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• Marlin 6 Gen 3

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3

Marlin 6 is the perfect ride for progressing your skills on the trails. Its updated slacker frame geometry makes it easier to control on descents while the suspension fork takes the edge off bumpy trails. Integrated rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to add accessories to this versatile steed. It's right for you if... You want a trail bike that's dialed for building confidence on the dirt, and versatile enough for commuting to work or school. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with modern trail riding geometry and internal routing that keeps cables protected and keep the bike looking sleek. A front suspension fork that cushions rocks, roots, and bumps in the trail, 10-speed fuss-free Shimano Deore shifting, and the serious stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. The final word Marlin 6 is an ideal trail bike for riders who want to progress on the trail, and want a bike that can keep them rolling off of the trail, too. Why you'll love it - You get real-deal modern mountain bike geometry that keeps handling confident when you're on singletrack, but it's versatile enough for use on roads and bike paths, too - Rack and fender mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - The new Thru-Skew system is safer, simpler, and stronger, plus it makes removing the rear wheel for flat fixes a cinch. - Internal routing makes it easy to add a dropper post that lets you lower you saddle on the fly for more confident descending - Marlin models in sizes XXS and XS have a curved top tube and lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount Features: Expanded size range With 8 different sizes, Marlin has a bike made to fit every rider. Each frame is equipped with smart wheel sizing, with XXS frames rolling on 26" wheels, and wheel sizes increasing proportionally along with frame sizes, so every rider gets the fit they need. Trail-ready, Upgrade-ready The secret to Marlin's popularity is a real trail-savvy mountain bike frame that's upgrade compatible, so it can grow with you as you take on bigger trails and tougher features. Roll stronger with Thru Skew Goodbye open dropouts. The Thru Skewer is a better, stronger, more precisely aligned rear wheel retention system that keeps your wheel more secure than quick-release skewers while still using the standard 135mm rear hub spacing.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Trek Upgrades Its Most Popular Bike: The Marlin

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The Marlin has long served as Trek’s entry-level mountain bike, matching a reasonable price with decent equipment.

With a few significant upgrades, the Marlin’s entry-level now starts a bit higher.

Riders can expect updated geometry, a new frame, increased tire clearance, and a rear axle system that “enhances stability and strength,” according to the Trek press release. Forks can be upgraded on most models for greater versatility, and there’s even a new XXS size for younger kids who want to start shredding with family and friends.

Trek Marlin Update: Details

The new digs begin with the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, which Trek developed for “more compliant frames that retain the acceleration and affordability that have always made aluminum popular,” according to the bike maker’s website.

Updated geometry includes a slacker head tube, longer reach, and wider bars. A 100mm fork helps absorb the shock from roots and rocks, but can also be upgraded to a 120mm fork for sizes XS and up.

Taking advantage of greater tire clearance, the Marlin now runs 2.4″ tires offering “improved grip and comfort on rugged trails,” Trek said.

Another major addition is the Thru Skew rear axle system. It bolsters safety and wheel security by fastening the rear wheel to the closed dropout system, Trek claimed, while still adhering to the 135mm rear hub standard. The Thru-Skew uses a removable lever, which riders can store for a “cleaner aesthetic” during rides, the company said.

Internal cable routing also gets an update, Trek said, enabling compatibility with internally routed dropper posts. Thanks to internal foam tubes, the cables are also less likely to rattle on rough terrain. And speaking of noise reduction, a full-coverage chain stay guard reduces chain slaps, while shielding against scratches.

Trek Marlin: Pricing and Availability

With the addition of the XXS size, the Marlin now comes in a plethora of sizes, from XXS to XXL. The sizes also change depending on the needs of different-sized riders. The smaller frames, for example, include a curved top tube and accommodate 26″ wheels.

The upgrades apply to the Marlin 6, 7, and 8 models, which have MSRPs of $900, $1,000, and $1,300, respectively.

Still want the cheaper, older version of the Marlin? No problem. Trek will continue to sell the Marlin 4 and 5 models, which cost $630 and $740, respectively.

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Rough, $900+ for a 135mm rear and non-tapered headtube..

Isn’t the Marlin a Gary Fisher?

it was, i think Trek bought Gary Fisher.

Trek bought Gary Fisher back in 1993.

