Trek Marlin 5 - Gen 2 - Radioactive Red

About The Marlin:

Marlin is where it all begins. An entry level mountain bike that ticks all the boxes for off road performance and every day practicality for everyone from teenagers to young adults and beyond. Whether you want a great all round bike to get onto the trails, or a comfortable and practical steed for leisure riding anywhere, the Marlin is the place to start.

The frame is the beating heart of every bike, and Trek has really gone to town with the Marlin to make a tough and versatile model that rides really well. The aluminium frame is light for a start to make riding as enjoyable as possible, but strengthened in the right places to ensure long life and better performance. Internally routed cables are very neat and prolong the life of the cables by protecting them from the elements. Rack and kickstand mounts make the Marlin easy to accessorise to carry all the kit you need, as well as adding practicality.

Smart Wheel Size means each frame size is paired with the most appropriate wheel diameter to make the best handling bike possible. This means XX-small get 26", small and extra-small sizes get 27.5" wheels and larger frames get 29" so no matter what height you are, you get a bike that suits your physique and handles accordingly. Speaking of handling, Trek have been pioneers in creating well-balanced bikes with great handling. In the Marlin that equates to a bike that steers with confidence, whether you're railing a berm off-road or navigating features on the local bike path. Stable at speed, but sharp enough to steer easily in tight spaces.

This Marlin 5 is the entry Marlin model and gets a specification to suit. A Suntour suspension fork with 80 - 100mm (size dependent) coil-sprung travel is simple, reliable and keeps you under control off road. Shimano is the first and last name in drivetrains and the Marlin 5 features a wide ranging triple chainset with 7 rear gears for a good, wide range to suit every terrain.

Trek's in-house brand Bontrager supply the wheels and 2.2" tyres. The tread is a good mixed option that has enough grip for moderate off road riding without being too slow on tarmac. Hydraulic disc brakes work well in all weathers to provide consistent braking performance. A comfortable saddle and ergonomic handlebar complete the Marlin 4 and make it a seriously good value all round mountain bike.

If you're wanting a different gear ratio with a wider choice (3x7), go for the Marlin 4. If you're taking your first steps into proper mountain biking, or just want a great performing and reliable bike for a bit of everything, the Trek Marlin 5 is your perfect partner.