trek marlin 7 test

Trek Marlin 7 Review: Is This Bike Worth It?

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In the world of high-performance entry-level mountain bikes, the Trek Marlin 7 is ahead of its time. This mountain biking crusher is an affordable and featured-packed bike with an awesome design that draws inspiration from race-inspired geometry to give the bike a superior advantage over similar options in its class and even better price range. That being said, for an entry-level bike, the Trek Marlin 7 is a reasonably expensive bike at right around $800; which makes a big difference, however. However, when you buy this bike from the Marlin lineup you will get access to tons of advanced features for the price.  The core value of this bike lies within its seamless integration of budget-friendly components with race-ready design elements that deliver real-world, and track-ready performance. 

You’ll find components of mid-range and high-level quality sprinkled throughout the main design of the Marlin 7, making it an ideal bike for those who want a taste of what higher priced models can do for their soft ride game.

Overall, the Marlin 7 is very lightweight and efficient yet powerful and streamlined, which gives it a unique appeal that you don’t find too often. It weighs about 31.05lbs in total and has 18 gears, which provides you with versatile shifting capabilities. 

The Trek’s Marlin 7 also features an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is very durable and light. It also features Bontrager wheels, which look great and provide excellent support when riding.

You’ll find that the suspension of the Marlin 7 is more than capable of handling rugged terrain and complex rides with ease. All of the features integrated into the Marlin 7 combine to create the perfect entry to mid-range bike for anyone looking to enhance their rides on and off the trails. 

If you’re interested in purchasing your first mountain bike which is  high-performing, feature-packed, yet affordable entry-level to intermediate mountain bike, the Trek Marlin 7 is a great choice, even for new mountain bikers.

To help you make an educated purchase decision, we’re going to provide you with a detailed review of the Trek Marlin 7 below. Make sure you read this entire review so that you can decide whether or not the Marlin 7 is the right bike for you, at least for giving it a test ride.

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.

Who is the Trek Marlin 7 for? 

The Trek Marlin 7 was designed for a wide range of riders, including new riders, trail riders, leisure riders, and full-on racers. Its race-inspired design in addition to its mid-quality components makes the Trek Marlin 7 the perfect bike for the average to advanced rider looking for a sturdy bike that is packed with tons of tailored features to fit their busy lifestyle.

This model is considered an entry to intermediate level bike due to the price and the manufacturing quality of some parts; however, that in no way correlates to a subpar product. 

In fact, Trek has been able to pull off its idealistic concept of a medium-level, high-performing, budget-friendly mountain bike that provides enough versatility for average riders to improve their existing expertise. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to upgrade to the more expensive categories of trail bikes but want to try one out before shelling out the big bucks. 

For those that fall into any of these categories, you’ll be more than satisfied with the Trek Marlin 7 as you go-to bike for quite some time. Now, let’s take an in-depth look at some of the main pros and cons of current owners of the Marlin 7 report after their experience. 

Pros & Cons: Trek Marlin 7 

The Trek Marlin 7, like any other mountain bike, has its own unique design advantages in addition to downfalls. Every rider wants a personalized experience out of their bike, so it can be hard to classify what one rider may deem as a con because another may see it like a pro.

However, that doesn’t exclude the fact that some flaws are more practical and measurable, so regardless of your opinion, it will affect your ride either unknowingly or knowingly. 

Below, you’re going to find our list of all the main pros and cons to consider before purchasing the Trak Marlin 7. 

• 18 Gear shifter provides versatile performance capabilities under a wide range of riding conditions
• Lightweight design that facilitates high-performance standards
• Race-ready design geometry delivers superior ride handling effortlessly
• Durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame
• Superior suspension system
• Versatile design and functionality
• Trek’s Lifetime warranty included with every purchase
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Rear kickstand mount
• Coil spring could use improvements
• The fork does not provide performance capabilities consistent with the rest of the bike.

As you can see, the Trek Marlin 7 is a capable mountain bike that keeps your budget in mind. Based on the pros and cons alone, the Marlin 7 delivers a very consistent amount of power for its build quality. Continue reading to find a full breakdown of the core features that the Trek Marlin 7 offers so you can know precisely what you’re getting if you decide to go with this bike. 

Core Features: Trek Marlin 7 

Like we’ve said before, the Trek Marlin 7 is a robust and versatile mid-range mountain bike that can deliver adaptable performance standards for riders of all types.

What truly makes this bike great is all of the thought and intuitive genius that went into designing it. If you polled most casual to moderate riders and asked them what they would want in a budget-friendly mid-range bike, they would likely list all of the features included with the Trek Marlin 7. 

Take a look below to find all of the critical specifications and details about the Trek Marlin 7 that can translate into real-world performance enhancements for all of your future rides. 

Front/Rear Derailleur 

The Marlin 7 comes outfitted with a Shimano Altus M2020 2-speed front derailleur and a Shimano Acera M3000 9-speed rear derailleur. Both components work together seamlessly to deliver smooth gear transitions that allow you to adapt your riding style in a wide range of terrains.

Their durable build quality enhances their functionality to provide you with consistent reliability with every pedal. 

Brakes 

The Marlin 7 also has MT200 Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, which deliver almost instant stopping power regardless of the terrain. These brakes perform great for providing immediate braking action when faced with high-speed docents and all sorts of other intense situations.

When you look at the brakes on this bike compared to its tire and wheelset, it’s the ability to stop in wet climates in unmatched in bikes of a similar class. 

Rims/Tires 

For the tires and rims, the Marlin 7 is packing Bontrager aluminum connection double-wall wheels and Bontrager XR2 Comp tires.

This combination provides real ride support in various conditions while also aiding the brakes in delivering an immense amount of stopping power that will impress any rider. While the wheels on the Marlin 7 are not tubeless-ready, you can convert them into a tubeless setup. 

Frame 

The Trek Marlin 7 has an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is ultra-lightweight and very durable. The Marlin 7 frame uses race-ready frame geometry to deliver actualized performance benefits when taking on demanding tasks such as serious singletrack aspirations or high-speed downhill attacks. The head tube angle on this bike is 69.5-degrees, and it has a 73-degree seat tube angle that puts in an optimal position for maximum handling control in all situations. 

The agile yet stable performance of the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame on this bike definitely makes it one of the leading choices for mid-range trail bikes. 

The fork on the Marlin 7 is a RockShox XC 30 adjustable fork that delivers enhanced performance upgrades that add 100mm of travel underneath your hands. In addition to this, it also comes with a preload function that makes it easy for you to adjust your ride before hitting the trails.

You’ll also find a turnkey lockout feature, which makes it easy for you to lock it in place with the simple switch of a button even while riding. This fork is optimal for rough terrains, technical trail rides, and fast descents. 

The Trek Marlin 7 comes outfitted with an efficient and lightweight 2×9 drivetrain that is built using a 36/22t crankset in addition to an 11-36T cassette.

These features combine to deliver broad gear range while also reducing the amount of time it takes to transition from one gear setting to another. It’s fast, high-performing, and built to last, enhancing the overall value of the Marlin 7. 

These are all of the main features that come packed into the Trek Marlin 7, after taking a look at them, you can probably see why it’s one of the best mid-range bikes currently available. In addition to all of the advanced ride capabilities mentioned above, the Marlin 7 also comes in seven different sizes ranging from XS up to XXL, so virtually anyone can enjoy the benefits of this bike. 

Consider what your personal ride preference and demands are compared to what the Marlin 7 has to offer. By doing so, you will be able to decide whether or not this is the right bike for you. If in case you want to check more options, you can read here all about Trek Marlin 5 and Trek Marlin 6.

Check out our full Marlin 7 vs Marlin 6 Comparison.

Alternative Recommendations 

1. savadeck deck300 carbon fiber mountain bike.

The SAVADECK DECK300 Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike is built using a TORAY T800 carbon fiber frame that delivers a durable and lightweight basis for this bike’s other performance features. It’s also outfitted with an SR Suntour fork that provides 100mm of suspension travel in addition to more precise control.

The high-quality fork also aids in supporting a comfortable ride in various environments, which is a great bonus. This bike has a Shimano RD-M6000 front derailleur and a Shimano RD-M6000 rear derailleur that allows you to efficiently operate the bike and jumpstart your rides. 

The braking system on this bike is a Shimano MT200 disc brake system that uses double mechanical disc brakes to deliver top-notch stopping power in virtually any terrain. You’ll also find a continental tire on this bike, which adds more versatility to the bike’s ability to handle multiple ride conditions with ease. This bike is easy to assemble and is excellent for intermediate and even professional riders who want a nice entry-level to toss around.

The braking system on this bike uses double mechanical disc brakes to deliver top-notch stopping power in virtually any terrain, as we as a continental tire which adds even more versatility!

2. Tommaso Gran Sasso 29er Mountain Bike 

The Tommaso Gran Sasso, 29er Mountain Bike, features a durable alloy frame that can withstand virtually anything you throw at it. The bike comes with 29” wheels that deliver ultimate grip and propellent force to keep you moving even when you encounter difficult riding situations.

These tires can withstand roots, rocks, branches, and more without even breaking a sweat. This bike also has a 24-speed Shimano drivetrain that delivers enhanced power and accurate control consistently.

It also comes with a Suntour SF 15-XCM form that adds 100mm of travel for even more ride versatility. It’s outfitted with a 680mm handlebar, which is comfortable and optimized to provide you with superior posturing so that you always maintain precise control on the bike. 