I brought a Trek Marlin 6 in 2017. I have rode it over 50,000 miles in 6 years now and it is a great bike for everyday commuting. The best thing about it is it’s frame geometry because it’s very easy on the human body, especially with some simple upgrades. The upgrades, i.e. new fork etc made it look and ride like a high-end expensive bike. I would highly recommend a Trek Marlin because of it geometry alone.

You did more on your bike than me in car bought 2016 with 29000 miles.

I recently bought a marlin 7. Replaced the coil spring shox with rockshox Domaine 160mmforks with the 38mm stantions. Put maxxis minions dhf’s 2.4″ both front and back. Wider bars, lighter pedals, stickier grips, stronger lighter wheels, new Shimano xt derailer, shorter neck, rockshox dropper with int. Routing…. I’ve gotten it down to roughly 26.8 lbs and it handles amazing. Best hardtail I think….

Thru-skew sucks, I hate they are putting that on more bikes. You have to now buy different hub caps end to make it compatible, versus just being able to buy some wheels and inserting them into the bike using standard thru axles. Stop doing this stuff Trek.

Is this the same thing Marin does on the Rift Zone?

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Trek Marlin 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

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

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 XCM, Size: XXS, SR Suntour XCM 30, coil spring, lockout, preload, 100mm QR, 100mm travel, 26'' wheel; 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 Size: XXS, Bontrager Connection, alloy, double-wall, 32-hole, 20mm width, schrader valve; Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20mm width, schrader valve
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Spokes 14g stainless steel
• Tires Size: XXS, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 26x2.20''; 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 Z8.3, 8 speed
• Crank Shimano , Size: XXS, Prowheel TM-CY10, 36/22, 160mm length; Size: XS, S, M, Shimano M315, 36/22, 170mm length; Size: ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano M315, 36/22, 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket VP BC73, 73mm, threaded cartridge
• Front Derailleur Shimano Altus, Shimano Altus M315, 34.9mm clamp, top swing, dual pull
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Altus, Shimano Altus M310
• Shifters Shimano Altus, Shimano Altus M315, 8 speed
• Brakeset Tektro , Size: XXS, XS, S, Tektro HD-M276 hydraulic disc, short reach lever; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Size: XXS, 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: XXS, Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 300mm length; 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: XXS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 35mm length; 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 5?

A 2022 Trek Marlin 5 is typically priced around $669 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 5?

The 2022 Trek Marlin 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2022 Trek Marlin 5 have?

The 2022 Trek Marlin 5 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2022 Trek Marlin 5 should I get?

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• Marlin 5 Gen 2

Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 - 2023

Marlin 5 is a trail-worthy daily rider that's perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. A suspension fork, 2x8 drivetrain, 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. It's right for you if... You're new to the trail, and you're looking for a real mountain bike that doubles as a commuter—and you want it all at an exceptional value. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with internal routing to protect your cables and add to the bike's sleek look, 2x8 drivetrain, a wide range of gearing so you always have the right gear for your terrain, powerful hydraulic disc brakes, and a terrain-smoothing suspension fork with a lockout. The final word Marlin 5 is a great ride for all your adventures. But it's also versatile, and Marlin 5 is a popular ride on college campuses, because the rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to accessorize and haul a load. Why you'll love it - It's a real mountain bike that's also perfectly suited to daily commutes, rides around campus, or just getting from A to B on any surface - Smaller frame sizes (XXS, XS, and S) have short-reach brake levers that make it easier and more comfortable for riders with smaller hands to brake confidently - Marlin models in XXS through S frame sizes have a curved top tube and a lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount - Rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - Like every model in the Marlin family, it's backed by Trek's lifetime warranty Wheel size: - Size XX-Small: 26-inch - Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch - Sizes Medium – XX-Large: 29-inch

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XXS-S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. The larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

• Gravel Bikes
• Touring & Bikepacking Bikes

Gravel and Touring Bikes for Smaller Cyclists: XXS, XS, 38cm, 42cm, 44cm

Table of Contents

Bikes for smaller cyclists: standover height, bikes for smaller cyclists: the bike fit, stack and reach, 26″ and 650b wheels on small bikes, xs gravel bikes (light touring) by standover height, xs touring bikes by standover height, xs off-road touring bikes by standover height.

