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I am looking at getting a frame and fork to complete a parts bin build and have seen some fairly well priced trek marlin frames second hand. I’m aware it’s more of an xc type frame and on bikes that are £500-£1000 new so I’m not going to be smashing it down anything too gnarly. It will be paired with a 100mm fork; it might occasionally need to take on a drop or 2, nothing huge.
Any experience with the marlin frame? Am I overthinking this? Just don’t want to buy something that isn’t up to the task (considering it’s new whole bike price point)
I got one secondhand for my eldest, probably not realising how much his riding would improve over the next couple of years. His younger brother is now on it. Admittedly they’re not heavy but they spend more time in the air than on the ground and the frame has been fine.
Thanks - that sounds encouraging. I’m on the weightier side but very much would be riding wheels on the ground
I think you're limited to a 135 mm QR rear axle on a Marlin. So rear wheel life expectancy isn't great with the 29er version. Plus there are no holes for a dropper post cable on the new versions. But that's nothing a drill and grommet won't fix.
Yes 135 QR is a requirement to fit the parts bin wheel set. And yes thinking about drilling for dropper should I get a marlin. As you say the older ones had the port in situ anyway - would drill the same place
I've had mine for over a decade. I changed the stock fork for a manitou tower (was just about the only option, at the time, with a reasonable crown offset, but it's been faultless)
Given that I'm 82kg, and have very little finesse, it's survived several 24/12 events, visits to Afan, LOTS of miles on the South downs, and my local forest.
It's an absolute steamroller that just won't stop (despite basic 29 inch wheels) and I love it
I think you’re limited to a 135 mm QR rear axle on a Marlin. So rear wheel life expectancy isn’t great with the 29er version.
Eh?