The bike comes with a standard one year warranty from the manufacturer, and all of the Shimano branded a two-year warranty covers parts. If you’re a rider who is looking for professional performance at an excellent and affordable price, this bike is the perfect choice for you. 

3. Diamondback Bicycles Full Suspension Mountain Bike

The Diamondback Bicycles Full RockShox Suspension Mountain Bike is the only full-suspension and not-so-entry-level bike on our list. This monster comes outfitted with a level link design that delivers 130mm of optimal rear suspension support.

This bike is crafted from a lightweight yet durable carbon frame with a Boost 148x12mm Maxle dropout for added ride versatility. You’ll also find that this bike has a KS LEV Si dropper post w/ an integrated Southpaw remote lever that provides enhanced maneuverability when attacking descents. The rear shocks mounts on this bike are Fox 34 performance float and fox DPS EVOL LV which deliver excellent suspension travel. 

The gears on this bike use an SRAM NX Eagle 11-50T single-ring drivetrain to deliver maximum versatility and power. If you’re in the market for a premium high-performing mountain bike and have a few more dollars to spend, this is a great selection.

The Diamondback Bicycles Full Suspension Mountain Bike is a full-suspension and not-so-entry-level bike with a level link design that delivers 130mm of optimal rear suspension support. 

Our Honest Opinion 

After taking an in-depth look at all of the core features and capabilities that come with the Trek Marlin 7 package, we would have no other choice but to recommend this bike. When compared to many of the other mountain bikes in its class, the Marlin 7 outperforms them in all areas including design, functionality, and performance. 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trail bike packed with advanced features and practical performance, the Trek Marlin 7 is a great choice. 

FAQs About Trek Marlin 7

Yes, the Trek Marlin 7 is a good quality entry-level bike that delivers high-performance standards and versatile riding capabilities. Its racing-inspired design gives it an edge over its competitors, making it one of the leading options in the entry-level and mid-range bike class.

Yes, when you consider the number of features and quality parts that come integrated with the Trek Marlin 7, it is worth every penny.

Yes, while the Trek Marlin 7 is designed like a racing-style bike, making it great for downhill as well as any type of offroad trail.

Conclusion 

Use all of the information, tips, and advice we’ve given you throughout this article to help decide whether the Trek Marlin 7 is right for you.

Take the time to read over our entire review so that you can compare its core features with everything you want in a mountain bike. As long as you do that, you’ll be taking on new trails with confidence in no time with the Marlin 7.

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Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Review: Affordable, Feature-Rich XC MTB

The Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is the second-from-top model in this family of versatile cross-country hardtails. 

The Marlin 7 is ideal for beginner mountain bikers who want to experience light off-road riding and use their bike for mixed-terrain commuting, bikepacking, and running errands.

However, although it looks the part, entry-level components mean this bike is limited in its capability on the trail.

The 2023 model is the same as the Trek Marlin 7 2022, only with an updated ‘Gen 2’ label, a feature of the brand’s new naming system for the upcoming year.

This Trek Marlin 7 review aims to help you figure out if it’s the right bike for you and your needs. 

How Much is the Trek Marlin 7?

Trek Marlin 7’s price is $1,030. The cheaper Marlin model costs $850, so for just $180 more, this bike has an improved RockShox fork, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and a bottom bracket and crankset from FSA. While these upgrades are modest, they easily justify the extra money. 

• RockShox fork
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
• Progressive sizing
• No tubeless-ready rims or tires

Trek Marlin 7 2023 Full List of Specs

Trek marlin 7 gen 2 full review, what kind of bike is a trek marlin 7.

So is the Trek Marlin 7 a trail bike? Not quite. Trail MTBs have 130mm or more of suspension travel; this model is a cross-country hardtail mountain bike for beginners.

Marlin 7 is available in three diverse color schemes, which makes it attractive to a wide range of riders.

The Marlin 7 has entry-level components to match the affordable price and thus has limitations on its ability to handle rougher trails. However, it performs well as a day-to-day bike for recreation, transport, and commuting. 

RockShox Judy Coil Fork 

RockShox’s Judy Silver coil spring fork is a notable inclusion at the ~$1,000 price point. This fork is light for the price and provides decent ride characteristics for a coil spring. In general, mountain bikes in this price range will have SR Suntour forks, like the cheaper Marlin models. 

The RockShox Judy coil fork offers 100mm of travel, but is not suitable for heavy-duty trial riding. However, it can handle dirt and gravel roads with ease.

The 100mm travel (80mm on XS) Judy Silver coil fork uses TurnKey lockout , which absorbs an unexpected hit with the lockout on, so you don’t blow it out. It also has preload adjustment.

Full Shimano Groupset

The Trek Marlin 7 is the only one of the five bikes to have a complete Shimano groupset , consisting of a Deore 10-speed drivetrain and MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, a solid, reliable setup for this price. 

Shimano’s Deore 10-speed groupset is a good fit for this bike as its parts are affordable to replace (such as the chain and cassette), yet it provides plenty of range and crisp shifting.

This drivetrain mixes a Deore 11-46t cassette with an FSA Alpha Drive 28t crankset, providing plenty of range for steep climbs. In addition, the Shimano shifters and derailleur can take a beating and maintain a relatively smooth shifting performance. 

Shimano hydraulic disc brakes are another noteworthy inclusion in this price range, as most brands use Tektro to keep costs down. These brakes are plenty powerful and dependable for a light-use mountain bike like the Trek Marlin 7.

Progressive Frame and Wheel Sizing

A shared design feature across the Trek Marlin family is the progressive sizing that provides a consistent fit across the wide range of rider heights.

The Marlin 7 has seven sizes spanning 4’9″ to 6’8″. For this reason, modifying the geometry and components was essential so the shortest rider gets the same experience as the tallest . To achieve this, Trek uses a curved top tube on the smaller sizes for a lower standover height, ‘Smart Wheel Sizes’ for a wheel that fits (27.5 or 29″), and short-reach brake levers and narrower handlebars for better control.

Trek Marlin 7 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 7 Gen 2 Best Suited For?

Trek’s Marlin 7 XC mountain bike is ideal for beginners who want a first bike to experience the trail and handle daily riding, such as commuting to work or school, transport around the city, or even multi-day bikepacking trips . 

With a rear rack fitted, Trek Marlin 7 transforms into a capable daily commuter or bikepacking companion.

The affordable price tag makes this model accessible to a wide range of budgets. In addition, the reliable Trek aluminum frame means you upgrade components as you develop your mountain biking skills. Unfortunately, the fork limits you to light off-road riding, so consider the Trek Marlin 8 if you want a more capable hardtail. 

Other Trek Marlin Bikes We Reviewed:

• Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

Is Marlin 7 Gen 2 a Good Buy?

This Trek bike is another competitive choice in the $1,000 price range . Innovative frame engineering, a solid Bontrager build kit, and reliable Shimano componentry make this bike a good deal. 

Marlin 7 in navy blue looks serious in elegant, which is just one of the three modern-looking paint jobs available.

Trek Marlin 7 reviews we’ve read online are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the value for money that it offers. Sure, it’s not very capable on bumpy terrain, but it serves its purpose as a beginner’s hardtail, giving you the opportunity to develop your technique on a bike that can do a bit of everything, on and off-road. 

Add the Marlin 7 to your shortlist if you want a stylish and affordable cross-country hardtail that’s built to last. 

Buy from Trek Bikes

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The Trek Marlin 7 Has The Heart Of A Race Bike

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

The Takeaway: The Marlin 7 combines race-inspired geometry with budget-friendly components for a versatile bike that’s ideal for aspiring racers and commuters alike.

• Aluminum frame with race-ready geometry
• 2 x 9-speed drivetrain
• Available in seven sizes from XS up to XXL

Price: $799 Weight: 31.4 lb.

It strays from the single chainring trend that’s common in off-road bikes at the moment, but two chainrings is a very good compromise for the smaller number of rear cogs in a nine-speed drivetrain–you typically don’t see 1x drivetrains until you step up to a 10-speed. The 22 x 36 smallest gear on the Marlin 7 is an easier gear than the 32 x 50 smallest combo often found on bikes equipped with SRAM’s much more expensive Eagle 12-speed drivetrain . The 36 x 11 combo, the largest gear on the Marlin 7, also outpaces the the 32 x 10 available with a more expensive 12–speed drivetrain, so you get more go-fast gearing as well. An added bonus with a 2x drivetrain is smaller jumps between gears, making this an excellent choice for an entry-level mountain bike.

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Rack Mounts

Rear mounts make this a good choice for touring and commuting.

Fork Lockout

This switch is easy to reach while riding and handy when you’re rolling on pavement and don’t need the front suspension.

2 x 9 Drivetrain

The 36/22 chainrings give you all the go-fast and get-up-the-hill gearing you’ll need.

Gear Indicator

The display on the rear shifter serves as a nice reminder of which gear you’re using.

Internal Routing

Hidden cables add to the sleek and fast aesthetic of this bike.

As racers we like to say “look fast, feel fast, go fast” –meaning you can’t go fast if you don’t look good. And the Marlin’s sharp lines and aggressive styling are sure to make you feel speedy as soon as you swing your leg over the top tube.

