Quick Verdict
Yes – the Trek Marlin 8 is one of the best all-round hardtails for the money. It has a 12-speed SRAM 1x drivetrain, an air-sprung RockShox fork with lockout and hydraulic brakes, and comes in sizes from XXS to XXL. The trade-offs are a roomy fit some riders won’t love and quick-release wheels instead of thru-axles.
One of the wonderful things about mountain bikes is that they all look the same on the surface level. But if one looks a bit more closely, a world of differences is extremely noticeable. While veterans and new bike enthusiasts both have different expectations of bicycles, there is a common ground. It is Trek Marlin 8 Bike.
There are always the bare essentials or requirements that these bikes have to pass. For example, the most important characteristics a mountain bike simply must have are durability and reliability. The mountain bike has to protect both itself and the rider from the harsh conditions it has to be ridden through.
While most of the more known bikes do pass this test of being incredibly sturdy and reliable, there are always models that stick out. As such, one particular bike has emerged, the one that has the potential to become one of the top-tier mountain bikes today.
The bike is the Marlin 8 model from the Trek Bicycle Corporation, and here are our thoughts about what makes this interesting model so special.
Overview
Trek Marlin 8 Mountain Bicycle
This new model does look like a regular bike at first sight, but it feels different when one uses it. As previously said, most mountain bikes are always built to be sturdy and reliable, and the riders feel it.
Neither you nor the bike feels the bumps and hits, you just continue on riding as if nothing happened. This bike is different. In addition to being really durable and reliable, it does have some extra characteristics that put it above the rest of other mountain bikes. Actually, it might be above other bikes in general.
This bike is really an all-around type of bicycle, as one can see from its characteristics.
The Lineup
Trek Marlin Bike Types
The Marlin 8 is near the top of Trek’s Marlin family of cross-country hardtails. Here is how the range breaks down.
Marlin 4, 5 and 6
The entry-level Marlins are built for new riders and casual trail use. They share the same basic frame idea but use simpler drivetrains, coil-sprung forks and, on the cheapest models, mechanical brakes.
Marlin 7 and 8
The Marlin 7 and 8 are the performance models. They get air-sprung forks, hydraulic disc brakes and wider-range 1x drivetrains, which make them lighter and better on real trails. The Marlin 8 tops the range with 12-speed SRAM shifting.
Marlin+ E-Bikes
If you want help on the climbs, Trek also makes the Marlin+, an electric version of the Marlin with a motor and battery built into the frame.
Build Quality
Components and Frames
Frames
Trek has had the majority of people in mind when making this bike, trying to make it available to most people. As such, the bike comes in the majority of frame sizes, with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame base for adults.
Alpha Silver Aluminum
Trek’s Alpha Silver Aluminum is a light, tough alloy that keeps the Marlin 8 affordable without feeling flimsy on the trail.
Finally, the alpha silver aluminum frame adds to the streamlined design that favors style at first sight.
Body Design
As previously said, the design is suited for everyone, having the majority of sizes to fit as many as possible, from XXS to XXL.
In addition, the top tube is at an angle for easier mounting, with an additional model that has even more of a curvy top tube.
The frame design itself looks amazing and sleeker than ever. It looks more put-together in a way, rather than having an eclectic visual style. The length of the frame and the wheels’ distance look balanced and eye-catching.
Internal Cable Routing
The cables are placed inside the frame, which is not a new breakthrough, but nonetheless, a good choice. This makes the bike look much cleaner and slicker than ever.
The cables are not choked inside the tubing, as the hole is big enough to avoid choking but small enough to keep the mud out. The cables enter the frame below the handlebar. Besides the aesthetic look, this choice also keeps the cables safe by putting them away from outside harm.
The cables will get more longevity, as nothing will get caught in them and spoil the look of the bike.
Components
The rims and tires are Bontrager Kovee and Maxxis Ardent, respectively, also in various sizes. The whole drivetrain is equipped with SRAM parts, from the shifter to the chain.
Drivetrain
The Trek Marlin 8 has a 1x drivetrain, which reduces the weight of the bike by removing the surplus gears and similar bulky parts. The downside of the 1x, as some might know, is the fewer gears than other standard drivetrains.
