2022 Trek Marlin 6 should I get?

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Trek Marlin 6 Review

September 14, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek Marlin 6 is a versatile mountain bike for beginners and experienced riders.
• The Marlin 6 ensures smooth riding experiences on rough trails and city streets.
• Its features make it a top choice for mountain bikers and commuters.

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

‍ Let’s empower your off-road dreams with Trek Marlin 6 review! Read on and unlock the exhilarating cycling experiences.

Trek Marlin 6 is a trailblazer's dream! This mountain bike boasts exceptional performance with top-notch components, agile handling, and unbeatable comfort. It can help you conquer rough terrains effortlessly and experience the thrill of a lifetime.

With countless off-road biking adventures, I can confidently say I’ve tested the Trek Marlin 6. This bike's superior performance, agile handling, and unbeatable comfort make it the perfect choice for riders of all levels. This is a game-changer that ignites your passion for mountain biking, so read my review to find out more about this amazing bike!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Trek Marlin 6 Review

This versatile mountain bike is built for a perfect blend of performance and comfort, making it suitable for both new riders and experienced cyclists. The Trek Marlin 6 boasts an attractive outward appearance, customizable features, and a range of sizes to accommodate different riders.

With its durable and lightweight aluminum frame, this bike is suitable for various biking activities, like hitting mountain trails at the weekend and commuting during the workweek. One notable aspect of the Trek Marlin 6 is the impressive range of key features it offers in its price range.

The bike has powerful hydraulic disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power, while the front suspension fork ensures a smooth ride even on rough terrain. With internal cable routing and multiple color options, the Trek Marlin 6 looks sleek and stylish on every outing.

The cool-colored accessories, such as grips and bottle cages, give the bike a unique, personalized touch, making it a top choice for mountain bikers and commuters.

Key Features and Specifications

The Trek Marlin 6 is a solid mountain bike with various versatile features. This well-rounded package delivers great value for mountain biking enthusiasts or recreational users at an attractive price point.

Frame and Geometry

The Trek Marlin 6 features a lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum frame providing strength and durability. The bike's geometry is designed to accommodate various riders, with frame sizes ranging from XS to XXL. The ML, L, XL, and XXL Bontrager Alloy sizes ensure shorter riders enjoy an optimized riding experience.

Suspension System

For tackling rough terrain, the Marlin 6 has an SR Suntour XCT 30 front suspension fork, providing 100mm of travel. This suspension fork offers a coil spring preload and hydraulic lockout, allowing riders to adjust the fork based on their preferences and trail conditions.

Braking System

Equipped with Tektro HD M275 hydraulic disc brakes, the Marlin 6 offers powerful stopping power and control, even in challenging conditions. These hydraulic disc brakes ensure consistent braking performance regardless of weather, giving riders confidence on the trails.

Drivetrain and Gears

The Trek Marlin 6 features a Shimano Deore 1x drivetrain, offering a wide range of gears for tackling a variety of terrains. This setup includes an easy-to-operate 10-speed rear derailleur and a long cage Prowheel crank, making gear changes smooth and efficient.

Wheels and Tires

Rolling on Bontrager Connection double wall rims and wrapped in Bontrager XR2 Comp wire bead tires, the Marlin 6 offers excellent traction and durability. The XR2 Comp tires are tubeless-ready, allowing riders to go tubeless for better traction and lower weight.

Other Notable Features

• The Trek Marlin 6 offers internal routing for cables, keeping the bike’s aesthetic clean and maintaining the lifespan of the cables.
• A kickstand and rear rack mounts provide added versatility for bike riders commuting or touring.
• The maximum tire width on the Marlin 6 is 2.2 inches, providing the perfect balance between traction and rolling resistance.
• Optional dropper post compatibility adds convenience and control for those seeking a more aggressive riding experience.

Here’s a table highlighting the specification values of Trek Marlin 6.

Rider must-haves for the trails:

• Water bottle or hydration pack to stay hydrated during long rides
• Snacks for refueling during the ride
• Basic repair kit for common issues

Riding Experience and Performance

The Trek Marlin 6 delivers exceptional performance and versatility, making it an ideal choice for mountain biking enthusiasts and daily commuters. With a lightweight aluminum frame, powerful disc brakes, and room for customization, the Marlin 6 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a well-rounded bike at an affordable price.