Finding XS touring bikes can be hard work. I know because I fall on the other end of the spectrum; I’m two metres tall and am always looking for bikes big enough.

With more than 30 extra-small touring and gravel bikes listed below, there may well be an off-the-shelf bike option for you, without resorting to a custom-made frame – provided you’re not smaller than 147cm or 4ft10. But as you’ll soon find out, this will largely depend on your inseam length.

Note: This article was originally published in Jan 2015, but has been updated in May 2020. 

The standover height is one of the most important measurements for smaller riders. It is the measurement that tells us whether we can easily stand over the top tube with our feet flat on the ground, but it also gives us a good indication for how easy it will be to get on and off a bike.

Some standover measurements are made at the mid-point of the top tube, but the majority are calculated 50mm in front of the bottom bracket shell (see diagram above).

This list will have touring bikes with a ‘comfortable’ standover height for riders down to a 69cm/27″ inseam. But with the absolute minimum clearance, you could have an inseam of 66cm/26″ on the smallest models and still be fine (just).

Ideally, you’ll want an inseam 2cm/1″ longer than the measured standover height. If you require lower standover heights than those listed in this resource, please make sure to check out my list of every step-through touring bikes .

Unless you’re really comfortable on your current bike, I’d recommend getting a  bike fit  at a shop before buying your next one. Not by the work experience kid, but by somebody who has a long history of making people comfortable on their bikes.

At a cost of roughly US $100, a bike fit consultation will have you set up on a stationary bike. The bike fitter will ask you how often you ride, about the type of riding you do, and about any riding goals that you may have. They’ll also incorporate some flexibility and strength tests in there too.

The measurements that come out of your bike fit session will allow you to be extra comfortable on your new bike. Provided you collect the ‘stack’ and ‘reach’ data from your bike fitter, you’ll even be able to use this resource to find your next bike!

The universal sizing metric that I’m using to compare small bikes is called ‘stack’ and ‘reach’. The reason it’s the best sizing metric is that it can inform us about how long and tall a bike frame is. Simply measuring the seat tube or top tube doesn’t take into account the bike’s angles, head tube length or fork length.

Most bike sizing is based on the seat tube length. Some manufacturers will tout their bikes as 42cm or XXS, but when we calculate the ‘stack’ and ‘reach’ numbers, you’ll see that some bikes are actually much taller and longer than others in the same size. Just take a look below – some “50cm” bikes are actually smaller than other “44cm” bikes! Don’t get caught out…

You won’t need to focus too much on the ‘reach’ numbers. The difference between bikes is usually no more than 20mm and we can easily accommodate this length discrepancy by swapping the handlebar stem. It’s not a huge deal at all.

But the ‘stack’ will give you a good idea for how high your handlebars will sit, so if you’re after an upright ride, look for the high stack figures.

If you’re interested in learning all about the frame geometry of a bicycle, click  HERE .

The smallest touring and gravel bikes in this list employ smaller diameter 26″ or 650B wheels. These wheels are more proportionate to smaller bike frames (when compared to 700C) and offer the advantages of less toe-overlap and a lower standover height, in particular.

To put it simply, extra-small bikes are ideally designed around smaller wheels to minimise frame geometry compromises elsewhere on the bike.

Knolly Cache 49.5cm:  Reach 385mm / Stack 559mm – Standover 646mm Salsa Journeyman XS (650B): Reach 364mm / Stack 528mm – Standover 658mm Salsa Vaya 49.5cm: Reach 355mm / Stack 543mm – Standover 660mm Evil Chamois Hagar S:   Reach 400mm / Stack 575mm – Standover 662mm Co-Motion Ochoco 42cm: Reach 374mm / Stack 506mm – Standover 665mm Devinci Hatchet XS: Reach 376mm / Stack 528mm – Standover 676mm Specialized Diverge 44cm:   Reach 357mm / Stack 568mm – Standover 683mm Felt Breed 47cm (650B):   Reach 374mm / Stack 544mm – Standover 687mm Marin Nicasio (650B):   Reach 350mm / Stack 535mm – Standover 697mm Norco Search XR 45.5cm (650B):   Reach 355mm / Stack 504mm – Standover 701mm Merida Silex XS:   Reach 379mm / Stack 588mm – Standover 701mm Cannondale Topstone XS: Reach 368mm / Stack 518mm – Standover 703mm Surly Straggler 38cm :  Reach 368mm / Stack 518mm – Standover 704mm Niner RLT9 47cm:  Reach 362mm / Stack 535mm – Standover 705mm Kona Rove 46cm:   Reach 370mm / Stack 510mm – Standover 707mm All City Space Horse 46cm: Reach 359mm / Stack 493mm – Standover 709mm Marin Headlands 49cm:  Reach 370mm / Stack 550mm – Standover 711mm Giant Revolt XS : Reach 373mm / Stack 548mm – Standover 714mm Jamis Renegade Expat 44cm: Reach 351mm / Stack 495mm – Standover 715mm

