Is Trek Marlin 4 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 4 Review]

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Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2

• Price: $629.99
• Gear: 3×7
• Tires: 29×2.20″
• Frame: Alpha Silver Aluminum

What we love about it: A first-generation comrade for entry-level trail riders, a forever companion on the commute. The 21-speed drivetrain, disc brakes, and front suspension design will give you a comfortable experience.

What we don’t like about it: Rough rides that take a toll on the bike’s lifespan.

Rating: (4.6/5)

The hardtail’s Trek Marlin 4 is an introductory teacher for off-road beginners. While the price of the Marlin 4 might make you doubt it, it’s perfectly fine for newbies. Not only that, but it’s an all-around bike for commuter riding, and campus riding.

First, we have a solid look at the Trek Marlin 4 in our nearly three-month-long review.

We see a wide range of sizes and paint colors for the Trek Marlin 4, catering to more customer preferences and requirements. And in our riding experience, the Trek Marlin 4 fully demonstrated its commuting ability on rough roads, and it also performed well on off-road riding.

Below is our take on the Marlin 4 for off-road and commuter rides, key features, components and specs, and other editions in the range. If you want to know more, take a look at our review.

Related Reading:

Is Trek Marlin 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 5 Review]

Is Trek Marlin 6 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 6 Review]

Off-road Riding

The hardtail design of the Trek Marlin 4 gives me a hunch that I will suffer a lot in the following cross-country mountain riding reviews. What I didn’t expect was that it allowed me to experience another charm of mountain off-road.

This time we chose a trail for our ride, and the dry gravel and gravel added a challenge to our ride. The winding route makes this trail more emergent at any time.

However, the Trek Marlin 4 was solid, gripping the ground firmly on gravel and gravel. I even rode to the point where the side of the trail was nearly parallel to the ground while steering through the handlebars during constant acceleration. Even under these conditions, the Marlin 4 still clings to the side and rolls forward. Not only did I experience this kind of sprinting fun, but it made me think that entry-level doesn’t fit the Marlin 4.

Because of the Trek Marlin 4’s Max compatible fork travel fork, which reduces my physical loss when climbing. Even with the hardtail design, the fork’s damping was good and I didn’t feel any vibration. While the Trek Marlin 4’s 30tpi Bontrager XR2 Comp 29×2.20″ tires are relatively heavier, they have more traction than I expected on this loose trail.

The tread pattern on the tires also provides a good amount of grip to keep the Marlin 4 from slipping. While the Marlin 4 3×7 drivetrain gives me more speed options, I think it’s possible to use this drivetrain Do an upgrade.

There are many off-road bikes designed for beginners, and theMarlin 4 makes it easier for beginners to adapt to off-road riding with its excellent frame design and suitable components.

Commuter Ride

Don’t be as opinionated as I am, thinking that off-road hardtail mountain bikes are only for off-road capability. In fact, the off-road mountain bike Marlin 4 not only has more off-road capability than its price, but you can also ride it to work, ride it to school, or even go on long trips, and it will still surprise you.

In order to review the Trek Marlin 4’s commuting performance, I put one of my favorite road bikes up for the next month and only rode the4.

I usually take half an hour on my bike, and it took me about the same time with the Trek Marlin 4. Because the road has a natural road, the riding environment is not so friendly. One of my previous bikes had badly worn tires for this reason, but the Trek Marlin 4’s tires looked the same for the month of riding, no visible wear, just a little dirty, which is inevitable.

Not only that, but the drivetrain of the Marlin 4 3×7 also made me experience the joy of shifting. There is also an uphill of about 100m on the road I ride, and the inclination angle of this road is about 40°.

Usually, when I go up, I have to stand on the pedals and use all my strength to climb hills, but the shifting of the Marlin 4 allows me to easily change the rear cassette to a larger gear. This saves me a lot of effort on the climbs and even allows me to sit down while climbing.

Park Ride

I love riding around the park, but because the park’s trails are always paved with cobblestones of various decorations, I always have a strong sense of bumps on the ride. But the design of the Trek Marlin 4’s fork absorbs a lot of vibration. Although there is still a bumpy feeling, it makes me want to spend more time riding around the park.

The Trek Marlin 4 is really a great value bike, and if you want the best value for money for the least amount of money, you can give the Marlin 4 a try.