Mountain Trails

As a mountain bike enthusiast, I found the Trek Marlin 6 an excellent choice for tackling mountain trails. With its frontend suspension fork and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, I discovered it offers more control and comfort even on rough terrain.

Furthermore, the Marlin 6's Shimano Deore gears provide smooth and efficient shifting, making it easier to climb steep sections. Plus, the wider Bontrager XR2 Comp tires give improved traction – an essential factor when going downhill on loose surfaces.

Bontrager XR2 Comp tires:

• Size: 29 x 2.20 (medium to large frames); 27.5 x 2.20 (small to extra small frames)
• Double-wall Bontrager Connection rims

Not only is the Trek Marlin 6 a capable mountain bike, but it also excels as a reliable commuter. With useful features like internal routing for a clean appearance and added durability, as well as rear rack and kickstand mount options, the Marlin 6 transforms into a versatile everyday ride.

The bike's powerful hydraulic disc brakes inspire confidence when commuting in changing weather conditions, as they offer consistent stopping power even in the rain.

Furthermore, the bike's coil spring suspension fork with hydraulic lockout enables a more comfortable and efficient pedaling experience, especially during long commutes on bumpy roads.

Rear rack specifications:

• Material: Aluminum
• Maximum load capacity: 25 kg (55 lbs)
• Compatible with most pannier bags

Versatility

The Trek Marlin 6 balances its dual nature as a mountain bike and commuter, making it an ideal bike for anyone seeking a multi-purpose option. With frame sizes ranging from XS to XXL, it accommodates various rider heights, ensuring a comfortable ride for all.

Additionally, the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame features multiple bottle cage mounts, allowing riders to stay hydrated during long rides or carry a hydration pack when venturing off the beaten path.

One standout aspect of the Marlin 6 is its potential for upgrades. For instance, it's dropper post compatible, allowing riders to enhance their off-road experience further. It also supports a maximum width of 2.2 inches, so riders can opt for wider tires to tackle more challenging terrain.

Notable upgrades:

• Front suspension: RockShox Recon RL fork with 100mm travel
• Dropper post: Compatible with various seat post diameters
• Tires: Wider options available up to 2.2 inches

Upgrades and Accessories

As an entry-level mountain bike with several attractive features and specifications, customizing and upgrading the Trek Marlin 6 can significantly enhance your mountain biking experience.

Handlebars and Saddles

One of the first upgrades you might consider for your Trek Marlin 6 is a new handlebar or saddle that better fits your preferences. An example of a great handlebar upgrade would be the Raceface stem to improve the handling and responsiveness during your ride.

For saddles, various choices include weight, cushioning, and material like steel rails. Some notable options include saddles made of XR2 Comp or the more budget-friendly saddles made of Bontrager alloy. These provide comfort and durability for riders tackling rough terrains for extended periods.

Additional Mounts

To enhance both performance and convenience, add-ons and mounts are available on the Trek Marlin 6. One versatile component is the Blendr Stem , which allows for quick, secure attachment of items such as lights, GPS devices, and action cameras.

Moreover, for practical storage options, update your mountain bike with rear rack and kickstand mounts, accommodating pannier bags, or other storage solutions.

These mounts complement front suspension forks like the SR Suntour XCT 30, which improves the bike's ability to carry additional weight.

Upgrading pedals on mountain bikes can significantly improve your riding experience, especially for first-time mountain bikers. High-quality, durable pedals are available for a range of budgets, such as the affordable pedals that can be found for $40-50 or sometimes less.

Environmental factors and different riding styles mean that pedals will undergo different levels of wear and tear, so remember to maintain and replace your pedals as required.

Hydration Solutions

Numerous options are available for attaching water bottle cages and hydration packs. Consider, for example, incorporating either XS or ML L XL XXL Bontrager alloy cages that suit different frame sizes to ensure your water bottle remains secure and accessible throughout your ride.

Utilizing a hydration pack is another option, which not only provides water but also offers additional storage for essential tools, spare clothing, and snacks. Indeed, having the right hydration solutions can make the difference between a great ride and a miserable journey.