Trek Marlin 7 Details

Style: XC Material : Aluminum Wheel Size: 27.5 for XS and S, 29 for M through XXL Fork: 100mm RockShox XC30 Shifters: Shimano Altus 2 x 9-speed Front Derailleur: Shimano Altus Rear Derailleur: Shimano Acera Cranks: Shimano MT101 Chainrings: 36/22 Cassette: 11-36 9-speed Brakes: Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc Wheels: Aluminum Bontrager Connection Tires: 2.2-inch Bontrager XR2 Comp Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Seatpost: Aluminum Bontrager Handlebar: Aluminum Bontrager Stem: Aluminum Bontrager, Blendr compatible

Marlin Family

If you like the idea of the Marlin but some aspects of the 7 don't appeal to you, be it price, components, or some combination of those, there are a handful of lower-cost options available. Those models keep the same frame, but trim costs by downgrading the components and suspension fork.

The Marlin family also boasts two women-specific models that feature a lower stand-over height as well as shorter cranks, narrower handlebars, short-reach brake levers, and women’s saddles. Both the Marlin 5 ($550) and Marlin 6 ($650) are offered in men’s and women’s versions. The cheapest option however, the $480 Marlin 4, is only available in a unisex model.

Race-Inspired Design

While we joke that you have to look good in order to go fast, good looks can only carry you so far if the bones aren't good. In this case, when you look at the geometry you can see that this bike is extremely race–capable. The first standout is the 73 degree effective seat tube angle. Paired with a 69.5 degree head angle and 1159mm wheelbase (for our size XL test bike) you get a bike that'll be aggressive and nimble in tight singletrack, yet stable when barreling straight downhill at high speed. These are design elements you're just as likely to see on much pricier bikes made for high level competition. But don't let that scare you away from using this bike for purely recreational pursuits. It's perfect for that as well. In fact, the real gold in this bike is the fact that it's equally good as a casual weekend cruiser as it is an entry level racing bike.

Shimano 2 x 9–Speed Drivetrain

The 2 x 9-speed drivetrain blends Shimano Altus shifters and a front derailleur with the nicer Shimano Acera rear derailleur. The rear derailleur handles the bulk of the shifting load , so using a better rear derailleur with cheaper shifters is a good way to maintain drivetrain performance while still keeping overall price as low as possible.

Trek Marlin 7

Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes are more than capable of providing the level of control necessary for pushing your limits on high-speed descents. The bike rolls on aluminum Bontrager Connection hoops wrapped in Bontrager XR2 Comp tires and laced to aluminum quick-release hubs. These wheels aren’t, however, tubeless ready. That shouldn’t be a deal-breaker given it helps keep the final price as low as possible, and any wheelset can be easily converted to tubeless . That said, you don’t need to upgrade to tubeless to ride trails, but it does make for a better experience by allowing you to run lower tire pressure without fear of pinch flats. Lower pressure also softens the bumps and gives you better traction. If you want to make the leap to tubeless, any local bike shop should be able to guide you toward a cost-effective way to make the switch.

Ready to Throw Down

The Marlin 7 may be a cheap mountain bike , but it has the heart of a race steed. Unlike some bikes on the cheap end of the spectrum that cater to the recreational user, this one is aimed firmly at entry-level riders who want a bike that’s affordable yet capable of riding and racing hard. That was readily apparent from the first few pedal strokes. With the aggressive styling of the dramatically sloping top tube and the aggressive fit , this bike can grow with you as your addiction, ambition, and skill set grow. You can easily upgrade the components over time, and since the frame is aluminum, it’ll be able to handle multiple seasons of use.

Out in the woods, this bike does exactly what you’d want when riding hard. Agile steering and impressive shock absorption from the coil-spring RockShox XC30 fork make the Marlin 7 surprisingly adept at traversing extremely rocky and technical trails. It tracks nicely on fast sweeping turns, although on rough terrain it was more difficult to hold the line due to running high tire pressure–I tested this bike as-is without making the tubeless conversion. At just over 31 pounds, it’s not the lightest XC bike but still light and lively enough to clear knee-high logs. If this is making it sound like I loved this bike, that’s because I did. For new NICA racers and dirt-curious riders of all ages, the Marlin 7 is a worthy option.

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Review Of Trek Marlin 7: A Good Choice for Trail Enthusiasts?

Trek Marlin 7 is the flagship model from the Marlin lineup. 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. However, its $1,030 price is more than justified.

This is an affordable cross-country bike with race-ready geometry and a much better RockShox fork compared to other cheaper Marlin series models.

If you’re more serious about mountain biking and you want the key to the door of real trail riding , then you should read the rest of our detailed Trek Marlin 7 review. You’re guaranteed to like it.

Trek Marlin 7 Quick Overview

Trek marlin 7 main features, does trek marlin 7 fit your needs, verdict: good value or not, trek marlin 7.

The secret to Marlin 7’s success on the entry-level MTB market is the fact that it combines race-ready elements to budget components to offer a versatile package that fits diametrically different needs, such as trail riding, leisure riding, and commuting.

Key Specifications:

• Frame:  Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork: RockShox Judy, 100 mm (80mm for XS)
• Cassette: Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Deore M5120
• Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
• Rims:  Bontrager Connection, double-wall
• Tire Size:  27.5″/29″ x 2.20″
• Weight:  13.47 kg / 29.7 lbs

Get From Trek

Trek has obviously put a lot of effort into making Marlin 7 Gen 2 a gateway model to some of their higher-priced and higher-specked lineups such as Roscoe or Supercaliber.

Marlin 7 has features from both the entry-level and the mid-range world. It has excellent competition-worthy suspension , brakes, and frame, coupled with a low-level Shimano groupset and a heavier-than-ideal wheelset.

With a few smart upgrades, it can certainly become a bike that can lead you to a cross-country race podium!

Light and Efficient 1×10 Drivetrain

One of the high points of the Trek Malin 7 bike is its light and efficient 1×10 drivetrain. It’s built with an 11-46T cassette.

This means that it has an excellent range of gears .

High-Performing 100mm RockShox Fork

The RockShox Judy fork on Marlin 7 is a big improvement compared to the SR Suntour forks found on other lower-priced Marlin models.

It puts 100mm of travel under your hands but also equips you with a preload function and a Turnkey lockout. Therefore, you can lock it with the flip of a switch even when you’re riding.

The coil spring might make the fork feel a bit inefficient if you are very short and light, but if you have an average weight, you’ll be happy with it.

This fork is ready for fast descents , rocky terrain, and more technical trails.

Budget-Friendly Components

Shimano Deore components are an upgrade from the previous combination of Shimano Altus and Shimano Acera.

Deore is part of the Shimano lineup, the groupset is the cheapest group marketed towards real mountain bikers.

Deore is well-built and reliable, it even shares some features with more expensive groupsets.

Race-Ready Frame Geometry

By far the most important part of any bike is its frame. Trek Marlin 7 can be proud of its Alpha Silver Aluminum frame as its light, compliant, and nimble on the trails.

The race-inspired geometry makes this bike good both at tight and demanding singletracks, as well as at straight downhills attacked at high speeds.

Its 69.3-69.5-degree head tube angle combined with a 73.5-71.9-degree seat tube angle puts you in a good position to have maximum control.

Reliable Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes are a phenomenal mid-range choice. They are capable of providing you will all the braking power you need when attacking high-speed descents.

Combined with the aluminum Bontrager Connection double-wall wheels and knobby Bontrager XR2 Comp tires, you’ll get  maximum confidence in bends and in wet conditions.

These wheels are not tubeless-ready . Still, they can be easily converted to a tubeless setup which would give Marlin 7 even better trail properties.

To figure out whether or not Marlin 7 is the right bike for you, you first need to define your needs. If trail riding is your hobby or you believe that it might become that, then you should definitely buy Marlin 7. This is a race-ready bike that you can enter amateur competitions with or just have fun with your friends.

But, Marlin 7 is still not too trail-specific that it cannot accomplish other tasks as well. If you can only afford one bike and you want to be able to commute on it as well, this bike can do that.

A few miles on paved roads to get to work will feel like second nature. Best of all, on the way back home, you can hit some trails and end your day the right way.

Geometry & Sizing

Other marlin models.

• Marlin 4 – MSRP $630- Has a lightweight aluminum frame, plenty ogf gears, 100 mm of front suspension, and strong mechanical disc brakes.
• Marlin 5 – MSRP $740 – Combines a light aluminum frame, plush SR Suntour suspension, entry-level Shimano drivetrain, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes in a good-looking trail package.
• Marlin 6 – MSRP $850 – This model is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, a mid-range Shimano drivetrain, burly tires, and comes with 100 mm of front suspension travel with lockout.
• Marlin 7 – MSRP $1,030 – Trek’s race-worthy model with an Alloy frame, superior RockShox front suspension, quality drivetrain, Shimano components, and improved Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

Excellent geometry ensures agile steering and the coil-spring RockShox fork provides impressive shock absorption even on rocky surfaces.

The entry-level components keep the price in check but can be upgraded if need be. However, casual riders and first-timers on the trails can enjoy the original setup for years and miles to come.

• Efficient RockShox suspension
• Race-inspired geometry
• Strong Shimano hydraulic brakes
• Wide-range 1x10 drivetrain
• Three attractive colors
• Budget groupsets

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42 thoughts on “ review of trek marlin 7: a good choice for trail enthusiasts ”.

hi jeff im planning to buy marlin7 1,030 dollar DO I NEED TO CHANGE THE PEDAL IM GOING TO PERU INKAS TRAILS DO YOU THINK IS GOOD BUY TO TRAVEL THERE AND MAKE SOME HILLS IN MACCHU PICCHU TRAIL MOU

Hey Miguel, in my opinion, the stock pedals are perfectly fine. The only reason why you might want to change them is if you want to switch to clipless shoes and pedals. Otherwise, stick with the stock ones and enjoy your trip!

