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Trek Marlin market data, updated as new sales are recorded
The Marlin is Trek's entry level hardtail mountain bike and it is where thousands of UK riders start their mountain biking journey. It is the bike your local Trek dealer will point you towards when you say "I want to try mountain biking" and that recommendation is well earned. The Marlin does not pretend to be something it is not. It is a straightforward, well built hardtail that works.
Trek has put the same frame geometry principles from their expensive bikes into the Marlin, so it actually handles like a proper mountain bike rather than a cheap bike that happens to have knobby tyres. The aluminium frame is tough, the spec is sensible for the price, and it comes in multiple versions from the Marlin 5 up to the Marlin 8 with progressively better components.
On the used market, Marlins are extremely common and very affordable. They are a popular bike for people who tried mountain biking and decided it was not for them, which means you can find barely ridden examples at significant discounts.
For a budget hardtail, the Marlin rides well. The geometry puts you in a comfortable but capable position, and the bike handles blue and easy red trails at trail centres without drama. The front fork on lower spec models is basic but functional, and the higher spec Marlin 7 and 8 come with decent air forks that make a real difference.
You will feel the limitations on rougher terrain though. Without rear suspension, roots and rocks transmit straight through the frame. The fork on cheaper models dives under braking and does not track as well as a more expensive one. But that is fine. This is a bike for learning on, building skills, and deciding whether mountain biking is for you before investing more.
First time mountain bikers. Trail centre beginners who want a reliable bike without spending a fortune. Commuters who ride a mix of road and light trails. Kids and teenagers who need a proper mountain bike rather than a supermarket special. Anyone who wants a simple, low maintenance bike for weekend rides.
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