rower trek merlin 6

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Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Review: Beginner’s Dream Mountain Bike

The Trek Marlin 6 2023 is the newest iteration of the entry-level XC hardtail family designed for light trail riding, gravel paths, fire roads, and mixed-terrain commuting. 

The 2023 Gen 2 model is the same as the Trek Marlin 6 2022, only with different colors and a new name. Trek overhauled its naming system for the upcoming year, referring to the models by the number of generations there have been. So the latest version of a Trek bike has the highest ‘Gen’ number.

This Trek Marlin 6 review will cover the bike’s main specs and highlights, answer some buyer questions, and provide our verdict on who should buy one. 

How Much is the Trek Marlin 6?

Trek Marlin 6 price is $850 and sits in the middle of the price range of the five Marlin models. The cheapest model costs $630, and the most expensive is $1,330. Alongside the 820, the Marlin is Trek’s most affordable mountain bike family.

• Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain
• Rack and kickstand mounts
• Progressive sizing 
• Low-performance coil fork

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Full List of Specs

Trek marlin 6 gen 2 full review.

In this section, we will cover the main features of the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 and what makes it stand out in the sub-$1,000 MTB category. 

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 is available in four modern paint jobs that will suit any type of rider.

What Type of Bike Is a Trek Marlin 6?

The Trek Marlin 6 MTB is a modern-looking cross-country hardtail with a 100mm coil suspension fork, perfect for beginner mountain bikers. Unfortunately, the rudimentary suspension limits the Marlin 6 to relatively mild trails. Nonetheless, it makes an excellent day-to-day bike for commuting, transport, and leisure.

Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame

Trek uses its Alpha Silver aluminum frame for the Marlin 6. Thanks to the company’s consistent design and materials innovations, these frames outperform the similarly-priced competition in compliance and comfort. 

Internal cable routing means Marlin 6 looks sleek and neat, while it also protects the cables from excessive wear and tear.

The frame has quick-release axles, tidy internal cable routing, and mounts for a rack and kickstand, allowing you to equip the Marlin for commuting or bikepacking. One unusual feature of this bike is the curved top tube on the smaller models (XS, S) that lowers the standover height for a better fit. 

Is the Trek Marlin 6 Good for Jumps?

No, the Trek Marlin 6 isn’t good for jumps. Unfortunately, as a cheap hardtail, this bike uses a low-performance coil-spring Suntour XCT 30 fork with 100mm of travel (80mm on XS). This fork performs poorly on bumpy trails but is adequate for day-to-day riding and light off-roading .

Thankfully, the fork has preload and hydraulic lockout settings, but the headtube isn’t tapered, meaning it will be harder to upgrade.  

Shimano Deore 10-Speed Drivetrain

The standout feature for us is the Shimano Deore M4100 10-speed drivetrain. The Trek Marlin 6 is one of the only bikes with this hardware at $850 or below. In addition, an 11-46t cassette and 30t chainring provide plenty of gearing for steep gradients. 

Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain is a standard in this price range across the industry, as it provides plenty of gear range and smooth gear shifting.

Generally, sub-$1,000 mountain bikes have cheaper drivetrains that shift poorly and lose efficiency quickly. However, Deore M4100 is durable and smooth-shifting , and the single chainring makes it easier to maintain. 

Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Another excellent inclusion for a bike of this price is hydraulic disc brakes. Although entry-level, Tektro’s HD-M275 brakeset with 160mm rotors performs well at this price range and for a bike of this spec. 

Hydraulic discs allow you to stop safely in wet weather and with plenty of power and reliability in most situations. However, if you plan on tackling advanced trails, neither this bike nor the brakes are adequate. 

2.20″ Tires and Progressive Wheel Sizing

The Trek Marlin 6 has Bontrager XR2 Comp tires for handling hardpack trails, gravel paths, and pavement where traction is relatively predictable. These XC-style tires roll fast and provide decent grip but will slip and slide in wet trail conditions. 

Even though the tires are not tubeless-ready, they are wide enough to provide plenty of traction in varying conditions that come with modern mountain biking.