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Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Review

Are you in the market for a new mountain bike but unsure which one to choose? Look no further!

Today, we will be diving into a comprehensive review of the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, finding the perfect bike can be a daunting task.

We will explore the features, performance, and overall value of the Marlin 7 Gen 2 to help you make an informed decision.

Mountain biking has gained immense popularity in recent years, and with that, the options for bikes have expanded exponentially.

The Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is one of the top contenders in the market, offering a wide range of features and capabilities.

With its sleek design and impressive specifications, this bike has caught the attention of many riders.

Choosing the right mountain bike is crucial for an enjoyable and safe riding experience.

The Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 has garnered a lot of attention, but is it truly worth the investment?

In this review, we will analyze the bike’s components, performance on different terrains, and overall value for money.

By the end, you will have a clear understanding of whether the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is the perfect companion for your mountain biking adventures.

– Lightweight and durable frame: The Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 features a lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is both strong and durable, allowing you to tackle rough terrains with ease.

– Smooth and efficient drivetrain: Equipped with a 1×10 Shimano Deore drivetrain, this bike offers a wide range of gears for smooth and efficient shifting, ensuring you can conquer any hill or descent.

– Powerful disc brakes: The Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all weather conditions, giving you confidence and control on the trails.

– Responsive suspension: The RockShox Judy fork absorbs bumps and rough terrain from the 100mm of travel, providing a smooth and comfortable ride, while the lockout feature allows you to switch between a fully active suspension and a rigid fork for more efficient climbing.

– Sleek and stylish design: With its sleek and modern design, the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is not only a high-performance bike but also a head-turner on the trails.

Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 Review

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 Review

2023 Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

One of the standout features of the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is its lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, which provides a sturdy yet agile ride.

This frame is not only durable but also responsive, allowing riders to easily maneuver through various terrains with ease.

Whether you’re tackling rocky trails or cruising on smooth pavement, this bike offers a smooth and comfortable ride.

Another notable feature of the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is its impressive gear range.

Equipped with a 1×10 Shimano Deore drivetrain, this bike allows for seamless shifting between gears, ensuring optimal performance in any riding situation.

Whether you’re climbing steep hills or speeding down descents, you can trust that this bike will provide the necessary power and control.

Additionally, the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 boasts a reliable RockShox Judy fork that absorbs shocks and bumps along the way.

With its 100mm front suspension fork, this bike offers a smooth and comfortable ride, allowing riders to tackle rough terrains without feeling the impact.

This feature is particularly beneficial for off-road adventures, as it enhances overall stability and control.

In terms of braking performance, the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 does not disappoint.

Equipped with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, this bike offers reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.

Whether you’re riding in wet or dry conditions, you can trust that these brakes will provide consistent and effective stopping power, ensuring your safety on the trails.

Comfort and ergonomics are also prioritized in the design of the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2.

With its wide handlebars and ergonomic grips, this bike offers a comfortable and natural riding position, reducing strain and fatigue on long rides.

Additionally, the Bontrager Arvada saddle is designed with comfort in mind, providing ample support and cushioning for extended periods of riding.

Overall, the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is a top-notch mountain bike that offers exceptional performance and versatility.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore off-road trails or an experienced rider seeking a reliable and agile bike, this model is sure to meet your needs.

With its advanced features, durable construction, and comfortable design, the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 is a worthy investment for any cycling enthusiast.

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• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2023 Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3

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

Mentioned in Which Trek Marlin is Best for You?

Manufacturer Price

Marlin 7 Gen 3

In Stock: MD/LG, LG, XL, & XXL

Biloxi Bicycle Works

For This Bike

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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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Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

Compare the full Marlin model range

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

Apr 2024 · James Huang

Trek’s entry-level aluminum hardtail mountain bike.

Fantastic frame geometry

Excellent shifting

Looks great

Generous tire clearance

Easy-to-live-with semi-internal routing

Sort of a rear thru-axle.

Mega-heavy fork with minimal adjustability

Tubeless costs extra

Limited upgrade potential.

Read Review

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

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

Last updated April 28

Trek Marlin 7 Review: Best Overall Mountain Bike?

New mountain bikers looking to buy a great bike should consider everything the Trek Marlin 7 has to offer. 

This impressive mountain bike has it all. The Trek Marlin 7 is great for anyone who is just starting out or for those who have been riding for a while and want to upgrade to a new or better mountain bike. 

This review will tell you everything you need to know about the Trek Marlin 7 and help you decide if it’s the right mountain bike for you.

Trek Marlin 7 – Crucial Components

Drive train: .

The Marlin 7 drive train is highly efficient and extremely light. It has a wide range of gears and they all shift smoothly. 

The rear shifter is super convenient and makes shifting faster, with smaller jumps as the gears switch over. 

The rear shifter serves as a convenient gear indicator. It is designed to be easy to read and is very responsive, so you can get more out of your MTB. 

The rear derailleur also helps make shifting more smooth. 

The FSA Alpha Drive crank, combined with the race-inspired geometry of the Marlin 7, gives it a sleek and fast aesthetic.

Brakes: Hydraulic

Mountain biking is not all about traversing trails speedily, you will also need to stop quickly and smoothly. Luckily, the Trek Marlin 7 has a good braking system. 

It features a chainstay disc brake mount for added convenience and hydraulic disc brakes for a smooth stop. Hydraulic disc brakes are popular on race-worthy mountain bikes and are a top choice among new and experienced riders alike. 

The Shimano hydraulic disc brakes can be found on any mid-range bike as well as on higher-end race bikes.

Suspension: Advanced

If you want a comfortable ride, or if you plan to ride on more technical trails, you will appreciate the impressive shock absorption the bike offers. It’s sturdy enough to handle all the tough stuff you encounter on the trails. 

The coil spring allows the bike to move with the obstacles on the trail. The Trek Marlin 7 has an advanced suspension system that makes it a great cross-country bike and a great entry-level bike for trail riders that find comfort just as important as performance.

Frame: Alpha Silver Aluminum

The light frame of the Trek Marlin 7 is perfect for speed and performance. It also makes steering and control easier.  

The Alpha Silver aluminum frame is sturdy and capable of supporting a maximum total weight limit of 300 pounds. And it comes in different sizes to suit riders of various heights.

It has a race-ready frame geometry which is nice for both amateur riders and anyone who plans to ride on rough terrain and needs a bike that will endure a rocky ride. 

The lightweight RockShox fork and the Alpha Silver frame provide the total package when it comes to looks and performance. 

Wheels and Tires: Bontrager Connection 

The wheels and tires of an MTB affect its overall performance. The Trek Marlin 7 has Bontrager Connection tires and aluminum wheels, which are lightweight with a sleek design. 

The tires are thin but have a unique tread pattern that grabs the trail and helps keep the bike on track, regardless of the speed you’re going.

There are many extras available in the Marlin lineup that make these such popular bikes. For example, rear mounts are available for baskets and bags, if needed. 

Comp tires, Alpha Silver aluminum frames, double-wall tires, and internal-routing hidden cables are all features that deserve to be pointed out and help make the Trek Marlin 7 an impressively fast cross-country hardtail and a great first mountain bike. 

If that’s not enough to impress you, check out the Bontrager XR trail comp grips that are easy on the eyes and your hands. Even the small details, like the kickstand mount and rear kickstand, have been designed to be stylish and sturdy.

Pros and Cons of the Trek Marlin 7

If you are planning to buy a new MTB and have been considering the Trek Marlin 7, you can be assured that it’s a decent bike and is considered by many to be a great intermediate-level bike. But before you buy anything, it’s still a good idea to find out the pros and cons. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of this MTB:

• Fast shifting

The rear derailleur and the smooth drive chain allow the Trek Marlin 7 to shift through all the gears quickly and smoothly. 

• Lightweight frame

The lightweight aluminum frame allows this bike to fit on rack mounts and makes it easy to ride, steer, and carry, if needed, in between races or trail rides. This also makes shifting easier and enables you to go as fast as possible when racing.

The fast and easy shifting make the Trek Marlin 7 a very comfortable bike to ride. The adjustable seat tube allows riders to change their posture and position on the bike as needed. 

The lighter frame makes it easy to transport too, so it’s a good bike to have if you travel often to different locations. 

• Sleek design

Not only does this bike perform well, but it looks nice too. If you like a bike with a sleek appearance, this is the one to get. 

An internal cable routing system means everything is tucked away nicely. The thin tires and aluminum wheels also add to the look of the bike.

This bike is not cheap and may not be in everyone’s price range. At around $800, it falls into the middle-range price bracket. 

Although the price tag is quite hefty, it offers amazing value for money when you consider the specs.

• Low-level Shimano groupset

While the low-level Shimano components help keep the bike more affordable and lightweight, they may not be enough for more experienced bikers. If you need something a little more advanced, this is not the right bike for you.

How to Decide If the Trek Marlin 7 Mountain Bike Is Right for You

If you are in the market for a new bike for trail riding and are considering the Marlin 7, there are a few things you should consider to determine if it’s the right bike for you.

Riding Style

The type of MTB you choose should depend on the type of trails you ride. If you have serious singletrack aspirations, the Marlin 7 is a great option. The lightweight frame and Bontrager alloy wheels allow it to stay sturdy on the trail and take all the hits and bumps. 

