Marin Fairfax 2 Review
- Price: $699
- Frame: Aluminum
- Front fork: Aluminum
- Wheels: 700C Aluminum
- Drivetrain: 2×8
What we like about it: It’s cheap, but loaded with a high-end hydraulic disc brake system that’s well worth the price.
What we don’t like about it: It’s an entry-level bike, and the components may not be as good as more expensive, higher-end exercise bikes.
Rating: (4.7/5)
Inspiring design and fantastic quality make the Marin Fairfax 2 stand out in .
The Marin Fairfax 2 is a basic hybrid fitness bike. It features an aluminum frame, aluminum wheels, and an aluminum fork.
With a 2×8 drivetrain, it offers a wide range of gear ratios, allowing for both high-speed rides and uphill climbs. The 35mm tires are wider compared to similar fitness bikes, providing better traction and comfort.
Now, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Marin Fairfax 2. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, stay tuned.
Riding Experience
The Marin Fairfax 2 is a well-equipped entry-level fitness bike suitable for daily commuting and weekend rides. To truly experience its performance, I chose two different routes for testing.
The first route was a 5.51-mile ride on a riverside bridge. The second route took me from downtown to the outskirts, a journey that took approximately four hours to complete.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
Bridge Riding
This bridge is my favorite route for a relaxing daily ride, and it’s not far from my house. Riding on the smooth bridge and blowing the river breeze feels incredibly relaxing.
The only thing I had to worry about was the agility of the bike. And whether the braking system would allow me to dodge pedestrians coming and going on the bridge in time.
Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised. The flat handlebar design allowed me to control the front end of the bike with better agility and flexibility.
Encountering pedestrians ahead, I only needed a slight turn of the handlebar to smoothly maneuver around them.
Additionally, the hydraulic disc brakes provided a reassuring feeling. Whether it was chasing after playful children or slow-moving pedestrians, I could stop immediately and avoid any potential accidents.
I was truly impressed by the brake system without any noticeable loss of braking power. The decision to equip the Marin Fairfax 2 with this type of brake system was wise, and I fell in love with it.
Suburban Adventure
After spending a long time in the city, there’s always a desire to venture out to the suburbs for a change of scenery. However, one must consider that a four-hour bike ride is no short journey. It truly tests the endurance of both the rider and the bike.
Initially, I didn’t have high expectations because the Marin Fairfax 2 seemed significantly cheaper compared to my other bikes. I wondered how its components would perform. However, reality proved me wrong.
The Marin Fairfax 2 truly impressed me. The 2×8 drivetrain allowed me to find the most comfortable cadence for different road surfaces.
The 70.5° head tube angle helped the maintain an upright riding posture, reducing strain on my back. This is particularly important for long-distance rides and a major concern of mine.
Moreover, the mounting points on the frame securely held my water bottle and snacks. Whenever I felt tired, I would stop, have a few sips of water, and eat a couple of bites to replenish my energy.
I don’t know about you, but I’m completely infatuated with the Marin Fairfax 2!
Specification
The Marin Fairfax 2 is an entry-level fitness bike in the Marin Fairfax series. The red paint gives it a vibrant and luxurious look. The frame design is sleek, and the internal cable routing gives the bike a clean and refreshing appearance.
What other advantages does it offer? Let’s take a closer look.
The Marin Fairfax 2 features a 2×8 drivetrain. The “2x” drivetrain implies a double chainring setup, providing an excellent range of gear ratios.
The ability to shift to a larger chainring allows for higher speeds, while shifting to a smaller freewheel allows for climbing steep hills.
The closer gear ratios between the chainrings also result in smoother gear changes, making it easier for riders to find their preferred cadence.
Furthermore, as a fitness bike, the Marin Fairfax 2 has a relatively larger tire size compared to bikes of similar types. While conventional road bike tires usually range from 23mm to 32mm, the Marin Fairfax 2 boasts a tire width of 35mm.
Wider tires offer better performance on various road surfaces. Consequently, the bike exhibits improved stability, better traction, and increased ability to absorb road vibrations.
Notably, the Marin Fairfax 2 surprises with its hydraulic disc brake system. Most affordable fitness bikes on the market typically feature mechanical disc brakes. Mechanical disc brakes are cheaper, but they offer inferior braking performance.
The Marin Fairfax 2, however, incorporates the relatively higher-cost hydraulic disc brakes. This provides riders with smoother control and enhanced safety during long descents.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Excellent braking system: The hydraulic disc brakes maximize braking power and reduce brake loss.
- Multiple mounting points on the frame: Convenient for attaching gear during long-distance rides.