The XS and Small sizes of this bike have 27.5″ rims, while the others use 29ers. Progressive sizing makes the Marlin fit more consistently across rider heights. Unfortunately, the wheelset and tires are not tubeless-ready. 

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Sizing Chart

• XS — 4’9″-5’1″ / 145-155cm
• S —  5’1″-5’5″ / 155-165cm
• M —  5’5″-5’8″ / 165-173cm
• M/L — 5’8″-5’11” / 173-180cm
• L —  5’11”-6’2″ / 180-188cm
• XL —  6’2″-6’5″ / 188-195cm
• 2XL — 6’5″-6’8″ / 195-203cm

Who Is Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Best Suited For?

The Marlin 6 Trek MTB is best for beginner mountain bikers who want to start learning the skills and techniques of the sport on light trails. In addition, cyclists who want a bike for comfortable day-to-day use, running errands, and mixed-terrain commutes will enjoy the Marlin 6. 

We recommend the Marlin 6 Gen 2 to beginner to early-intermediate mountain bikers who mostly stay on light trails and rough dirt and gravel roads.

Again, this bike is limited by its cheap fork, so if you want a bike to grow into and challenge your mountain biking skills, you may want to check out one of the higher-end Trek MTBs. 

Other Trek Marlin Bikes We Reviewed:

• Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

Is Marlin 6 Gen 2 a Good Buy?

We think the Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 is a solid choice at just $850. The new-style frame and geometry make it look like the real deal, even if it can’t handle hard riding. 

Most of the Marlin 6’s components are excellent for the price range, including Shimano’s Deore drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, durable Bontrager tires, and a quality frame with solid ride characteristics. 

Don’t miss out on this excellent deal if you’re looking for a cheap do-it-all bike that’s at home on pavement, light mountain trails, and everything in between.

Buy from Trek Bikes

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• Marlin 6 Gen 3

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 - 2023

Marlin 6 is the perfect ride for progressing your skills on the trails. Its updated slacker frame geometry makes it easier to control on descents while the upgraded suspension fork takes the edge off bumpy trails. Integrated rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to add accessories to this versatile steed. It's right for you if... You want a trail bike that's dialed for building confidence on the dirt, and versatile enough for commuting to work or school. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with modern trail riding geometry and internal routing that keeps cables protected and keep the bike looking sleek. A 100mm RockShox Judy front suspension fork that cushions rocks, roots, and bumps in the trail, 10-speed fuss-free Shimano CUES shifting, and the serious stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. The final word Marlin 6 is an ideal trail bike for riders who want to progress on the dirt and want a bike that can keep them rolling off of the trail, too. Why you'll love it - Marlin Gen 3 gives you serious trail capability, with big tire clearance and slack, confidence-boosting geometry that keeps you stable from singletrack to city - Its RockShox fork gives you 100mm of suspension for turning rocks and roots in the trail into smooth-sailing - Rack and fender mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - Internal routing makes it easy to add a dropper post that lets you lower your saddle on the fly for more confident descending - Marlin models in sizes XXS and XS have a curved top tube and lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount Features: Will my bike have a curved top tube? Smaller frames have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frame sizes have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height. Fit for every rider Marlin comes in seven frame sizes to suit riders of any height, and Smart Wheel Size ensures you’re on the fastest wheel that fits. The smallest sizes even come with short-reach brake levers and narrower handlebars that give smaller riders better comfort and control. High-tech, high-value Marlin looks and feels great. It’s packed with features usually found only on more expensive bikes, like a stylish frame with internal shift cable and brake hose routing, which can help your cables last longer by protecting them from the elements. Shimano CUES Inspired by rider demand for trouble-free drivetrain longevity and performance, Shimano CUES offers a new foundation for versatility and durability across a range of both electric and standard bikes. CUES features Shimano’s new LINKGLIDE drivetrain technology for significantly increased life on wear items like chains, cassettes, and chainrings. Shimano LINKGLIDE LINKGLIDE technology has been specifically engineered for incredible durability while still delivering smooth and decisive shifting – along with a great pedaling experience. Available exclusively on Shimano CUES drivetrains. Upgrade your pedals and love your bike more Pedals are two of the five touchpoints that connect you with your bike, and even though this bike comes with a pair, upgrading to pedals that boost control and grip will greatly improve your ride. See the pedal guide and find the best pedals for your riding style. We recommend flat pedals for simple versatility. Wheel size: - Size XX-Small: 26-inch - Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch - Sizes Medium – XX-Large: 29-inch

All measurements provided in cm unless otherwise noted.