The Trek Marlin 7 isn’t a cheap mountain bike, but it is affordable. Before you start shopping for any type of bike, you need to have an idea of your budget. 

Not all mountain bikes are within the same price range, and your budget will determine the type of bikes you can choose from. 

Keep in mind, when it comes to mountain bikes, you get what you pay for. For example, budget-friendly bikes may have entry-level Shimano components, while higher-end bikes will have better performing gears and parts.

Design Preference

While performance should always be a priority for bikers, you also want to think about the design of your bike. This bike has a sleek look, and if that’s what you are going for, it won’t disappoint. 

This is a bike that looks as good as it performs.

You want to make sure the bike you choose is ultra comfortable. If you aren’t comfortable on your bike, you won’t want to ride it as often and won’t get your money’s worth. 

This bike is very comfortable thanks to its adjustable seat and pedals, as well as gears that shift so smoothly you won’t feel any bumps or jumps as you switch gears. The suspension is also impressive and will keep your ride smooth and comfortable without a lot of shock and movement, even on the rough trails.

The Trek Marlin 7 is the most advanced and expensive bike in the Trek Bikes’ Marlin series, but it’s still a medium-level bike that average riders will enjoy the most because of its durability, price, and performance. If you’re a more serious rider, there are a few components you’ll probably want to upgrade.

Its rugged design makes it perfect for cross-country trails and mountains, so it may be a waste for more casual riders who are just looking for a bike to commute on. 

The Trek Marlin 7 could be considered a stepping stone to a high-level bike; however, because it looks so good and performs so well, it’s popular with riders of all levels.

Trek Marlin 7 Review: Is it A Good Bike?

• By Daniel Shakibaie
• Mountain Bike , Trek Bikes

Getting into trail riding and racing can be a little overwhelming. After all, most of the best bikes out there that can handle rough trails and high speeds are quite expensive. They’re highly specialized machines with a few goals in mind. 

Trail bikes must be:

• Lightweight
• Easy to steer and control

Fortunately, as technology continues to advance, more affordable XC bike options are becoming available. As frames become more streamlined, and advances in components make effective options cheaper, there are more choices available to cyclists and trail riders who don’t have sky-high bike budgets. 

Enter the Trek Marlin 7, the flagship of the affordable Marlin line. This is an affordable bike with a race-ready profile and fairly high-quality components. 

Our comprehensive review of the Trek Marlin 7 will cover the bike’s main features and benefits, how it performs in real life, and some head-to-head comparisons with similar models. 

Trek is one of the largest companies in the mountain biking world. It offers a wide variety of models from affordable entry-level bikes to premium racing bikes aimed specifically at the pros. Trek bikes are consistently high performing, thanks to great frame design and well thought out component choices. 

The Marlin line is one of Trek’s more affordable offerings, but this doesn’t mean that they aren’t serious bikes. The whole line is designed to be a good option for cross-country riding and mountain bikers who need a good, durable, fast bike without a huge price tag. 

This means that the Marlin line makes some compromises in order to keep prices lower. However, the total package of each bike is greater than the sum of its component parts. The Marlin 7 is the most expensive bike in the line, and it is also the most advanced. 

While it can be used as a commuter or a leisure bike, this really isn’t what the Marlin 7 is designed for. It’s aimed more at serious cyclists, and those who are looking to up their game, but who are limited to bikes costing under 1k. 

It’s also designed to enable customization and trail-performance improvements with some minor, relatively low-cost, modifications. 

Things to Consider Before Buying an XC Mountain Bike 

The main thing that you should consider before investing in an XC mountain bike such as the Trek Marlin 7 is whether you want to get into cross-country or mountain biking. While many of these bikes work as commuter bikes and leisure bikes in suburban and urban neighborhoods, this isn’t really what they’re designed for. 

More importantly, bikes that are designed to work as commuter bikes and leisure bikes are better designed for those jobs. XC Mountain bikes use their manufacturing budget on very different components and features to those of your typical commuter bike. 

You should also consider the price point when you’re in the market for an XC mountain bike. While good models are becoming more affordable, there’s still a limit as to what your dollar can get you. 

The more you spend, the more likely you are to get better suspension, more advanced braking systems, and a lighter, more streamlined frame.  

As you move down in price, you should pay close attention to frame and suspension systems. Those are the two most important aspects of any XC mountain bike, and they can both have a huge impact on performance. 

Even when you need to compromise for more affordable components in other areas, you should avoid compromising when it comes to the suspension and frame. 

Features and Benefits

Here are some of the key features and benefits of the Marlin 7. We’re only looking at the standard setup, but many of these components can be upgraded if you wish. 

The frame is the main component of the Trek Marlin 7 , as well as the only component which can’t be upgraded on the bike. Fortunately, there isn’t any reason why you’d want to upgrade this bike frame. 

The frame is designed with a reasonably aggressive rider stance and good racing balance. It’s very aerodynamic and about as light as can be expected from a durable XC mountain bike frame at this price. 

The carefully welded aluminum can handle just about the worst that any trail can throw at it. At 31.4 lbs., it’s heavier than some competition-oriented bikes, but lighter than many other models in its price range. 

Overall, it’s a good design and one which is ready for trail rides, races, and competitions, as well as for more casual riding. 

More: Best Folding Mountain Bike

Suspension System

This bike doesn’t offer a rear suspension system. However, the fork is a RockShox model and has 100mm of movement thanks to a spring coil in a hydraulic boosted system. 

This means that the front fork can absorb a lot of the jolts of impact without losing control. It can struggle a little on the roughest sections of the most technical trails, but this isn’t a huge downside as almost all bikes in this price range offer similar performance. 

The fork also offers an easy-to-reach locking system which makes it possible to turn off the suspension when you don’t need it, saving on wear and tear. 

It doesn’t have the scaling suspension sensitivity of more advanced forks, but this isn’t a huge disadvantage as this model is reactive without being overly springy or aggressive. Most of the time you won’t want to adjust the shock sensitivity anyway. 

More: Check our guide to Trek Marlin 4

The wheels are a fairly standard setup and work with tire sizes 27.5″/29″ x 2.20″, which gives you a reasonable range of different tire setups. The rims aren’t tubeless-ready, but it’s a relatively easy upgrade if you want to go tubeless for better trail performance. 

The basic Marlin 7 setup has 18 gears. The gear indicator gives you a handy reminder of which gear you’re using, making it simpler to learn to use the full range of gears and to switch gears quickly on more technically difficult trails. 

The entire gear system, including front and rear derailleur, is made from affordable Shimano parts. Shimano is one of the best manufacturers for high-performance gear systems. You get an Atlus shifter and front derailleur with an Acera rear derailleur. 

The whole system moves smoothly between gears. The gearing system is well-optimized for durability and switching quickly between gears. 

More: Check our Review of Trek 1120

You also get a hydraulic disc braking system with this bike, which is quite an upgrade from what you usually see on a bike in this price point. More specifically, you get Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, although this isn’t Shimano’s best braking system. 

These brakes are quick and responsive, and don’t cause shuddering or instability. They also don’t tend to pull to either side, which makes them a good choice for more technical trails. 

You should schedule regular maintenance for your brakes. Regular tune-ups and simple maintenance is all these brakes should require unless you really put them through the ringer. 

Is the Trek X Caliber 7 or the Trek Marlin 7 a Better Bike Option?

Looking for a reliable bike? A trek x caliber 7 bike review can help you decide. With its lightweight frame and smooth gear shifting, the X Caliber 7 is perfect for trail enthusiasts. However, the Trek Marlin 7 offers superior suspension and more versatile features, making it a great choice for adventurous riders.

What Other Customer Says

Users consistently comment that the Marlin 7 exceeds expectations for a bike in this price range. The racing-ready frame and reasonable mix of price and quality from each component out-performs similar bike models. 

It’s also consistently noted that this bike is a little beefier than most casual riders and commuter riders will need. It is certainly designed for mountains, trail riding, and even difficult cross-country riding, so it may be too much for less difficult applications. 

The only real downsides to this bike are the heavier weight of the frame and the fact that the wheel rims aren’t tubeless-ready. 

Alternatives

It’s difficult to get a real sense of any bike without comparing it to other similar models. In this section, we’ll look at two other contenders from the Marlin line, as well as two similar bikes which aren’t quite as connected to the Marlin 7. 

Trek Marlin 7 vs Giant Talon 2

The Giant Talon 2 is another Trek model just released in 2020. Both bikes offer a sturdy aluminum frame and hydraulic disc brakes. 

The Marlin 7 has two compatible tire sizes, giving you a little more flexibility than the Giant Talon 2, which only supports 27.5” wheels.

Both bikes also have a 2 x 9 drivetrain, and a RockShox fork. 

However, the Giant Talon 2 offers a slight improvement in its gearing system (still a Shimano system) and is a slightly lower price. 

While both bikes are similar, the Giant Talon 2 is ultimately a better deal thanks to its lower price and improved gear system.  

Trek Marlin 7 vs Marlin 6

Design-wise, the Marlin 6 and Marlin 7 are incredibly similar bikes. The frames are similar, and both are aluminum and durably welded. 

There are two major differences between the Marlin 6 and the Marlin 7 in terms of design. The Marlin 7 has an upgraded fork, as well as an upgraded rear derailleur. These differences can have a significant impact on performance as the Marlin 6 doesn’t offer much in the way of a suspension system. 