- Great value for money: It is considered an affordable option in the fitness bike segment.
- 35mm tire width: Provides good traction and comfort.
- Excellent geometry design: Sleek and visually appealing.
What don’t we like about it?
- Being an entry-level bike, its components may not be as high-end as those found on more expensive fitness bikes.
FAQs
- What is the biggest advantage of this bike?
The biggest advantage is its hydraulic disc brake system, which is rarely seen in entry-level bikes.
- What sizes are available for this bike?
It is available in five sizes to accommodate riders of different heights.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| XS | 149cm-156cm |
| SM | 153cm-167cm |
| MD | 164cm-177cm |
| LG | 174cm-187cm |
| XL | 184cm-191cm |
- What other versions of Marin Fairfax are available?
Here we have provided you with a version comparison. Of course, it doesn’t have to be according to this standard, and the best way to find the most suitable model is to try it out.
| BIKE | PRICE | FRAME | FORK | BRAKES | DRIVETRAIN |
| Marin Fairfax 1 | $499 | Aluminum | Steel | Mechanical Disc | 3 × 7 |
| Marin Fairfax ST 1 | $499 | Aluminum | Steel | Mechanical Disc | 2 × 9 |
| Marin Fairfax ST 2 | $699 | Aluminum | Aluminum | Hydraulic Disc | 2 × 8 |
| Marin Fairfax 2 | $699 | Aluminum | Aluminum | Hydraulic Disc | 2 × 8 |
| Marin Fairfax 3 | $989 | Aluminum | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 2 × 9 |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Series 2 Fitness, 6061 Aluminum, 700C Wheels, Disc Brake, Internal Cable Routing, Fender and Rack Mounts Colors: Gloss Red / Black; Gloss Silver / Black |
| Fork | 6061 Aluminum, Straight-Blade, Disc Mount, Fender and Rack Eyelets |
| Bottom Bracket | Sealed Cartridge Bearings, Square Taper |
| Headset | FSA, No.8B |
| Stem | Marin 3D Forged Alloy |
| Handlebar | Marin Alloy Flat |
| Saddle | Marin Fitness Plush |
| Seatpost | Marin Alloy, 27.2mm |
| Pedals | Fitness Platform |
| Grips | Marin Ergonomic Locking |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Acera, 8-Speed |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano TY710 |
| Crank | Forged Alloy Crank, 46/30T, Ring Guard |
| Shifters | Shimano Altus 2×8 |
| Cassette | SunRace 8-Speed, 11-34T |
| Chain | KMC Z8 |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Brake Levers | Clark’s Clout Hydraulic |
Wheels
| Rims | Marin Aluminum Double Wall, Disc Specific |
| Front Hub | Forged Aluminum Alloy, Disc, 32H |
| Rear Hub | Forged Aluminum Alloy, Disc, 32H |
| Tires | Vee Tire Co. Zilent, 700Cx35mm, Puncture Protection, Wire Bead |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click to view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Marin Fairfax ST 1 | Click View | 700x35c | 3 × 7 | Aluminum | Tourney, Shimano |
| Cannondale Quick Women’s 1 | Click View | 700 x32c | 2 × 11 | Aluminum | 105, FSA, Shimano |
| CUBE SL ROAD SL | Click View | 700x38c (40-622) | 2 × 11 | Aluminum | Ultegra, 105, Shimano |
| ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike | Click View | 700x32c | 3 × 8 | Steel | – |
Marin Fairfax 2 vs Marin Fairfax ST 1
The Marin Fairfax ST 1 is another entry-level model from Marin. It features an aluminum frame, a steel fork, and 700Cx35mm aluminum tires.
In terms of component selection, it uses a 48/38/28T 3-speed chainring. This provides a wider range of speed options for the bike.
The Shimano hydraulic disc brake system provides convenient braking power to the bike. The 7-speed freewheel demonstrates the bike’s diverse gear ratio range, allowing for comfortable positioning on different road conditions.
Both the Marin Fairfax ST 1 and the Marin Fairfax 2 have their pros and cons. The former has a lower price and a wider range of speed options. However, it is heavier and does not have as good a braking system as the latter.
The hydraulic disc brake system of the Fairfax 2 offers stronger braking power, while its rear freewheel has a greater gear ratio density, providing better traction and higher quality. It offers more choices overall.
In summary, if you prefer a lower price and more speed options, the Marin Fairfax ST 1 might pleasantly surprise you.
If you want better braking performance and a higher gear ratio density, the Marin Fairfax 2 will be a great companion for your rides.