* Subject to change without notice.

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• Marlin 6 Gen 3

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3

Marlin 6 is the perfect ride for progressing your skills on the trails. Its updated slacker frame geometry makes it easier to control on descents while the suspension fork takes the edge off bumpy trails. Integrated rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to add accessories to this versatile steed. It's right for you if... You want a trail bike that's dialed for building confidence on the dirt, and versatile enough for commuting to work or school. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with modern trail riding geometry and internal routing that keeps cables protected and keep the bike looking sleek. A front suspension fork that cushions rocks, roots, and bumps in the trail, 10-speed fuss-free Shimano Deore shifting, and the serious stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. The final word Marlin 6 is an ideal trail bike for riders who want to progress on the trail, and want a bike that can keep them rolling off of the trail, too. Why you'll love it - You get real-deal modern mountain bike geometry that keeps handling confident when you're on singletrack, but it's versatile enough for use on roads and bike paths, too - Rack and fender mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - The new Thru-Skew system is safer, simpler, and stronger, plus it makes removing the rear wheel for flat fixes a cinch. - Internal routing makes it easy to add a dropper post that lets you lower you saddle on the fly for more confident descending - Marlin models in sizes XXS and XS have a curved top tube and lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount Features: Expanded size range With 8 different sizes, Marlin has a bike made to fit every rider. Each frame is equipped with smart wheel sizing, with XXS frames rolling on 26" wheels, and wheel sizes increasing proportionally along with frame sizes, so every rider gets the fit they need. Trail-ready, Upgrade-ready The secret to Marlin's popularity is a real trail-savvy mountain bike frame that's upgrade compatible, so it can grow with you as you take on bigger trails and tougher features. Roll stronger with Thru Skew Goodbye open dropouts. The Thru Skewer is a better, stronger, more precisely aligned rear wheel retention system that keeps your wheel more secure than quick-release skewers while still using the standard 135mm rear hub spacing.

* Subject to change without notice.

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Trek Marlin 6 Women's

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 14.37 kg / 31.67 lbs (with tubes)

At a glance

Where to buy.

"Look fast, feel fast, go fast."

"Unlike some bikes on the cheap end of the spectrum that cater to the recreational user, this one is aimed firmly at entry-level riders who want a bike that's affordable yet capable of riding and racing hard."

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Silver Aluminum, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR
• Fork Size: XS SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 42mm offset for 27.5'' wheel, 100mm QR, 80mm travel Size: S SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 42mm offset for 27.5'' wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel
• Tires Size: XS , S Size: M , ML
• Chain KMC Z8.3, 8 speed
• Crank Size: XS , S , M Shimano M315, 36/22, 170mm length Size: ML , M Shimano M315, 36/22, 175mm length
• Shifters Shimano Altus M315, 8 speed
• Cassette Shimano HG31, 11-34, 8 speed
• Brakeset Size: XS , S Tektro HD-M276 hydraulic disc, short reach lever Size: M , ML Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Size: XS , S Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 690mm width Size: M , ML Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Ajna Women's
• Seatpost Size: XS , S , M Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length Size: ML Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 400mm length
• Stem Size: XS Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 50mm length Size: S , M
• Headset Semi-integrated, 1-1/8''

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Marlin 6 Women's?

The 2021 Trek Marlin 6 Women's may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2021 Trek Marlin 6 Women's weigh?

A 2021 Trek Marlin 6 Women's weights M - 14.37 kg / 31.67 lbs (with tubes).

Q: What size 2021 Trek Marlin 6 Women's should I get?

