trek marlin 6 gen 2 29

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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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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

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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

Big Sky Cycling | Helena, MT | (406) 442-4644 | Newsletter Sign Up

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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.

2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Review

Are you looking to upgrade your mountain bike? Not sure which one to get? With so many choices on the market, it can be hard to decide. 

But if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile option, look no further than the 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2.

The Trek Marlin series has been around since 2004 and is well respected by the mountain biking community. 

Over the years, the company has made several improvements to their flagship model, the Marlin 6 Gen 2. 

This version offers increased comfort on technical terrain and plenty of bang for your buck.

Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner looking for an entry-level bike, the 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 is worth considering. 

In this review, we will discuss its features and performance capabilities in detail so that you can make an informed decision.

The Marlin 6 is a great option for riders who are just getting into mountain biking and don’t want to break the bank. 

Here is our full review of Trek’s Marlin 6 Gen 2 mountain bike.

The Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 is an entry-level bikepacking and gravel bike , ideal for riders who want to explore the roads less travelled. 

With a lightweight yet durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame and extra wide Bontrager tires ready for trails, this mountain bike will provide reliable performance in any terrain.

Thanks to the lockout fork and XR2 Comp tires, you’ll have stability and flexibility with plenty of grip to take on whatever comes your way. 

For enhanced functionality and versatility, the Marlin 6 Gen 2 features racks and mounts that let you carry your gear without weighing you down.

– Lightweight yet durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame

– SR Suntour XCT 30 featuring 100mm travel ensures stability and traction

– Bontrager SR2 Comp 2.2″ wide tires maximize grip

– Mounts compatible with various items of gear

– Shimano Deore 1×10 drivetrain allows for smooth shifts & powerful braking

– Internal routing keeps cables neatly tucked away

Frame and Components

The 2021 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 features a lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminium frame with attractive finishes, designed with geometry that makes it more comfortable to ride on rough terrain. 

The bike is equipped with Shimano Deore 1×10 components, giving you crisp shifts and smooth braking. 

The SR Suntour XCT 30 suspension fork offers 100mm travel for maximum stability and control on descents, while providing good comfort as well.

Braking System

The Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 offers reliable stopping power courtesy of its Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. 

They offer consistent braking performance in any weather condition and work very well when compared to other entry level mountain bikes in the market. 

The included 160mm rotors provide enough leverage for hard stops without too much effort from the athlete.

Wheelset & Tires

The wheelset includes Bontrager Connection, double-wall alloy rims as well as sealed bearing hubs, offering excellent durability at a budget price point. 

The 29er Bontrager XR2 Comp tires also have a low rolling resistance which provides better traction while cornering so you can stay confident on your rides. 

Overall Ride Quality

Trek has done an impressive job creating a high quality mountain bike at an affordable price range – something that isn’t easy to do these days! It offers great value for money and will suit any beginner rider who wants to get into mountain biking without having to spend too much on their first machine. 

The ride quality is great given the price point; it feels stable and responsive both uphills and downhills while maintaining control over rough sections of terrain thanks to its suspension forks, disc brakes and knobby tires.

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2

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Size / 13.5"", 15.5", 17.5", 18.5", 19.5", 21.5", 23"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame aluminum frame
• 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; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, SR Suntour XCT 30, coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 46mm offset for 29'' wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel
• Hubs Formula DC-22, alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, 135x5mm QR
• Wheels Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20mm width, schrader valve
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Tires Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5x2.20''; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR2 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29x2.20''
• Chain KMC X10, 10 speed
• Crank Prowheel C10Y-NW, 30T steel narrow-wide ring, 170mm length
• Bottom Bracket Sealed cartridge, 73mm
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore M5120, long cage
• Shifters Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Brakeset Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Size: XS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 690mm width; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS, S, M, Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length; Size: ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.6mm, 12mm offset, 400mm length
• Stem Size: XS, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 50mm length; Size: S, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length; Size: M, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length; Size: ML, L, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length; Size: XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length
• Grips Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on
• Headset Semi-integrated, 1-1/8''

Q: How much is a 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2?

A 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 is typically priced around $849 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2?

The 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 have?

The 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2023 Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 should I get?

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Trek Marlin 6 Review: Sufficient for Beginners, but…

CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links.

This article is an in-depth review of the Trek Marlin 6 , an entry-level mountain bike.

