2016 trek marlin 5 weight

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Trek Marlin 5 Review

Trek Marlin 5 is an entry-level bike from Treks’ Mountain Bikes series. It offers a lot of features you’d expect from an expensive bike like internal cable shifting and hydraulic brakes. Some of the recent updates to the model leading up to Trek Marin 5 2020 made it the best in the budget category and very easy to recommend to any trail riding beginner.

Trek Marlin 5 is one of the best entry-level mountain bikes and it’s perfect for you if you are

• trying to get into Mountain Biking or trailing and not sure if you’d like the sport. In this case, Marlin 5 makes for a great beginner-friendly bike which you can use to test and level up your training skills before upgrading to something more advanced. The Drivetrain of this bike provides you with a huge combination of speeds which can come handy.
• looking for a commuting bike for school, and your path involves a few rough roads or would enjoy a bit of trailing on the side as a hobby. If your commuting path involves some roads which need repair, Marlin 5 might be the perfect bike because unlike a hybrid at this price range you will be getting a good suspension with 100mm travel and a preload adjustment for switching between smoother rides and a bit rougher ones.
• trying to get the best of both worlds bike and not ready to spend big bucks on the more expensive bikes then Trek Marlin 5 is a match made in heaven. With the price range of 500-600 dollars, you will be getting a solid experience without breaking the bank.

This is our Trek Marlin 5 Review which provides a detailed overview of the bike with a comprehensive review of all the components and parts. There is also a specs list sorted down below for ease of access.

Trek Marlin 5 Specs

Trek Marlin 5 comes with a light-weight Trek Silver Alpha aluminium frame which offers sturdiness for your trails while still being light enough to not wear you down during long rides.

You can expect some pretty good welding with internal cable shift and brake hose routing which you see on more expensive bikes and it protects your cables from getting damaged from varying weather and landscapes.

This becomes all the more relevant in the mountain trail picture where the terrain does not side with the best of the conditions. The frame manages to hide all the cables inside the frame which also makes for a stunning look.

Going with the theme of Trek Marlin 5 making the best of both worlds when coming to Mountain Biking and Commuting, It has good rack mounts if you want to load your bike for longer trails.

We got a wide Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm with Blendr compatibility which enables you to mount accessories like lights, mobile phone dock, or a GoPro for your next adventure.

We got a matching Bontrager alloy with a 5mm rise and oversize clamping diameter which increases control and stability during the shakiest of rides.

Bontrager XR Endurance Comp on this bike provides a good grip for better handling and control. Although its non-traditional shape can feel a bit weird, they make for a good resting place for your palms, which you will appreciate on longer journeys.

Saddles in Marlin 5 are pretty straightforward, they use two variants of Bontrager Arvada depending on male/female versions.

Sizes and Variants

This particular model is very popular with beginning Mountain Bikers because it has a wide range of sizes to choose from which ensures that you are always on the best possible fit for you. 7 sizes are ranging from XS all the up to 2XL and come in two variants in frames depending on the version.

The Female version is almost the same as the Unisex version of the bike only changes being a different saddle variant and If you choose a Female XS or S size then you’ll be getting a curved upper tube for some extra standover.

There aren’t many good trail bikes for Women in this price range but Trek Marlin 5 is a good choice considering the women-specific saddle and frames.

A detailed overview of sizes and measurements for finding the best fit for you is provided in the table below.

Trek Marlin 5 Size Chart

Wheels and Rims

When it comes to wheels, Marlin 5 has smart wheels size which means that you are going to roll with the largest wheels size possible depending upon the size. The wheels come in the two most popular sizes, 27.5” for XS and S and 29” for everything from M to 2XL.

So an L or M is a Trek Marlin 5 29er while an XS or S is a Trek Marlin 5 27.5er

Both wheel sizes are big enough to provide a smooth riding experience on an MTB and also offer a low center of gravity for a sturdier control.

The Merlin 5 rolls on a Bontrager XR2, 29×2.20˝ in the front, and 29×2.0˝ on the rear but you should know, however, that these wheels are not tubeless but I don’t think that’s a deal-breaker because we are focusing on getting the essentials right at this price point. Having said that, a quick-release front wheel is a plus for quickly swapping your front in case of any damage.

Forks and Suspension

Coming to the Forks, Marlin 5 runs an SR Suntour XCE 28 which is a 28mm stanchion fork with 100mm travel which falls into the recommended range of 80-120mm by most mountain bikers. The suspension also comes with a preload, which can be used to adjust the shock and spring of the bike to an optimum range of operation. When it is raised, the bike will be on top of its travel and the converse closer to the bottom of its suspension travel.

