There is an approximate $100 price difference between Marlin 6 and Marlin 5. What do you get for that extra 100 bucks?
We’d say the main difference is that the 6 features a 1x drivetrain that’s definitely worth that added cost.
Here we will see how exactly they compare when other differentiating factors are considered.
Trek Marlin 5 vs 6: How Do They Differ?
1. Weight
Marlin 5
The Marlin 5 weighs 31.84 lbs/ 14.44 kg
Marlin 6
It weighs 31.97lbs or 14.50kg with the tubes.
Winner
The Marlin 5 is just a little lighter with a difference of 0.13lbs.
2. Weight limit
Marlin 5
The Marlin 5 has a combined weight for cargo, bike, and rider at 136kg.
Marlin 6
Carries a maximum weight of 136kg for rider, bicycle, and cargo.
Winner
Both bikes have the same weight capacity, so here they are equal.
3. Wheel size
Marlin 5
27.5? / 26? / 29? wheels
Marlin 6
29″ and 27.5″ wheels are available
Winner
You get an extra choice of wheel size with the Marlin 6
4. Rim
Marlin 5
The Marlin 5 has the Bontrager Connection
Marlin 6
Bontrager Connection is also found on the Marlin 6
Winner
Both here have the same making them equal in this case.
5. Shifter
Marlin 5
3 / 7 speed Shimano Altus M315
Marlin 6
2 / 8 speed Shimano Altus M315
Winner
The Marlin 5 is the winner here with the 3/7 as it has the 21 gears
6. Derailleur
Marlin 5
The trek 5 has the same Shimano Tourney TY300 on both front and back
Marlin 6
The trek 6 has the Shimano Altus M315 on the front and Shimano Altus M310 on the rear
Winner
The Marlin 6 is better with the altered derailleur with the m315 on the front and m310 on the back.
7. Top speed
Marlin 5
Top speed – 26mph
Marlin 6
Top speed – 28mph
Winner
The Marlin 6 goes slightly faster but only by 2mph.
8. Chain
Marlin 5
This type has the KMC Z7 chain
Marlin 6
The KMC Z8.3 is found on the Marlin 6
Winner
The KMC Z8.3 that is on the Marlin 6 is the slightly better chain and is one model up from the Marlin 5 chain.
9. Cassette
Marlin 5
The 7-speed Shimano HG200; 12-32
Marlin 6
The 8-speed Shimano HG31; 11-34
Winner
The Marlin 6 has a higher speed by 1, so it’s slightly better
10. Crank
Marlin 5
Shimano Tourney TY301
Marlin 6
Shimano M315
Winner
The m315 is slightly better
11. Suspensions
Marlin 5
This bike has a front suspension fork. You get 100mm of travel. It has 3×7 gearing and an all-terrain smoother suspension.
Marlin 6
The Marlin 6 has good cross-country suspension to give great off-ride riding. 2×8 gearing with a fork that locks out.
Winner
The Marlin 6 features the lock-out fork and offers off-riding suspension, which is preferred by many.
12. Seat post
Marlin 5
Bontrager alloy; 31.6mm
Marlin 6
Bontrager alloy; 31.6mm
Winner
Both bikes have the same sized seat post at 31.6mm.
13. Color options
Marlin 5
The Marlin 5 comes in lithium grey/black.
Marlin 6
This one is a little bolder with black and radioactive red.
Winner
The Marlin 6 has a bold color, or the Marlin 6 has the more basic color of grey and black. Both are equal here, depending on your personal preferences.
14. Price
Marlin 5
The Marlin 5 can be purchased for around $800.
Marlin 6
This bike comes with a $900 price tag.
Winner
The Marlin 6 has a bigger price tag, but with the slightly better features, it is more value for money paying the extra $100.
FAQs
1. Is Marlin 6 good for beginners?
Ans. Definitely yes! The Marlin 6 is no good for those who want a project bike to customize. It is a basic, affordable mountain bike that’s set at entry-level. It is the perfect option for those still developing bike skills. However, it is limited in front-end updates due to the lack of a tapered head tube.
2. How do Trek Marlin frames differ from one another?
Ans. You can choose from seven sizes of Marlin frames to match your height. You’ll always be on the fastest wheel that fits you due to the Smart Wheel Size. It even has short-reach levers from the brakes and narrow handlebars for more control and better comfort.