Louis Garneau Beacon 9.0 37cm (26″): Reach 386mm / Stack 537mm – Standover 648mm Marin Four Corners XS (650B): Reach 377mm / Stack 560mm – Standover 667mm Co-Motion Pangea 44cm (26″):   Reach 356mm / Stack 514mm – Standover 686mm Salsa Marrakesh 50cm:   Reach 361mm / Stack 540mm – Standover 704mm Co-Op Cycles ADV 3.1 (650B): Reach 368mm / Stack 532mm – Standover 709mm Surly Disc Trucker 42cm (26″):  Reach 362mm / Stack 515mm – Standover 710mm  (mid top tube) Trek 520 48cm: Reach 368mm / Stack 540mm – Standover 713mm Gunnar Grand Disc 48cm (26″):   Reach 363mm / Stack 513mm – Standover 716mm Soma Saga 44cm (26″): Reach 359mm / Stack 527mm – Standover 719mm Thorn Nomad MK3 (26″): 379mm / Stack 529mm – Standover 725mm (mid top tube) Jamis Aurora 47cm: Reach 371mm / Stack 518mm – Standover 726mm Kona Sutra 47cm: Reach 374mm / Stack 549mm – Standover 745mm

Salsa Fargo XS: Reach 350mm / Stack 594mm – Standover 692mm (disputed figure, will try to update on this soon) Salsa Cutthroat 52cm:   Reach 358mm / Stack 585mm – Standover 697mm Surly Bridge Club XS (27.5″): Reach 376mm / Stack 553mm – Standover 709mm Breezer Radar Expert XS:   Reach 393mm / Stack 576mm – Standover 711mm Surly Troll XS (26″): Reach 371mm / Stack 551mm – Standover 720mm

Check Out The Step-Through Touring Bike List HERE

• small bike list

15 comments

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Talk about synchronicity. I went online a couple of days ago to research just this question, discovered your site which I think is the most informative, written in a manner that is comprehensive to someone who is “less-then techie”, and now you have written the post I’ve been searching endlessly for! I’ve had decades of being “fit” into poorly sized bikes, including “women specific” designs. I really appreciate your explanation on what constitute a fit, and also for listing potential frames and their measurements. You rock!

Thanks madcrumpet, appreciate your words. I’m glad we’re channelling the same energy! All the best on finding your new bike that fits well. Alee

Ive researched intensively for my first touring bike purchase and now have a massive folder of bookmarked webpages – tips, suggestions, etc. This was the best and ultimately the only article I needed! Thank you times a million from every sub 5’5” woman!!!! Do you have a blog? Im starting my solo world tour this May in the US & would love to connect

Hi Megan. I’m glad you’ve found this resource useful! Our blog from two years on the road is located at https://www.cyclingabout.com/category/worldventure-blog/ . If you’re in Melbourne, give us a yell! Alee

I would think that when you’re very small the standover heigh is important if you don’t want to hurt yourself. Am I wrong?

I’m 4’11½” 671mm standover with my shoes on. “They” recommend 1″ clearence. There is nothing in this list that fits me.

I think i’m going to have to wear high heels for touring! Or maybe buy a junior size bike! Do you have an article about junior touring bikes? Thanks!

You may have to look into 26″ MTBs to get your desired standover. One of the smallest I’ve found is 614mm standover on a Giant Tempt ( http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/tempt.1/18996/76600/#geometry ). Unfortunately you won’t find bikes with seat tubes this small on touring bikes though, unless you get something custom made.