Marlin 5 comes with Tektro HD-275 hydraulic disc brakes as opposed to Marlin 4’s Mechanical disc brakes which offers a more responsive and reliable experience in all types of weather conditions.

Hydraulic brakes are more relevant when it comes to Mountain Biking because you often need to make quick turns and pace changes. Using traditional mechanical caliper brakes can not only wear your brake pads quickly but also become unreliable during damp weather conditions. You can completely count on disc brakes on this situation because it is proven to be more weather resistant and pairing it up with hydraulics will ensure that you don’t have to pull the brakes as hard.

Most people coming from bikes using non-hydraulics quickly appreciate how game-changing hydraulic brakes are.

Trek also paid close attention to smaller sizes and equipped XS and S sizes with short reach levers to make it easy for bikers with smaller hands.

Most of the components on this bike are from Shimano which are known to be very reliable in the Mountain Biking space and rightfully so. The drivetrain consists of shifters, derailleurs, chain, cassette, and crankset.

Trek Marlin 5 is set up with a Shimano HG200, 12-32, 7-speed cassette in the rear, and a Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24 in the front. They both operate with the Shimano Tourney TY300 front and back derailleurs which offer a great variety of speeds and good shifting for both country trailing and rugged commuting.

One big pro with the Tourney setup is that they all work together perfectly with no off-brand components and there is no chance to cause any compatibility issues.

Marlin 5’s got Shimano Altus M310, 3X7 speed shifters which is a trigger shifters set up which you can easily operate with your thumb and index fingers quickly during your trial.

Trek Marlin 5 weight

So, How much does a Marlin 5 weigh? The Medium size comes in about 14.59 kg or 32.17 lbs when tubes and other components are attached.

This model has a combined weight limit of 136 kg or around 300lbs, this includes the weight of the biker, the bike and the cargo carried.

Trek Marlin 5 Price

Are trek bikes worth the money? let me tell you price is one of the main advantages for Marlin 5 because there are very few bikes that have a budget-friendly price tag while still maintaining that middle-ground between quality and price. This makes a huge difference because when a bike manufacturer wants to get the price down it is often reflected in the quality of the bike’s components.

You might have experienced this first hand if you used one of those target/Walmart bikes which try to sell people bikes with poor quality while still maintaining their profit margins. But unlike those other bike manufacturers, Trek found the perfect middle ground for a budget-friendly mountain bike which gets all the essentials right.

Looking at the specs sheet makes it quite apparent that Trek didn’t make many compromises with the quality as they use reliable components made by Shimano and Bontrager and not some off-brand company.

Like every other Marlin bicycle, Marlin 5 also comes with a lifetime warranty which is rare to see at this price range and always a sweet thing to have.

Trek Marlin 5 upgrades and accessories

As I previously mentioned above this is a great bike to get into trail riding and off-roading or just to see if you like the experience of Mountain biking before investing too heavily into it. But if you seem to enjoy and want to take the whole thing up a notch, upgrading some components will be in your best interests.

Marlin 5 is a great bike for normal to intermediate trail paths but if you are past those trails and want to enjoy more technical routes like mountain trails etc then investing in these components can make a great difference.

Trek Marlin 5 fork upgrade is one of the most recommended upgrades if you wish to improve your stability on a rocky/hilly path. This bike uses what’s called a G2 Geometry which means you can easily find and replace parts that fit your needs. If you have some good number of miles under your belt, I also recommend upgrading your grips and pedals but I would stop there.

While this is a good starter bike, I would suggest you switch to a better model specifically suiting your needs if you are willing to invest more in upgrading the components because investing in upgrading a starter bike has diminishing returns as you upgrade more and more as you have to worry about the core parts like frames and stem in the future.

With that being said these are some good upgrades you might want to consider for a more smooth riding experience.

There are some great accessories for Merlin 5 on the market because of its Blendr integration capability. After choosing a good mount for Blendr integration, I recommend this, your bike is ready for these cool accessories

I for sure think that some portion of Trek Marlin’s popularity comes from its design aesthetics and cool graphics. The design of the bike is easily on par with the more expensive bikes. And the colors of this model are very well chosen and suit all terrains and settings perfectly.