But the 1x also has fewer moving parts, which reduces the chance of something breaking down. The drivetrain also contains wide-range cassettes and rear derailleurs combined with chainrings that keep the chain laser-steady on off-road terrains.
This combination of parts helps in smoother gear shifts while keeping the number of moving parts and overall weight at a minimum level. You should have no worries if you think the 1x system is insufficient for a mountain bike, as the Marlin 8 showed otherwise.
This model has 12 gears which is more than enough to conquer the uphill rides and have controlled descents. The model is equipped with the SRAM PG-1210, known for its reliability and control.
Brakes
Finally, the Trek Marlin 8 is equipped with a Shimano MT200 set of brakes, for all the daredevil riders out there. As for the bike weight itself, it stands at the 30-pound mark, with tubes included. The weight limit of the bike is 10 times its weight, so around 300 pounds.
Wheels and Tires
The Marlin 8 rolls on Bontrager Kovee rims with Maxxis Ardent tires, and the wheel and tire size changes with the frame size so smaller riders get a better fit. The wheels use quick-release axles rather than thru-axles.
Ride Feel
Comfort and Performance
Comfort Features
The Marlin 8 has a roomy, fairly upright riding position that is comfortable on long rides and easy for new riders to get used to. With frame sizes from XXS to XXL, most riders can find a good fit.
The dropper seatpost lets you lower the saddle on the move, so you can get it out of the way on steep descents and raise it again for climbing.
Suspension
One of the best features of this model, the suspension allows you to switch the fork to inactive, in order to efficiently pedal.
This feature is common in professional bikes, and it really makes you feel like a pro biker. This feature is primarily used for straight roads and flat surfaces, or wherever bikers prioritize speed.
Air Spring
This model does not use the standard coil spring but an air one, one that is much less complicated.
The air spring is controlled through a valve, through which the rider can adjust the pressure while following a dimple inside to check when the pressure is even. The air spring that is fitted to this bike is the RockShox Solo air spring.
This one is known for being a lightweight spring with one valve, so it is easier to find a malfunction when there is only one part. It is also known for making the process of adjusting the tension go smoothly, which is important for both new bikers and veterans alike.
On the trail, the Marlin 8 feels stable and predictable rather than racy. It climbs well thanks to the lockout and wide gear range, and it handles rough descents better than most bikes at this price.
Specs
Trek Marlin 8 Specifications
Here are the key parts of the Marlin 8 at a glance. You can find more detail on each part in the Components and Frames section above.
| Part | Trek Marlin 8 |
|---|---|
| Frame | Alpha Silver Aluminum |
| Fork | Air-sprung RockShox fork with lockout |
| Drivetrain | SRAM 1x, 12-speed (shifter to chain) |
| Brakes | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc |
| Rims | Bontrager Kovee |
| Tires | Maxxis Ardent |
| Seatpost | Dropper post |
| Sizes | XXS to XXL |
| Weight | About 30 lb (with tubes) |
| Max total weight | About 300 lb (rider, bike and gear) |
Who It’s For
Who Is This Bike For?
This bicycle is a great model with amazing equipped parts, however, it might not be for everyone. This is a top bicycle meant mostly for professional bikers who like to go off the beaten path.
On the flip side, it can also be used for causal rides, as it has really good handling, suitable for everyone. To put it shortly, it is a bike that can be used by everyone, it just depends on a few things.
Depends on your own taste, needs, and budget, but the Marlin 8 model is really an all-around bike that is a jack of all trades.
Alternatives
Alternatives
If you have a specific reason for not wanting to buy the Marlin 8 model, here are a few options for you. These bikes are similar to the Marlin 8 models, some are from a different manufacturer, while some are Trek Corporation models.
Shopping a little lower in the Marlin range? Our Trek Marlin 7 vs Specialized Rockhopper Comp comparison shows how the Marlin 7 stacks up against its closest Specialized rival on price, dropper post, brakes and tires.
Looking for a cheaper Trek hardtail? Our REI DRT 1.2 vs Trek Marlin 5 comparison shows how the $799.99 Marlin 5 stacks up against REI’s trail-focused DRT 1.2 on forks, gearing, tires and sizing.
