AGENT ORANGE
This is the cheapest bike in the line-up, but you wouldn’t say so to look at it. The orange paint job is eye-catching and the frame is beautifully made, with smooth welds and graceful lines.
There are six sizes in the Marlin 7 range, all the way from XS to XXL. This is unusually generous, and it means that you’ll definitely get a bike that fits, whether you’re built like Faf de Klerk or Eben Etzebeth. The two smallest sizes come with 27.5-inch wheels, allowing Trek to keep the geometry consistent. We tested the XS version, and the handling had that perfect 29er blend of speed and stability – even though the wheels were a size smaller.
Trek have nailed internal cable routing. A few years ago, you would only find this kind of set-up on a much more expensive bike. There’s even internal routing for a dropper seat post, should you wish to install one. The frame has rack mounts for light touring, and mounts for a kick-stand if that’s your vibe.
The only let-down (to be expected, at this price) is the choice of components. The 3x9 drivetrain is mostly Shimano Altus, with a Shimano Acera derailleur. Although 3x9 gives you an enormous gear range, many of the ratios overlap; basically, you’re just carrying extra weight. The added mechanical complexity doesn’t help either: you want to spend less time at the bike shop fixing a slipping chain, and more time on the trails.
The fork is a RockShox XC 30 with a coil spring. You can’t tweak the pressure like you would with an air shock, and it doesn’t feel as plush as an air shock, but the lockout works well, and it does a good job of absorbing bumps.
All in all, the Marlin 7 is a solid beginner bike with durable components and an excellent frame that’s ripe for upgrades. It would make a top-notch birthday present for the teenager in your family.