At the time of writing, there is about a $150 difference in price. This difference is largely just the difference in the price of the parts, so generally, we’d say it’s better to go ahead and upgrade to the Marlin 7 if you’re debating between the two. 

The performance differences are more than worth the price increase.  Check our guide to Marlin 6

Trek Marlin 7 vs Roscoe 6

The Trek Marlin 7 and the Roscoe 6 are both Trek models, and both are designed as entry-level bikes that are racing ready. 

However, there’s roughly a $200 difference in price between the Marlin 7 and the Roscoe 6. The Marlin is currently the flagship of the Marlin line, while the Roscoe 6 is a couple of generations behind the latest Roscoe model. 

One of the biggest differences is in the shifter. The Marlin 7 has a very affordable entry-level set of Shimano shifters, while the Roscoe 6 is upgraded several steps to a Shimano Deore system. 

The SR Suntour XCM 32 fork is also a serious upgrade in the suspension system, which offers a smoother ride which is much easier to control. 

While both are good entry-level options, the Marlin 7 is definitely the more affordable of the two. However, if you can afford some of the component upgrades that come with the Roscoe 6, its performance improvements are well worth it. 

Trek Marlin 7 vs Marlin 5

The Trek Marlin 5, two generations behind the Marlin 7, shows some of the tech differences between the two. 

As with the differences between the Marlin 7 and the Marlin 6, there are several similarities with a couple of significant performance differences. 

Between the 5 and the 7, the Marlin line has upgraded the derailleur and shifter sets. For example, the Marlin 5 uses the Tourney line of Shimano shifters, while the Marlin uses Atlus and Avilio models. 

The Marlin 5 also relies on a mechanical disc brake system, while the Marlin 7 has upgraded to hydraulic disc brakes. 

That being said, while there are serious performance differences, the Marlin 5 can still be considered to be a good investment for many riders. Noticeably cheaper, the Marlin 5 is best as more of casual bike, while the Marlin 7 is a good entry-level racing and cross-country bike.  check our detailed review of Trek Marlin 5 here.

Overall, the Marlin 7 is about the best low-cost entry-level racing bike you can buy for less than 1K of upfront investment. There are a few components you’ll most likely want to upgrade as you start to take racing a little more seriously

The Marlin 7 is a rugged, durable, and relatively flexible bike for all kinds of different applications. 

About The Author

Daniel Shakibaie

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Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 Review

• good value for money
• climbing ace
• very good wheels
• 25 years warranty

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Marlin 7 Gen 3 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (Beginners-Bike up to 1000 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 999 €.

Expirience with the Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3

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Trek marlin 7 gen 3 vs trek marlin 8.

Je steiler der Winkel des Sitzrohrs ist, desto effizienter können Sie in die Pedale treten.

• Frame Marlin Alpha Silver Aluminum, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR
• Frame Material Aluminium
• Fork Größe: XS , S RockShox Judy, Spiralfeder, verstellbare Federvorspannung, TurnKey-Lockout, 42 mm Vorbiegung für 27,5"-Laufrad, 100-mm-Schnellspannachse, 100 mm Federweg
• Spring Unit coil
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Gearrange 655%
• Drivetrain 3x10
• Gear Lever Shimano Deore M4100, 10fach
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore M5120, langer Käfig
• Crank Größe: XS , S , M FSA Alpha Drive, Stahlkettenblatt (28 Z.), 170 mm Länge
• Cassette Shimano Deore M4100, 11-46 Z., 10fach
• Chain KMC X10, für 10fach-Kassette
• Brake Set Hydraulische Scheibenbremse Shimano MT200
• Brake Rotors 180/160
• Rims Bontrager Kovee, Hohlkammerfelge, Tubeless Ready, 28-Loch, 23 mm Innenweite, Presta-Ventil
• Front Hub Formula DC-20, Aluminium, 6-Loch
• Rear Hub Größe: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Formula DC-22, Aluminium, 6-Loch-Scheibenaufnahme, 8/9/10-Freilaufnabe von Shimano, 135 x 5 mm-Schnellspannachse
• Tires Front Größe: XS , S Bontrager XT3 Comp, Drahtwulstkern, 30 TPI, 27.5 x 2.40
• Tires Rear Größe: XS , S Bontrager XT3 Comp, Drahtwulstkern, 30 TPI, 27.5 x 2.40
• Saddle "Bontrager Arvada, Stahlstreben, 138 mm Breite
• Seat Post Größe: ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager aus Aluminium, 31,6 mm, 12 mm Versatz, 400 mm Länge
• Stem Größe: M , ML , L Bontrager Comp, 31 8 mm, Blendr-kompatibel, 7 Grad, 50 mm Länge
• Handle Bar Größe: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager aus Aluminium, 31,8 mm, 15 mm Rise, 750 mm Breite
• Handle Bar Width 750
• Head Set Semi-integriert, 1 1/8"

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Cycle Travel Overload

Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Trek Marlin 7 2023 Review

In todays article we take a look at the all new Trek Marlin 7 2021 model. The Marlin 7 is the beginning of Treks higher end bikes. This bike comes with upper mid-range components and also a inviting price tag of $1,099.99

What is the Marlin?

The Marlin 7 is a crosscountry hardtail Mountain Bike. It is one of Treks most popular selling MTB. The Marlin 7 is the best option you can pick up in their line-up. With other Marlin options offer even more affordable price tags. However this Marlin 7 is the best bang for buck.

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).

This means a FSA Alpha Drive, 28T steel ring, Boost crank. With a Shimano Deore M4100, 11-46 cassette. Combined with the Bontrager Connection rims and 29×2.20″ Bontrager XR2 Comp tires. The bike achieves an 17.62″ climbing gear and 73.66″ largest gear. That’s a 0.61 to 2.55 gear ratio.

Just quick for those of you who don’t know much about gear inches. They typically range from 18 (very low gearing) via 70 (medium gearing) to 125 (very high gearing). So low gearing is for going up hills and high gearing is for going fast.

Giant Talon vs Trek Marlin – Comparing the Difference!

Anything under 18″ for climbing is ideal for a mountain bike. Sometimes 1x drivetrains are not the most capable for climbing running larger tooth cranks but this Marlin has no trouble here.

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.

The bike comes with all the expected rack mounts, to carry all the gear and accessories for tours. Suspension lockout which helps when riding on road when you need efficiency compared to bump absorption.

On the chainstay you have to option to mount a rear kickstand, to keep the overall look of the bike clean and simple it has internal cable routing. Adding to the clean design, you get the option with Bontrager gear to mount accessories like lights directly onto the stem, thanks to the Blendr Stem.

Just quick…..

How travel ruined my life!

There’s a profound revelation I’ve stumbled upon in my lifelong romance with travel, one that’s pushed me to question if this love has a darker side. 

In my latest video, I take you on a personal journey, sharing an unexpected struggle I’m experiencing – the tug of war between an insatiable wanderlust and an imposed static existence.

In this raw and unscripted narrative, I walk you through my inner battles – the constant wrestling between routine and adventure, the strange ‘travel blues’ that seem to descend when I’m not constantly on the move.

Is there a downside to the exploratory freedom we often laud? Could this relentless pursuit of the new and the unknown have unintended consequences? 

I invite you to join me in this introspective journey as we navigate these perplexing questions together. 

Are you ready? Click here to watch the video now. Let’s traverse this uncharted territory together.

Okay, let’s get back to the article…

Marlin 7 2020 vs Marlin 7 2021 vs Marlin 7 Gen 2 2023

What is the difference between the 2020 and 2021 Trek Marlin 7? It has seen some updates. The frame is pretty much the same, with an identical geometry. But the new 2021 model has much better quality components, 2020 having the 2 x 9 Acera, Altus groupset/drivetrain (rated 1 out of 5 stars out of all mountain bikes).

The 2020 Marlin 7 has a better gear range, with both bikes having the exact sample climbing capabilities. The new 2021 model is more limited and will spin out before the 2020 Marlin, because of the 1x drivetrain.

The 2020 also had a different fork, the RockShox 30 Silver TK. While the 2021 model is 300 grams lighter.

Below you can see a detailed table comparing both bikes side by side.

Also below is a comparison table of each bikes specs.

Trek Marlin 7 Women’s

The Marlin bikes also come in women’s options, which is perfect! His and her bikes anyone?

This bike has some slight differences compared to the Marlin 7. As a womens bike it comes in smaller sizes with slight adjustments. The frame is still the Alpha Silver Aluminium however it features a low standover. Thanks to the downward curved top-tube.

The women’s option weighs 29.8 lbs / 13.5 kg which is 300 grams lighter. All other components and parts stay the same. For the exception of a different saddle. The Womens Marlin 7 has the Bontrager Ajna 1 Women’s saddle. And the other Marlin 7 has the Bontrager Arvada.

Trek Marlin 6 vs Trek Marlin 7

What is the difference between Trek Marlin 6 and 7? We have a more detailed article which compares these two bike models.

In a nutshell, the main differences is the bikes components. The Marlin 6 has lesser quality components then the Marlin 7. But the Marlin 6 is cheaper by $200.

