Marin Pine Mountain 2 Review
- Price: $2,399
- Frame: Steel
- Fork: RockShox 35 Gold RL
- Wheels: 29” Aluminum
- Drivetrain: 1×12
What we like about it: A record number of threaded eyelets brings much convenience to riders, and the added dropper design allows riders to handle more routes.
What we don’t like about it: No more paint color options.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 is a clean-looking retro hardtail trail bike.
It is the second bike in the Marin Pine Mountain series.
Building on the first, the Pine Mountain 2 has further improved the quality of its components, which makes it very competitive.
Below, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, and specifications as well as other versions of this bike.
Additionally, 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
I had already gotten my hands on the first bike in the Marin Pine Mountain series.
However, I didn’t think it was enough. The first time I saw the Marin Pine Mountain 2 I was impressed by its retro-minimalist look and smooth geometry, but what about its performance?
For that I headed to Bandon, Oregon, where there are flat oceanfront roads to relax on and steep grades to climb and descend.
If you want to ride here too, I recommend ordering local hotels and flights from IHG Hotels & Resorts. Without further ado, let’s get started!
Climbing
When I rode the uphill sections of Bandon, the Marin Pine Mountain 2 had a very crisp launch.
The straight handlebar design provided good handling, and the 780 Width, 10˚Backsweep, 6˚Upsweep handlebar angle was perfect for my use.
In addition, made up of the 32T cassette and SunRace 12-speed, 11-51T flywheel, the 12 drivetrain enjoyed good climbing performance, with 12 speed classes capable of handling different grades.
I still remember when I went through a steep hill, I climbed it without too much effort using the largest couple of speed combinations.
I have to mention that I really like its large 29×2.6-inch diameter wheelset, which held a long outer circumference for a fast ride; and the large grains outside the tires balanced the faster speed with grip.
Decline
I adjusted the height of the seat tube for better cushioning as I descended the rocky course on the Marin Pine Mountain 2.
I found the dropper seatpost configuration really convenient, and the seatpost height was adjusted almost instantly.
In addition, the Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and TRP Slate EVO brake levers gave me very silky-smooth braking and stopped me in a very short distance.
I must mention that the 120mm travel of the RockShox 35 Gold RL fork provided me with a good cushioning effect.
Also, the considerable number of holes in the frame made it very easy to carry the necessary supplies, which was really cool!
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 is the perfect hardtail trail bike that really appeals to me, both in looks and performance.
If you want a clean-looking hardtail trail bike with great climbing and descending performance, I highly recommend the Marin Pine Mountain 2.
Specification
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 is a hardtail trail bike with a steel frame.
It is equipped with mid- to high-end SLX, FSA components, including a Shimano 1×12 drivetrain with 32T crankset and SunRace 12-speed, 11-51 flywheel altogether offering a wide range of speeds for climbing.
Also, the Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and TRP Slate EVO brake levers have a unique advantage in braking, making them flexible and efficient.
In terms of stability, the 120mm travel of the RockShox 35 Gold RL fork provides excellent cushioning on descents.
The large 29×2.6-inch wide outer diameter tire provides excellent grip to prevent slippage, and the dense large grains on the surface of the outer tire reinforce the stability of the Marin Pine Mountain 2.
In terms of looks, the Marin Pine Mountain 2 comes in a Gloss Black / Green/pink colorway, which gives it a minimalist and retro look, and the amazing number of holes in the frame greatly facilitates the rider in carrying supplies.
In terms of geometry, the more aggressive geometry design offers more possibilities for acceleration and violent riding.
Video
What do we like about it?
- Stunning Holes: A record number of threaded eyelets brings much convenience to riders.
- Radical Geometry: The radical geometry makes the ride feel more jumpy, the acceleration and pedaling more powerful.
- Good Braking System: Shimano’s hydraulic discs and brake levers have a flexible and timely responsiveness, making the braking distance shorter and the efficiency greatly enhanced.
- Climbing-powerful Drivetrain: Shimano 1×12’s drivetrain delivers amazing climbing power on complex terrain.
- The Design of the Dropper Seatpost: This effectively facilitates the rider to adjust the height of the seatpost.
What don’t we like about it?
- There is only one color scheme to choose from, which is not friendly to some riders who prefer other colors.
FAQ
- Who is this bicycle for?
Those who pursue speed and violent riding; those who demand performance and convenience; off-road enthusiasts; those who demand a high level of bike appearance; those who have certain quality requirements.
- What sizes does this bike come in?
It is available in four sizes, so riders can choose according to their actual needs.
| SIZE | Rider height |
| SM | 5’2″ – 5’7″ |
| MD | 5’5″ – 5’10” |
| LG | 5’8″ – 6’1″ |
| XL | 5’11” – 6’3″ |
- What other versions of the Marin Pine Mountain series are available?