Maintenance and Warranty

It's essential to maintain your bike's chain. A well-kept chain ensures smooth gear shifts and improved performance. Remember to clean it regularly and apply chain lubricant when necessary.

Another vital maintenance aspect is caring for your bike's hydraulic disc brakes. The Trek Marlin 6 comes with powerful Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, which provide reliable stopping power even in rough terrain. Regularly check your brake pads for wear and replace them when needed.

Below are some additional maintenance tips to help prolong your bike's life:

• Clean your bike regularly to prevent dirt buildup in delicate components.
• Apply grease to your seat tube and other moving parts to prevent rust.
• Check your tires' air pressure and maximum width before every ride.
• Inspect cables for fraying or damage, and replace them when necessary.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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PedalChef is a blog on all things cycling. We are a group of people who love bikes, and we want to share the joy that comes with the experience. You can read more about us here .

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Trek Marlin 6 Review: Is This Bike Worth Buying?

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What do you want from your MTB? Is it a bike that you can take to work every day? Something light that you can easily transport if needed, something with multiple speeds that will allow you to commute with ease?

Or are you after an adventure, a bike that you can have fun with? If you live near mountain trails, for example, you might want a bike that can handle a few bumps in the road. In that case, you’ll want something tough with great suspension that can easily deal with tougher terrain.

Bottom Line Up Front: So, we would recommend it overall ( you can pick it up online directly via Trek here ) – particularly if you’re on a tighter budget and you want to upgrade it later on down the line. It’s one of the best out of the box budget buys.  

The Marlin 6 is a GREAT budget pick to get started. An excellent all-around mountain bike, with room for plenty of cusomizations and upgrades later. Only if you need it.

Table of Contents

How does Trek stack up against other companies?

Trek is known as a brand to be trusted. Thanks to years of quality craftsmanship and its long alliance with Lance Armstrong, Trek is considered to be a solid brand in the mountain bike space.

In terms of price, Trek offer a range of different options – from around $450 for the FX (a basic hybrid bike) right up to $12,500 for the Madone SLR 9 Disc brakes eTap suspension lockout (a state-of-the-art racing bike). The Marlin 6 is on the lower end of the price scale.

Trek are quite similar to Diamondback in their price range. Although Trek do offer a lot of expensive bikes (which is to be expected given their expertise), they have more budget options than Fuji and Cannondale.

What kind of bike is the Marlin 6 ?

Trek Marlin 6 is designed to be a multi-purpose real mountain bike: it’s built with mountain biking trails in mind, but it’s also great for commuters, with extra features like rack and fender mounts.

It could be the perfect choice for you if you want to hit the trails at the weekend, but also need a bike to commute to work in the week. It’s not built to go downhill or for heavy trails, however.

It’s also an entry-level bike (for mountain biking) – this means it’s a lot more affordable than some other bikes on the market.

The Main Features of the Marlin 6

Let’s take a look at some of the features of the Marlin 6.

What is the Trek Marlin 6 made from?

The Marlin 6 is made from aluminum, making it a pretty lightweight bike. There are seven sizes to choose from, so you should be able to find one that fits you. It comes in orange or silver.

What are the wheels like?

Depending on which size you buy, the wheels are either 27in or 29in – this is to help the larger bikes to have a smoother ride (with minimal impact to standover height). This is great because the larger wheels allow you to have a better riding experience on slightly rougher terrain. The wheels are heavy, however, which caused some users problems as they tried to pick up speed.

The wheels are Bontrager Connection 32-hole double-walled, and the tires are Bontrager XR2.

What other features does it have?

The Marlin 6 is designed to be able to handle lighter trails and cross country moderate terrain – so you won’t be able to hit the hardcore trails with this one. It does offer multiple gears (24 speeds / shift levers) with a rack and fender mount, however, which makes it ideal for commuting or mixed use riders.

How does the Trek Marlin 6 perform?

Some people found the Marlin 6 to be a little stiff and unresponsive, with the wheels reducing the responsiveness quite drastically at times. This makes it less comfortable to ride on trails, as it doesn’t seem to perform well on drops, with limited softening. However, in terms of riding on smoother, flatter terrain, it seems to perform nicely. A great entry level bike for mountain biking.

Check out how Marlin 6 Compares to Marlin 7.

