trek marlin 6 29 inch

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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

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.

Part Numbers

• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2016 Trek Marlin 6

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame crosscountry bike with modest components. Compare the full range

For This Bike

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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.

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Add custom gearing

Dec 2015 · Guy Kesteven

Violently uncontrolled fork and blunt frame lead a list of reasons that Trek’s Marlin is best kept away from real off roading. Buy if you're a glutton for punishment looking to get into mountain biking

Size-specific wheels, range of paint jobs available

Punishingly stiff frame and handlebars, undamped fork, some poor finishing kit

Read Review

Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,555 days

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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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Trek Marlin+ 6

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / XS, SM, MD, LG, XL

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Size: XS, Alpha Platinum Aluminium, curved top tube, tapered head tube, internal routing, rack, mudguard and kickstand mount, UDH, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle; Size: S, M, L, XL, Alpha Platinum Aluminium, tapered head tube, internal routing, rack, mudguard and kickstand mount, UDH, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Fork Size: XS, SR Suntour XCM 34, coil spring, preload, lockout, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle, 100 mm travel; Size: S, M, L, XL, SR Suntour XCM 34, coil spring, preload, lockout, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle, 120 mm travel
• Motor Bosch Active Line Plus, 50 Nm
• Battery Bosch CompactTube 400 Wh
• Wheels Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20 mm width, Presta valve
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Tires Size: XS, S, Bontrager XT3 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5x2.40""; Size: M, L, XL, Bontrager XT3 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29x2.40"
• Chain Shimano LG500, 9/10/11-speed
• Crank FSA CK-220, 165 mm length
• Rear Derailleur Shimano CUES U4000
• Shifters Shimano U4000, 9-speed
• Brakeset Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Size: XS, S, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 15 mm rise, 720 mm width; Size: M, L, XL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 15 mm rise, 750 mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS, S, Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 330 mm length; Size: M, Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 360 mm length; Size: L, XL, Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 400 mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 35 mm length; Size: M, L, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 50 mm length; Size: XL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 60 mm length
• Grips Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on

Q: How much is a 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6?

A 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6 is typically priced around €2,799 EUR 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 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6?

The 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6 have?

The 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2024 Trek Marlin+ 6 should I get?

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