Main Feature

Frame

The Marlin 4 comes in 3 paint options and, thanks to seven frame sizes, will fit almost any height rider. Trek also has a nice setup, with the smallest size featuring a short-throw brake lever and a narrower handlebar. It offers better comfort and control for smaller riders. Imagine a family riding a Marlin 4 on a short trip, something to look forward to. The Trek Marlin 4’s frame is Alpha Silver Aluminum, which is relatively light and allows the Trek Marlin 4 to weigh only 31.75 lbs.

At the same time, the internal wiring design of Trek Marlin 4 makes the whole body look more concise, and it will be easier to keep clean. In addition, Marlin 4 chainstays make it easy to install the rear bracket. This design makes it easy to carry all the luggage you need on a short trip with friends or family, and the rear bracket doesn’t get in the way of your ride.

You might notice the Trek Marlin 4’s two water bottle mounting holes. Yes, these two water bottle installations will allow you to carry more water on long rides.

Overall, the design of Trek Marlin 4’s Frame is simple and practical. It would be even better if the frame could be made out of Alpha Gold Aluminum, as that would make the Trek Marlin 4 lighter.

Geometry

A great and comfortable bike cannot be separated from its geometry. The Trek Marlin 4’s ergonomic geometry takes the shape of an obtuse triangle. Its steep Seat tube angle (71.9° for a size M) allows me to stay upright comfortably, and it helps move my weight forward when climbing, making it easier to climb.

And the proper Head angle (M code 69.5°) is more sensitive when turning. While some would argue that this makes it less maneuverable, I think the Trek Marlin 4’s longer Handlebar (720mm) makes up for the poor handling.

Not only that, the Chainstay length (43.8cm) of the Trek Marlin 4 is relatively short, which improves the sensitivity and handling of the Marlin 4.

So, the Trek Marlin 4’s geometry is fully mountain bike-friendly, so you can use it as your first mountain bike.

Components and Specifications

Shimano TZ500 3×7 Drivetrain

The Trek Marlin 4 uses a Shimano TZ500 3×7 drivetrain with a wide range of speed options. I found the Trek Marlin 4 to have a smoother shift during the ride, which made it easier for me to shift gears on road rides.

However, some people think that its transmission system is relatively low-end. I agree with this, but if you notice its $629.99 price, you’ll probably forgive it.

It is precisely because of the Trek Marlin 4’s 3×7 drivetrain that I can exercise and ride at different speeds, so I think the Marlin 4 is the king of value for money. Of course, if it is upgraded to 2X9, it will be more in line with my riding needs.

Tektro MD-M281 Mechanical Disc Brake

I think braking is one of the reasons for judging a good bike.

The Marlin 4 uses Tektro MD-M281 mechanical disc brakes. Although the Tektro MD-M281 mechanical disc is heavier, this mechanical disc brake is inexpensive and low maintenance.

Not only that, the Tektro MD-M281 mechanical disc works well even in rainy weather or on muddy country trails.

Some people would think that the braking effect of the Tektro MD-M281 mechanical disc would be reduced in such a situation, but I think for this price, the performance is already very good.

If you’re a beginner and you’d rather go for a good, affordable bike, I think the Trek Marlin 4 is for you.

Tire

We can easily observe that the Trek Marlin 4’s Bontrager XR2 Comp MTB tires are slenderer than conventional MTB tires, one might suspect that this affects its grip, but the tread pattern on the tire surface will make up for it. That’s what makes it a versatile, fast-rolling tire. Even when I was riding by the sea, it performed well in this loose terrain.

Not only that, but it can maintain stable traction in all kinds of terrain.

Although some would argue that it is cheap and doesn’t have the perfect grip of a high-end tire. But I think it is because of its low price that I can safely drive on sharp rocks or garden paths and paths full of deciduous branches. Unexpectedly, the Bontrager XR2 Comp didn’t show the kind of wear and tear I expected.

And because the fenders can be installed, this also greatly reduces the pollution to the bicycle. In addition, the quick release function of the Trek Marlin 4 also provides convenience for you who like individuality.

I think Trek Marlin 4 surprised me.

Other Versions of Trek Marlin

This time we have a review of the Trek Marlin 4. The Trek Marlin 4’s lighter body, 3×7 powertrain, mechanical disc brakes, and its low enough price impress me. For this, I went to other versions of the Trek Marlin series.

