Trek Marlin+
93/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts
Type
Release Year
Brand
Charge Time
6 Hours
Maximum Range
37 Miles
Top Speed
20 mph
Watts
250 W
Torque
50 Nm
Volts and Amp Hours
36V 11Ah
Class
Drive
Gearing Type
Weight
49.5, 47.38 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Trek Marlin+. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
12 reasons to buy
- Trek offers this bike in two build levels: the Marlin+ 6 and the higher-end Marlin+ 8.
- Experts relish the seamless engagement of the Bosch motor.
- Testers enjoy the ‘Auto’ pedal assist mode, which automatically adjusts motor power output to maintain a consistent speed.
- Experts praise the stable and planted ride that holds up well to moderate trail riding.
- At 47.4lb or 49.5lb in size medium, the Marlin+ is light for a hardtail at this price point.
- The Marlin+ has mounts for a rear rack, fenders, two bottle cages, and a kickstand.
- Reviewers appreciate the wide gear range of the Marlin+ 8's 12-speed (36t, 10-51t) Shimano Deore drivetrain.
- The Marlin+ 8’s entry-level RockShox Recon Silver RL suspension fork performs well on light MTB trails in testing.
- The inclusion of a dropper seatpost and tubeless-ready tires and rims on the Marlin+ 8 impresses reviewers, given the price.
- Testers praise the stopping power of the Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and 203mm rotors (Marlin+ 8).
- The Bosch companion app allows riders to fine-tune PAS settings, track rides, navigate, plan routes, and more.
- The Marlin+ is built and tuned at the nearest Trek dealer before delivery, and after-sales support is widely available.
9 reasons not to buy
- Experts say the urban Active Line Plus motor lacks power for mountain biking and struggles on steep hills in testing.
- Some reviewers find the compact Purion 200 display and controls difficult to read and operate while riding.
- The battery range disappoints testers. One covers 21.7 miles and 1312 feet of elevation using max assist.
- One tester reports their display shutting down mid-ride, requiring reconnection to the companion app to get it started again.
- Testers feel the Marlin+ 8 isn't suitable for aggressive terrain or descents, despite Trek's claims of it being a "ride that's ready to go anywhere."
- Experts lament the Marlin+ 8's low-end dropper post, which quickly becomes gritty, hard to actuate, and requires frequent servicing. One also finds side-to-side play in the post.
- The Marlin+ 6, with its 9-speed drivetrain, rigid seatpost, lack of tubeless compatibility, and basic Suntour XCM 34 coil suspension fork, isn't suitable for proper mountain biking.
- The battery is frame-integrated and only removable by a trained technician.
- The Marlin+ is wired for a taillight (purchased separately). It's not wired for a headlight.
Bottom line
The Trek Marlin+ is a hardtail e-MTB available in two builds. The bike earns praise for its quality frame, responsive Bosch motor, and ability to be set up as a commuter. The primary complaint for both builds is the small 400Wh battery and underpowered 50Nm motor that limit range and climbing ability. The Marlin 8+ impresses with its wide gearing range, effective brakes and suspension, and tubeless-ready wheels, making it capable of handling light mountain bike trails. In contrast, the lower-spec Marlin+ 6 isn't suitable for proper mountain biking and is best kept to light off-road terrains and commuting.Expert Reviews
89/100 based on 4 rated expert reviewsTrek Marlin+ 8 Review | Electrifying a Popular MTB
Trek Marlin+ Review – How the Best-Selling Hardtail Handles as an E-Bike
Trek Marlin+ 8 Review: More Expensive Than a Decathlon Electric Mountain Bike, but Much Better [French]
Test: Trek Marlin+ 8 2024 | Versatile MTB E-Bike for a Wide Range of Riders [Slovak]
Trek Marlin+ 8 Review
Trek Marlin+ 8 Hardtail E-MTB Review – E-Bike Options at [Price] and [Price]
Ride Test: Trek Marlin 8+ – E-MTB on a Lower Budget
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Trek Marlin+ 8 Hardtail E-MTB Mixes Business With Pleasure [Review]
Review: Electric Hardtail Trek Marlin+ 8 (2024) [Polish]
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