Learn More: Is Marin Fairfax ST 1 A Good Bike? [Marin Fairfax ST 1 Review]
Marin Fairfax 2 vs Cannondale Quick Women’s 1
The Cannondale Quick Women’s 1 is a bike model designed specifically for women, taking into consideration their unique characteristics. It offers agility and a sporty yet casual riding experience, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful cityscapes and natural landscapes.
And it features mid to high-end components. The Shimano 105 11-speed freewheel and Shimano HG601 11-speed chainring form an excellent 2×11 drivetrain system.
The Shimano MT201-UR300 hydraulic disc brakes with 160/160mm RT56 rotors provide exceptional braking performance.
It has a compact design, which facilitates wheel installation and reduces the overall weight of the bicycle, making it more suitable for women.
Compared to the Marin Fairfax 2, the standout feature of the Cannondale Quick Women’s 1 is its champagne color scheme, which is more appealing to women.
Additionally, its sizing is tailored more towards women, taking into account their height and leg length.
On the other hand, the Marin Fairfax 2 is a gender-neutral bike that emphasizes its practicality. It incorporates puncture-resistant tire protection technology, which enhances safety when riding on gravel roads.
In conclusion, if you are a woman and prefer a bike design that aligns with your preferences, the Cannondale Quick Women’s 1 would be a good choice.
If you are looking to reduce tire wear and prevent punctures during everyday flat terrain riding, you might consider the Marin Fairfax 2.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Quick CX 3 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Quick CX 3 Review]
Marin Fairfax 2 vs CUBE SL ROAD SL
The CUBE SL ROAD SL is a bicycle priced at €1,499. Its materials and components are of excellent quality, leaving no room for criticism.
With its aluminum frame, carbon fork, and aluminum wheels, it offers a lighter weight. The 2×11 drivetrain system provides more versatility to adapt to different road conditions.
At the same time, it features internal cable routing, making it easier to wipe and clean the frame. The black and white color scheme makes it a unisex model.
Therefore, one possible drawback could be its higher price, making it more suitable for riders with a generous budget.
The Marin Fairfax 2 is a basic model with components that may not match the high-end features of more expensive bikes.
However, it is more than capable of everyday riding and fitness purposes. Especially with its price of $699, it is affordable for many people.
Therefore, if your budget allows, the CUBE SL ROAD SL is a good choice. However, if you are primarily focused on basic daily riding, the Marin Fairfax 2 is more than sufficient.
Learn More: Is CUBE NUROAD PRO FE Worth Buying? [CUBE NUROAD PRO FE Review]
Marin Fairfax 2 vs ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike
Decathlon is an outdoor cycling and equipment manufacturing company from France. It has gained recognition from professionals and enthusiasts alike for its impressive aesthetics, solid quality, and competitive prices.
The ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike is a basic fitness bicycle from Decathlon. With its cream-colored rims and dark green frame, it has a vintage and aesthetic appeal. The leather handlebar grips and saddle add an artistic touch to the bike.
Furthermore, the anatomically designed saddle takes into consideration the body mechanics, reducing pressure on the hips for female riders.
In my opinion, the appearance of the ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike resembles that of an intellectual and charming young girl, evoking affection and admiration.
Unfortunately, the weight of 19.1kg makes it a bit cumbersome among entry-level fitness bikes. The steel frame contributes significantly to its weight, raising questions about the bike’s maneuverability.
In comparison, the Marin Fairfax 2 has a simpler color scheme and design, but its advantage lies in the hydraulic disc brake system.
Compared to the mechanical disc brake system of the ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike, the hydraulic disc brakes of the Marin Fairfax 2 offer better braking performance, allowing for more effective stopping power.
Therefore, I believe that the ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike is a contender in terms of appearance, while the Marin Fairfax 2 focuses more on functionality.
To summarize, if you value details and artistry, the ELOPS 520 Step-Over Town Bike might be a perfect match for you. If you frequently encounter downhill roads, the Marin Fairfax 2 would be a better choice.
Learn More: Is Elops CITY BIKE SINGLE-SPEED 500 Worth Buying? – [Elops CITY BIKE SINGLE-SPEED 500 Review]
Summary
Above is our review of the Marin Fairfax 2. It is a highly cost-effective basic fitness bicycle. Its hydraulic disc brake system is a significant highlight, providing excellent braking performance.
In our opinion, the Marin Fairfax 2 is a bike worth purchasing. Considering all the factors mentioned above, we have given it a high rating of 4.7.
Of course, if you are interested in other fitness bicycles, we also review various bikes with different price ranges that are equally interesting. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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