A: The Marlin 6 is listed at $530 and could be as much as $600 but I found mine new at a bike shop for $300 and I'm sure there are good deals around. Every major bike company is going to have something that competes with it as its an entry level bike. When I was looking for one, two years ago, its main competitors were entry level Diamondbacks and Novaras. It's my opinion that this was the best option, especially if you can find one at $400 or below.
I would recommend this to anyone wanting to get into mountain biking. Don't expect to be hitting jumps or really intense features on this, but it can handle anything a beginning mountain biker can throw at it.
Pros
Durable
Comfortable
Great Price
Cons
| ThankSaddle
Stock Tires
3x Drive Train
I am disappointed by this bike. Compared to other entry level hardtails, this bike is expensive and doesn't have a good trail ready set up compared to other, cheaper entry level bikes. I don't know what Trek was thinking when they designed this bike for trails. The fork leaks a heck ton of oil. The handlebars are too narrow to offer enough stability, and the seat doesnt drop down far enough for downhill riding. Overall it feels sloppy.
Pros
Decent drive terrain
Cons
| ThankTerrible fork,
Narrow handlebars,
Sloppy front end,
Seat doesn't go down far enough
Overall its a great bike. I suggest paying a little extra and getting the Marlin 7
Pros
Great bike for the money. Perfect for medium trail riding. The brakes are great.
Cons
| ThankA little heavier than other bikes in the price range. The front suspension lacks dampening.
Disappointed
Pros
Brakes, handling
Cons
| ThankShifting in the front from 2 down to 1
Overall great bike. I think the front end could use some work. Beefier front forks would be better.
Pros
Price
Cons
| ThankFront end.
Had the bike now for a year and have put several hundred trail miles on it at several parks in S. Fl. Things I upgraded almost immediately was rims (Mavic XL), tires (Maxxis Ardent/High Roller ll) , front fork (Rockshox xc30 gold). After those upgrades it was a whole different bike. I did replace the seat stem, bars, and bar holder all to Race Face to cut back an a little more weight. Now I still need to upgrade the drivetrain and
brakes, but wanted to beat them up a bit before replacement...now its time. With the current upgrades, I would have to say this a great bike for what I put it through. All of Markham Park, Amelia, Virginia Key, and Oleta trails. I do Quiet Waters for endurance, and just did the "Rumble in the Jungle" race in August at Markham. I am 140lbs, 5'7" and ride the 17" frame. Sure my buds are a bit faster off the line and can turn a little faster with their 26ers and 27.5ers, but I am right up on them after a few pedal strokes buzzing their tires. Its a great bike with the upgrades totaling about $1500, but it has what I like on it and its works. Thanks
Pros
Decent bike for the money, and leaves room for upgrades. U can build it how u want it and will not brake the bank. Relatively light for a 29er (28.3 lbs) after upgrades. Lighter drivetrain may shave 1-2 lbs.
Cons
| ThankDrivetrain components, brakes, fork, wheelset, and a bit cumbersome on tight turns, but its a $600 entry level trail bike.
Good starter bike that you can customize with better parts.
Pros
For the price, a solid bike. The geometry feels great. Frame and wheels are solid.
Cons
| ThankYou will likely want to upgrade suspension, cranks, resr derailleur, and brakes. The frame is worth it though.
really like the marlin 6
Pros
Tuff bike
Cons
| ThankNone so far
The Marlin 6 is an excellent entry/intermediate level bike for those seeking the benefits of a 29er without the price. Hydraulic disc brakes and superior handling (although the handlebar feels a little wide) make this an incredible solid ride.
Pros
Hydraulic disc brakes, 29er, handling, price.
Cons
| ThankA bit heavy.