I interviewed one of its owners. We discussed several aspects you might be interested in knowing before purchasing, such as whether the price matches the quality, its advantages and disadvantages, and more.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Marlin 6 is a good MTB for beginners . It uses a modern 1X drivetrain that is simple but offers limited gears (10spd only). Marlin 6 is ideal for non-demanding terrain like flow trails but not the best choice for more challenging terrain due to its short fork travel of 100mm and the absence of a dropper post. Feel free to buy it here or read on for more info.

About Tomasz

Hi, I’m Tomasz, and I’m 31 years old. I’m an active person who loves sports, especially cycling. I enjoy riding on quiet paths away from big cities, especially in mountainous and forested areas. Cycling makes me happy.

Trek Marlin 6 Summary

Trek currently offers Marlin 4 up to Marlin 8 . The higher the number, the more high-end (and expensive) the bike. Below is the summary of Marlin 6.

Trek Marlin 6 Main Features

• Weight (w/o pedals): 31.11 lbs [14.11 kg]
• Wheels: Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 27.5″ or 29″ depending on the bike size
• Fork: SR Suntour XCM 30, coil spring (100mm travel)
• Groupset: Shimano Deore (1×10spd)
• Brakes: Tektro HD-M275 (hydraulic disc brakes) 
• Tires: Bontrager XR2 Comp
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada

Trek Marlin 6 Pros & Cons

Below are the main advantages and disadvantages of Trek Marlin 6.

Trek Marlin 6 Pros

• Renowned brand
• Good price-value ratio
• Available in 7 sizes (XS-XXL)
• Compatible with racks 
• Modern 1X drivetrain
• Shimano Deore has a clutch system
• Lock on grips

Trek Marlin 6 Cons

• Limited color options
• Limited gear range
• Short travel front fork (only 100mm of travel)
• Wheels are not tubeless ready
• No dropper post

Tomasz’s Experience with Trek Marlin 6

What other alternatives did you consider before buying the Marlin 6, and why did the Marlin 6 win out in the end?

I compared various brands before purchasing the Marlin 6. I found that the Marlin 6 outperformed them in terms of accessories, workmanship, and price.

Have you bought the bike online or in a store? 

I purchased the bike from an online store, and it arrived fully assembled and adjusted, making it 100% ready to ride.

For what type of riding do you use this bike the most?

I exclusively use the Marlin 6 bike for cycling trails and adventure rides. I enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-track trails and paths, riding mainly on side roads, riverbank embankments, and through forests.

How would you describe its riding characteristics?

I think the Marlin 6 bike has excellent riding characteristics. It’s very comfortable and rides exceptionally well. It’s sturdy and torsionally strong. The handlebars and shifters are comfortable and don’t tire out the wrists and hands.

Does the front suspension work well?

The front suspension of the Marlin 6 bike works very well. It absorbs bumps effortlessly, and even when locked on even ground or hills, it performs well.

Would you like to have more gears, or are you ok with the modern 1X drivetrain?

Modern 1X derailleurs have limitations, especially on long straight sections where you can feel the absence of a second sprocket in the front. In other words, the gear range on Marlin 6 is limited.

How comfortable is it on a scale from 1 to 10?

I think I can give it a solid 10 without much thought.

What is your overall feeling from the ride?

I am very satisfied with my riding experience on the Marlin 6 bike. It handles well, and I am glad I bought it.

Is there something you don’t like about it?

I don’t have any major complaints about the Marlin 6 bike, but there is room for improvement in the modern 1X drivetrain. As I mentioned earlier, it can sometimes feel like something is missing.

What do you like the most about it?

What I like the most about it are the construction of the frame, the colors, and the very comfortable steering.

Trek Marlin 6 Alternatives

The Trek Marlin 6 alternatives include bikes from the same family, such as the Marlin 4 (cheaper) or Marlin 6 (more expensive), and MTBs from other brands. I recommend checking out my articles on beginner mountain bikes or mountain bikes for under $1000 for more inspiration. 

Would you recommend buying the Trek Marlin 6?  

Yes. I recommend buying Marlin 6. This bike has exceeded all my expectations, allowing me to access otherwise difficult places. I highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a bike in this price range.

Tomasz, thank you again for your time and for sharing your experience!

