Marin Larkspur 2 Review
- Price: $1,149
- Frame: Steel
- Fork: Steel
- Wheels: 650b Aluminum
- Drivetrain: 1×11
What we like about it: The good look is a joy to behold.
What we don’t like about it: The steel body could be more friendly to people looking for lightweight.
Rating: (4.7/5)
Do you want to get a bike with a good value? Do you want to get a bike with good performance to meet your fitness needs? Today we have a very high-quality bike, the Marin Larkspur 1. The Gloss Copper / Turquoise color scheme is reminiscent of hot sun and sandy beaches, and the excellent geometry and braking system provide a great experience. I’m sure you’d love one of these fitness bikes too!
Below, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, and specifications as well as other versions of the Marin Larkspur 2. And at the end of the review, we will also compare several best bike models. If you want to know more about bike reviews, don’t hesitate to follow us.
Riding Experience
The Marin Larkspur 2 is an excellent value in Marin’s fitness bike lineup. The hot, bright colors and simple, smooth geometric design made me fall in love with it at first sight. So how does this bike perform? For this reason, I went to the Seine in Paris for an unforgettable ride. If you want to ride here too, I recommend booking local flights and hotels on Skyscanner. Everything is ready. Let’s get started.
Long distance cruising
With the gentler geometry of the Marin Larkspur 2, I could maintain an upright riding position for long periods to prevent fatigue, which gave me the confidence to cruise down the Seine. Since the Seine is a world-famous cycling mecca with constant traffic on its banks, a good brake braking effect and agile front-end handling are essential. I found the Shimano Deore’s hydraulic disc brakes silky smooth, stopping me timely and effectively when I faced an obstacle. On top of that, the straight handlebars of Marin County provide good maneuverability and flexibility for every turn I make. The long wheelbase gives the bike a stable chassis and a low center of gravity, and I can feel the great stability it gives me when I’m on the boardwalk. It’s awesome!
Commuting
I also use the Marin Larkspur 2 for commuting during the week. This is because its 650bx2.35-inch wheelset combination increases my distance and speed with a larger wheelset circumference while still maintaining grip, thus saving me time on my commute. Of course, the Puncture Protection, Mixed Terrain Ready technology used on the wheel set protects the tires from damage when I encounter rugged terrain. I have yet to have to repair them. There are inevitably hills on my commute to work, but I’m not worried. The Shimano 1×11 drivetrain on the Marin Larkspur 2 provides good climbing power when going uphill, while the Shimano Deore hydraulic discs and brake levers offer timely and effective silky braking when I’m going downhill. The dropper Seatpost is easy to adjust the seat tube height without getting off the bike, which is convenient!
The view of the Seine is beautiful, and it is a great experience to cycle Marin Larkspur 2. If you want a fitness bike for commuting or weekend cruising, I sincerely recommend the Marin Larkspur 2.
Specification
The Marin Larkspur 2 is the second bike in the Marin Larkspur series, and from the looks of it, it carries on the high-value character of this series. The enthusiastic and bright Gloss Copper / Turquoise color scheme combined with the simple and smooth linear geometry easily captures the attention. The gentle geometry helps the rider maintain an upright and relaxed riding position, and the long wheelbase provides a stable chassis and good balance. The Marin County straight handlebar enhances the bike’s handling, and the 70mm/110mm Travel dropper post allows the seat tube to be adjusted to the desired height without getting off the bike.
In terms of tires, the Marin Larkspur 2 uses a 650bx2.35-inch wheelset. 650b rims provide great grip and stability, and the 2.35-inch outer tire has a large outer circumference to increase distance and speed. Puncture Protection, Mixed Terrain Ready technology protects the tires from punctures and damage.
The Marin Larkspur 2 has excellent drivetrain and braking. The Shimano Deore’s hydraulic disc brakes and brake levers provide silky smooth braking and high stability to keep the rider safe. The Shimano Deore 1×11’s drivetrain is excellent for showing off its climbing advantages when faced with rugged terrain. Overall, this is a great fitness bike.
What do we like about it?