Trek Marlin 5 comes in three color options

• Matte Trek Black

Many fans anticipated an improved Trek Marlin 5 Red version (like the one in the past) which would have been very cool to see on the road but in my opinion all three look stunning.

We hope that you find this Trek Marlin 5 review useful, to clear a bit more on the topics there is a FAQ’s section below where we have included most frequently asked questions by customers.

According to Trek Bike Archives, Trek started making Marlin 5’s from 2015.

Trek Marlin 5 ranges around 500-600$ price range which makes for a budget-friendly bike for trail riding as well as commuting. Check the price here.

Front tires are mounted on Trek Marlin 5 using a quick-release front wheel, which enables you to swap out the damaged wheel and mount a new one with relative ease.

This depends on many factors like your height and inseam measurements. Find a comprehensive specific measurement table here.

Trek Marlin has disc brakes which means you should not oil them. Oiling aside even touching the rotors with your bare hands might contaminate the rotors with your body oils and decrease the braking capacity.

Oiling disc brakes are considered the number one cardinal sin so make sure to avoid it all costs. If by any means oil made its way to the rotors use alcohol or de-greaser with a kitchen paper or dry clean cloth to remove it.

It comes with a Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 7-degree stem which is Blendr compatible enabling you to mount different accessories.

The frame and most of the other skeleton are made of light-weight Trek Silver Alpha Aluminium which offers very good manoeuvrability and sturdiness still being pretty light.

With rack mounts available on the back of the Marlin 5, you can easily mount a child seat. One good suggestion would be this.

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The 2016 Trek Marlin 5 is a mountain bike with an aluminum Alpha Silver frame. The frame comes in Matte  Viper  Red or Matte  Dnister  Black.

It was released in 2016 and costs $499 brand new. Due to the frame materials and other factors, we estimate that this bike weighs around 35 pounds. The Marlin 5 2016 has fork suspension with 75mm travel.

The Marlin 5 2016 comes with Shimano components, including an aluminum Bontrager stem, a threadless, semi-integrated semi-cartridge headset and Shimano Altus EF51 shifters.

The Marlin 5 2016 has 7 speeds and has Shimano HG20 rear cogs and a Shimano Tourney derailleur.

It comes with Bontrager XR2 tires (27.5in x 2.2in) and disc Bontrager AT rims.

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

Trek Marlin 5 Review: The Best Entry-Level Mountain Bike Around

I reviewed the entry-level Trek Marlin 5 bike and compared it to similar bikes - how did it fair?

As an experienced rider, I know what it takes to make a good bike, whether that's a top-of-the-range road bike or an entry-level mountain bike .

Overall I found the Trek Marlin 5 to have plenty of positives, including hydraulic disc brakes and Shimano derailleurs - honestly, it doesn't stop there!

For a more in-depth look, continue reading my Trek Marlin 5 review!

Table of Contents

Full Specification

Key features, alpha silver aluminum frame.

Trek Marlin 5 comes with an impressive alloy frame and things are kept tidy with the cables being internally routed.

For an entry-level bike, this is most surprising (but also welcomed!). It is rare to see internally routed cables. I love it, it makes the bike look sleek and it stops the cables from collecting dirt and becoming damaged.

SR Suntour XCE 28 Suspension Fork

It comes with 100mm of travel suspension so when faced with rougher terrain, it excels. There isn't a moment when things feel too demanding for the Marlin 5 thanks to the SR Suntour XCE 28.

Bontrager Arvada Saddle

Trek appears to like to kit their bikes out with Bontrager components and you won't hear me complaining! This saddle is there to give you comfort on long days riding and it works well for the commuter too!

Shimano Tourney 21 Speed Drivetrain  

It's common to see Shimano Tourney components at this price point. The quality is good and you have options!

You can either choose between a 3 x front derailleur or if you wish to reduce weight, you can opt for a 1 x Shimano Tourney at the front.

Which one should you choose?

Choosing the 3x will give you greater flexibility but more to think about. The 1x system will reduce the number of gears but allows you to spend more time focusing on your riding.

I favor 1x systems for their simplicity. When you're mountain biking, needing to changing the big ring can be one thing too many to get used to, especially if this is your entry-level bike and therefore your first!

If you're looking where the bike could be upgraded in the future then it could be the Shimano Tourney TY300 parts. Whilst they are decent and they are certainly a fantastic starting point, there are better options out there. A small upgrade in the future could see you finding it easier to climb hills.

Tektro HD-275 Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes on an entry-level bike? Trek has nailed it.

