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In the world of high-performance entry-level mountain bikes, the Trek Marlin 7 is ahead of its time. This mountain biking crusher is an affordable and featured-packed bike with an awesome design that draws inspiration from race-inspired geometry to give the bike a superior advantage over similar options in its class and even better price range.
That being said, for an entry-level bike, the Trek Marlin 7 is a reasonably expensive bike at right around $800; which makes a big difference, however. However, when you buy this bike from the Marlin lineup you will get access to tons of advanced features for the price. The core value of this bike lies within its seamless integration of budget-friendly components with race-ready design elements that deliver real-world, and track-ready performance.
You’ll find components of mid-range and high-level quality sprinkled throughout the main design of the Marlin 7, making it an ideal bike for those who want a taste of what higher priced models can do for their soft ride game.
Overall, the Marlin 7 is very lightweight and efficient yet powerful and streamlined, which gives it a unique appeal that you don’t find too often. It weighs about 31.05lbs in total and has 18 gears, which provides you with versatile shifting capabilities.
The Trek’s Marlin 7 also features an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is very durable and light. It also features Bontrager wheels, which look great and provide excellent support when riding.
You’ll find that the suspension of the Marlin 7 is more than capable of handling rugged terrain and complex rides with ease. All of the features integrated into the Marlin 7 combine to create the perfect entry to mid-range bike for anyone looking to enhance their rides on and off the trails.
If you’re interested in purchasing your first mountain bike which is high-performing, feature-packed, yet affordable entry-level to intermediate mountain bike, the Trek Marlin 7 is a great choice, even for new mountain bikers.
To help you make an educated purchase decision, we’re going to provide you with a detailed review of the Trek Marlin 7 below. Make sure you read this entire review so that you can decide whether or not the Marlin 7 is the right bike for you, at least for giving it a test ride.
Marlin 7 is where race-worthy mountain bikes begin. The smooth, lightweight RockShox fork and upgraded parts make this model the best choice for new riders who want a fast cross-country hardtail that will hold its own against our higher-end race bikes.
Who is the Trek Marlin 7 for?
The Trek Marlin 7 was designed for a wide range of riders, including new riders, trail riders, leisure riders, and full-on racers. Its race-inspired design in addition to its mid-quality components makes the Trek Marlin 7 the perfect bike for the average to advanced rider looking for a sturdy bike that is packed with tons of tailored features to fit their busy lifestyle.
This model is considered an entry to intermediate level bike due to the price and the manufacturing quality of some parts; however, that in no way correlates to a subpar product.
In fact, Trek has been able to pull off its idealistic concept of a medium-level, high-performing, budget-friendly mountain bike that provides enough versatility for average riders to improve their existing expertise. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to upgrade to the more expensive categories of trail bikes but want to try one out before shelling out the big bucks.
For those that fall into any of these categories, you’ll be more than satisfied with the Trek Marlin 7 as you go-to bike for quite some time. Now, let’s take an in-depth look at some of the main pros and cons of current owners of the Marlin 7 report after their experience.
Pros & Cons: Trek Marlin 7
The Trek Marlin 7, like any other mountain bike, has its own unique design advantages in addition to downfalls. Every rider wants a personalized experience out of their bike, so it can be hard to classify what one rider may deem as a con because another may see it like a pro.
However, that doesn’t exclude the fact that some flaws are more practical and measurable, so regardless of your opinion, it will affect your ride either unknowingly or knowingly.
Below, you’re going to find our list of all the main pros and cons to consider before purchasing the Trak Marlin 7.
Pros
- 18 Gear shifter provides versatile performance capabilities under a wide range of riding conditions
- Lightweight design that facilitates high-performance standards
- Race-ready design geometry delivers superior ride handling effortlessly
- Durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame
- Superior suspension system
- Versatile design and functionality
- Trek’s Lifetime warranty included with every purchase
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Rear kickstand mount
Cons
- Coil spring could use improvements
- The fork does not provide performance capabilities consistent with the rest of the bike.
As you can see, the Trek Marlin 7 is a capable mountain bike that keeps your budget in mind. Based on the pros and cons alone, the Marlin 7 delivers a very consistent amount of power for its build quality. Continue reading to find a full breakdown of the core features that the Trek Marlin 7 offers so you can know precisely what you’re getting if you decide to go with this bike.