The Marlin 7 is slightly better at climbing but the Marlin 6 is more capable at descending. The Marlin 6 is 700 grams heavier then the Marlin 7. Check out this article if you want more info on these two bikes. (Coming soon)

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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Trek Marlin 7

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Colour / Matte Trek Black

Size / 13.5, 15.5" (27.5" wheels); 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5, 23" (29" wheels)

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Silver Aluminum w/semi-integrated head tube, rack & fender mounts, G2 Geometry on 29ers
• Wheels Formula DC20 alloy front hub; Formula DC22 alloy rear hub; Bontrager Connection 32-hole double-walled rims
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Tires Bontrager XR2, 29x2.20" front, 29x2.00" rear (13.5 & 15.5: 27.5x2.20")
• Crank Shimano M351, 44/32/22
• Front Derailleur Shimano Altus
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Acera M3000, Shadow
• Shifters Shimano Altus M370, 9 speed
• Brakeset Tektro M285 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Evoke 1.5
• Seatpost Bontrager SSR, 2-bolt head, 27.2mm, 12mm offset
• Stem Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 7mm rise, Blendr compatible
• Headset 1-1/8" threadless, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings

Q: What size wheels does the 2017 Trek Marlin 7 have?

The 2017 Trek Marlin 7 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2017 Trek Marlin 7 should I get?

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Trek Marlin Gen 3 review: Good bones

Solid fundamentals and outstanding geometry for XC newcomers, but also some inherent upgrade limitations.

When it comes to cross-country mountain bikes, the lion’s share of the attention is devoted to the high-end, short-travel, full-suspension machines like the Specialized Epic 8 , Trek Supercaliber , and Cannondale Scalpel . That’s perhaps as it should be for seasoned racers and/or buyers with deep pockets, but for newcomers coming from other cycling disciplines, kids, and the generally MTB-curious who will ultimately fuel the continuing survival (perhaps even growth?) of the segment, the aluminum hardtail is still where it’s at – and Trek’s third-generation Marlin line comes across as one of the better options out there.

The short of it: Trek’s entry-level aluminum hardtail mountain bike. Good stuff:  Fantastic frame geometry, excellent shifting, good tires, looks great, generous tire clearance, easy-to-live-with semi-internal routing, sort of a rear thru-axle. Bad stuff:  Mega-heavy fork with minimal adjustability, tubeless costs extra, limited upgrade potential.

Looking at what goes into Trek’s latest-generation Marlin, there’s not a whole lot that leaps off the page, which perhaps shouldn’t be entirely surprising given most buyers at this price point will probably be making their decisions based on spec and aesthetics. In that sense, the Marlin is exactly what you’d expect.

The frame is a TIG-welded aluminum affair with chunky weld beads that do without the additional hand-sanding that can sometimes go with a higher-end alloy chassis. The layout is low-slung with a highly sloping top tube that offers heaps of standover clearance, and straight-gauge tubing is featured throughout.

The hydroformed shaping on those tubes is much more dramatic than the outgoing Gen 2 Marlin. The top tube is squished down almost flat to help soften the ride of the front end while the down tube sports a rounded trapezoidal cross-section to minimize twist under load; both are notably flared where they meet the straight 1 1/8” integrated head tube to increase front-end strength. 

The seatstays are subtly flattened – presumably for the same reason as the top tube – and while the seat tube is basically round, it’s slightly curved to leave a bit more space for the rear tire with a welded-on gusset for the extension up top. Pretty standard stuff all around, so far.

The chainstays are where things get really interesting. They feature a bridgeless design to prevent mud build-up, and the S-bend at the bottom bracket is much more complex than before. Trek has also dropped both sides a bit as compared to the previous Marlin, and the changes help boost claimed tire clearance to a more useful 2.4” (up from 2.2”). 

Further back, the previous Marlin’s open quick-release dropouts have finally gone away in favor of a hybrid setup that Trek calls ThruSkew. Make no mistake: the hub dimensions are the same as before. But whereas the old Marlin uses the common quick-release skewer, the new one gets a thru-bolt arrangement that Trek claims is more secure than an open dropout while still saving production costs as compared to the oversized thru-axles found on more expensive bikes. 

Far and away the biggest improvement lies somewhat beneath the surface with vastly more modern and progressive frame geometry. Compared to the Gen 2, head tubes are dramatically slacker across the board – by almost 3°, in fact – the seat tube angles are more subtly steeper by about a degree, reach dimensions have grown by a 15-54 mm (depending on size), and bottom bracket heights have dropped a few millimeters.

Taken together, the changes are intended to place the rider is a more central position between the wheels, and they also push the front wheel further out in front for more confidence on steeper and/or more slippery terrain, similar to trends we’ve seen more generally elsewhere in the mountain bike space over the past several years. 

Impressively, Trek continues to offer the Marlin in seven frame sizes that are designed to accommodate a huge range of rider heights from 1.35 to 2.03 m (4’ 5” to 6’ 8”), with all but the two smallest sizes built around 29”-diameter wheels.

Other features include a conventional English-threaded bottom bracket shell, partially internal cable routing, and a big molded rubber guard for the driveside chainstay to keep things quiet and clean. There’s even a fair bit of versatility baked into the Marlin frame with mounts for a rear rack and kickstand, and there’s also an extra port in the down tube for a dropper seatpost should you decide to add one later. 

Trek says a raw medium Marlin frame tips the scales at about 1,800 g, plus another 100-150 g for paint. 

Trek offers the Marlin in four build kits, and for this review I went with a middle child to stick below that critical US$1,000 / AU$1,500 / £775 / €850 price point. In early April, Trek added new build options of the Marlin 7 (with a dropper post), 6, and 5, while still offering the pre-existing ones, which are themselves still current model year. It’s somewhat confusing, not least to dealers, but for clarity my test bike was the dropper-less Marlin 7 build kit.

For that fairly modest sum, Trek outfits the Marlin frame with a 100 mm-travel RockShox Judy suspension fork, a 1×10 Shimano Deore transmission with an FSA Alpha Drive aluminum crank, 23 mm-wide Bontrager Kovee tubeless-compatible aluminum wheels rolling on sealed cartridge bearing hubs and wrapped with 2.4”-wide Bontrager XT3 Comp tires, and Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm-diameter front and 160 mm rear Shimano RT26 rotors. Finishing kit is pretty basic aluminum stuff all around, capped with a Bontrager Arvada saddle and Bontrager XR Trail Comp lock-on grips. 

It’s no lightweight in stock form at 14.12 kg (31.13 lb), but that’s pretty much par for the course.

Gone fishing

While there are definitely bikes that continue to push the envelope of just how long, low, and slack you can go, Trek has found a nice sweet spot with the Marlin and there’s a very good reason why this sort of thing has become so popular: it works. I’ve come to prefer this style of geometry on my personal bikes – both longer- and shorter-travel ones – because of how they provide more flexibility in where I put my weight in different situations and the added stability at higher speeds. But what really matters in the context of the Marlin is how that layout makes for a more forgiving setup than XC geometries of yesteryear.

If you chuck the Marlin into a corner that doesn’t have quite as much grip as you expected, the front end is more apt to just push a little – otherwise known as understeer – instead of immediately and unceremoniously dumping you onto the dirt. On steep descents, the Marlin allows you to stay centered over the bike instead of awkwardly shifting your weight rearward to keep you from feeling like you’re about to go over the bars. And yet on steeper climbs, the front end isn’t so long that you need to work to keep the wheel from lifting off the ground with each pedal stroke. 

In other words, the Marlin’s geometry leaves more room for error as you continue to learn how knobby tires work on dirt, but also more space to grow your skills without constantly having to pick yourself off the ground and wonder what went wrong. Put in simpler terms, the Marlin’s modern frame geometry also just makes it fun and confidence-inspiring to ride.

The Marlin frame is pretty good in the more traditional metrics, too.

It pedals about as you’d expect for a hardtail (at least compared to lower-end full-suspension bikes), with pleasant levels of snappiness and feedback when you get on the gas and impressively good frame stiffness. I was expecting a backboard-stiff ride quality given the straightforward aluminum hardtail frame and thick-walled, 31.6 mm-diameter seatpost, but even that was a pleasant surprise. The Marlin is still a hardtail, of course, but even with those 2.4”-wide tires inflated a smidgeon more than usual to keep from pinch-flatting on all the sharp rocks I have around here, it’s actually reasonably smooth over rough stuff. 

Bonus points to Trek for not following the lead of lower-end road bikes by routing the control lines through the upper headset bearing for absolutely no good reason whatsoever ( aside from misguided vanity ). The ports on the side of the down tube are clean-looking and effective, and although the foam tubing installed at the factory still allowed a bit of internal rattling on particularly bumpy sections of trail, it’s overall a very clean setup that won’t rub the paint off of the frame over time, either.

Build kit breakdown

It’s pretty easy for a product manager to do a good job on spec when the bike is an ultra-premium model with a five-figure price tag, but that task is far more challenging when you’re watching every last penny. Trek has gotten a lot of things right on the Marlin 7 Gen 3, but also left a fair bit of room for improvement.

Let’s touch on the high points first.

Trek likely saved a bit of cash in the drivetrain by speccing an FSA Alpha Drive crankset and KMC X10 chain instead of a 100% matched setup, but the Shimano Deore bits are there where it matters most and serve as a potent reminder that at this end of the market, Shimano absolutely obliterates the performance of its rivals. Individual shifts under normal pedaling efforts on the Marlin 7 were as smooth as could be, and even multiple shifts under harder efforts were consistently reliable. The whole setup was pleasantly quiet and feels impressively premium, too, and bonus points to Shimano for making the Deore pulley cage clutch a user-serviceable item. If there’s a better option than this at this price point, I’m all ears.

The Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes are more ho-hum. The levers are weirdly long (probably because newer riders are more comfortable using two fingers instead of just one), but the lever action is light and snappy with a clearly defined engagement point and user-friendly mineral oil-based system. Pad clearance is fairly generous and it’s easy to set the calipers to run rub-free. MT200s aren’t exactly renowned for their power what with their two-piston format and fairly small pads, but the 180 mm-diameter front rotor helps boost the overall performance to more reasonable levels – a good thing since the RT26 rotors aren’t approved for use with metallic pad compounds. Overall, these aren’t going to blow anyone’s socks off, but they get the job done.

I usually don’t expect much for base-level mountain bike tires, but the Bontrager XT3’s tread design genuinely surprised me. The well-reinforced shoulder knobs and moderately squared-off profile offered grip through loose corners, with just enough intermediate tread for a smooth transition between being upright and leaned over. The center tread also sports a ramped leading edge and spacing that’s close enough that it doesn’t feel like you’re dragging an anchor behind you, but yet with enough open area to dig into softer dirt when available. They’ve even been wearing decently well, which is a good thing considering tires aren’t exactly cheap these days.

The Bontrager finishing kit was quite nice in general, actually. The Arvada saddle’s flat profile and firm padding offer good support, while the deep central channel keeps pressure off of your sensitive bits. The lock-on grips sport plastic, not metal, collars but still clamp tight and offer a secure hold with tacky rubber and a ribbed pattern that’s easy on the hands, and the aluminum riser bar is usefully wide at 750 mm. Heck, Trek even does size-specific widths here, with small bikes getting a 720 mm-wide bar and XS bikes getting a 690 mm one. 

As for the stem and seatpost, they’re nothing special. I do appreciate that the former is compatible with Bontrager’s handy Blendr system of accessory mounts, while the two-bolt head on the latter is definitely easier to adjust and more reliable than just about any single-bolt system out there.

The list of not-so-great stuff isn’t necessarily longer, but it unfortunately includes some major drawbacks.

The RockShox Judy suspension fork is about as basic as it gets, with a steel coil spring on one side and a non-adjustable damper on the other. Spring preload can be increased via a handy crown-mounted knob, but spring rate is fixed – and unfortunately, too stiff for my 73 kg (160 lb) body weight. Although it should be straightforward to swap to a softer spring, RockShox doesn’t offer any alternatives.

New riders might find the handy crown-mounted lockout knob to be a plus, but not when it comes at the expense of adjustable rebound damping as I’d take the latter over the former any day of the week. Coupled with that overly firm spring, I found the rebound to be too fast for my liking, and the fork did only a marginal job of keeping the front wheel planted on the ground when things got even remotely tricky. 

The wheels could stand some improvement for sure. The 23 mm inner rim width is on the narrow side – I run wider rims on my gravel bike – and although both the tires and rims are tubeless-compatible, Trek doesn’t use tubeless tape on the rims so that’s an additional conversion cost on top of the valve stems and sealant you already have to buy extra. Build quality was disappointing, too, with insufficient spoke tension on the rear wheel and enough popping and pinging to tell me neither wheel was properly de-stressed at the factory, none of which bodes well for long-term durability. And that external-cam front quick-release skewer? Have we learned nothing, bike industry? Mine came loose on the first ride and definitely needed an unusually high amount of lever force to keep it from happening again.

Another ding against the fork and wheels is their weight, as all three of them are seriously hefty items. RockShox doesn’t even bother to list an official weight for the Judy, but I can tell you its steel stanchions (and steel steerer!) push the actual weight of my test sample to just shy of 2.4 kg (5.29 lb). The wheels aren’t quite as egregious at around 2,300 g per pair, but the stock tires don’t exactly help matters at over 1 kg each. 

Upgrade conundrum

One thing that should be considered for bikes at this price point is the potential for upgrades. Oftentimes, these bikes are purchased as a stepping stone in hopes of becoming more proficient at the sport, and it’d be nice if the bike could grow with your skills to some degree. In that sense, the Marlin 7 is … interesting.

Tires should always be the first items on that list as they have the biggest effect on how a bike – any bike – performs. You can thankfully get decent replacements for under US$100 per pair, and given how heavy the stock rubber is on the Marlin, you can also lop off hundreds of grams of rotating weight in the process. So skid away with those stock tires, my friends, skid away.

Another obvious addition is a dropper seatpost, which Trek facilitates with that spare internal routing port. The PNW Components Rainier is widely regarded as working well and reliable, and it’s less than US$200. Given how heavy the Marlin is already, why add weight with the dropper, you ask? Simple: control. Given the choice between a hardtail with a dropper and a full-suspension bike without one, I’d choose the former every time – and I don’t think I’m in the minority.

On the surface, upgrading the wheels and/or fork isn’t as straightforward since Trek has unfortunately limited your options with the quick-release hubs and straight 1 1/8” steerer, as even mid-range components have moved on from those antiquated standards long ago. That said, Hunt (and likely others) still offers good aluminum wheels with quick-release hubs for a few hundred bucks, and there’s heaps of potential in the used market since parts with those outdated fitments can be had for a song – sometimes even at local community bike shops where there’s a good chance someone has donated parts that can be purchased for next to nothing. 

“On the front of the bike, thru axle costs are not only higher with hubs and axles, but also the forks themselves,” explained Trek mountain bike product manager Chris Drewes. “These costs trickle down to headset cost, and frame manufacturing costs as well. Rear quick-release saves cost in many ways. When you add in the cost of thru axles for frame manufacturing and thru-axle compatible hubs, there is a significant cost difference. That being said there are quite a few wheel manufacturers that offer endcap swaps with their higher-end wheels. Upgrading the Marlin, we see a lot of riders doing drivetrain/dropper post/cockpit upgrades rather than the bigger items like a fork or wheels.”

Would I have preferred that Trek gone with modern thru-axles and a tapered steerer? No question. But the reality is both are still the norm at this price range throughout the industry, and for a bike like the Marlin, I’m not sure I’d consider either a total deal breaker.

Sizing up some of the competition

There are a whole bunch of similar bikes at this price range – so many (and with so much international variation) that it’d be impossible for me to compare them all here. That said, it’s worth taking a look at how some of them fare versus the Marlin 7 Gen 3, keeping in mind that this is only a hypothetical look on paper as I haven’t actually ridden any of these other bikes.

First up is the Specialized Rockhopper Comp . Despite the similar frame and fork, it has a major weight advantage of over 1.5 kg, much of which is in the wheels and tires, which would likely make it feel fleeter on its feet than the Marlin. It’s also more XC-oriented in general with a 2° steeper head tube angle and shorter reach for quicker handling, and while those tires are substantially lighter, the faster-rolling tread won’t offer nearly as much grip, either. This is an interesting option if you’re seeking an aluminum hardtail with a longer-term eye on racing, but the Marlin strikes me as the better all-rounder.

Ok, and then there’s the Giant Talon 1 . Giant historically has offered unusually strong spec for the money compared to other mainstream brands, and it’s no different here. Although most of the components are comparable to the Marlin 7, the biggest upgrade here is the house-brand SXC32-2 RL fork. The stanchions are larger in diameter for more precise handling, and along with the steerer, they’re aluminum for dramatically lower weight than what comes on the Marlin. The air spring drops weight even further and adds critical adjustability, and the hydraulic damper also includes adjustable rebound, all of which should make for a far more capable front end that’ll offer more control and speed. 

Like the Rockhopper, the Talon’s frame geometry is on the more traditional side of things with a similarly steep head tube angle and short reach, but that fork alone is a big advantage over both the Marlin and Rockhopper.

Finally, there’s the Canyon Grand Canyon 5 . Consumer-direct outfits like Canyon often blow mainstream offerings out of the water in terms of value, and the Grand Canyon 5 makes a strong case for that here. The frame is still QR front and rear with geometry that isn’t quite as progressive as the Marlin’s, the Suntour fork features steel stanchions and a steel coil spring, and the wheels are similarly basic aluminum units. If the claimed weight is accurate, it’s actually heavier than the Marlin. 

However, you do get a proper Shimano external-bearing crankset and adjustable rebound on the fork, and at a price that undercuts the other three bikes mentioned here by about US$200-250. From a value perspective, this one seems tough to beat.

The final word

There’s a saying about buying a house that often comes to mind when comparing the pros and cons of various bikes: location, location, location. The idea there is that while you might be sucked into a home’s freshly renovated kitchen or additional bedroom, many of those features can be changed over time (albeit often at greater expense, but still). What you can’t change, however, is where the house is located.

What’s that have to do with bikes? In this case, location is analogous to frame geometry. Without question, the Marlin 7 Gen 3 isn’t the clear-cut best bike out there in terms of spec. If you want a more complete package straight out of the gate, there are obviously better options if you know where to look. But if you’re in it for the longer term, the Marlin’s frame geometry is so good that it’s hard to overlook. Despite the heavy fork and wheels, it’s the frame geometry that ultimately makes the Marlin so entertaining and capable – and arguably, the one most amenable to upgrades, quick-release dropouts and all. 

If your budget allows, though, I’d nevertheless strongly recommend saving up a few extra pennies and splurging on the Marlin 8. It costs US$300 more, but if you even think you’re in it for the long haul, you’ll thank me later for the substantial fork upgrades included there and the stock dropper seatpost, both of which will ultimately save you money later on. 

Whichever way you go, if you’ve exclusively been a drop-bar rider for the last few years and are thinking of heading to the dirt, there are plenty of good options available that won’t cripple you financially. Hope to see you out there!

More information can be found at www.trekbikes.com .

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