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• Marlin 6 Gen 2

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2

Marlin 6 is a cross country mountain bike built to give you an efficient off-road ride with a suspension fork that locks out, and a simple 1x drivetrain. It's made for mountain biking, but it's also equipped with features like rack and kickstand mounts that make it a great choice for adventurous daily commutes. It's right for you if... You're testing the waters of off-road riding and want a real mountain bike at a great value with a wide range of gears to cover more ground on the road and trail. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with internal routing to protect your cables and add to the bike's sleek look, powerful hydraulic disc brakes, and a simple 1x10 Shimano drivetrain that ditches the front derailleur for less clutter and easier operation. The wide-range cassette still gives you all the gears you need for big climbs and steep descents. Plus, a suspension fork with a lever that lets you easily lock the suspension so you don't waste energy on smooth terrain. The final word Marlin 6 gives you upgrades you'll notice on every ride, like the smooth, simple shifting Shimano drivetrain. Extra-strong, double-walled rims and powerful hydraulic disc brakes give you durability and stopping power for your most rugged adventures on the trail, in town, and everywhere in between. Why you'll love it - The 1x drivetrain gives you all the gears you need and none you don't - Smaller frame sizes (XXS, XS, and S) have short-reach brake levers that make it easier and more comfortable for riders with smaller hands to brake confidently - Marlin models in XXS through S frame sizes have a curved top tube and a lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount - Rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - Like every model in the Marlin family, it's backed by Trek's lifetime warranty

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. The larger frames (M and ML) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Trek Marlin 6 Review: Is This Bike Worth Buying?

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What do you want from your MTB? Is it a bike that you can take to work every day? Something light that you can easily transport if needed, something with multiple speeds that will allow you to commute with ease?

Or are you after an adventure, a bike that you can have fun with? If you live near mountain trails, for example, you might want a bike that can handle a few bumps in the road. In that case, you’ll want something tough with great suspension that can easily deal with tougher terrain.

Bottom Line Up Front: So, we would recommend it overall ( you can pick it up online directly via Trek here ) – particularly if you’re on a tighter budget and you want to upgrade it later on down the line. It’s one of the best out of the box budget buys.  

The Marlin 6 is a GREAT budget pick to get started. An excellent all-around mountain bike, with room for plenty of cusomizations and upgrades later. Only if you need it.

Table of Contents

How does Trek stack up against other companies?

Trek is known as a brand to be trusted. Thanks to years of quality craftsmanship and its long alliance with Lance Armstrong, Trek is considered to be a solid brand in the mountain bike space.

In terms of price, Trek offer a range of different options – from around $450 for the FX (a basic hybrid bike) right up to $12,500 for the Madone SLR 9 Disc brakes eTap suspension lockout (a state-of-the-art racing bike). The Marlin 6 is on the lower end of the price scale.

Trek are quite similar to Diamondback in their price range. Although Trek do offer a lot of expensive bikes (which is to be expected given their expertise), they have more budget options than Fuji and Cannondale.

What kind of bike is the Marlin 6 ?

Trek Marlin 6 is designed to be a multi-purpose real mountain bike: it’s built with mountain biking trails in mind, but it’s also great for commuters, with extra features like rack and fender mounts.

It could be the perfect choice for you if you want to hit the trails at the weekend, but also need a bike to commute to work in the week. It’s not built to go downhill or for heavy trails, however.

It’s also an entry-level bike (for mountain biking) – this means it’s a lot more affordable than some other bikes on the market.

The Main Features of the Marlin 6

Let’s take a look at some of the features of the Marlin 6.

What is the Trek Marlin 6 made from?

The Marlin 6 is made from aluminum, making it a pretty lightweight bike. There are seven sizes to choose from, so you should be able to find one that fits you. It comes in orange or silver.

What are the wheels like?

Depending on which size you buy, the wheels are either 27in or 29in – this is to help the larger bikes to have a smoother ride (with minimal impact to standover height). This is great because the larger wheels allow you to have a better riding experience on slightly rougher terrain. The wheels are heavy, however, which caused some users problems as they tried to pick up speed.

The wheels are Bontrager Connection 32-hole double-walled, and the tires are Bontrager XR2.

What other features does it have?

The Marlin 6 is designed to be able to handle lighter trails and cross country moderate terrain – so you won’t be able to hit the hardcore trails with this one. It does offer multiple gears (24 speeds / shift levers) with a rack and fender mount, however, which makes it ideal for commuting or mixed use riders.

How does the Trek Marlin 6 perform?