For beginner riders out there, hydraulic disc brakes are (for many, not all), the best type of braking system there is.

A slight touch on the brake levers is all you need to get a response...you don't get that from mechanical discs or rim brakes.

I came to fully appreciate hydraulic disc brakes going down Coll de sa Batalla for the first time, where I gripped on like my life depended on (it felt it did).

Since then. No turning back for me, there's only one form of brake system for me!

Bontrager XR2 27.5/29 x 2.2/2.0” Tires

Another Bontrager component!

These tires are of brilliant quality and they excel on mountain roads as well as gravel.

A downside to them is that they don't perform as well when things get muddy.

Wheel Sizes

There are different wheel sizes depending on the bike size you get.

The XS frame comes with 27.5" wheels.

Whereas, anything above that frame size gets 29" wheels.

At 5'4 in height, a lot of manufacturers would like to see me on 27.5" wheels, however, I ride 29ers on my MTB. I find this to be more comfortable and I don't feel hindered by having larger wheels.

What I'm saying is, test some bikes out, get a feel for what you like. Rules are there to be broken!

As I briefly touched upon earlier, the Marlin 5 comes with an alpha silver aluminum frame.

An alloy frame is a popular choice within this price bracket as it doesn't add extra weight to the bike as a steel frame would but it provides a good level of durability for a mountain bike.

Whilst you do get a good amount of durability, you have to factor in that this is a bike on a budget and it can't take on everything. It isn't designed for jumping so this is something to keep in mind if you're wanting a bike for serious trails.

All of the cables are internally stored in the bike, helping it to have a cleaner, more stylish look as well as improve the durability of the cables. 

The bike is available in three attractive colors, including black, green, and teal. These shades are uniquely beautiful and well-selected, so every cyclist will find the right color for them.

You can add a rear rack and kickstand to the Marlin 5’s frame, which makes this model a great choice for commuters, as well as adventurous cyclists. 

Do keep in mind that if this mountain bike was made of carbon fiber, it wouldn’t weigh the frame down as much, but the Trek Marlin 5 would come in at a much higher price point.

On Which Terrain Does The Trek Marlin 5 Perform Well?

We have to keep in mind that the Trek Marlin 5 is an entry-level machine so it isn't designed to be ridden by an expert rider, taking it on challenging trail riding.

Saying that the Marlin 5 is capable of rougher terrain and it works well as a trail bike. I'd always suggest that you check what the difficulty levels are before you hit the trail.

[Want some beginner tips? Check this out]

Bontrager Components

Let's clear something up for beginner riders getting into mountain biking.

Trek fits their bikes with 'Bontrager' parts. This is a Trek brand and made in-house.

For some brands, this isn't a sign of quality, yet this isn't the case here. Bontrager is a sign of quality.

On the Trek Marlin 5, Bontrager features a lot; the seat, seat post, handlebars, grips, and stem.

The stem is Bontrager alloy,  31. 8mm 7-degree Blendr compatible .

One of the best things about using these parts is that they are truly compatible across the Trek range of bikes.

As they are made by Trek, for Trek, the parts are made with the precise specification of their bikes so everything will fit seamlessly together!

For beginner riders, this is perfect as you won't need to give much thought about whether you're buying the correct parts.

[Check out this video from Trek for an overview of the range.]

Alternatives To The Trek Marlin 5

Without a doubt the Marlin 5 is feature-rich but how does this entry-level mountain bike compare to other bikes?

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Marlin 6

The first difference has to be the cost, the Trek Marlin 5 comes is quite a lot less than the 6 - this makes it an ideal first trail bike for those new to mountain biking, or those on a budget.

Having said that for trail riders looking to spend a bit more money, you do get a durable fork, a 2x drivetrain - including a better groupset and you even get a lighter bike!

One thing I do like with the Trek Marlin 6 is that there is the option to have either a man's frame or a women's. Whilst I find that women can ride men's bikes, it's nice to have an angled top tube.

You also get more options to customize certain features, so if you fancy a different wheel size, then the Marlin 6 can cater to that.

The standout benefit would be the upgrades with the fork - the fork on the 6 is a fair bit lighter than that on the Marlin 5. This reduces the weight of the bike, making biking trails or the commute easier.

Equally, the fork has a lockout and preload function so you are able to completely lock the fork to increase how efficiently you pedal - making your adventures easier!