Trek Marlin FAQ

The main difference between Trek Marlin and Trek Dual-Sport is their intended use and design. Trek Marlin is an entry-level mountain bike series designed for off-road trail riding, while the Trek Dual-Sport is a versatile hybrid bike capable of handling a wider range of terrain, including pavement, gravel roads, and light off-road trails.

The main differences between Trek Marlin 4 and Marlin 6 are in the groupset and weight. Marlin 4 uses 3×7spd while the Marlin 6 has a 1×10spd drivetrain. The 3X drivetrains are becoming obsolete because of their complexity and high demands on correct shifting. That’s why I recommend spending more on Marlin 6.

The main differences between Trek Marlin 5 and Marlin 6 are in the groupset and weight. Marlin 5 uses 2×8spd while the Marlin 6 has a 1×10spd drivetrain. The 1X drivetrains are popular due to their simplicity, ease of use, and lower weight. I believe the Marlin 6 is worth paying more. Despite the narrower gear range, its use is much easier for beginners. 

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Petr Minarik

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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.

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• Marlin 6 Gen 2
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Marlin 6 Gen 2

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It is so perfect

This bike is perfect for enthusiasts who prefer off-road riding on a durable mountain bike with a wide range of gears for more stability and flexibility while biking.

The technology you get

The Trek Marlin 6 bike has a lightweight aluminum frame with cable routing to protect the bike's small cables and add a sleek look. The bike also has an 1x10 Shimano drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and a lockable fork suspension to prevent energy wastage on smooth roads.

This bike includes many professional features such as fork suspension, a Shimano drivetrain, durable hydraulic disc brakes, and high stopping power on rough roads, paved ones, and everywhere.

Why you will prefer it

You can add more accessories to this bike (like mounts and fenders). The bike's drivetrain provides all the gears you need. The small sizes of this bike come with small tyres and small brake levers that enable short riders to brake with confidence. The smaller sizes of this bike include a curved top tube and a low standing height that enables shorter riders to get on and off with ease. Like every Trek bikes, it's covered by a lifetime warranty.

The Walkthrough

Top curved tube

On smaller bikes, the bike frame comes with a lower tube towards the seat post, and this feature enables short riders to align their bikes well. On bikes larger than M, the frame comes with a regular straight tube because tall people don't have the same problems as shorts.

Suitable for every cyclist

The Marlin bike comes in seven different frame sizes to suit multiple riders, and the bike size enables the rider to go with the fastest mountain bike. The bike's smallest size comes with shorter brake levers and narrower handlebars to help you get off the ground with comfort and control.

Technology and high value

The Trek Marlin 6 comes with many professional features that you can’t find in many more expensive bikes, like a distinctive frame and internal cable routing that extends the life of the internal cables and protects them from different weather conditions.

Internal cable routing

This cable protects the bike's small ones from damage and extends the life of these small internal cables. and helps the cyclist get the flexibility needed while cycling.

Fork suspension lockout

The Trek Marlin 6 has a professional fork suspension that absorbs bumps in the road and helps you go cycling with flexibility and stability. And its locking feature enables you to save energy instead of wasting it while riding the bike on paved roads.

Rear Kickstand Mount

Chainstay mounts allow you to add a kickstand that stays out of your way, and the rear supports your bike of any size with minimal inclination or stretch.

Rack Mounts

The Marlin 6 bike allows you to add more fenders, accessories, and racks with the fenders attached to the bike frame for various purposes you may need while biking.

Blender Stem

This technology helps you get a clean look and makes your bike easier and more enjoyable to use.

We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colours, materials and pricing. Due to supply chain issues, compatible parts may be substituted at any time without notice. The prices shown are the manufacturer's suggested retail prices.

Bike and frame weights are based on pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production.

Rider Height

145 - 155 cm

4'9" - 5'1"

155 - 165 cm

5'1" - 5'5"

165 - 173 cm

5'5" - 5'8"

173 - 180 cm

5'8" - 5'11"

180 - 188 cm

5'11" - 6'2"

188 - 195 cm

6'2" - 6'5"

195 - 203 cm

6'5" - 6'8"

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• Bicycling Catalog
• 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

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Overdrive 29 1

Marlin 5 Gen 2

Marlin 6 Gen 2

(descending)

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

• Marlin 5 Gen 2

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