- High-value Appearance: The warm and bright Gloss Copper / Turquoise color scheme combined with the simple and smooth linear geometry easily captures one’s attention.
- Excellent Geometry Design: The gentle geometry design facilitates the rider to maintain an upright and relaxed riding position.
- High-travel Dropper Seatpost: The 70mm/110mm Travel drip stem makes adjusting the seat tube to the desired height easy.
- Powerful Drivetrain: Shimano 1×11’s drivetrain delivers amazing climbing power on complex terrain.
- The Perfect Wheelset: The 650bx2.35-inch wheelset combination increases travel distance and speed with a larger wheelset circumference while maintaining grip.
What don’t we like about it?
- The steel body could be more friendly to some people who seek lightweight.
FAQs
- Who is Marin Larkspur 2 for?
People who demand the good appearance of bicycles; people who ride bicycles for daily commuting; people who like a drivetrain with good climbing power; people who want to ride bicycles for fitness; beginners.
- What sizes are available for the Marin Larkspur 2?
The Marin Larkspur 1 is available in three sizes so riders can choose according to their situation.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| SM | 152cm-164cm |
| MD | 161cm-174cm |
| LG | 171cm-181cm |
- What other versions of the Marin Larkspur collection are available?
Here we provide a comparison version, which can differ from this standard. A riding test is the best way to find the most suitable model.
| BIKE | PRICE | FRAME | FORK | BRAKES | DRIVETRAIN |
| Marin Larkspur 1 | $869 | Steel | Steel | Mechanical Disc | 1 × 10 |
| Marin Larkspur 2 | $1,149 | Steel | Steel | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 11 |
Video
Specs
Build
| Frame | Series 2 Butted CrMo, 27.5″ Wheels, Mixte Low-Step, Integrated Headset, Disc Brake, Kickstand Mount, Fender and Rack Mounts Color: Gloss Copper / Turquoise |
| Fork | CrMo Steel, Curved Blade, Disc Specific, Fender and Rack Eyelets |
| Bottom Bracket | Sealed Outboard Bearings |
| Headset | FSA Orbit CE No.8B |
| Stem | Marin Alloy, 31.8mm Clamp |
| Handlebar | Marin Alloy Sweeper |
| Saddle | Marin Adventure Plush |
| Seatpost | TranzX YSP38J, 70mm/110mm Travel, Shimano I-Spec EV Lever |
| Pedals | Commute Platform |
| Grips | Marin County |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Deore 11-Speed |
| Front Derailleur | – |
| Crank | Forged Alloy 1×11, Hollow CrMo Spindle, Narrow Wide 38T |
| Shifters | Shimano Deore 11-Speed |
| Cassette | SunRace 11-Speed, 11-51T |
| Chain | KMC X11 |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Deore Hydraulic |
Wheels
| Rims | Marin Aluminum Double Wall, 27mm Internal, Disc Specific |
| Front Hub | Forged Aluminum Alloy, 32H |
| Rear Hub | Forged Aluminum Alloy, 32H |
| Tires | Vee Tire Co. GPVee, 27.5×2.35″, Wire Bead, Puncture Protection, Mixed Terrain Ready |
Comparison table
| Bicycles | Click to view | Tires | Driveline | Frame material | Components |
| Cannondale Quick 4 | Click View | 700c Aluminum | 1 × 9 | Aluminum | microSHIFT Advent |
| Canyon Roadlite 5 WMN | Click View | 650b/700c Aluminum | 1 × 11 | Aluminum | Apex, SRAM |
| Giant FastRoad AR, Advanced 1 | Click View | 700c Aluminum | 2× 11 | Carbon | 105, FSA, Shimano |
| Scott Metrix 20 | Click View | 700c Aluminum | 2 × 10 | Aluminum | Tiagra, FSA, Shimano |
Marin Larkspur 2 vs Cannondale Quick 4
In terms of components, the Cannondale Quick 4 uses mid-range components from microSHIFT Advent, while the Marin Larkspur 2 uses mid-range and high-end components from Shimano Deore, the latter of which is of higher quality than the former.