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Giant Talon 3

The Giant Talon 3 has some good reviews and they're well deserved. In a lot of ways, these entry-level bikes are similar so are there any features that set them apart?

When compared to the Marlin 5, the Talon 3 seems to offer more traction when pedaling. This could potentially mean that as a rider, you don't feel as safe underfoot on the Trek Marlin and you could find that you're more likely to slip.

Though, the Trek Marlin 5 does give you a greater range of color types to choose from. So for trail riders who want to make their bike their own, the Trek could be the way to go.

There is a difference in wheel size too, with the Trek Marlin 5 you get 29" wheels, whereas Giant Talon 3 gets 27.5". Which one is better will come down to what you want from a bike.

The 27.5" wheels do mean the bike is lighter, which could be an appealing bicycle option to the commuter, beginners, or anyone who wants a bit more control!

Both hardtail mountain bikes have plenty to offer and the specifications are similar. For me, it all comes down to wheel sizes and the experience you want when you're cycling.

[Want to read more about the Talon 3? Find out here. ]

Trek Marlin 5 FAQs

Can i do tabletop jumps on the trek marlin 5.

The Marlin 5 is part of Treks' entry-level range and is not suitable to be taken on any type of jumps.

The wheels and tires are not designed to cope with jumps and could bend, even on a small jump so don't try it!

Can I Use Tubeless Tires On The Trek Marlin 5 bike?

Unfortunately not. The wheels aren't compatible with tubeless tires.

However, the wheels and tires are robust and suit mountain bikes well.

Does the Trek Marlin 5 have lockout suspension?

The Marlin 5 doesn't have a full lockout suspension. You do get a coil spring that has a pre-load adjuster though.

[Here are some ideas for when you really want to push yourself! 😉 ]

Related Posts:

• Best Budget Mountain Bike: Entry-Level & Mid-Range MTBs
• Trek 820 Review - The Ultimate Bike For A New Rider?

Final Thoughts

If you're wanting performance on a budget, there are plenty of plus points from this 29er.

The aluminium frame and Shimano Tourney components give the Trek Marlin 5 something to shout about.

Let's not forget the hydraulic disc brakes, making them ideal for dirt roads or a commute in any weather conditions. Braking at all speeds shouldn't be an issue with disc brakes.

Overall I have positive things to say about this bicycle. All terrains, mountains, trails, or commutes, the Trek Marlin 5 can do them all!

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Review Of Trek Marlin 5: Budget-Friendly MTB for Beginners

T rek Marlin 5 is a phenomenal, trail-ready 29er that costs little and gets the job done on different types of surfaces, including paved and unpaved roads.

Beginner riders are often faced with a tough dilemma — purchase a versatile and comfortable city bike to commute or a real MTB to have fun and embark on off-road adventures.

With Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 , you can do both. This 29er has the ruggedness of a true trail-blazer but has the ability to double as an everyday workhorse to take on short urban commutes.

One of Marlin 5’s biggest advantages is the low price. This bike costs just $720 , which puts it in the budget category. Still, there’s a lot to be excited about even with such an attractive price.

Trek Marlin 5 Quick Overview

Marlin 5 main features, is trek marlin 5 the right choice for you, verdict: worth the money (or not), trek marlin 5 (2022).

Marlin 5 is characterized by an excellent off-road-ready aluminum frame, cushy front suspension, burly wheels and tires, hydraulic disc brakes and a lot more.

It’s one of the best-valued models from the Marlin series, offering multiple improvements compared to the lower-priced Marlin 4. Some of these are better brakes, better hubs, and a better bottom bracket.

It’s an entry-level bicycle, most suitable for beginner riders who plan to do a little bit of everything and too much of nothing.

• Frame : Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork: SR Suntour XCT 30, 100 mm
• Front Derailleur: Shimano Altus M315
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Altus M310
• Brakes: Tektro hydraulic disc, 160/160mm rotors
• Rims: Bontrager Connection, double-wall
• Tire Size: 27.5″ / 29″ x 2.20″
• Weight: 13.97 kg / 30.81 lbs

See All Specs on Marlin 5 Product Page

If you have a budget of $740 to spend on your next trail bike, Marlin 5 is pretty much the most you can get in this category.

Trek is known for bikes that have good value to money, so this Marlin series model has some worthy components and does not make too many compromises.

Lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame

Trek Marlin 5 has the same Alpha Silver Aluminum frame seen on all bikes from this lineup. It is characterized by a versatile head tube angle of 69.5 degrees. That’s a good compromise between steep and slack geometry. That means this bike will perform well in most conditions, including climbing, descending, and cornering.