Some people found the Marlin 6 to be a little stiff and unresponsive, with the wheels reducing the responsiveness quite drastically at times. This makes it less comfortable to ride on trails, as it doesn’t seem to perform well on drops, with limited softening. However, in terms of riding on smoother, flatter terrain, it seems to perform nicely. A great entry level bike for mountain biking.

Check out how Marlin 6 Compares to Marlin 7.

What are the specs of the Marlin 6?

In terms of specifications, here are the main things you need to know:

• Fork – SR Suntour XCT fork, 100-mm travel fork
• Crankset – Shimano
• Derailleurs – Shimano Altus
• Brakes – Tektro M290 disc brakes (hydraulic disc brakes and brake levers)
• Saddle – Bontrager Evoke 1

What warranty will I receive if I buy it?

Like all Trek bikes, once you register it, you get a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

Trek Marlin 6 is suited for…

• Riders on a tight budget but want a versatile crossover bike
• Those who want to try a bit of trail riding but also need a bike to commute to work/ride on flatter terrains (cross country mountain bike)
• A solid floor of great performance (from great brakes, excellent drivetrain, dropper post, silver aluminum alloy…)

Trek Marlin 6 is not suited for…

• Anyone wanting to tackle tougher trails
• Those that don’t want to upgrade/change parts on their bike to improve the riding experience

What do users think of Trek Marlin 6?

There are a range of views here. Many people find that it works very well on flatter ground, and they enjoy the large wheels and multiple speeds. Quite a few users decided to change the grips and pedals  (for different types of pedaling), which made riding the Marlin 6 a bit more enjoyable.

Generally, it’s considered a good bike for the price, and people say it is a good bike for customization – so if you want a bit of a ‘blank slate’, you can tinker with it to your heart’s content.

On the other hand, people found that braking and sudden turns put stress on the suspension fork legs, making them stick – and that it generally feels like a stiff, not very responsive ride on trails. Small jumps and dips in the trail were quite unforgiving for some people, which is a shame. A few people mentioned that the undampened suspension also made for a less comfortable riding experience on trails.

So, mixed opinions – it could work for you if you want to give trails a go, or if you’re willing to customize it, but it’s mostly suited for commuting (with kickstand and all).

The Pros and Cons of the Trek Marlin 6

Here are the best and worst bits about this particular model:

• Great price point ( see here for latest )
• Very customizable
• Handy for commuting
• Doesn’t ride as well on trails
• Can be a bit stiff and unforgiving

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly asked questions about the Marlin 6.

It weighs around 31.77lbs.

The maximum weight for riders is 300lbs.

People suggest you can ride the Marlin 6 on blue and green level trails with no problems. However, there may be more suitable bikes out there for you if you plan to hit the trails a lot.

Most users don’t recommend it – it can deal with small drops okay, but it isn’t designed for jumps.

Yes – it comes in a variety of sizes, too, so you should be able to find one that suits you.

Yes, there are two choices – orange and silver.

Where can I find Trek bikes?

What are the Best Trek Marlin 6 alternatives?

There are a few alternatives we can recommend if you don’t want the Marlin 6:

Diamondback Overdrive – This is a great bike at a similar price point to the Marlin 6. The wheels have great traction (making it great for trail riding), and it has a comfortable seat. It’s also very easy to assemble out of the box, making it a good choice for beginners.

The classic returns this year with 27.5” wheels, 24 speeds, a plush four-inch Suntour suspension fork, and powerful disc brakes. Big knobby tires grip every root and rock, keeping you confident and in control as you explore the trail. Whether you're a diehard hardtail aficionado or looking for a solid starter mountain bike, the Overdrive doesn't disappoint.

Trek Marlin 5   – This is great for beginner riders and offers similar features to the Marlin 6, including the alpha silver aluminum frame. You can get it for as little as around $500 , which is great if you’re on a tight budget. Again, it’s great if you want a bike that can handle the commute (commuter road riding) as well as some mild-to-moderate mountain bike trails (road and trail).

Marlin 5 is a trail-worthy daily rider that's perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. A front suspension fork with 100mm of travel, 21 speeds, and mounts for a rack and kickstand make it an ideal choice for new trail riders or anyone looking for a comfortable, stable commuter with the ruggedness of a real mountain bike.