Core Features: Trek Marlin 7
Like we’ve said before, the Trek Marlin 7 is a robust and versatile mid-range mountain bike that can deliver adaptable performance standards for riders of all types.
What truly makes this bike great is all of the thought and intuitive genius that went into designing it. If you polled most casual to moderate riders and asked them what they would want in a budget-friendly mid-range bike, they would likely list all of the features included with the Trek Marlin 7.
Take a look below to find all of the critical specifications and details about the Trek Marlin 7 that can translate into real-world performance enhancements for all of your future rides.
Marlin 7 is where race-worthy mountain bikes begin. The smooth, lightweight RockShox fork and upgraded parts make this model the best choice for new riders who want a fast cross-country hardtail that will hold its own against our higher-end race bikes.
Front/Rear Derailleur
The Marlin 7 comes outfitted with a Shimano Altus M2020 2-speed front derailleur and a Shimano Acera M3000 9-speed rear derailleur. Both components work together seamlessly to deliver smooth gear transitions that allow you to adapt your riding style in a wide range of terrains.
Their durable build quality enhances their functionality to provide you with consistent reliability with every pedal.
Brakes
The Marlin 7 also has MT200 Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, which deliver almost instant stopping power regardless of the terrain. These brakes perform great for providing immediate braking action when faced with high-speed docents and all sorts of other intense situations.
When you look at the brakes on this bike compared to its tire and wheelset, it’s the ability to stop in wet climates in unmatched in bikes of a similar class.
Rims/Tires
For the tires and rims, the Marlin 7 is packing Bontrager aluminum connection double-wall wheels and Bontrager XR2 Comp tires.
This combination provides real ride support in various conditions while also aiding the brakes in delivering an immense amount of stopping power that will impress any rider. While the wheels on the Marlin 7 are not tubeless-ready, you can convert them into a tubeless setup.
Frame
The Trek Marlin 7 has an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that is ultra-lightweight and very durable. The Marlin 7 frame uses race-ready frame geometry to deliver actualized performance benefits when taking on demanding tasks such as serious singletrack aspirations or high-speed downhill attacks. The head tube angle on this bike is 69.5-degrees, and it has a 73-degree seat tube angle that puts in an optimal position for maximum handling control in all situations.
The agile yet stable performance of the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame on this bike definitely makes it one of the leading choices for mid-range trail bikes.
Fork
The fork on the Marlin 7 is a RockShox XC 30 adjustable fork that delivers enhanced performance upgrades that add 100mm of travel underneath your hands. In addition to this, it also comes with a preload function that makes it easy for you to adjust your ride before hitting the trails.
You’ll also find a turnkey lockout feature, which makes it easy for you to lock it in place with the simple switch of a button even while riding. This fork is optimal for rough terrains, technical trail rides, and fast descents.
Drivetrain
The Trek Marlin 7 comes outfitted with an efficient and lightweight 2×9 drivetrain that is built using a 36/22t crankset in addition to an 11-36T cassette.
These features combine to deliver broad gear range while also reducing the amount of time it takes to transition from one gear setting to another. It’s fast, high-performing, and built to last, enhancing the overall value of the Marlin 7.
These are all of the main features that come packed into the Trek Marlin 7, after taking a look at them, you can probably see why it’s one of the best mid-range bikes currently available. In addition to all of the advanced ride capabilities mentioned above, the Marlin 7 also comes in seven different sizes ranging from XS up to XXL, so virtually anyone can enjoy the benefits of this bike.
Consider what your personal ride preference and demands are compared to what the Marlin 7 has to offer. By doing so, you will be able to decide whether or not this is the right bike for you. If in case you want to check more options, you can read here all about Trek Marlin 5 and Trek Marlin 6.
Check out our full Marlin 7 vs Marlin 6 Comparison.
Alternative Recommendations
1. Savadeck Deck300 Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike
The SAVADECK DECK300 Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike is built using a TORAY T800 carbon fiber frame that delivers a durable and lightweight basis for this bike’s other performance features. It’s also outfitted with an SR Suntour fork that provides 100mm of suspension travel in addition to more precise control.