We found the Trek Marlin 5. Compared to the 4, it has more paint color options, and the size is also very comprehensive, and the Trek Marlin 5 has hydraulic disc brakes, which are honestly better than mechanical disc brakes. braking is smoother. And the locking front fork allows the Trek Marlin 5 to pedal more efficiently when driving on flat surfaces. But it’s a bit more expensive than the Trek Marlin 4.

If your budget is right, you can choose the Trek Marlin 5. If you prefer a traditional braking system or are a beginner, I would recommend the Trek Marlin 4.

And Trek Marlin 6 is a further improvement on the basis of 5. The Trek Marlin 6 abandoned the 2×8 transmission on the basis of the 5, and upgraded it to a more concise 1×10 transmission, which made the shifting smoother and lighter.

At the same time, the ultra-strong double-walled rims and powerful hydraulic disc brakes give you more freedom to explore any trail, even the most rugged places, providing you with durability and stopping power.

Finally, there are Trek Marlin 7 and Trek Marlin 8, which also keep the frame unchanged, so that the transmission system has been greatly improved. The Trek Marlin 8 uses today’s most popular 1X12 drivetrain. Such a configuration, and a more affordable price, is one of the reasons why so many off-road riders around town choose.

What Do We Like About It?

• The first off-road mountain bike for beginners in off-road riding.

• Whether you’re commuting to school or going for a bike ride, the utility bike is a great choice.

• Affordable.

• Mechanical disc brakes can be used without fear of mud and rain.

• A wide range of colors and sizes allows you to choose a bike that suits you.

What We Don’t Like About It?

• For such an affordable price, the drivetrain doesn’t compare to other bikes that are pricier.

• The material of the pedals is not high-end enough.

FAQs

• What is the maximum tire size for the Trek Marlin 4?

The maximum tire size for the Trek Marlin 4 is 29×2.20″.

• Can the Trek Marlin 4 lock the fork?

Can’t.

• Can the Trek Marlin 4 have a rear mount?

Yes.

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Specs

Frameset

*Frame	Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Alpha Silver Aluminum, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR Size: XS , S Alpha Silver Aluminum, low standover, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR
*Fork	Size: XS SR Suntour XCE 28, coil spring, preload, 42mm offset for 27.5” wheel, 100mm QR, 80mm travel Size: S SR Suntour XCE 28, coil spring, preload, 42mm offset for 27.5” wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL SR Suntour XCE 28, coil spring, preload, 46mm offset for 29” wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel
Max compatible fork travel	100mm (XS & S: 490mm axle-to-crown, M & up: 509mm axle-to-crown)

Wheels

Hub front	Formula DC-20, alloy, 6-bolt, 5x100mm QR
Hub rear	Formula DC-31, alloy, 6-bolt, 6/7/8 speed freewheel, 135x5mm QR
*Rim	Size: XS , S Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20 mm width, Schrader valve, Black Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20mm width, schrader valve Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20 mm width, Schrader valve
*Tire	Size: XS , S Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5×2.20” Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29×2.20” Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29×2.00”
Max tire size	Frame: 29×2.20″ (XS & S: 27.5×2.4″) Fork: See manufacturer

Drivetrain

Shifter	Shimano Altus EF500, 7 speed
Front Derailleur	Shimano Tourney TY300, 34.9mm clamp, down swing, down pull
Rear Derailleur	Shimano Tourney TY300
*Crank	Size: XS , S , M Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24, 170mm length Size: ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24, 175mm length
*Bottom bracket	Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL VP BC73, 73mm, threaded cartridge Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Sealed cartridge, 73mm
Cassette	Shimano TZ500, 14-28, 7 speed
Chain	KMC Z7, 7 speed
Pedal	VP-536 nylon platform
Max chainring size	1x/2x: 34T, 3x: 42T

Components

Saddle	Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138mm width
*Seatpost	Size: XS , S Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length Size: M Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 360mm length Size: ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 400mm length
*Handlebar	Size: XS , S Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 690mm width Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width
Grips	Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on
*Stem	Size: XS Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 50mm length Size: S Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length Size: M Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length Size: ML , L Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length Size: XL , XXL Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length
Headset	Semi-integrated, 1-1/8”
*Brake	Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc, 160mm rotor Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Tektro MD-M281 mechanical disc, 160mm rotor

Weight

Weight	M – 14.40 kg / 31.75 lbs
Weight limit	This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg).