Kona Blast – this is a tough bike that comes in at under $1,000 but can handle some tougher trails than the others on this list, thanks to the robust frame sizes (also aluminum frame) and excellent suspension. It can also handle some good jumps, too, so if you want to go on more adventures with your bike, it could be worth the extra money.

Conclusion – is the Trek Marlin 6 worth buying?

The Marlin 6 is going to appeal to a specific type of person. If you’re on a tight budget, you want a bike that can handle mild trails and you want to use it to commute to work, then the Marlin 6 is a great bike for you.

Also, if you’re willing to tinker around with it, you can slowly upgrade it to improve your riding experience over time. This is a great bike if you’re new to the MTB world and you fancy customizing a bike for the first time (as a more novice rider).

However, you do get what you pay for, and in this case, this budget bike doesn’t stack up very well against its more expensive counterparts. It’s not as fun to ride as other bikes we’ve reviewed, especially on rocky, bumpy trails. If you want a hard-wearing bike that you can have an adventure with, the Marlin 6 isn’t going to be for you.

Bottom Line: So, we would recommend it overall ( you can pick it up online directly via Trek here ) – particularly if you’re on a tighter budget and you want to upgrade it later on down the line. It’s one of the best out of the box budget buys.  

If you can afford to spend a few hundred more dollars and you don’t want to bother with customization, we’d recommend investing in a different model that is a bit more comfortable to ride such as the Diamondback Overdrive .

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• Marlin 6 Gen 3

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3

Marlin 6 is the perfect ride for progressing your skills on the trails. Its updated slacker frame geometry makes it easier to control on descents while the suspension fork takes the edge off bumpy trails. Integrated rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to add accessories to this versatile steed. It's right for you if... You want a trail bike that's dialed for building confidence on the dirt, and versatile enough for commuting to work or school. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with modern trail riding geometry and internal routing that keeps cables protected and keep the bike looking sleek. A front suspension fork that cushions rocks, roots, and bumps in the trail, 10-speed fuss-free Shimano Deore shifting, and the serious stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. The final word Marlin 6 is an ideal trail bike for riders who want to progress on the trail, and want a bike that can keep them rolling off of the trail, too. Why you'll love it - You get real-deal modern mountain bike geometry that keeps handling confident when you're on singletrack, but it's versatile enough for use on roads and bike paths, too - Rack and fender mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - The new Thru-Skew system is safer, simpler, and stronger, plus it makes removing the rear wheel for flat fixes a cinch. - Internal routing makes it easy to add a dropper post that lets you lower you saddle on the fly for more confident descending - Marlin models in sizes XXS and XS have a curved top tube and lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount Features: Expanded size range With 8 different sizes, Marlin has a bike made to fit every rider. Each frame is equipped with smart wheel sizing, with XXS frames rolling on 26" wheels, and wheel sizes increasing proportionally along with frame sizes, so every rider gets the fit they need. Trail-ready, Upgrade-ready The secret to Marlin's popularity is a real trail-savvy mountain bike frame that's upgrade compatible, so it can grow with you as you take on bigger trails and tougher features. Roll stronger with Thru Skew Goodbye open dropouts. The Thru Skewer is a better, stronger, more precisely aligned rear wheel retention system that keeps your wheel more secure than quick-release skewers while still using the standard 135mm rear hub spacing.

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Trek Marlin 6 Review: Is it A good bike To Have

• By Daniel Shakibaie
• Mountain Bike

Hey Biker, Welcome to my Trek Marlin 6 Review of 2021. 

I have used dozen of bikes over the year and I going to help you with picking your next bike.

Trest me, you don’t want to waste over $500 on a bike that will not fit you. If I were you, I would go with one that looks professional and fun to drive. Let’s start our review.

The Marlin 6 is solidly in the middle of its line as a good entry-level mountain bike for beginners. It’s not really designed for more advanced cyclists to use, though it is a good all-purpose bike as long as you don’t want to push it too hard. 