Light, durable, and comfortable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame is Marlin 5’s biggest selling point, seen on other more expensive bikes from Trek’s MTB lineup.

All cables are internally routed which makes them last longer and improves the overall appearance of the bike. Riders can add a rear rack and a rear kickstand, which would make Marlin 5 ready for daily commutes as well.

You can get Marlin 5 in four modern and attractive colors: Lithium Grey, Radioactive Red, Volt to Miami green fade, and Azure. They’re beautiful!

Springy SR Suntour Fork

Marlin 5 is equipped with a low-ranked SR Suntour XCT 30 fork with a coil spring. This fork is quite heavy but beginner riders without too much off-road experience will like it because it provides plenty of comfort.

When it comes to adjustability, just the preload function is available, so you can dial the fork to your liking and ensure a more comfortable ride and better responsiveness.

It’s important to note that the XS frame size comes with 80 mm of travel, whereas all other frame sizes have 100 mm of travel in the fork.

Best Feature: Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The feature that will make all Marlin 5 owners happy is the hydraulic disc brakes . This is the biggest improvement compared to the cheaper Marlin 4 which comes with mechanical disc brakes.

Hydraulic disc brakes present a major increase in stopping power and precision . They require less strength input from your fingers but offer more braking power output.

Trek has gone a step further and equipped the smaller frame sizes with short-reach brake levers to accommodate short riders with smaller hands.

Delicate Shimano Derailleurs

The main points of improvement on Trek Marlin 5 are its derailleurs. Compared to the previous releases, Marlin 5 has Shimano Altus components

Depending on how you take care of them, they might last you for years and miles to come. However, if you’re not careful and you shift under tension or you fall off your bike and smash them, they might give you some headaches.

Still, that’s not something an average rider planning to take Marlin 5 out on weekend adventures and weekday commutes should worry about. Plus, updating to higher-value Altus, Acera, or Alivio groupsets is not a big investment.

Beefy Bontrager Wheels and Tires

Last but not least, the beefy Bontrager wheels and tires are some of the first things you will notice on your Marlin 5. The 13.5″ and 15.5″ sized frames come with 27.5″ wheels, whereas all larger frames come with 29″ wheels.

The wheels are Bontrager Connection. They have 32 spokes, so they are quite strong, and they’re double-walled which means they can withstand some beating.

The Bontrager XR2 tires are 2.20″ wide on 27.5″ wheels. However, when it comes to 29″ wheels, the rear is narrower at 2.0″.

These wheels and tires are a bit heavier than ideal , but once you get them going, they’ll take you wherever you direct the handlebars.

Geometry & Sizing Table

We especially like it because it’s good at more than one thing.

Trek Marlin 5 is not strictly a trail-specific bike that would feel sluggish in all other settings. It’s equally efficient on both paved roads and dirt roads.

However, its wide tires, massive wheels, and capable hydraulic disc brakes still make it more suitable for riders who plan to spend more time in forests and on mountains than on smooth city streets.

Other Marlin Models

• Marlin 4 – MSRP $630 – Has a lightweight aluminum frame, 21 gears, 100 mm of front suspension, and strong mechanical disc brakes.
• Marlin 5 – MSRP $740 – Combines a light aluminum frame, plush SR Suntour suspension, entry-level Shimano drivetrain, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes in a good-looking trail package. Men and women-specific models available.
• Marlin 6 – MSRP $850 – This model is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, a 1×10 mid-range Shimano drivetrain, burly tires, and comes with 100 mm of front suspension travel with lockout. It’s available in men’s and women’s versions.
• Marlin 7 – MSRP $1,030 – Trek’s race-worthy model with an Alloy frame, superior RockShox front suspension, quality 1×10 drivetrain, Shimano components, and improved Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

To the right buyer, Trek Marlin 5 is definitely worth the money . This is a lot of bike for just $740, specifically when it comes to the components. The hydraulic disc brakes increase the value of the bike, as well as the high-quality aluminum frame.

However, if you value every cent and you don’t intend to tackle steep hills or ride in wet weather, you can save and get Trek Marlin 4 with mechanical disc brakes and slightly lower-ranked hubs and bottom bracket.

Get Directly From TrekBikes.com

Or see best Trek bikes

• Alpha Silver Aluminum frame
• Powerful hydraulic disc brakes
• Good price-to-value ratio
• Attractive colors

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30 thoughts on “ review of trek marlin 5: budget-friendly mtb for beginners ”.