Hi! Thank you for your answer! My choices are very limited!

I came across this frame: http://www.somafab.com/archives/product/buena-vista http://bikecult.com/works/archive/11bicycles/somabuenavistaRTN.html

I was wondering if it could make a good touring bike? What do you think?

Or maybe this one in 26″ (if I cand find it in Montreal…): http://www.stevensbikes.de/2014/index.php?bik_id=1431&cou=CA&lang=en_US

Thanks again! 🙂

I’ve looked at the frame geometry of the Soma and it will be quite fine for touring. The bike is a little steeper in the head angle than is ideal, making the bike feel a bit more nimble than most, but if you were to put weight on the front that will slow everything down. The only thing is that the frame tubing is probably not optimised for heavy pannier loads on the front and rear.

An even better bike (which I forgot about!) is the Koga Randonneur or Traveller – Womens version. http://www.koga.com/en/bikes/trekking/collection

It comes with a proper touring geometry, plus heavyweight frame tubing so that if you’re running front and back panniers the bike will stay nice and stiff.

The Stevens Trekking Tour is another good find!

Let me know what you decide to go with. Alee

Check out Islabikes in the UK. They do properly scaled down bikes for smaller people. They even use smaller brake levers and cranks sized to go with the bikes.

Thanks, I recently came across this company and have been meaning to add them to the list. Alee

Great list and very helpful for the many short cyclists out there! I would add one more to your list: the Surly Straggler 650B — a highly versatile bike that is excellent for both light touring and randonneuring — and it’s made in sizes as small as 38 and 42cm with 650B wheels. The 38 cm was the ultimate solution to all my tiny lady’s fit issues. Riding a properly sized, well-fitted bike truly makes all the difference in the world!

Hi Alee – thanks for pulling together the list above, much appreciated as a short person! Just wondering if you knew where the Dawes Galaxy Cromo Ladies 43cm version would sit in the above list?

My calculations work the Galaxy Cromo Ladies to be about: Reach 381mm / Stack 523mm. Alee

Alee, what a comprehensive list, thanks! Just wondered if you knew offhand if any or many of them are disc brake-compatible?

Most of them will be disc compatible!

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Trek Marlin Buyer's Guide

Trek Marlin is a trail-worthy mountain bike that's tough enough for off-road adventures and versatile enough to impress dedicated commuters.  Read our guide to understand the ins-and-outs of this MTB, why it might be the best bang for your buck, and the differences between model options.

Trek Marlin Overview Trek Marlin Features Trek Marlin Models

Trek Marlin Overview

Who is a Trek Marlin for?

The Trek Marlin is durable, easy to outfit with gear and accessories, and at home on many types of terrain.  This makes it an ideal mountain bike for beginner cyclists looking for versatility at a good price point.  

Commuters will appreciate the frame mounts for a rear rack, 29" or 27.5" wheels for smooth and efficient pedaling, and 4" of front suspension to take the edge off the ride. 

The Marlin is capable on the mountain too.  It'll gobble up less technical XC trails like the Bonneville Shoreline Trail on the east bench in Ogden.

Why you might love a Trek Marlin

VALUE!  The Marlin is not only a high-quality and versatile mountain bike, it's also super affordable!  It's built with the best component spec per price point that ensures you won't outpace the bike as your cycling skills advance and your adventures get more technical.

Experience the Trek Marlin

Trek Marlin Features

Smart Wheel Sizing

Ride the fastest wheelset that fits. 26" wheels stay alive on the XXS size, while the XS and S frames roll with 27.5" wheels.  Medium thru XXL frames are equipped with the fastest 29" wheels.

Bike Mount Versatility

You'll appreciate the ability to accessorize with an array of features including a direct-mount for kickstands and rack/cargo mounts.  Bike packers and commuters alike can geek out over the mounting options.

The Marlin comes in seven frame sizes (XXS to XXL) to comfortably fit riders of practically  any height! For the smallest sizes, they've included unique fit features like a curved top tube for easier dismounting.

Race-Inspired Geometry

Trek engineered the Marlin to have the look of an XC-racing bike while prioritizing comfort for beginner riders.