This bike is a value mountain bike that works well for most trails, has good suspension, and comes with a relatively hardy tire and wheelset that holds up well enough for most cyclists. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Mountain Bike

Mountain bikes are a fairly specialized kind of bike for most consumers. They are good all-rounder bikes if you’re looking for something that can handle a wide variety of terrain types and can handle mild jumps and bumps along the trail. However, that doesn’t mean that mountain bikes should be treated as a good bike for everyone. 

Why aren’t mountain bikes a good all-rounder bike?

Because their specialized design means that features like suspension and a heftier frame get all the manufacturing budget while streamlining the design and other speed features tend to be less of a priority. 

If you’re looking for a road bike or a commuter bike you won’t get the same fast performance and quick stopping power from a mountain bike. There are some more generic all-rounder bikes available, but don’t make the common mistake of thinking that mountain bikes are one of them. 

Features & Benefits

Like all mountain bikes, it’s important to look at the individual features and benefits that come with the Marlin 6. This is where the Marlin 6 really differentiates itself from the other bikes in the Marlin line, as well as from other entry-level mountain bike designs. 

The Trek Marlin 6 is a bike that comes in two different framesets, one for men and one for women. The main aesthetic differences between the two designs are color, though the women’s frame does have a slight drop in front of the saddle to make mounting easier. 

Both frames are made from Alpha Silver aluminum. That alloy is one of the better lightweight and high-density options for bikes, though it is a little more prone to damage than the Alpha Gold aluminum found on some other Trek bikes. 

Both frames are fairly rugged, able to handle small jumps, and the routine bumps and bruises of any mountain trail. However, the frame is a little less responsive to user control and may not be able to hold up the extreme pressures of a highly challenging technical trail. 

Overall, this frame is good for getting you up to speed and learning mountain biking techniques, but it won’t be enough to help you with the most advanced trails or to take you to the competition level. 

Suspension System

Like most beginner mountain bikes, the Marlin 6 relies on a suspension fork for its suspension, without too many other adaptations to minimize trail vibration and other jostling on the trail. It’s enough to give you a reasonably smooth ride, but not enough that you’ll forget you’re riding a mountain trail. 

The suspension lock-out mechanism does let you eliminate the suspension entirely whenever it’s not necessary, and to limit the function of the suspension when it’s full range of motion isn’t helpful. 

Suntour’s XCT suspension fork is very durable. It’s a common choice for beginner mountain bikes because it’s very affordable, but also very durable without a ton of maintenance. 

More: Diamondback Bicycles Lux 3 review: Is It a Good Hardtail Mountain Bike To have

Wheels are exceptionally important for mountain bikes because the wheels and tires are your first line of defense against bumps and jumps and determine how well your bike will perform under stress. The Bontrager rims are well designed to handle the stress of mountain trails, with durable spokes and double-walled rims that help eat bumps. 

The Bontrager tires are also reasonably grippy and work well for all-terrain use. They are also damage resistant which helps avoid flats and other damage that can force early replacement. However, you may still want to upgrade to a better tire set quickly. 

Unfortunately, these rims are not tubeless-ready, so you won’t be able to put a more suspension heavy and durable tire design on the wheel without also upgrading the rims. 

The gearing system on the Marlin 6 is about what you would expect. However, it’s nice to see that they did opt for the Shimano gearing system. The Altus drivetrain might be one of Shimano’s entry-level drivetrains, but it’s still got the high quality and expertly calibrated design you expect from Shimano. 

The Altus 8 gear system is more than flexible enough to help a beginner get their feet under them and learn how to adjust the speed and flexibility of the bike. It’s a little more limited than you’d want on a more advanced mountain bike. But, for a beginner’s mountain bike like the Marlin 6, it’s perfect. 

More: Discover the Best Full Suspension Mountain Bike Under $1000

The last thing you really want for a great mountain bike is a great bike system. Fortunately, this is one area that the Marlin 6 isn’t using beginner components. The Tektro hydraulic disc brake might not be one of the more advanced models Tektro offers, but it is one of the more advanced types of brake you can get. 

Hydraulic disc brakes are great for all-weather performance and they are more consistent than other brake types in all-terrain conditions. It’s incredibly difficult to jam this style of brake thanks to its design and high responsiveness. 