My wife and I just bought 2 29 inch Lithium Gray Marlin 5 Gen 2 bikes. So far so good other than a flat tire I experienced but that’s not Treks fault by any means. We like the weight and the smooth ride it has.

Trek 5 is my 1st Mountain Bike I have been riding it 3x a week Doing some hard bush trails. It really seems to handle all trails well. No one knows that my bike isnt really expensive . They all say “love your bike ” I just love my bike but will upgrade to a better Trek when I have obtained more skills. Thanks Natalie

Hi Natalie, Well as they say, a Trek is a Trek. The brand itself speaks for itself. It also depends on the kind of ride you do.

lol “my son doesn’t abuse his bike he just broke all of the most easily abused parts of it”

Hi Boknows, Sounds like a future athlete there 😉

Very helpfull!!! , thanks dude!

I am 15 and got my trek Marlin 5 a couple years ago. I have ridden some insane tracks on it and haven’t really had any issues. The only thing I’ve broken so far is the derailer hanger but apart from that nothing. I use it for riding on streets, dirt roads and mountain bike tracks of different difficulties including black diamond tracks. It is still working great and I would think of it as a good bike. I found that the seat post was originally at my good pedaling height when I got it at its lowest point but have now upgraded that to dropper.

Hi Jayden, Have you tried getting a regular maintenance check with your local bike shop? Regular maintenance check can help prolong the life of a bike 😉

I bought a 29″ blue Marlin 5 for my son’s 14th birthday 16 months ago and initially I really liked it. But, it’s been a flaming pile of broken parts since then. My son doesn’t abuse this bike (no downhill or big jumps) and mainly rides a few miles into town and occasional wheelies. Since new here’s the things that have broken on it: rear shifter cable, rear axle, right pedal stripped out of crank arm, left pedal stripped out of crank arm, rear axle again, right pedal stripped out of crank arm again and the chain broke (which pulled the rear rerailer into the spokes and ruined it). Our closest Trek dealer is an hour away so running to the bike store is a real issue but they have been pretty good about helping me out. I’m a metal fabricator and part time motocross bike mechanic so I have a good background in metals and how they should operate. I honestly feel Trek has build a cheap bicycle with metal parts using allows that aren’t appropriate and as thin as materials as possible to save weight at the cost of reliability. I just called Trek directly and we’ll see where that goes.

Hi Dough, Sorry to hear about your experience. It looks like your drivetrain and the whole groupset have issues. Usually these are the most abused parts of the bike and an upgrade to better parts will do better. However I am curious as to what they will tell you. Let me know about it. Cheers!

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• Trek Marlin 5 2016
• Crosscountry

Bike summary

Bike components.

Alpha Silver Aluminum w/semi-integrated head tube, rack & fender mounts, G2 Geometry on 29ers

Rear Derailleur

Shimano Tourney TX35

Front Derailleur

Shimano Tourney

Shift Levers

Shimano Altus EF51, 7 speed

Shimano HG20, 12-32, 7 speed

Shimano M131, 42/34/24

Wellgo nylon platform

Formula alloy hubs, Bontrager AT-550 alloy rims

Bontrager XR2, 29x2.20" front, 29x2.00" rear (Bontrager XR2, 27.5x2.20")

HL 280 mechanical disc

Bontrager alloy, 25.4mm, 15 degree

Bontrager alloy, 25.4mm, 15mm rise

1-1/8" threadless, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings

Bontrager Evoke 1

Bontrager SSR, 2-bolt head, 27.2mm, 12mm offset

Bike geometry

Model overview.

Marlin 5 completes the Trek Marlin model. There are 90 bikes that carry this model name. Check out the entire range from 2016 of this model, by clicking this link .

When you go for a ride, don’t forget to put your helmet on. Moreover, ride with traffic, not against it. This will help you stay visible to drivers and also makes it easier for them to see you.

Average price for Crosscountry bikes

If you want to purchase a solid Crosscountry bike, it is important to know that the average cost is 1905 $ . However, paying less money than this amount doesn’t mean that you couldn’t get a great Crosscountry bike. In short, before purchasing your ideal bike do some research about its components, and also check for reviews online.

Marlin 5 components

Wheels size.

The wheels on Marlin 5 are the 27.5″ aluminum type. These wheels will provide you with more control over the bike. However, these wheels have a slower top speed if you compare them to 29″ wheels.