What are the specs of the Marlin 6?

In terms of specifications, here are the main things you need to know:

• Fork – SR Suntour XCT fork, 100-mm travel fork
• Crankset – Shimano
• Derailleurs – Shimano Altus
• Brakes – Tektro M290 disc brakes (hydraulic disc brakes and brake levers)
• Saddle – Bontrager Evoke 1

What warranty will I receive if I buy it?

Like all Trek bikes, once you register it, you get a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

Trek Marlin 6 is suited for…

• Riders on a tight budget but want a versatile crossover bike
• Those who want to try a bit of trail riding but also need a bike to commute to work/ride on flatter terrains (cross country mountain bike)
• A solid floor of great performance (from great brakes, excellent drivetrain, dropper post, silver aluminum alloy…)

Trek Marlin 6 is not suited for…

• Anyone wanting to tackle tougher trails
• Those that don’t want to upgrade/change parts on their bike to improve the riding experience

What do users think of Trek Marlin 6?

There are a range of views here. Many people find that it works very well on flatter ground, and they enjoy the large wheels and multiple speeds. Quite a few users decided to change the grips and pedals  (for different types of pedaling), which made riding the Marlin 6 a bit more enjoyable.

Generally, it’s considered a good bike for the price, and people say it is a good bike for customization – so if you want a bit of a ‘blank slate’, you can tinker with it to your heart’s content.

On the other hand, people found that braking and sudden turns put stress on the suspension fork legs, making them stick – and that it generally feels like a stiff, not very responsive ride on trails. Small jumps and dips in the trail were quite unforgiving for some people, which is a shame. A few people mentioned that the undampened suspension also made for a less comfortable riding experience on trails.

So, mixed opinions – it could work for you if you want to give trails a go, or if you’re willing to customize it, but it’s mostly suited for commuting (with kickstand and all).

The Pros and Cons of the Trek Marlin 6

Here are the best and worst bits about this particular model:

• Great price point ( see here for latest )
• Very customizable
• Handy for commuting
• Doesn’t ride as well on trails
• Can be a bit stiff and unforgiving

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly asked questions about the Marlin 6.

It weighs around 31.77lbs.

The maximum weight for riders is 300lbs.

People suggest you can ride the Marlin 6 on blue and green level trails with no problems. However, there may be more suitable bikes out there for you if you plan to hit the trails a lot.

Most users don’t recommend it – it can deal with small drops okay, but it isn’t designed for jumps.

Yes – it comes in a variety of sizes, too, so you should be able to find one that suits you.

Yes, there are two choices – orange and silver.

Where can I find Trek bikes?

What are the Best Trek Marlin 6 alternatives?

There are a few alternatives we can recommend if you don’t want the Marlin 6:

Diamondback Overdrive – This is a great bike at a similar price point to the Marlin 6. The wheels have great traction (making it great for trail riding), and it has a comfortable seat. It’s also very easy to assemble out of the box, making it a good choice for beginners.

The classic returns this year with 27.5” wheels, 24 speeds, a plush four-inch Suntour suspension fork, and powerful disc brakes. Big knobby tires grip every root and rock, keeping you confident and in control as you explore the trail. Whether you're a diehard hardtail aficionado or looking for a solid starter mountain bike, the Overdrive doesn't disappoint.

Trek Marlin 5   – This is great for beginner riders and offers similar features to the Marlin 6, including the alpha silver aluminum frame. You can get it for as little as around $500 , which is great if you’re on a tight budget. Again, it’s great if you want a bike that can handle the commute (commuter road riding) as well as some mild-to-moderate mountain bike trails (road and trail).

Marlin 5 is a trail-worthy daily rider that's perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. A front suspension fork with 100mm of travel, 21 speeds, and mounts for a rack and kickstand make it an ideal choice for new trail riders or anyone looking for a comfortable, stable commuter with the ruggedness of a real mountain bike.

Kona Blast – this is a tough bike that comes in at under $1,000 but can handle some tougher trails than the others on this list, thanks to the robust frame sizes (also aluminum frame) and excellent suspension. It can also handle some good jumps, too, so if you want to go on more adventures with your bike, it could be worth the extra money.

Conclusion – is the Trek Marlin 6 worth buying?

