The Trek Marlin 4 Gen 3 2026 is the entry point to the Marlin range — a trail-capable hardtail with hydraulic disc brakes, a 100mm suspension fork and 8-speed Shimano ESSA drivetrain. It handles everyday riding and light trail work without asking you to spend more than you need to.
WHO THIS BIKE SUITS
You want a first proper mountain bike — something that handles trails, not just paths.
You need a bike that does the lot — commuting, weekend rides, gravel tracks — without constant upgrading.
You want hydraulic disc brakes and real suspension at a price that makes sense.
You want a reliable, low-maintenance hardtail from a brand with a proper dealer network behind it.
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT
If you want a lockout fork and a higher-spec drivetrain, the Marlin 5 is the next step up.
If you're ready for trail geometry and a dropper post, look at the Marlin 6.
WHERE IT SITS IN THE RANGE
The Marlin 4 is the start of the 2026 Marlin range — everything that matters for getting out and riding, without spec additions you might not need yet.
HOW IT RIDES
On the trail
The 29” wheels and 100mm fork handle most trail surfaces well. Capable on the kind of riding most people actually do.
Brakes
Hydraulic disc brakes at this price are a meaningful advantage — consistent, low-effort stopping in all weather.
Drivetrain
8-speed Shimano ESSA is simple and reliable. Wide enough range for most terrain, easy to maintain.
THE FINAL WORD
The Trek Marlin 4 Gen 3 2026 gets the fundamentals right at a price that doesn't require compromise. If you're weighing up the Marlin range, our team at ARN can help you choose with confidence.
We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colours, materials and pricing. Due to supply chain issues, compatible parts may be substituted at any time without notice. Bike and frame weights are based on pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production.
Frame: Alpha Silver Aluminium, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5 mm ThruSkew
Fork: SR Suntour XCE 28, coil spring, preload, 46 mm offset for 29" wheel, 100 mm QR, 100 mm travel
Rear derailleur: Shimano ESSA U2000
Cassette: Shimano HG300, 11-45, 8-speed
Chain: KMC Z8.3, 8-speed
Crankset: ProWheel alloy, 30T narrow-wide steel ring, 175 mm length
Brake set: Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc
Rotors: Tektro, 6-bolt, 160mm
Tyres: Bontrager Montrose Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 29x2.40"
Rims: Bontrager Connection, double-wall, 32-hole, 20 mm width, Schrader valve
Front hub: Formula DC-20, alloy, 6-bolt, 100x5 mm
Rear hub: Formula DC-22, alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, 135x5 mm
Handlebar: Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 15 mm rise, 750 mm width
Stem: Bontrager Comp, 31.8 mm, Blendr compatible, 7-degree, 60 mm length
Grips: Trek Line Comp, nylon lock-on
Saddle: Bontrager Verse Short, stainless steel rails
Seatpost: Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset, 400 mm length
Pedals: Nylon platform
Personalised Bike Consultation
Not sure which model is perfect for you? Our expert team at All Ride Now in Midhurst, West Sussex is here to help you choose with confidence.
- Will you be riding mainly on or off-road?
- Do you prefer an upright or sportier riding position?
- Are you looking for longer range, lighter weight, or a more comfortable feel?
Through a friendly consultation – in-store, by phone, live chat or email – we’ll help you narrow down your options and find the bike that best fits your needs.