The high-quality fork also aids in supporting a comfortable ride in various environments, which is a great bonus. This bike has a Shimano RD-M6000 front derailleur and a Shimano RD-M6000 rear derailleur that allows you to efficiently operate the bike and jumpstart your rides.
The braking system on this bike is a Shimano MT200 disc brake system that uses double mechanical disc brakes to deliver top-notch stopping power in virtually any terrain. You’ll also find a continental tire on this bike, which adds more versatility to the bike’s ability to handle multiple ride conditions with ease. This bike is easy to assemble and is excellent for intermediate and even professional riders who want a nice entry-level to toss around.
The braking system on this bike uses double mechanical disc brakes to deliver top-notch stopping power in virtually any terrain, as we as a continental tire which adds even more versatility!
2. Tommaso Gran Sasso 29er Mountain Bike
The Tommaso Gran Sasso, 29er Mountain Bike, features a durable alloy frame that can withstand virtually anything you throw at it. The bike comes with 29” wheels that deliver ultimate grip and propellent force to keep you moving even when you encounter difficult riding situations.
These tires can withstand roots, rocks, branches, and more without even breaking a sweat. This bike also has a 24-speed Shimano drivetrain that delivers enhanced power and accurate control consistently.
It also comes with a Suntour SF 15-XCM form that adds 100mm of travel for even more ride versatility. It’s outfitted with a 680mm handlebar, which is comfortable and optimized to provide you with superior posturing so that you always maintain precise control on the bike.
The bike comes with a standard one year warranty from the manufacturer, and all of the Shimano branded a two-year warranty covers parts. If you’re a rider who is looking for professional performance at an excellent and affordable price, this bike is the perfect choice for you.
3. Diamondback Bicycles Full Suspension Mountain Bike
The Diamondback Bicycles Full RockShox Suspension Mountain Bike is the only full-suspension and not-so-entry-level bike on our list. This monster comes outfitted with a level link design that delivers 130mm of optimal rear suspension support.
This bike is crafted from a lightweight yet durable carbon frame with a Boost 148x12mm Maxle dropout for added ride versatility. You’ll also find that this bike has a KS LEV Si dropper post w/ an integrated Southpaw remote lever that provides enhanced maneuverability when attacking descents. The rear shocks mounts on this bike are Fox 34 performance float and fox DPS EVOL LV which deliver excellent suspension travel.
The gears on this bike use an SRAM NX Eagle 11-50T single-ring drivetrain to deliver maximum versatility and power. If you’re in the market for a premium high-performing mountain bike and have a few more dollars to spend, this is a great selection.
The Diamondback Bicycles Full Suspension Mountain Bike is a full-suspension and not-so-entry-level bike with a level link design that delivers 130mm of optimal rear suspension support.
Our Honest Opinion
After taking an in-depth look at all of the core features and capabilities that come with the Trek Marlin 7 package, we would have no other choice but to recommend this bike. When compared to many of the other mountain bikes in its class, the Marlin 7 outperforms them in all areas including design, functionality, and performance.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trail bike packed with advanced features and practical performance, the Trek Marlin 7 is a great choice.
FAQs About Trek Marlin 7
Yes, the Trek Marlin 7 is a good quality entry-level bike that delivers high-performance standards and versatile riding capabilities. Its racing-inspired design gives it an edge over its competitors, making it one of the leading options in the entry-level and mid-range bike class.
Yes, when you consider the number of features and quality parts that come integrated with the Trek Marlin 7, it is worth every penny.
Yes, while the Trek Marlin 7 is designed like a racing-style bike, making it great for downhill as well as any type of offroad trail.
Conclusion
Use all of the information, tips, and advice we’ve given you throughout this article to help decide whether the Trek Marlin 7 is right for you.
Take the time to read over our entire review so that you can compare its core features with everything you want in a mountain bike. As long as you do that, you’ll be taking on new trails with confidence in no time with the Marlin 7.
Marlin 7 is where race-worthy mountain bikes begin. The smooth, lightweight RockShox fork and upgraded parts make this model the best choice for new riders who want a fast cross-country hardtail that will hold its own against our higher-end race bikes.