The Marlin 6 is going to appeal to a specific type of person. If you’re on a tight budget, you want a bike that can handle mild trails and you want to use it to commute to work, then the Marlin 6 is a great bike for you.

Also, if you’re willing to tinker around with it, you can slowly upgrade it to improve your riding experience over time. This is a great bike if you’re new to the MTB world and you fancy customizing a bike for the first time (as a more novice rider).

However, you do get what you pay for, and in this case, this budget bike doesn’t stack up very well against its more expensive counterparts. It’s not as fun to ride as other bikes we’ve reviewed, especially on rocky, bumpy trails. If you want a hard-wearing bike that you can have an adventure with, the Marlin 6 isn’t going to be for you.

Bottom Line: So, we would recommend it overall ( you can pick it up online directly via Trek here ) – particularly if you’re on a tighter budget and you want to upgrade it later on down the line. It’s one of the best out of the box budget buys.  

If you can afford to spend a few hundred more dollars and you don’t want to bother with customization, we’d recommend investing in a different model that is a bit more comfortable to ride such as the Diamondback Overdrive .

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• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2022 Trek Marlin 6

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bike with upper mid-range components. Compare the full range

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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Compare the full Marlin model range

145cm – 156cm

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• 191cm, size XL, Just right

Not only is the Trek Marlin one of the most searched bikes on our website, it's also Trek's best selling mountain bike! And for good ...

Watch Review

Riders can expect updated geometry, a new frame, increased tire clearance and a rear axle system that "enhances stability," Trek said.

Read Review

Feb 2023 · Oscar Huckle

Can the Marlin compete with the bigger players?

Lots of frame sizes

Excellent tyre choice

Dropper seatpost

Upgrade potential

Roomier seated position would be preferred

Quick-release rather than thru-axle

Rattly internal cable routing

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

Wide range of gears with 2x9 drivetrain

Wheels and tires aren’t tubeless-ready

Jun 2019 · Alan Muldoon

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

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

Cable and chain rattle. Rear tyre is too skinny

Last updated 18 April Not listed for 8 days

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 Review

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

If you’re considering the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3, you’ve come to the right place.

In this review, we will take a closer look at this popular mountain bike and help you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Mountain biking is a thrilling and adventurous sport that requires a reliable and capable bike.

The Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 is a highly regarded option in the market, known for its durability and performance.

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

In this comprehensive review of the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3, we will delve into its features, performance, and overall value for money.

By the end, you will have a clear understanding of whether this mountain bike is the perfect companion for your off-road adventures.

So, let’s dive in and explore all that the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 has to offer.

– Lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum frame provides a sturdy and responsive ride.

– SR Suntour XCT 30 suspension fork absorbs bumps and rough terrain for a smoother ride.

– 1×10 Shimano Deore drivetrain offers a wide range of gears for tackling various terrains.

– Tektro hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all conditions.

– Bontrager XT3 Comp tires offer excellent traction and control on different surfaces.

– Internal cable routing gives the bike a clean and sleek appearance.

– Rack and kickstand mounts allow for easy customization and versatility.

– Comes with a lifetime warranty, ensuring long-lasting performance and peace of mind.

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 Review

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One of the standout features of the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 is its frame.

It is made from Alpha Silver Aluminum, which provides a lightweight and durable construction.

This ensures that the bike can withstand the rigors of off-road riding while remaining easy to maneuver.

The frame is also designed with internal routing for cables, giving the bike a clean and sleek appearance.

The Marlin 6 Gen 3 is equipped with a 1×10 Shimano drivetrain, which provides a wide range of gear options for tackling various terrains.

Whether you’re climbing steep hills or speeding down descents, this bike has the versatility to handle it all.

The Shimano Deore derailleurs ensure smooth and reliable shifting, allowing you to focus on the trail ahead.

When it comes to suspension, the Marlin 6 Gen 3 features a SR Suntour XCT 30 fork with 100mm of travel.

This provides ample cushioning and absorbs impact, allowing for a more comfortable ride on rough trails.

The fork also has a hydraulic lockout feature, which allows you to switch between a rigid and suspension mode depending on the terrain.

In terms of braking, the Marlin 6 Gen 3 is equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes.

This provides excellent stopping power and control, even in wet and muddy conditions.