Comparison Chart

BIKE	PRICE	GEAR	BRAKE	TIRE	CLICK VIEW
Trek Marlin 5	$739.99	2×8	Tektro HD-M275 Hydraulic Disc	29×2.20″	Click View
Schwinn Mesa 2	$629.99	3 x 7	Radius BR-CX7, Mechanical Disc	27.5  x 2.1 ‘’	Click View
Fuji Nevada 29 1.9	$699.99	3 x 7	Tektro M280 Mechanical Disc	29 x 2.25″	Click View
Cannondale Trail 7	$760	2×8	Tektro M275 Hydraulic Disc	29×2.25″	Click View

Trek Marlin 4 vs Trek Marlin 5

Whether any product is good or bad, we have to learn to conduct comparative analysis. A single data is always not comprehensive and objective. Now, let’s take a look at the difference between Trek Marlin 4 and Trek Marlin 5. They also use Alpha Silver Aluminum for the material, but the Trek Marlin 5 is 0.94 lbs lighter than the Trek Marlin 4.

You must be wondering, is the Trek Marlin 5 cutting corners? This is not the case, the drivetrain of the Trek Marlin 5 is improved on the basis of the Trek Marlin 4 and becomes a 2×8. This reduces the weight of the Trek Marlin 5 while simplifying shifting, while the Trek Marlin 5 also adds a fork lockout feature. If you want a fast ride, you can lock the fork for more efficient pedaling and more speed.

But I think you should pay more attention to one issue, which is the price. The Trek Marlin 5 is $110 more expensive than the Trek Marlin 4, and the Trek Marlin 4 also has excellent brakes and tires.

If you’re on a budget and want a versatile bike, you can choose the Marlin 4. If you prefer lockout or a 2×8 speed range, you can of course also get a Trek Marlin 5.

Learn More: Is Trek Marlin 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 5 Review]

Trek Marlin 4 vs Schwinn Mesa 2

The Trek Marlin 4 and Schwinn Mesa 2 are nearly identical in price. Not only that, but they’re the same 3×7 drivetrain, same mechanical disc brakes, same aluminum, with little difference. But we can see that the paint color and size of the Schwinn Mesa 2 are not as rich as the Trek Marlin 4, so the Trek Marlin 4 can suit almost everyone.

And the Schwinn Mesa 2’s fork travel is only 80mm shorter than the Trek Marlin 4’s 20mm, so the Trek Marlin 4 is better at absorbing shock.

If you prefer the Schwinn Mesa 2, you can choose it. But if the performance aspect is a factor, and if you want great value for money, you can really check out the Trek Marlin 4.

Learn More: Schwinn Mesa Mountain Bike Review – Best 27.5″ MTB

Trek Marlin 4 vs Fuji Nevada 29 1.9

A more recreational mountain bike, the Fuji Nevada 29 1.9 is nearly identical to the Trek Marlin 4 in terms of components. However, its 2.25″ tires will be slightly wider than the Trek Marlin 4’s 2.20″ tires. The terrain suitable for riding on the two bikes is almost indistinguishable.

We can see that there are more choices in both the paint color of the Trek Marlin 4 and the size of the Trek Marlin 4.

So I prefer to see Trek Marlin 4 first. If you’re tall, or if you’re petite, I’d recommend checking out the Trek Marlin 4 first, as it’s a more comprehensive range of sizes that can cut down on your selection time.

Learn more:Top 10 Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes – For Different Budgets

Trek Marlin 4 vs Cannondale Trail 7

The Cannondale Trail 7 uses SmartForm C3 alloy and the Trek Marlin 4 is aluminum. Not only that, the Cannondale Trail 7 uses a 2×8 drivetrain with fewer speed options than the Trek Marlin 4’s 3×7 drivetrain. But it has to be said that the 2×8 shifts more smoothly, but the price is also more expensive.

And the Cannondale Trail 7 has the same 100mm of fork travel as the Trek Marlin 4. The Cannondale Trail 7 uses hydraulic disc brakes, so it’s easier and more convenient.

But in terms of riding experience, I agree with the Trek Marlin 4. It’s more than enough for beginner off-road jumps or commuter rides. Not to mention its low price, it’s really cheap.

You only need to increase your budget by $120 to get a higher-spec Cannondale Trail 7, which is also a good option to save the budget for future upgrades.

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