Visually, the Cannondale Quick 4 is available in three colorways: Bio Lime; Graphite; and Alpine. The Marin Larkspur 2 is only available in one colorway. Still, it’s a great looker, and the Gloss Copper/Turquoise colorway looks like warm, bright sunshine.
In addition, the Marin Larkspur 2 uses a dropper seatpost, which significantly improves the ease of adjusting the seatpost height compared to the Quick 4’s rigid seatpost.
So, those who want a more comprehensive range of appearance options can consider the Cannondale Quick 4; otherwise, the Marin Larkspur 2 is a better choice.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Quick CX 3 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Quick CX 3 Review]
Marin Larkspur 2 vs Canyon Roadlite 5 WMN
I think the two cars aims at different ranges of people.
The Canyon Roadlite 5 WMN is a fitness bike designed by Canyon for women. It comes in a Wild Rose color scheme, making it look elegant. XXL-LG four sizes fully consider the height characteristics of women, and women of different heights can find the most suitable size for themselves. The aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork make the bike lighter, so you won’t feel a strong sense of weight when riding it. However, its geometry design is aggressive and suitable for riders who pursue speed.
The Marin Larkspur 2 is geared towards a broader range of riders; whether you’re a man or a woman, you can choose this bike. The excellent geometry allows the rider to maintain a more upright position, and the longer wheelbase provides stability. The dropper seat post greatly facilitates seat height adjustment, so if you’re a rider looking for comfort, I think the Marin Larkspur 2 is a better fit for you.
Learn More: Is Canyon Roadlite 6 Worth Buying? [Canyon Roadlite 6 Review]
Marin Larkspur 2 vs Giant FastRoad AR, Advanced 1
The Giant FastRoad AR, Advanced 1’s greatest strength is its high quality. It has a carbon fiber frame and fork, which makes it very lightweight and shock-absorbent. In terms of drivetrain, the 2×11 Shimano drivetrain has more speed partitions and can be ridden at faster speeds. In terms of tires, the 700c wheelset can go over potholes in the road easily and fast.
In contrast, the Marin Larkspur 2 has the advantage of being extremely cost-effective. Although its price is friendly, its performance is not inferior to another bike. On the one hand, the 650b wheelset has natural advantages in stability and grip. Puncture Protection and Mixed Terrain Ready technology makes the tires more wear-resistant; on the other hand, the design of the outer alignment can effectively avoid the noise caused by the collision between the line and the downtube.
For those who prefer a lighter body and don’t skimp on price, they can pick up the Giant FastRoad AR, Advanced 1; for those who prefer a good value-for-money fitness bike, I recommend the Marin Larkspur 2.
Learn More: Is Giant FastRoad Advanced 1 Worth Buying? [Giant FastRoad Advanced 1 Review]
Marin Larkspur 2 vs Scott Metrix 20
The Scott Metrix 20 is a fitness bike available in seven sizes XXS-XXL with an aluminum frame and carbon fork, which makes it lighter than the Marin Larkspur 2. The 2×10 Shimano drivetrain has a wide range of speeds and good speed but may be slightly inferior on climbs to the Marin Larkspur 2’s Shimano 1×11 drivetrain.
I prefer the Marin Larkspur 2 over these two bikes because of its more comfortable geometry. It has a larger stack ratio for a more relaxed riding position; the more extended wheelbase than the other bike gives the Marin Larkspur 2 a stable chassis. And its tires are more wear-resistant and less likely to be damaged. With similar quality components on both bikes, I recommend the Marin Larkspur 2.
Summary
These are our tests of the Marin Larkspur 2. The Marin Larkspur 2 is an attractive-looking exercise bike. The Gloss Copper / Turquoise color scheme evokes the hot sun and sandy beaches, and the excellent geometry and braking system provides a great cycling experience.
In our opinion, the Marin Larkspur 2 is a bike worth buying. That’s why we give it a high score of 4.7.
Of course, if you’re interested in exploring other fitness mountain bikes, we have reviewed a variety of bikes at different price points that you might find interesting. Feel free to check out our other reviews as well.
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