Internal Cable Routing

Looks awesome!  No unsightly cables to be seen. Internal cable routing on the Marlin means you don't have to fret about dirt, grime, and inclement weather contaminating your cables.  

Marlin Gen 3 vs Marlin Gen 2

Whereas the Gen 2 Trek Marlins give riders a great balance between trail and street. the Gen 3 Marlins have been tipped towards the trail end of the scale.

• More tire clearance: Gen 2 Marlins have clearance for 2.2" tires while the Gen 3 models can fit 2.4" tires.  
• Internal dropper post cable routing: Gen 3 Marlins come with internal cable routing for dropper posts while Gen 2 bikes don't.  
• New rear ThruAxel: Gen 3 Marlins use a stiffer, more secure rear thru axle skewer.  
• Trail focused geometry: Gen 3 Marlins have a more trail focused geometry that includes a slacker head tube angle, a steeper seat tube angle, and a longer reach than the Gen 2 models.  
• Chain stay guard: All Gen 3 Marlins come with a full length chain stay guard to protectthe frame and keep things quiet on the trail.

Trek Marlin Mountain Bike Models For Sale

There are currently  eight levels of Trek Marlin mountain bikes designed with a wide range of riders in mind. 

Find the one that fits you and your needs below:

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3

The Gen 3 Trek Marlin 6 kicks off the lineup with a capable, trail-ready MTB that's at home on the dirt or on the pavement.

• Frame : Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork : SR Suntour XCT 30 coil spring 100mm
• Drivetrain : Shimano Deore M5120 1x10
• Brakes : Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Price:  $899.99

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3

Upgrades: Better suspension fork and higher end hydraulic disc brakes for improved control on steeper, rougher trails.

• Fork : RockShox Judy coil spring with Turn Key lockout 100mm
• Brakes : Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
• Price:  $999.99

Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3

Upgrades: A serious trail package that includes an air spring fork, 1x12 speed drivetrain, and a dropper post.

• Frame : Alpha Silver Aluminum,
• Fork : RockShox Judy Silver, Solo Air spring 100mm
• Drivetrain : SRAM SX Eagle 1x12
• Dropper post : TranzX JD-YSP18 
• Price:  $1,399.99

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2

Marlin 4 is Trek's gateway to XC trail riding. It is the most affordable of the options and is versatile enough to get out and explore or be a daily commuter.

• Fork : SR Suntour XCE 28 100mm
• Drivetrain : Shimano Tourney TY300 3x7
• Brakes : Tektro MD-M280 Mechanical Disc
• Price:  $629.99   $529.99

Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

Upgrades:  Better 2X shifting, lockout, and hydraulic disc brakes. Marlin 5 improves light trail riding but still doubles as a versatile commuter.

• Fork : SR Suntour XCM 30 100mm
• Drivetrain : Shimano Altus 2x8
• Brakes : Tektro HD-M276 Hydraulic Disc
• Price:   $739.99   $599.99

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2

Upgrades:  Much improved shifting with a wide-range 1x10 Shimano Deore drivetrain. Nice!!

• Fork : SR Suntour XCT 30 100mm
• Drivetrain : Shimano Deore 1x10
• Price:   $849.99   $749.99

Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2

Upgrades: Rock Shox fork! Bontrager Kovee TLR wheels, and powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. 

• Fork : RockShox Judy with Turnkey lockout 100mm
• Brakes : Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc
• Price:  $1,029.99   $899.99

Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2

Upgrades:  Mega-range Sram 1X12 Drivetrain! Tubeless ready Maxxis tires, and a Rock Shox Judy Silver with Solo air spring.   The Marlin 8 approaches a race-worthy XC MTB that's perfect for aspiring new trail riders.

• Frame :  Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork :  Rock Shox Judy Silver Solo Air 100mm
• Drivetrain :  Sram SX 1X12
• Brakes :  Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc
• Price:   $1,329.99   $1,199.99

Want an even more off road capability? 

Trek makes incredible mountain bike models that don't stop at the Marlin. If you're considering the Marlin but want a little more capability on the trails, you might like some of Trek's other offerings. The Trek X-Caliber is another solid value MTB but is actually an entry level XC race bike, and the Trek Roscoe is their agressive trail hardtail with more travel and bigger tire clearance.

Adventure begins where the pavement ends

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