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.
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 2023 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
Frameset
*Frame Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL *Fork Size: XS 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 *Tire Size: XS , S 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 *Bottom bracket Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL 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 *Handlebar Size: XS , S Grips Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on *Stem Size: XS Headset Semi-integrated, 1-1/8” *Brake Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL
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).
BIKE PRICE GEAR BRAKE TIRE CLICK VIEW 2023 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 2022 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 2023 Trek Marlin 5
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]-2022
Trek Marlin 4 vs Schwinn Mesa 2
Schwinn Mesa Adult Mountain Bike Review 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: 2022 Schwinn Mesa Mountain Bike Review – Best 27.5″ MTB
Trek Marlin 4 vs 2022 Fuji Nevada 29 1.9
A more recreational mountain bike, the 2022 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.
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 2022 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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