Marlin 4....good bike?

[47of74]

I've been thinking of getting back in to cycling again. I went to a couple of the local bike shops and one had a Marlin 4 that they let me test. Felt good to ride again after God knows how many years of not riding anything other than a stationary exercise bike. Anyone here have a Marlin 4? How is it as far as bikes go?

Price was right. With the riding I'm going to do around the farm and on local trails I'm looking for something that can do both paved and gravel roads.

[FightingIrish]

1. I bought a Trek Marlin 6 last fall and I love it.

The dealer talked me into getting 29 inch wheels. Most of my riding is on pavement with occasional trail rides. The bigger wheels seem to act like flywheels. On level ground, my average speed is two to three mph higher than with 26 inch wheels. Disc brakes and 24 speeds with a big climbing ring are a great improvement over the Specialized bike I wore out.

[47of74]

2. Wound up going with an 820 instead.

The people at the bike store said it was a better fit for me given my height and build. Went for a brief ride after purchasing it. Had a good ride.