cma379

Just getting into mountain biking. Nothing crazy light to medium trails. Was looking at the Trek Marlin 4 and Marlin 5. Any one have any incite on either bike. I’m mainly a road rider and ride the Domane but looking for a little more off road capability for a decent price. Thanks

qclabrat

They are both serviceable entry level mtbs. For entry level, I usually don't recommend the top brand names. You can get a considerably better setup with a GT or Diamondback at the same price.

MRT2

I just perused the Trek website and it listed the derailleurs as Shimano Tourney. and it is 7 speed, which probably means a freehub instead of a freewheel. Do what you want, but I don't know about taking a bike with entry level components like that into the woods.

dontcallmebrave

Yup, I ended up getting a GT Avalanche Elite on sale for the same price after tax as a Marlin 7 before tax and it's got way better components.

qclabrat

And the Marlin 7, has considerably better parts than the 4 or 5.
Most people get sticker shock at what $1000 brings to the table nowadays, especially in mtbs.
Looking at something half the price doesn't look terrible in comparison.

BirdsBikeBinocs

I haven't compared components so I'll just throw this out there....

Last early Fall I bought a Giant Talon 3 29'er new for $500. It is by far the most fun I've had on a bicycle. I really don't think 500 bucks could buy a better bike.

Ride before you buy. In the end it was how the bike handled that trumped all other considerations. One word.... Fun.