Tektro is also a fantastic brake manufacturer, so it’s nice to see Trek has continued to use its components for the 2021 fresh release of this model. 

Social Proof

Cyclists using this bike are generally very pleased with its performance. It’s not a great bike for experts but it’s a good option for almost all beginner mountain bikers. It’s designed to handle trail riding relatively well but does have performance issues for those riders who have tried to take the Marlin 6 out on a technical trail. 

Alternatives

Of course, there are several other bikes in the Marlin line compete with the Marlin 6, along with a few other bikes that are similar but not quite the same. If you’re not sure whether the Marlin 6 is for you, these reviews should help you decide. 

Let’s see how the Marlin 6 holds up to its competition:

Trek Marlin 6 vs Marlin 5

The Marlin 5 is a slightly less advanced bike than the Marlin 6 bike in several respects. There are a lot of similarities of course since both bikes share the same frame material. Both bikes are also available in both men’s and women’s specialized frames, each with their own color choices so that you can customize your bike to suit your personality a little more. 

The Marlin 5 drivetrain is a Shimano 2×7 gear system vs the Marlin 6’s Shimano 2×8 system. That means that the Marlin 5 is a little more limited in movement and a speed variability. Depending on the rider that may not be a bad thing, but it can be an advantage for cyclists who would rather focus on other aspects of mountain riding skills. 

Both bikes offer great hydraulic disc brakes, which is important for all-weather all-terrain mountain bike performance. 

For the $100 or so difference between their prices, we’d say that the advantages of the Marlin 6 are worth it, but the Marlin 5 is still a fairly solid option for cyclists on a budget.  check our details review of Trek Marlin 5

Trek Marlin 6 vs Marlin 7

The difference between the Marlin 6 and the Marlin 7 is just about as significant as the difference between the Marlin 5. 

The Marlin 7 might only be about $100 more than the Marlin 6, but that $100 gets you a bike that’s just about race and competition-ready vs a bike that really isn’t designed for a competition setting. 

Some of the advancements are subtle, like an improvement in the aluminum alloy used for the frame. Other improvements, like the 2×9 gear system, are much more noticeable. They’ve also upgraded the suspension system to a RockShox fork instead of a Suntour fork. The difference is a much smoother ride, with the same lockout option.  Check our detailed review of Trek Marlin 7.

Trek Marlin 6 vs Specialized Pitch 

The Marlin 6 and the Specialized Pitch are both fairly similar lightweight aluminum bikes. But the Specialized Pitch is a little more streamlined with a chunkier tire and a more aggressive rider position. 

Overall, these bikes are similar in price and function but targeted for very different kinds of riders. The Specialized Pitch might be a beginner bike, but it’s also designed to be a more aggressive bike both in speed and cornering performance. 

That means that the Specialized Pitch is a better option for cyclists who are looking to push the limits of their bike, while the Marlin 6 is a better option for cyclists who want more of a universal design that will help them develop and find their riding style. 

More: Discover the Best Hardtail Mountain Bike Under $1000

Trek Marlin 6 vs Giant Talon 3

One of the biggest differences between the Trek Marlin 6 and the Giant Talon 3 is that the Talon 3 is exclusively a men’s bike, while the Marlin 6 is available in both men’s and women’s versions. 

The Marlin 6 is again the slightly less aggressive bike of the two, while the Giant Talon 3 gives you a slightly more aggressive rider position and Talon set overall. 

Both bikes give you a Tektro hydraulic disc brake though, which is critical for the bike’s performance on any mountain trails. 

Like the Specialized Pitch, the main differentiation between the Marlin 6 and the Giant Talon 3 isn’t price or quality, it’s the target audience. The Marlin is more generalized while the Talon is more aggressive and a little more streamlined. 

Overall, the Trek Marlin 6 is a good bike for most mountain biking beginners. It’s strong enough to hold up to basic trails and even moderately difficult trail, and the design is general enough to make it easy to learn. It’s also a flexible bike that’s well suited to people who don’t yet know what their riding style is. 

It’s not a great bike for cyclists who are looking for a more advanced all-rounder, but that’s not a bad thing for a bike that’s been specialized for beginners like this. 

About The Author

Daniel Shakibaie

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