Rockhopper Expert
Specialized Rockhopper Expert
The Rockhopper Expert from Specialized Bicycle Components Inc. is a great option. It has a similar price tag but is more focused on speed. The Rockhopper Expert has the RockShox part in common with Marlin 8.
SpecializedCheck PriceTalon 2
Giant Talon 2
The Talon 2 from Giant is another good alternative. The strength of this bike is uphill and downhill rides. Another good thing is that this model is more affordable than the Marlin 8, making it a popular alternative to the said model.
GiantCheck PriceRoscoe and X-Caliber Models
Trek Roscoe and X-Caliber
Literally, any Roscoe model from Trek is a good alternative. They are bigger and made for rough and bumpy rides. Being from the same manufacturer, they share a lot in common, with the Roscoe models being especially useful in extremely rough conditions.
As for the X-Caliber models, from Trek, they are mostly a combination of racing and mountain bike. They are thinner but still sturdy, but unstable for extremely rough terrains, built mostly with speed in mind.
TrekbikesCheck PriceKeep Reading
More Bike Reviews
The Verdict
Pros and Cons of the Trek Marlin 8
The Marlin 8 is a great all-rounder, but a few details hold it back from being perfect.
Trek Marlin 8
Pros of the Trek Marlin 8
- Sizes: A wide range of frame sizes, from XXS to XXL, fits almost every rider.
- Tires: An excellent selection of tires, sized to match each frame.
- Dropper Post: It comes with a dropper seatpost, which is rare at this price.
- Upgrades: The solid frame has great potential for upgrades as your riding improves.
Cons of the Trek Marlin 8
- Roomy Fit: Some riders may prefer a more snug or compact seated position.
- Quick Release: Quick-release wheels are not as stiff and stable as thru-axles.
- Cable Rattle: The internal cable routing can sometimes cause rattling noises.
- Not a Racer: Other bikes are faster for sprinting and pure uphill or downhill riding.
TrekbikesCheck Price
Gear For Your Mountain Bike
Grippy tires, the right pressure and a trail tool cover most of what goes wrong on the trail. These are picks we would put on our own bikes.
Mountain bike tire
Maxxis Minion DHF
A grippy, tubeless-ready trail tire with tough casing options for rocky and rooty terrain.
View on AmazonTubeless sealant
Stan’s NoTubes Tire Sealant
Seals small punctures as you ride – a must-have for tubeless trail, gravel and fat-bike setups.
View on AmazonFloor pump
Topeak JoeBlow Sport III
Correct pressure is the easiest way to prevent pinch flats and uneven wear. 160 psi, a large gauge and a head for Presta and Schrader valves.
View on AmazonPressure gauge
Topeak SmartGauge D2
A digital gauge for precise pressure checks before every ride – properly inflated tires last longer.
View on AmazonTire levers
Park Tool TL-1.2 Tire Levers
Small, strong levers for swapping tires and fixing flats without scratching your rims.
View on AmazonMulti-tool
Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool
19 functions in one compact tool – hex and Torx keys, screwdrivers and a chain tool for roadside and trailside fixes.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, The Bike Magazine earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are shown on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions riders ask most about the Trek Marlin 8.
How much does the Marlin 8 bike cost?
The price will not set you back too much, as it usually floats around a thousand-dollar price tag. It is a bit more expensive than other mountain bikes, as the average price of mountain bikes is around 800 dollars, max. But you do get a great bike for the price.
Is This a Bike for Me?
As said in the article, this bike is really for everyone’s needs. It is sturdy and great for off-roading, it is good for straight rides on flat surfaces, although lacking speed. All in all, you would not make a mistake if you bought it.
Is This Bike Good for Sprinting or Uphill/Downhill Rides?
While it is a jack of all trades, there might be some other models that excel in sprinting and uphill or downhill rides. What this model lacks is speed, so it is not the best option for bikers who want to ride it in these conditions.
How much does the Trek Marlin 8 weigh?
The Marlin 8 weighs around 30 pounds with tubes, and it has a weight limit of around 300 pounds.