Here we provide you with a comparison of other versions. You do not necessarily have to follow this standard. The best way to find the most suitable model is to test ride.
| BIKE | PRICE | FRAME | FORK | TRAVEL | BRAKES | DRIVETRAIN |
| Marin Pine Mountain 1 | $1,499 | Steel | RockShox Recon Silver RL | 120mm front | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 11 |
| Marin Pine Mountain 2 | $2,399 | Steel | RockShox 35 Gold RL | 120mm front | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Series 3 Double Butted and Heat Treated CrMo, 29″ Wheels, Custom Cast Boost 148x12mm Dropouts, 148x12mm Thru-Axle, 73mm Threaded BB, Plentiful Gear Mounts (custom bag templates here) BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded Color: Gloss Black / Green/pink |
| Fork | RockShox 35 Gold RL, 120mm Travel, DebonAir, Alloy Tapered Steerer, 110x15mm Boost Spacing, Maxle Lite, 44mm Offset |
| Bottom Bracket | FSA Outboard Cartridge Bearings |
| Headset | FSA Orbit ITA, Sealed Cartridge Bearings, 1 1/8″ x 1 1/2″ |
| Stem | Marin 3D Forged Alloy, 35mm |
| Handlebar | Marin Bedroll Bar, 50mm Rise, 780 Width, 10°Backsweep, 6˚Upsweep |
| Saddle | Marin Pine Mountain Trail |
| Seatpost | TranzX Dropper Post, YSP23 w/ 1x Remote, Size S 150mm Travel, All Other Sizes: 170mm Travel, 30.9mm |
| Pedals | Nylon Platform |
| Grips | Marin Bear Paw Locking |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano SLX 12-Speed |
| Front Derailleur | – |
| Crank | FSA Grid, Modular 1x, 32T Direct Mount MegaTooth Chainring |
| Shifters | Shimano SLX 12-Speed |
| Cassette | SunRace 12-Speed, 11-51T |
| Chain | KMC X12 |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
| Brake Levers | TRP Slate EVO |
Wheels
| Rims | Alloy Double-Wall, Offset Spoke, 32mm ID, Tubeless Compatible |
| Front Hub | Forged Alloy, 110x15mm, Sealed Cartridge Bearings, Disc, 32H |
| Rear Hub | Forged Aluminum, 148x12mm, Centerlock Disc, 32H |
| Tires | Vee Tire Co. Flow Snap, 29×2.6″, Folding Bead, Tubeless Ready |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click View | Tires | Driveline | Frame material | Components |
| Canyon Stoic 4 | Click View | 27.5”/29” Aluminum | 1 × 12 | Aluminum | Deore, Shimano |
| Kona Big Honzo DL | Click View | 27.5” Aluminum | 1 × 12 | Aluminum | Deore, Shimano |
| Specialized Fuse Comp 29 | Click View | 29” Aluminum | 1× 12 | Aluminum | NX Eagle, X1, SRAM |
| Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R MX / Aluminum | Click View | 29” Aluminum | 1 × 12 | Aluminum | NX Eagle, Truvativ Descendant, SRAM |
Marin Pine Mountain 2 vs Canyon Stoic 4
The Canyon Stoic 4 is available in six sizes from XXS-XL, so different people can all find the best size for them.
In addition, its RockShox Pike Select fork has 140mm travel which is very competitive on downhill and play a very good role in cushioning.
A record number of threaded eyelets brings much convenience to riders. The large number of eyelets makes it easy for riders to secure necessary water, food, etc., especially on longer trips.
Apart from that, the Marin Pine Mountain 2 features a tubeless-compatible tire design, which reduces the chances of tire wear.
Learn More: Is Canyon Stoic 4 Worth Buying? [Canyon Stoic 4 Review]
Marin Pine Mountain 2 vs Kona Big Honzo DL
The Kona Big Honzo DL comes in Satin Crème De Menthe w/ Charcoal Decals for a fresh, natural look and a softer visual effect, while the Marin Pine Mountain 2 comes in Gloss Black / Green / pink for a more minimalist look.
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 uses a large 29×2.6-inch rim, which improves rolling speed and increases riding efficiency, while the wide grains on the surface of the outer tire bring some friction and stability.
At the same time, the Kona Big Honzo DL applies a small 27.5×2.8-inch rim with a wide outer tire.
The small wheel diameter provides good grip and the large circumference of the wide outer tire brings a certain rolling speed.
Marin Pine Mountain 2 vs Specialized Fuse Comp 29
The Specialized Fuse Comp 29 is available in two colors, Satin Smoke / Black; Satin Olive Green / Sand, to meet the rider’s psychological needs.
In addition, it has NX Eagle, X1, SRAM components for better performance, with SRAM NX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain to satisfy the rider’s climbing demands.
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 has a more aggressive geometry, with a 1.34 stack ratio that allows the rider to accelerate at a wind-breaking angle; the longer wheelbase in turn ensures a stable chassis during the ride, preventing the bike from flying out of control or skidding.
On top of that, although both bikes come with dropper seatposts, the Marin Pine Mountain 2 has a longer seatpost travel and can be adjusted more, allowing the rider to use it in richer positions for riding.
Marin Pine Mountain 2 vs Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R MX / Aluminum
Designed with an aluminum frame, the Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R MX / Aluminum is very light, the 29.1 lbs weight making it easy to carry and push.
Also, its NX Eagle, Truvativ Descendant components are of good quality. The SRAM NX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain has good rear derailleur tension for more accurate and responsive shifting.
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 is one of the more cost-effective hardtail trail bikes out there.
The RockShox 35 Gold RL fork’s 120mm of travel provides timely and effective cushioning on descents; and the SLX, FSA components are good for a bike in its price range.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz CHAMELEON A Good Bike? [2022 Santa Cruz CHAMELEON Review]
Summary
Above is our test of the Marin Pine Mountain 2. The Marin Pine Mountain 2 has upgraded components from the Mountain 1 and comes with a dropper seatpost, which makes it very competitive.
In our opinion, the Marin Pine Mountain 2 is a bike worth buying. All together we give it a high score of 4.8.
Of course, if you’re interested in exploring other similar 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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