With these brakes, you can confidently navigate technical descents and maintain control at high speeds.

Wheels and Tires

The Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 also comes with Bontrager Kovee rims and XT3 Comp tires.

These components offer good traction and stability, allowing you to confidently tackle various terrains.

Whether you’re riding on dirt trails or rocky paths, you can trust that this bike will provide a smooth and stable ride.

Overall, the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 is a versatile and reliable mountain bike that offers excellent performance at an affordable price.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to venture into off-road riding or an experienced cyclist seeking a budget-friendly option, this bike has everything you need.

With its durable frame, reliable drivetrain, and responsive suspension, the Marlin 6 Gen 3 is a solid choice for any mountain biking adventure.

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

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The $1150 Trek 6 Series 6700 Hardtail

Test quote: “The 6700 feels light on its feet when carving singletrack, and then it remains confident on the fast, fire road sweepers. It is no downhill bike, but it isn’t a nervous, wandering handful either. A quick-release seatpost clamp allows you to lower the saddle for extended descents.”

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Updated: Trek 6700 review

Sorted if not outstanding all-rounder

Guy Kesteven

The top dog in Trek’s 6000 range is a reliable, responsive and obedient ride, and it’ll have a decent go at most things, from racing to trail centre red routes. However, at this price we’d expect a better fork and overall kit level on what is an adequate rather than outstanding frame.

Ride & handling: Well-balanced overall ride that’s ready for anything

With a long (105mm) stem and a PopLoc remote lockout lever under your thumb, the first impressions of the 6700 are that it's designed for racing rather than more casual use. This also sets up a swift but safe rather than cut-and-thrust handling character that’s carried right thought the bike.

The mid-width 660mm low-riser bar gives enough leverage to coax it into corners without too much effort though, and it’s well balanced enough to surf the slippery-when-wet Bontrager tyres through boggy sections, or otherwise treacherous corners.

The neutral feel was appreciated by less aggressive riders, and the general feedback from all our testers was that it was a “safe and confident ride”. It’s not the lightest bike at this price but still hops and pops around well if you need to lift it over rather than roll through.

It climbs and drives out of corners with encouraging purpose too, and it’s comfortable enough to make day-long rides easy rather than a test of endurance. The reduced control of the TurnKey (rather than Motion Control) damping circuit of the RockShox Recon fork becomes more noticeable the harder you push the bike, though.

While the low (11.75in) bottom bracket aids stability, it sometimes makes itself noticed by pedal-to-ground strikes when you’re riding through bumpy corners. But you soon get used to such limitations. It’s essentially a well designed and reasonably equipped all-rounder that’s sprightly enough to make £1,200 seem well spent.

Frame & equipment: We'd hope for a better chassis and fork at this price

The 6700 is the most expensive model that uses Trek’s mid-range Alpha Black aluminium frameset. It’s a competent chassis with a balanced cross-country-style geometry. Features include a twin taper reinforced down tube, a big hydroformed top tube and a semi-integrated head tube.

There are three sets of bottle cage bosses and eyelets for a rack and mudguards, all of which point to the bike's all-rounder credentials and workhorse rather than thoroughbred breeding.

Going with the relatively cheap frameset doesn’t reap the dividends you might expect when it comes to kit. Specifically, while the TurnKey damper equipped Recon SL fork offers reasonable compression and rebound control, it's definitely lacking in composure compared with the RockShox Motion Control or Fox forks found on some other hardtails at this price.

The Shimano XT chainset and rear mech spec is diluted by SLX front mech and shifters, although these keep shifting just as slick and precise as XT. Avid's Elixir brakes are powerful performers, well suited to the bike's intended use.

The fat-carcass 2.2in XDX tyres on broad Bontrager Ranger rims add a welcome dose of float and comfortable buoyancy to the bike, as long as you’re prepared to ride the slide of the non-directional tread. The wheels aren't especially light but they're tough enough to take a bit of punishment.

The rest of the finishing parts are mid-range Bontrager tagged offerings, including a 660mm low-rise bar, comfy saddle, lightweight single-bolt seatpost and decent stem. The whole thing isn’t as light as we’d hope for a £1,200 racer though, at 11.7kg (25.8lb, without pedals).

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