We ride faster and faster, so a good braking system is essential on a bike nowadays. The Marlin 5 comes with Mechanical Disc brakes. These brakes are also very popular, and a lot cheaper than hydraulic disk brakes. However, with hydraulic disk brakes, you have the ultimate braking power!

Trek Marlin models from 2024

Trek marlin models from 2023, trek marlin models from 2022, trek marlin models from 2021, trek marlin models from 2020, trek marlin models from 2019, trek marlin models from 2018, trek marlin models from 2017, trek marlin models from 2016, trek marlin models from 2015, trek marlin models from 2013, trek marlin models from 2012, trek marlin models from 2011, trek marlin models from 2010, trek marlin models from 2009, trek marlin models from 2008, trek marlin models from 2007, trek marlin models from 2006, trek marlin models from 2005, trek marlin models from 2004, trek marlin models from 2003, trek marlin models from 2002.

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Trek Marlin 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 14.44 kg / 31.84 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 XCE 28, coil spring, preload, 42mm offset for 27.5'' wheel, 100mm QR, 80mm travel Size: S SR Suntour XCE 28, coil spring, preload, 42mm offset for 27.5'' wheel, 100mm QR, 100mm travel
• Tires Size: XS , S Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL
• Chain KMC Z7, 7 speed
• Crank Size: XS , S , M Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24, 170mm length Size: ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24, 175mm length
• Shifters Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano Altus M315, 3 speed Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano Altus M315, 7 speed
• Cassette Shimano HG200, 12-32, 7 speed
• Brakeset Size: XS , S Tektro HD-M276 hydraulic disc, short reach lever Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL 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
• Headset Semi-integrated, 1-1/8''

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Marlin 5?

The 2021 Trek Marlin 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2021 Trek Marlin 5 weigh?

A 2021 Trek Marlin 5 weights M - 14.44 kg / 31.84 lbs (with tubes).

Q: What size 2021 Trek Marlin 5 should I get?

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Trek Marlin 6 Review: Sufficient for Beginners, but…

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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), 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 the 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 for. Despite the narrower gear range, its use is much easier for beginners. 

About The Author

Petr Minarik

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• Rider Notes

2015 Trek Marlin 5

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame crosscountry bike with mid-range components and mechanical disc brakes. 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

First added June 29

Last updated June 29

Not listed for 2,599 days

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Trek Marlin 6

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I have a 2016 trek marlin 6. I primarily do xc and some trail. What is the most necessary upgrade right now? thanks  

If you are looking to ride more rocky, rooty trails I'd swap to a Raidon air fork for $200 through the Suntour Upgrade Program. It also drops at least a pound off the front of your bike. SR Suntour North America  

yeah thanks a lot I was already planning on doing that im just glad someone else shares my thinking.  

Forks and wheels. Suntour program is good but there is a lot better forks out there for not much more money. Kind find deals on Rockshox Reba and Manitou Marvel rather often which are great forks without breaking the bank. The stock forks will have XC but barely (as long as it's not right XC) but won't last too long. Wheels are HEAVY and bend easily. Marlin will take a fair bit of upgrading to be able to ride "trail" as you call it. There isn't much difference between XC and trail besides more serious technical sections (rock gardens, jumps and drops) which the Marlin just isn't designed to deal with. You can ride smoothish XC in stock form. Forks and wheels will go a long way beyond that. But don't expect the rest of the bike to last if you start riding rough trails. Sent from my XT1565 using Tapatalk  

yeah thanks a lot. I was already planning on doing exactly that im just glad someone else shares my thinking.  

I'm also an owner of a Marlin 6 trek bike, would like to shave off some weight on the wheels, what would you guys recommend, already planned out the fork upgrade to a rockshox, but need lighter wheels.  

I have a Marlin 5 that is about 18 months old. I had a Suntour Raidon airfork put on, after the very nice rec of eb1888, and it is a great improvement. Well worth the money. Over a period of time, I seemed to have sort of dented the front wheel. I was getting it tuned up at the bike shop and the bike mechanic said he had a nice set of used wheels he would sell me for $150 and I snapped them up. This is a good bike, and now it is better!  

I really liked my Marlin 6, but quickly moved to my Trek Fuel EX7 as I realized I liked full suspension better. That said, the Marlin 6 29er is being thoroughly enjoyed by my friend's boy who thinks it is "all that".  

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