The Trek Marlin 8 has an eclectic mix of features which make it truly unique in our group of test bikes. Starting at the rear, it has pannier rack mounts and provision for a kickstand. Moving to the middle of the bike we can see an internally routed dropper post, 12 speed SRAM drivetrain and square taper crank. Bump absorption is handled by a 100mm RockShox Judy, which has a straight steerer and quick release axle. To top it all off we have a relatively short stem, wide bar and the ever reliable Shimano MT200 brakes.

The Marlin 8 comes in a massive size range, so just about any rider looking to get onto the dirt will find a size that fits them. Kudos to Trek for mixing wheel sizes and ergonomics across the size range to make sure any rider can get the off road experience they are expecting.
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0:00 - Introduction
0:32 - Features on the Trek Marlin 8
1:18 - Sizes for the Marlin 8
1:53 - Geometry and handling
2:38 - Ergonomics
3:07 - Components: sized to fit!
4:50 - Fun factor on the trail
6:55 - Our take
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Our take
Trek have delivered a versatile, feature packed bike with the Marlin 8. It has provisions for a wide variety of riders, be it bike-packers or XC racers. The head angle, dropper post and 2.4” tyres will save you should things end up on the wild side, but to me this bike is best suited to someone who wants to tick as many boxes as possible from their budget hardtail and who isn’t interested in upgrading it for the sake of performance or vanity. N+1 no more, if you want to ride to work Monday to Friday, hit some singletrack on Saturday and ride a rail trail on Sunday look no further – Trek have your bike with the Marlin 8. If you do want something a little burlier, then consider the Trek Roscoe 7. It's a trail hardtail with a 140mm travel fork, Boost spacing, strong wheels and geometry that is ready to rumble. It sells for $2599.99.

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